San Jose, CA to Chico, CA train with Amtrak

Wed, Jul 15
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Amtrak
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Deutsche Bahn
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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 Jose, CA to Chico, CA

Showing times and prices for Jul 16

Cheapest price

$54

Average price

$56

Fastest journey

5 h 39 m

Average duration

6 h 3 m

Trains per day

2

Distance

266 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from San Jose, CA to Chico, CA 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 Chico, CA will cost around $56 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $54.

Fast trains

Of the 2 trains that leave San Jose, CA for Chico, CA on Thu, Jul 16, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Thu, Jul 16 the direct trains cover the 266 km distance in an average of 6 h 3 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 39 m .

On Thu, Jul 16 the slowest trains will take 6 h 27 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.

  • Amtrak
    2:58 AM5h39
    San Jose, CA
    8:37 AMChico, CA
    $541One-way
    0 transfers
  • Amtrak
    6:43 PM6h27
    San Jose, CA
    1:10 AMChico, CA
    $581One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for San Jose, CA to Chico, CA

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from San Jose, CA to Chico, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $38. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 5h 10m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $38, and a bus costs an average of $50.

Distance: 165 miles (266 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus

$53

Average price

Cheapest

$61

Average price

5h 40m

Average total duration

Fastest

5h 10m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

8h 23m

Average total duration

7h 53m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from San Jose, CA to Chico, CA is a train with an average price of $53 (€44).

This is compared to other travel options from San Jose, CA to Chico, CA:

A train is $8 (€6) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from San Jose, CA to Chico, CA costing on average $61 (€50).

The fastest way to travel from San Jose, CA to Chico, CA is by train with an average journey time of 5h 10m.

Other travel options to Chico, CA take longer:

Bus takes on average 7h 53m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between San Jose, CA and Chico, CA including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from San Jose, CA to Chico, CA among Omio's users.

Live departures

San Jose, CA to Chico, CA train times

The table below shows live departures for San Jose, CA to Chico, CA trains for tomorrow, Wednesday, July 15. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Amtrak2:58 AM San Jose, CA
5h39
8:37 AM Chico, CA0 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 Chico, CA by train or bus

Compare train and bus 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.

Wed
Jul 15
Thu
Jul 16
Fri
Jul 17
Sat
Jul 18
Sun
Jul 19
Mon
Jul 20
Tue
Jul 21

Journey information

Overview: Train from San Jose, CA to Chico, CA

USAUSA
USAUSA
Icon of train

Trains from San Jose, CA to Chico, CA run on average 8 times per day, taking around 5h 10m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $38 (€31) if you book in advance.

There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 03:45, the last at 19:58. The fastest train covers the 165 miles (266 km) distance in 5h 39m.

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
Distance
165 miles (266 km)
Average train duration
5h 10m
Cheapest ticket price
$38 (€31)
Trains per day
8
Direct trains
1
Fastest train
5h 39m
First train
3:45 AM
Last train
7:58 PM
Cheapest Month
Feb
Cheapest Day
Sat
High Season
Jan - Mar
Low Season
Jul - Sep
Busiest Day
Tue
Least Busy Day
Tue
Best time to book
2 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

Train companies: Amtrak from San Jose, CA to Chico, CA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between San Jose, CA and Chico, CA from $38 (€31). 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
5h 39m
Cheapest Price
$38 (€31)
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

FAQs: Trains from San Jose, CA to Chico, CA

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

FAQs
Train ticket prices from San Jose, CA to Chico, CA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $38 (€31), while the average price is around $53 (€44).
The train from San Jose, CA to Chico, CA takes 5h 39m and runs 8 per day.
The first train from San Jose, CA to Chico, CA leaves at 3:45 AM.
The distance by train from San Jose, CA to Chico, CA is 165 miles (266 km).
The last train from San Jose, CA to Chico, CA leaves at 7:58 PM.
There is no high speed train available from San Jose, CA to Chico, CA.
Yes, there is a direct train from San Jose, CA to Chico, CA. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from San Jose, CA to Chico, CA.
The train station in San Jose, CA that goes to Chico, CA is San José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA, which connects to Chico station, Chico, CA.
The cheapest way to get from San Jose, CA to Chico, CA is by train, with a cost of around $38 (€31).
The train journey from San Jose, CA to Chico, CA offers scenic views as it travels through the diverse landscapes of Northern California, including rolling hills, agricultural fields, and glimpses of the Sacramento River, providing a picturesque experience for passengers.
A day trip from San Jose, CA to Chico, CA is not feasible as the journey takes 5h 39m one way. Trains run 7 times per day.
A stay of 2 to 3 days in Chico, CA is ideal to explore its local attractions, including Bidwell Park, the Sierra Nevada Brewing Co., and the vibrant downtown area.
Yes, you can take the train from San Jose, CA to Chico, CA.
Since neither San Jose, CA nor Chico, 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 Chico, CA include Redding, CA.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from San Jose, CA to Chico, 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 Chico, CA, travelers should be cautious of petty theft and vehicle break-ins, especially in crowded or tourist-heavy areas. It's advisable to avoid leaving valuables unattended and to use well-lit, populated locations at night. While violent crime is relatively low, being aware of surroundings and securing personal belongings helps ensure safety. Travelers should also be wary of common scams like overcharging or unofficial taxi services, and always use licensed transportation options.
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 Jose, CA to Chico, CA

Most San Jose, CA to Chico, CA trains use the San José Diridon Station to Chico Station station pair. Use this guide to compare San Jose, CA and Chico, CA train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in San Jose
Arrival train stations in Chico

Which San Jose, CA station do trains to Chico, CA leave from?

Trains from San Jose, CA to Chico, CA leave from San José Diridon Station. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from San Jose, CA city centre at 65 Cahill Street, San Jose, CA 95110, USA.
San José Diridon Station65 Cahill Street, San Jose, CA 95110, USA+1 800-872-7245LockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
City-centre transport

Getting to San José Diridon Station from San Jose city centre

San José Diridon Station is 1 km from San Jose city centre. Public transport options include:

BusRapid 500, Rapid 568, 64A, 64B, 68, 202 · 6m · $6 · every ~26 min
TramGreen Line · 14m · $4 · every ~7 min

San José Diridon Station train station facilities and services

San José Diridon Station has practical services for this route, including Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.

Food and drink

Food options include: The Farmers Union, Poor House Bistro, La Victoria Taqueria

Wi-Fi and ATMs

ATMs are available in the train station.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at San José Diridon Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at San José Diridon Station. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at San José Diridon Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at San José Diridon Station: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at San José Diridon Station: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hotel De Anza, The Westin San Jose, AC Hotel by Marriott San Jose Downtown.

Santa Clara Station1001 Railroad Ave, Santa Clara, CA 95050, USA+1 800-660-4287DiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWC
City-centre transport

Getting to Santa Clara Station from San Jose city centre

Santa Clara Station is 1 km from San Jose city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainCapitol Corridor · 6m · $6
BusRapid 522, 22 · 17m · $6 · every ~16 min
22, Rapid 522 · 19m · $6 · every ~16 min

Santa Clara Station train station facilities and services

Santa Clara Station has practical services for this route, including Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, and WC.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Santa Clara Station.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

ATMs are available at Santa Clara Station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Santa Clara Station: Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Santa Clara Station.

More options for your journey from San Jose, CA to Chico, CA

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

Most popular train connections to Chico, CA

HomeTrainsTrains in USASan Jose, CA to Chico, CA train

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