San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL train with Amtrak

Fri, Dec 19
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Amtrak
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1,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL

Showing times and prices for Dec 20

Cheapest price

$629

Average price

$629

Fastest journey

2 d 18 h 34 m

Average duration

2 d 18 h 34 m

Trains per day

1

Distance

2957 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL will cost around $629 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $629.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL without transferring at least once.

Amtrak
08:05PM66h34
San Jose, CA
02:39PMChicago, IL
$6291One-way
1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €103. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 4h 54m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.9 - 2.7kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €103, and a flight costs an average of €56.

Distance: 1837 miles (2957 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Flight
Bus

€266

Average price

€299

Average price

€252

Average price

Cheapest

57h 30m

Average total duration

57h 0m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

7h 54m

Average total duration

Fastest

4h 54m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

63h 16m

Average total duration

62h 46m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

0.9 - 2.7kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

8.9 - 17.7kg

CO2 emissions

3.0 - 7.4kg

CO2 emissions

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

Live departures

San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL train times

The table below shows live departures for San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL trains for today, Friday, December 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 12:06 AM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
amtrak11:30 AM San Jose, CA
56h09
7:39 PM Chicago, IL0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL by train, bus, or flight

Compare train, bus, 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.

Sat
Dec 20
Sun
Dec 21
Mon
Dec 22
Tue
Dec 23
Wed
Dec 24
Thu
Dec 25
Fri
Dec 26

Why should you book San Jose to Chicago trains with Omio?

Amtrak operates all train services from San Jose to Chicago. Omio is the only official third party seller for Amtrak tickets.

Why book with Omio vs Amtrak?

  • Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
  • Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Amtrak with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from San Jose to Chicago.

Why book with Omio over Trainline and Rail Europe?

Multiple modes of transport
  • Official reseller: Amtrak tickets can only be bought on Omio or Amtrak's website as Omio is the only official third party seller for Amtrak tickets. Trainline, RailEurope, and Rail.Ninja do not sell Amtrak tickets as they are not official sellers.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from San Jose to Chicago.

Journey information

Overview: Train from San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL

USAUSA
USAUSA
Icon of train

Trains from San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL run on average 5 times per day, taking around 57h 0m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $250 (€200) but you can travel from only $70 (€56) by flight.

The earliest train runs at 04:30, the last at 19:58. The fastest train covers the 1837 miles (2957 km) distance in 54h 32m.

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 $70 (€56)
Distance
1837 miles (2957 km)
Average train duration
57h 0m
Cheapest ticket price
$250 (€200)
Trains per day
5
Fastest train
54h 32m
First train
04:30
Last train
19:58
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 $70 (€56)

Train companies: Amtrak from San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL trainsAmtrak trains will get you between San Jose, CA and Chicago, IL from $70 (€56). 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
54h 32m
Cheapest Price
$277 (€222)
Amtrak frequency
1 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

FAQs: Trains from San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL 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 Chicago, IL, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
To fully experience Chicago, IL, plan for at least 3-4 days to visit key attractions such as Millennium Park, The Art Institute of Chicago, Navy Pier, and explore diverse neighborhoods.
The train from San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL takes 54h 32m and runs 5 per day.
The train journey from San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL offers a variety of scenic views, especially when traveling on the California Zephyr route. Passengers can enjoy picturesque landscapes, including the Sierra Nevada mountains, the expansive plains of Nebraska, and the Rocky Mountains, providing a diverse and visually appealing experience.
The distance by train from San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL is 1837 miles (2957 km).
In Chicago, IL, you can explore the Museum of Science and Industry and its interactive exhibits, enjoy the vibrant neighborhoods like Wicker Park and Lincoln Park, take a river cruise to view iconic architecture, and attend a live performance at the historic Chicago Theatre. Visit Lincoln Park Zoo for a free and enjoyable day. For sights, don't miss Millennium Park with its modern art, the renowned Art Institute of Chicago, the entertainment hub of Navy Pier, panoramic views from Willis Tower Skydeck, and the fascinating exhibits at the Field Museum.
The train station in San Jose, CA that goes to Chicago, IL is San José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA, which connects to Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL.
The last train from San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL leaves at 7:58 PM.
Train ticket prices from San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $250 (€200), while the average price is around $332 (€266).
There is no direct train service currently available from San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL.
The cheapest way to get from San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL is by flight, with a cost of around $70 (€56).
There is no high speed train available from San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL.
The first train from San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL leaves at 4:30 AM.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL.
Yes, you can take the train from San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL.
A day trip from San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL is not feasible as the journey duration is 54h 32m. However, there are 5 train trips available per day.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL

San Jose
Chicago
The major train station for departures in San Jose is San José Diridon Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at San José Diridon Station for your trip from San Jose to Chicago.
San José Diridon StationLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
Amenities at train station
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
Luggage CartsLuggage Carts
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
platformCount
Number of platforms
5
Parking
Parking
  • Parking is available 7 days a week, with multiple lots surrounding the station.
Dining
Dining
  • The Farmers Union
  • Poor House Bistro
  • La Victoria Taqueria
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
WC
  • $0.50
Hotel
Hotel
  • Hotel De Anza
  • The Westin San Jose
  • AC Hotel by Marriott San Jose Downtown
Lost and Found Office
Lost and Found Office
  • Located in the main hall
Car Rental
Car Rental
  • Enterprise
  • Hertz
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
Luggage Carts
  • Free
Station Plan
  • The station has a main hall with ticketing and waiting areas, platforms for Caltrain, Amtrak, and ACE services, and connections to VTA buses and light rail.
Public transit options for San José Diridon Station
  • Bus: VTA Bus Lines 22, 64A, 64B, 68, 168, 181
  • Light Rail: VTA Green Line
  • Caltrain
  • Amtrak
  • ACE
Santa Clara StationDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWC
Amenities at train station
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km

Most popular trains to and from Chicago, IL and San Jose, CA

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