San Francisco, CA to San Diego, CA train with Amtrak

Mon, Aug 03
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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 Diego, CA

Showing times and prices for Aug 03

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.

  • Amtrak4794 AMTRAK · 794 Pacific Surfliner
    10:10 AM14h54
    San Francisco, CA
    1:04 AMSanta Fe Depot, San Diego, CA
    $851One-way
    1 transfer
  • Amtrak6642 AMTRAK · 718 Gold Runner · 5818 AMTRAK
    4:45 PM12h50
    San Francisco, CA
    5:35 AMSanta Fe Depot, San Diego, CA
    $1131One-way
    2 transfers
  • Amtrak6610 AMTRAK · 710 Gold Runner · 5810 AMTRAK · 786 Pacific Surfliner
    7:30 AM13h37
    San Francisco, CA
    9:07 PMSanta Fe Depot, San Diego, CA
    $1341One-way
    3 transfers
  • Amtrak6612 AMTRAK · 712 Gold Runner · 5812 AMTRAK · 790 Pacific Surfliner
    9:40 AM13h27
    San Francisco, CA
    11:07 PMSanta Fe Depot, San Diego, CA
    $1341One-way
    3 transfers

Journey information

Overview: Train from San Francisco, CA to San Diego, CA

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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 $77 (€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
$77 (€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)

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 today, Sunday, August 2. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Amtrak6610 AMTRAK · 710 Gold Runner · 5810 AMTRAK · 786 Pacific Surfliner7:30 AM San Francisco, CA
13h37
9:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA3 transfers
Amtrak6612 AMTRAK · 712 Gold Runner · 5812 AMTRAK · 790 Pacific Surfliner9:40 AM San Francisco, CA
13h27
11:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA3 transfers
Amtrak4794 AMTRAK · 794 Pacific Surfliner10:10 AM San Francisco, CA
14h54
1:04 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA1 transfer
Amtrak6668 AMTRAK · 718 Gold Runner · 5818 AMTRAK5:00 PM San Francisco, CA
12h35
5:35 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA2 transfers

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

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.

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, CA

Things to do in San Diego, CA

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

  • Must visit

San Diego Museum of Art

Major Balboa Park museum with works from Spanish old masters to modern art, plus strong regional and international exhibitions.

  • Must visit

Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego

Acclaimed contemporary art museum in La Jolla featuring oceanfront settings, modern works, and rotating global exhibitions.

  • Must visit

USS Midway Museum

Museum aboard a historic aircraft carrier with restored aircraft, naval exhibits, and immersive views of life at sea.

US Dollar ($)

San Diego is pricey for US travel, with higher hotel rates, dining, and parking than many cities, though casual food and buses stay manageable.

Average meal costs

Budget
$10-18 for fast food or casual takeout.
Mid-range
$25-45 per person for a mid-range meal.
Fine dining
$75+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
$4-6 for coffee or cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Tip 18-20% at restaurants, 15-20% for taxis or rideshares, and $1-2 for coffee drinks or small cafe orders.

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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from San Francisco, CA to San Diego, CA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $77 (€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.
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.
Yes, you can take the train from San Francisco, CA to San Diego, CA.
Popular day trips by train from San Diego, CA include Irvine, CA, Santa Ana, CA, Oceanside, CA, Orange, CA, San Juan Capistrano, CA.
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 San Francisco, Mission Street (Chase Bank) 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)

Most popular trains to and from San Diego, CA and San Francisco, CA

HomeTrainsTrains in USATrain Times to San Diego, CASan Francisco, CA to San Diego, CA train

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