San Francisco, CA to San Antonio, TX train with Amtrak

Thu, Jun 18
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Amtrak
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
Amtrak
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from San Francisco, CA to San Antonio, TX

Showing times and prices for Jun 18

Cheapest price

$788

Average price

$788

Fastest journey

3 d 13 h 46 m

Average duration

3 d 13 h 46 m

Trains per day

1

Distance

2394 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from San Francisco, CA to San Antonio, TX is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from San Francisco, CA to San Antonio, TX will cost around $788 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $788.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from San Francisco, CA to San Antonio, TX without transferring at least 3 times.

  • Amtrak6624 AMTRAK · 6 California Zephyr · 5521 AMTRAK · 21 Texas Eagle
    7:00 AM85h46
    San Francisco, CA
    10:46 PMSan Antonio Station, San Antonio, TX
    $7881One-way
    3 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus, train, and flight for San Francisco, CA to San Antonio, TX

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from San Francisco, CA to San Antonio, TX among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $125. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 32m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $125, and a train costs an average of $285.

Distance: 1487 miles (2394 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Flight
Bus
Driving

$1077

Average price

$411

Average price

$311

Average price

Cheapest

$345

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

48h 2m

Average total duration

47h 32m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 32m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 32m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

49h 7m

Average total duration

48h 37m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

25h 5m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from San Francisco, CA to San Antonio, TX is a bus with an average price of $311 (€254).

This is compared to other travel options from San Francisco, CA to San Antonio, TX:

A bus is $100 (€82) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from San Francisco, CA to San Antonio, TX costing on average $411 (€336).

A bus is $766 (€626) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from San Francisco, CA to San Antonio, TX costing on average $1077 (€880).

The fastest way to travel from San Francisco, CA to San Antonio, TX is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 32m.

Other travel options to San Antonio, TX take longer:

Train takes on average 47h 32m.

Bus takes on average 48h 37m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between San Francisco, CA and San Antonio, TX including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from San Francisco, CA to San Antonio, TX among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.

Tickets start at around $1077 (€880) compared to roughly $345 (€281) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-732.67 (€-598.53). The journey takes 47h 32m versus 25h 5m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.

Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.

Live departures

San Francisco, CA to San Antonio, TX train times

The table below shows live departures for San Francisco, CA to San Antonio, TX trains for tomorrow, Thursday, June 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Amtrak6624 AMTRAK · 6 California Zephyr · 5521 AMTRAK · 21 Texas Eagle7:00 AM San Francisco, CA
85h46
10:46 PM San Antonio Station, San Antonio, TX3 transfers

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets San Francisco, CA to San Antonio, TX by bus, train, or flight

Compare bus, train, and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.

Thu
Jun 18
Fri
Jun 19
Sat
Jun 20
Sun
Jun 21
Mon
Jun 22
Tue
Jun 23
Wed
Jun 24

Journey information

Overview: Train from San Francisco, CA to San Antonio, TX

USAUSA
USAUSA
Icon of train

Trains from San Francisco, CA to San Antonio, TX run on average 3 times per day, taking around 47h 32m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $285 (€233) but you can travel from only $125 (€102) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 01:45, the last at 10:28. The fastest train covers the 1487 miles (2394 km) distance in 43h 30m.

Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $125 (€102)
Distance
1487 miles (2394 km)
Average train duration
47h 32m
Cheapest ticket price
$285 (€233)
Trains per day
3
Fastest train
43h 30m
First train
1:45 AM
Last train
10:28 AM
Cheapest Month
Feb
Cheapest Day
Fri
High Season
Jan - Mar
Low Season
Jul - Sep
Best time to book
4 days
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $125 (€102)

Train companies: Amtrak from San Francisco, CA to San Antonio, TX trainsAmtrak trains will get you between San Francisco, CA and San Antonio, TX from $125 (€102). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

Amtrak

About
Amtrak is the main passenger train operator in the United States, providing medium- and long-distance intercity services across 46 states and three Canadian provinces. Operating over 300 trains daily and serving more than 500 destinations, Amtrak connects cities and regions nationwide through routes such as the high-speed Acela in the Northeast Corridor, the scenic Coast Starlight along the West Coast, and the Empire Builder linking Chicago to the Midwest and the Pacific Northwest. Other notable services include the Northeast Regional, Keystone Service, and the unique Auto Train, which allows passengers to bring their cars onboard. Amtrak offers a variety of classes to suit different budgets and travel needs, including Coach, Business, First Class, and Sleeper Class with options like Roomettes, Bedrooms, and Bedroom Suites for overnight journeys. Ticket types include Saver, Value, Flexible, Business, and Premium. Onboard amenities vary by service but may include comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, power outlets, dining options, and lounge access on select trains. Popular routes include Washington, D.C.–Boston, San Diego–San Luis Obispo, San Jose–Sacramento, and Chicago–Seattle.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
43h 30m
Cheapest Price
$285 (€233)
Amtrak frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
2 personal items and 2 carry-on bags included free
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas at end of cars
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies depend on ticket type and timing
Refund
Full refund if train is canceled by Amtrak
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Café car with snacks, beverages, and light meals. Long-distance trains have full-service dining cars
Seat reservation
Included in ticket price for Business and First Class. Optional fee for Coach Class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible restrooms, Red Cap assistance service, accessible platforms and stations
Pets
Small pets under 20 pounds allowed for $26 fee. Must be in carrier. Service animals travel free
Quiet zone

Complete guide to San Antonio

Things to do in San Antonio

Discover the best of San Antonio — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect San Antonio trip today.

  • Must visit

The Alamo Exhibit at the Ralston Family Collections Center

Modern museum gallery displaying Alamo artifacts and interpretation beside the historic mission site. A strong companion visit for understanding the 1836 battle and Texas history.

  • Must visit

San Antonio Museum of Art

Major art museum with collections spanning ancient Mediterranean works, Asian art, Latin American art, and contemporary pieces in a historic brewery complex.

  • Recommended

The Witte Museum

Leading regional museum focused on Texas history, natural science, and South Texas heritage, with engaging family-friendly exhibits and strong local context.

United States Dollar

Generally moderate for U.S. city travel. Budget eats are easy to find, while hotels and attractions vary by season and area.

Average meal costs

Budget
USD 10-18 for tacos, fast food, or casual spots.
Mid-range
USD 20-40 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
Fine dining
USD 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
Coffee
USD 3-6 for drip coffee or a latte.

Tipping culture

Tip 18-20% at sit-down restaurants; 20%+ for great service. Tip USD 1-2 per drink at bars, round up or tip 10-15% for taxis, and tip hotel staff a few USD.

FAQs: Trains from San Francisco, CA to San Antonio, TX

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from San Francisco, CA to San Antonio, TX by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at San Antonio, TX, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from San Francisco, CA to San Antonio, TX can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $285 (€233), while the average price is around $1077 (€880).
The train from San Francisco, CA to San Antonio, TX takes 43h 30m and runs 3 per day.
The first train from San Francisco, CA to San Antonio, TX leaves at 1:45 AM.
The distance by train from San Francisco, CA to San Antonio, TX is 1487 miles (2394 km).
The last train from San Francisco, CA to San Antonio, TX leaves at 10:28 AM.
There is no high speed train available from San Francisco, CA to San Antonio, TX.
There is no direct train service currently available from San Francisco, CA to San Antonio, TX.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from San Francisco, CA to San Antonio, TX.
The train station in San Francisco, CA that goes to San Antonio, TX is Emeryville station, Emeryville, CA, which connects to San Antonio Station, San Antonio, TX.
The cheapest way to get from San Francisco, CA to San Antonio, TX is by bus, with a cost of around $125 (€102).
The train journey from San Francisco, CA to San Antonio, TX offers a scenic experience, showcasing diverse landscapes such as coastal views, rolling hills, expansive deserts, and charming small towns along the route.
A day trip from San Francisco, CA to San Antonio, TX is not feasible as the duration is 43h 30m and the distance is 1487 miles (2394 km). The frequency is 4 per day for trains.
In San Antonio, TX, you can explore the vibrant Pearl District with its trendy shops and restaurants, take a boat tour along the San Antonio River, and visit the historic Market Square. For thrill-seekers, enjoy a day at Six Flags Fiesta Texas, or experience the San Antonio Zoo. Don't miss the iconic sights like The Alamo, the scenic River Walk, and the UNESCO World Heritage San Antonio Missions National Historical Park. Art enthusiasts can visit the San Antonio Museum of Art, and for stunning views, head to the Tower of the Americas.
Three to four days are ideal to explore San Antonio, TX, allowing time to visit key attractions such as the Alamo, River Walk, and local museums.
Yes, you can take the train from San Francisco, CA to San Antonio, TX.
Since neither San Francisco, CA nor San Antonio, TX are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of United States and United States. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
Popular day trips by train from San Antonio, TX include San Marcos, TX.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from San Francisco, CA to San Antonio, TX among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
The currency used in the United States is the US Dollar (USD). For travelers, using cards is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially credit and debit cards, while cash is useful for small purchases or places that do not accept cards.
In San Antonio, TX, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like the River Walk and Alamo Plaza. Common scams include overcharging by unofficial taxi services and street vendors. It's advisable to use authorized transportation options and stay alert when approached by strangers offering unsolicited help or tours. Staying in well-lit, busy areas and securing personal belongings can help ensure a safe visit.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from San Francisco, CA to San Antonio, TX

San Francisco
San Antonio
The major train station for departures in San Francisco is San Francisco, Mission Street (Chase Bank). Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at San Francisco, Mission Street (Chase Bank) for your trip from San Francisco to San Antonio.
San Francisco, Mission Street (Chase Bank)
information

Most popular trains to and from San Antonio, TX and San Francisco, CA

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