San Francisco, CA to Seattle, WA train with Amtrak

Mon, May 25
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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 Seattle, WA

Showing times and prices for May 25

Cheapest price

$260

Average price

$260

Fastest journey

22 h 10 m

Average duration

22 h 10 m

Trains per day

1

Distance

1093 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from San Francisco, CA to Seattle, WA 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 Seattle, WA will cost around $260 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $260.

Fast trains

Of the 1 trains that leave San Francisco, CA for Seattle, WA on Mon, May 25, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Mon, May 25 the direct trains cover the 1093 km distance in an average of 22 h 10 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 22 h 10 m .

On Mon, May 25 the slowest trains will take 22 h 10 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.

  • Amtrak14 Coast Starlight
    9:41 PM22h10
    Emeryville station, Emeryville, CA
    7:51 PMKing Street Station, Seattle, WA
    $2601One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus, train, and flight for San Francisco, CA to Seattle, WA

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from San Francisco, CA to Seattle, WA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $93. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 18m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.3 - 1.0kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $93, and a flight costs an average of $85.

Distance: 679 miles (1093 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Flight
Bus
Driving

$325

Average price

$333

Average price

$209

Average price

Cheapest

$173

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

22h 40m

Average total duration

22h 10m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 18m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 18m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

18h 49m

Average total duration

18h 19m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

12h 11m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.3 - 1.0kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

3.3 - 6.6kg

CO2 emissions

1.1 - 2.7kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Amtrak

Most popular train company

Alaska Airlines

Most popular airline

FlixBus

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 Seattle, WA is a bus with an average price of $209 (€169).

This is compared to other travel options from San Francisco, CA to Seattle, WA:

A bus is $116 (€94) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from San Francisco, CA to Seattle, WA costing on average $325 (€263).

A bus is $124 (€100) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from San Francisco, CA to Seattle, WA costing on average $333 (€269).

The fastest way to travel from San Francisco, CA to Seattle, WA is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 18m.

Other travel options to Seattle, WA take longer:

Bus takes on average 18h 19m.

Train takes on average 22h 10m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between San Francisco, CA and Seattle, WA 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 Seattle, WA 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 $325 (€263) compared to roughly $173 (€140) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-151.45 (€-122.55). The journey takes 22h 10m versus 12h 11m 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.

Compare prices and tickets San Francisco, CA to Seattle, WA 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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Journey information

Overview: Train from San Francisco, CA to Seattle, WA

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Icon of train

Trains from San Francisco, CA to Seattle, WA run on average 2 times per day, taking around 22h 10m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $122 (€99) but you can travel from only $85 (€69) by flight.

There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 09:55, the last at 21:41. The fastest train covers the 679 miles (1093 km) distance in 22h 10m.

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 $85 (€69)
Distance
679 miles (1093 km)
Average train duration
22h 10m
Cheapest ticket price
$122 (€99)
Trains per day
2
Direct trains
1
Fastest train
22h 10m
First train
9:55 AM
Last train
9:41 PM
Cheapest Month
Feb
Cheapest Day
Mon
High Season
Jan - Mar
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Sat
Least Busy Day
Wed
Best time to book
77 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 $85 (€69)

Train companies: Amtrak from San Francisco, CA to Seattle, WA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between San Francisco, CA and Seattle, WA from $85 (€69). 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
22h 10m
Cheapest Price
$122 (€99)
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

FAQs: Trains from San Francisco, CA to Seattle, WA

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from San Francisco, CA to Seattle, WA 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 Seattle, WA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from San Francisco, CA to Seattle, WA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $122 (€99), while the average price is around $325 (€263).
The train from San Francisco, CA to Seattle, WA takes 22h 10m and runs 2 per day.
The distance by train from San Francisco, CA to Seattle, WA is 679 miles (1093 km).
The first train from San Francisco, CA to Seattle, WA leaves at 9:55 AM.
The last train from San Francisco, CA to Seattle, WA leaves at 9:41 PM.
There is no high speed train available from San Francisco, CA to Seattle, WA.
Yes, there is a direct train from San Francisco, CA to Seattle, WA. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from San Francisco, CA to Seattle, WA.
The train station in San Francisco, CA that goes to Seattle, WA is Emeryville station, Emeryville, CA, which connects to King Street Station, Seattle, WA.
The cheapest way to get from San Francisco, CA to Seattle, WA is by flight, with a cost of around $85 (€69).
Yes, the train journey from San Francisco, CA to Seattle, WA is scenic, offering views of the Pacific Ocean, majestic mountains, lush forests, and charming coastal towns along the route.
In Seattle, WA, you can take a ferry ride to Bainbridge Island for stunning views and a charming small-town experience, explore the vibrant neighborhoods of Capitol Hill and Fremont, visit the Seattle Aquarium, and enjoy a walk or bike ride along the Burke-Gilman Trail. For cultural experiences, see a live performance at the historic Paramount Theatre. Must-see sights include the Space Needle, Pike Place Market, Chihuly Garden and Glass, the Museum of Pop Culture, and the Seattle Art Museum.
For a comprehensive experience in Seattle, WA, 3 to 4 days are typically sufficient to explore major attractions such as the Space Needle, Pike Place Market, and the Museum of Pop Culture, while also allowing time for side trips to nearby destinations like Mount Rainier or Bainbridge Island.
Yes, you can take the train from San Francisco, CA to Seattle, WA.
Since neither San Francisco, CA nor Seattle, WA 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 Seattle, WA include Olympia, WA, Tacoma, WA, Lacey, WA, Centralia, WA, Mount Vernon, WA.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from San Francisco, CA to Seattle, WA 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 Seattle, WA, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and vehicle break-ins, especially in crowded areas and popular tourist spots like Pike Place Market. Scams involving fake charity collectors and street performers asking for money are common. It's advisable to stay alert in public transit and avoid unlicensed taxis. Travelers should also be aware of occasional aggressive panhandling in certain neighborhoods.
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 Seattle, WA

San Francisco
Seattle
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 Seattle.
San Francisco, Mission Street (Chase Bank)
information

Most popular trains to and from Seattle, WA and San Francisco, CA

HomeTrainsTrains in USATrain Times to Seattle, WASan Francisco, CA to Seattle, WA train

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