- Must visit
USS Midway Museum
Museum aboard the historic aircraft carrier USS Midway with restored aircraft, flight deck exhibits, and audio tours on San Diego Bay.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from San Francisco, CA to San Diego, CA
Showing times and prices for Jun 18
Cheapest price
$85
Average price
$117
Fastest journey
12 h 50 m
Average duration
13 h 42 m
Trains per day
4
Distance
738 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from San Francisco, CA to San Diego, CA 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 Diego, CA will cost around $117 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $85.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from San Francisco, CA to San Diego, CA without transferring at least once.
4794 AMTRAK · 794 Pacific Surfliner10:10 AM14h54San Francisco, CA1:04 AMSanta Fe Depot, San Diego, CA$851One-way1 transfer- 6642 AMTRAK · 718 Gold Runner · 5818 AMTRAK4:45 PM12h50San Francisco, CA5:35 AMSanta Fe Depot, San Diego, CA$1131One-way2 transfers
- 6612 AMTRAK · 712 Gold Runner · 5812 AMTRAK · 790 Pacific Surfliner9:40 AM13h27San Francisco, CA11:07 PMSanta Fe Depot, San Diego, CA$1341One-way3 transfers
- 6610 AMTRAK · 710 Gold Runner · 5810 AMTRAK · 786 Pacific Surfliner7:30 AM13h37San Francisco, CA9:07 PMSanta Fe Depot, San Diego, CA$1341One-way3 transfers
- 6642 AMTRAK · 718 Gold Runner · 5818 AMTRAK4:45 PM12h50San Francisco, CA5:35 AMSanta Fe Depot, San Diego, CA$1131One-way2 transfers
- 6612 AMTRAK · 712 Gold Runner · 5812 AMTRAK · 790 Pacific Surfliner9:40 AM13h27San Francisco, CA11:07 PMSanta Fe Depot, San Diego, CA$1341One-way3 transfers
- 6610 AMTRAK · 710 Gold Runner · 5810 AMTRAK · 786 Pacific Surfliner7:30 AM13h37San Francisco, CA9:07 PMSanta Fe Depot, San Diego, CA$1341One-way3 transfers
- 4794 AMTRAK · 794 Pacific Surfliner10:10 AM14h54San Francisco, CA1:04 AMSanta Fe Depot, San Diego, CA$851One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for San Francisco, CA to San Diego, CA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from San Francisco, CA to San Diego, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $60. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 4m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.2 - 0.7kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $60, and a flight costs an average of $54.
Distance: 458 miles (738 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$96 Average price | $268 Average price | $91 Average price Cheapest | $102 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
13h 18m Average total duration 12h 48m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 4m Average total duration Fastest 2h 4m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 13h 20m Average total duration 12h 50m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 33m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.2 - 0.7kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 2.2 - 4.4kg CO2 emissions | 0.7 - 1.8kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from San Francisco, CA to San Diego, CA is a bus with an average price of $91 (€74).
This is compared to other travel options from San Francisco, CA to San Diego, CA:
A bus is $5 (€4) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from San Francisco, CA to San Diego, CA costing on average $96 (€78).
A bus is $178 (€145) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from San Francisco, CA to San Diego, CA costing on average $268 (€219).
The fastest way to travel from San Francisco, CA to San Diego, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 4m.
Other travel options to San Diego, CA take longer:
Train takes on average 12h 48m.
Bus takes on average 12h 50m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between San Francisco, CA and San Diego, CA 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 Diego, CA 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 $96 (€78) compared to roughly $102 (€83) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $6 (€5). The journey takes 12h 48m versus 7h 33m 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 Diego, CA train times
The table below shows live departures for San Francisco, CA to San Diego, CA trains for tomorrow, Thursday, June 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6610 AMTRAK · 710 Gold Runner · 5810 AMTRAK · 786 Pacific Surfliner | 7:30 AM San Francisco, CA | 13h37 | 9:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 3 transfers | |
| 6612 AMTRAK · 712 Gold Runner · 5812 AMTRAK · 790 Pacific Surfliner | 9:40 AM San Francisco, CA | 13h27 | 11:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 3 transfers | |
| 4794 AMTRAK · 794 Pacific Surfliner | 10:10 AM San Francisco, CA | 14h54 | 1:04 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 1 transfer | |
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 Diego, CA 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.
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How far in advance should I book train tickets from San Francisco, CA to San Diego, CA?
The best time to book your train from San Francisco, CA to San Diego, CA is 35 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the San Francisco, CA to San Diego, CA route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from San Francisco, CA to San Diego, CA per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from San Francisco, CA to San Diego, CA.
Trains
from $91Buses
from $68Flights
from $99Journey information
Overview: Train from San Francisco, CA to San Diego, CA
USAUSA
Trains from San Francisco, CA to San Diego, CA run on average 13 times per day, taking around 12h 48m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $76 (€62) but you can travel from only $54 (€44) by flight.
The earliest train runs at 03:50, the last at 22:40. The fastest train covers the 458 miles (738 km) distance in 11h 37m.
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
Flight from $54 (€44)
Distance 458 miles (738 km) |
Average train duration 12h 48m |
Cheapest ticket price $76 (€62) |
Trains per day 13 |
Fastest train 11h 37m |
First train 3:50 AM |
Last train 10:40 PM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 21 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
Flight from $54 (€44)
Train companies: Amtrak from San Francisco, CA to San Diego, CA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between San Francisco, CA and San Diego, CA from $54 (€44). 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
11h 37m
Cheapest Price
$66 (€54)
Amtrak frequency
12 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 Diego
Things to do in San Diego
Discover the best of San Diego — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect San Diego trip today.
- Recommended
San Diego Museum of Art
Balboa Park art museum known for Spanish old masters, South Asian works, and rotating exhibitions in a landmark building.
- Recommended
Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego
Leading contemporary art museum with major postwar and current works, especially strong in Southern California and Pacific Rim artists.
- Must visit
Balboa Park
Vast cultural park with gardens, museums, Spanish Colonial Revival architecture, walking paths, and some of San Diego's best photo spots.
- Must visit
La Jolla Cove
Scenic cove known for sea lions, clear water, coastal cliffs, and highly shareable sunset and ocean-view walks.
- Must visit
Coronado Beach
Wide sandy beach beside the Hotel del Coronado, popular for walking, photography, and classic Southern California scenery.
- Gluten-free
Fish Tacos
Beer-battered or grilled local fish in tortillas, usually topped with cabbage, crema, and salsa. A signature coastal San Diego staple with strong Baja influence.
California Burrito
A San Diego original burrito filled with carne asada, fries, cheese, and salsa. It is one of the city’s most iconic late-night and casual foods.
- Gluten-free
Carne Asada Fries
French fries topped with carne asada, cheese, guacamole, sour cream, and salsa. This indulgent dish is strongly associated with San Diego taco shop culture.
Mitch's Seafood
Popular waterfront seafood restaurant serving fresh local catch, fish tacos, and sandwiches in a relaxed harbor setting near the fishing fleet.
Las Cuatro Milpas
Historic, no-frills Mexican restaurant famous for house-made tortillas, rolled tacos, and comforting traditional plates. A beloved local institution with a classic atmosphere.
Hodad's
Iconic casual spot in Ocean Beach known for oversized burgers, fries, and a lively beach-town vibe. A long-standing San Diego favorite.
United States Dollar
Prices are high by U.S. standards, especially for hotels, dining, and parking near the coast and downtown.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-18 for tacos, fast food, or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- USD 20-40 per person at a standard sit-down restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 75+ per person before drinks and tax.
- Coffee
- USD 4-7 for a latte or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, 20%+ for great service. Tip USD 1-2 per drink at bars, round up taxis, and tip hotel staff and valet.
FAQs: Trains from San Francisco, CA to San Diego, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from San Francisco, CA to San Diego, CA 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 Diego, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from San Francisco, CA to San Diego, CA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $76 (€62), while the average price is around $96 (€78).
The train from San Francisco, CA to San Diego, CA takes 11h 37m and runs 13 per day.
The first train from San Francisco, CA to San Diego, CA leaves at 3:50 AM.
The distance by train from San Francisco, CA to San Diego, CA is 458 miles (738 km).
The last train from San Francisco, CA to San Diego, CA leaves at 10:40 PM.
There is no high speed train available from San Francisco, CA to San Diego, CA.
There is no direct train service currently available from San Francisco, CA to San Diego, CA.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from San Francisco, CA to San Diego, CA.
The train station in San Francisco, CA that goes to San Diego, CA is Emeryville station, Emeryville, CA, which connects to Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA.
The cheapest way to get from San Francisco, CA to San Diego, CA is by flight, with a cost of around $54 (€44).
Yes, the train journey from San Francisco to San Diego is considered scenic as it travels along the Pacific coastline, offering views of the ocean, beaches, and picturesque landscapes.
A day trip from San Francisco, CA to San Diego, CA is not feasible as the journey takes 11h 37m and covers 458 miles (738 km). There are 15 trains per day.
In San Diego, CA, you can explore the vibrant art scene at the Museum of Contemporary Art, enjoy a harbor cruise for stunning skyline and naval ship views, and hike the scenic trails at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve. Visit the Birch Aquarium to learn about marine life, or experience a whale watching tour off the coast. Don't miss Balboa Park, with its museums and the San Diego Zoo, the historic USS Midway Museum, picturesque La Jolla Cove, the lively Gaslamp Quarter, and the beautiful Coronado Beach.
Three to four days are ideal to explore San Diego's main attractions, including its beaches, Balboa Park, San Diego Zoo, and vibrant neighborhoods.
Yes, you can take the train from San Francisco, CA to San Diego, CA.
Since neither San Francisco, CA nor San Diego, CA 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 Diego, CA include Irvine, CA, Santa Ana, CA, Oceanside, CA, Orange, CA, San Juan Capistrano, CA.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from San Francisco, CA to San Diego, CA 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 Diego, CA, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like beaches, public transportation, and popular tourist spots such as the Gaslamp Quarter and Old Town. Common scams include overpriced parking fees and unauthorized ticket sellers near attractions. Staying aware of surroundings, securing belongings, and using official transportation services help reduce risks. Additionally, travelers should avoid isolated areas at night and be mindful of local traffic laws when using scooters or bikes.
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 Diego, CA
Most San Francisco, CA to San Diego, CA trains use the Emeryville Station to Santa Fe Depot station pair, with some services arriving at Solana Beach Station. Use this guide to compare San Francisco, CA and San Diego, CA train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in San Francisco
Arrival train stations in San Diego
Which San Francisco, CA station do trains to San Diego, CA leave from?
Trains from San Francisco, CA to San Diego, CA leave from Emeryville Station. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from San Francisco, CA city centre at 5885 Horton Street, Emeryville, CA 94608, USA.
San Francisco, Mission Street (Chase Bank)
Which San Diego, CA station do trains from San Francisco, CA arrive at?
Trains from San Francisco, CA to San Diego, CA most often arrive at Santa Fe Depot. Some services arrive at Solana Beach Station, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your San Diego, CA arrival station.
Santa Fe Depot1050 Kettner Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101, USA+1 800-872-7245
City-centre transport
Getting to Santa Fe Depot from San Diego city centre
Santa Fe Depot is 1 km from San Diego city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus215, 225, 235, 910 · 5m · $6 · every ~22 min
TramBlue, Orange · 2m · every ~15 min
Santa Fe Depot train station facilities and services
Santa Fe Depot has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: The Fish Market, Karl Strauss Brewing Company
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Santa Fe Depot. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Santa Fe Depot. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Santa Fe Depot: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Santa Fe Depot: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Santa Fe Depot: Ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include The Westin San Diego, The Guild Hotel, San Diego, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, Embassy Suites by Hilton San Diego Bay Downtown.
Old Town Station4009 Taylor Street, San Diego, CA 92110, United States
City-centre transport
Getting to Old Town Station from San Diego city centre
Old Town Station is 5 km from San Diego city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainCoaster · 7m · $7 · every ~2 min
Pacific Surfliner · 7m · $1 · every ~2 min
BusFlixBus 2017 · 15m · $1
83 · 26m · $6
TramGreen, Blue, Event · 9m · every ~18 min
Blue · 14m · every ~9 min
Old Town Station train station facilities and services
Old Town Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Casa Guadalajara, Old Town Mexican Cafe
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Old Town Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Old Town Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Old Town Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Old Town Station: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Old Town Station: Elevators, ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Old Town Inn, Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott San Diego Old Town, Best Western Plus Hacienda Hotel Old Town.
Most popular train connections from San Francisco, CA
More options for your journey from San Francisco, CA to San Diego, CA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from San Diego, CA and San Francisco, CA
Most popular train connections to San Diego, CA
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