- Must visit
The Getty Center
Major hilltop art museum with European paintings, decorative arts, gardens, and panoramic city views.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest trains from San Jose, CA to Los Angeles, CA
Showing times and prices for Jul 10
Cheapest price
$152
Average price
$159
Fastest journey
10 h 21 m
Average duration
10 h 33 m
Trains per day
2
Distance
492 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from San Jose, CA to Los Angeles, 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 Los Angeles, CA will cost around $159 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $152.
Fast trains
Of the 2 trains that leave San Jose, CA for Los Angeles, CA on Fri, Jul 10, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, Jul 10 the direct trains cover the 492 km distance in an average of 10 h 33 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 10 h 21 m .
On Fri, Jul 10 the slowest trains will take 10 h 45 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.
4794 AMTRAK · 794 Pacific Surfliner11:25 AM10h21San José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA9:46 PMUnion Station, Los Angeles, CA$1521One-way1 transfer- 11 Coast Starlight10:26 AM10h45San José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA9:11 PMUnion Station, Los Angeles, CA$1651One-way0 transfers
- 4794 AMTRAK · 794 Pacific Surfliner11:25 AM10h21San José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA9:46 PMUnion Station, Los Angeles, CA$1521One-way1 transfer
- 11 Coast Starlight10:26 AM10h45San José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA9:11 PMUnion Station, Los Angeles, CA$1651One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for San Jose, CA to Los Angeles, CA
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from San Jose, CA to Los Angeles, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $46. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 26m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.4kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $46, and a flight costs an average of $113.
Distance: 305 miles (492 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Flight |
|---|---|---|
$143 Average price | $78 Average price Cheapest | $404 Average price |
11h 6m Average total duration 10h 36m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 15m Average total duration 7h 45m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 26m Average total duration Fastest 1h 26m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.5 - 1.2kg CO2 emissions | 1.5 - 3.0kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline |
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 Jose, CA to Los Angeles, CA is a bus with an average price of $78 (€64).
This is compared to other travel options from San Jose, CA to Los Angeles, CA:
A bus is $66 (€54) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from San Jose, CA to Los Angeles, CA costing on average $143 (€118).
A bus is $327 (€269) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from San Jose, CA to Los Angeles, CA costing on average $404 (€333).
The fastest way to travel from San Jose, CA to Los Angeles, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 26m.
Other travel options to Los Angeles, CA take longer:
Bus takes on average 7h 45m.
Train takes on average 10h 36m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between San Jose, CA and Los Angeles, CA including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from San Jose, CA to Los Angeles, CA among Omio's users.
Live departures
San Jose, CA to Los Angeles, CA train times
The table below shows live departures for San Jose, CA to Los Angeles, CA trains for today, Thursday, July 9. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 11 Coast Starlight | 10:26 AM San José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA | 10h45 | 9:11 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 4794 AMTRAK · 794 Pacific Surfliner | 11:25 AM San José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA | 10h21 | 9:46 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, 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 Jose, CA to Los Angeles, CA 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.
Fri
Jul 10
Jul 10
Sat
Jul 11
Jul 11
Sun
Jul 12
Jul 12
Mon
Jul 13
Jul 13
Tue
Jul 14
Jul 14
Wed
Jul 15
Jul 15
Thu
Jul 16
Jul 16
Fri
Jul 17
Jul 17
Sat
Jul 18
Jul 18
Sun
Jul 19
Jul 19
Mon
Jul 20
Jul 20
Tue
Jul 21
Jul 21
Wed
Jul 22
Jul 22
Thu
Jul 23
Jul 23
Fri
Jul 24
Jul 24
Sat
Jul 25
Jul 25
Sun
Jul 26
Jul 26
Mon
Jul 27
Jul 27
Tue
Jul 28
Jul 28
Wed
Jul 29
Jul 29
Thu
Jul 30
Jul 30
How far in advance should I book train tickets from San Jose, CA to Los Angeles, CA?
The best time to book your train from San Jose, CA to Los Angeles, CA is 91 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the San Jose, CA to Los Angeles, CA route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from San Jose, CA to Los Angeles, 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 Jose, CA to Los Angeles, CA.
Trains
from $66Buses
from $67Flights
from $70Journey information
Overview: Train from San Jose, CA to Los Angeles, CA
USAUSA
Trains from San Jose, CA to Los Angeles, CA run on average 10 times per day, taking around 10h 36m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $67 (€55) but you can travel from only $46 (€38) by bus.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:15, the last at 23:45. The fastest train covers the 305 miles (492 km) distance in 8h 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
Bus from $46 (€38)
Distance 305 miles (492 km) |
Average train duration 10h 36m |
Cheapest ticket price $67 (€55) |
Trains per day 10 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 8h 10m |
First train 12:15 AM |
Last train 11:45 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 35 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
Bus from $46 (€38)
Train companies: Amtrak from San Jose, CA to Los Angeles, CA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between San Jose, CA and Los Angeles, CA from $46 (€38). 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
8h 10m
Cheapest Price
$67 (€55)
Amtrak frequency
10 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 Los Angeles
Things to do in Los Angeles
Discover the best of Los Angeles — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Los Angeles trip today.
- Must visit
Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)
The largest art museum in the western United States, known for broad global collections and the Urban Light installation.
- Must visit
The Broad
Contemporary art museum with a high-profile collection featuring works by Yayoi Kusama, Jeff Koons, and Jean-Michel Basquiat.
- Must visit
Griffith Park
Vast urban park with trails, scenic overlooks, and access to some of the city’s best outdoor viewpoints.
- Must visit
Santa Monica Pier
Classic Southern California waterfront area popular for ocean views, walks, and iconic beach atmosphere.
- Must visit
Venice Beach Boardwalk
Famous beachfront promenade known for street culture, murals, skate energy, and people-watching.
French Dip Sandwich
A Los Angeles classic of thinly sliced roast beef on a roll, usually served with savory jus for dipping. It is one of the city’s most iconic old-school sandwiches.
- Gluten-free
Street Tacos
Small corn-tortilla tacos filled with meats such as carne asada, al pastor, or carnitas, topped simply with onion, cilantro, and salsa. They reflect the city’s deep Mexican culinary influence.
- Gluten-free
Korean Barbecue
Grilled marinated meats cooked at the table, commonly enjoyed with banchan in Koreatown. Los Angeles is especially famous for its vibrant Korean barbecue culture.
Bestia
Popular upscale restaurant in the Arts District known for house-made charcuterie, pasta, and a stylish industrial setting.
Philippe The Original
Historic casual eatery best known for the French dip sandwich, old-school counter service, and classic Los Angeles atmosphere.
Guelaguetza
Well-known Oaxacan restaurant celebrated for mole, tlayudas, and lively traditional flavors in a vibrant setting.
United States Dollar
Los Angeles is costly for visitors, especially lodging, parking, and dining. Casual food is manageable, but transport and attractions add up quickly.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-18 for fast food, tacos, or a simple cafe meal.
- Mid-range
- USD 25-45 per person at a casual sit-down restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 90+ per person before drinks, tax, and tip.
- Coffee
- USD 4-7 for drip coffee or a latte.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants; 20% is common for good service. Tip USD 1-2 per drink at bars, round up or tip 10-15% for taxis, and tip hotel staff and valet.
Traveling by train from San Jose, CA to Los Angeles, CA
The train connection between San Jose, CA and Los Angeles, CA is a convenient option for travelers looking to explore the vibrant culture of California. Amtrak provides reliable service on this route, allowing passengers to enjoy scenic views along the way. With multiple departures daily, it's easy to find a schedule that fits your travel plans while experiencing comfortable seating and onboard amenities during your journey.
Train Connection: San Jose, CA to Los Angeles, CA
The train connection from San Jose to Los Angeles takes approximately 10 hours and 5 minutes. There is 1 direct connection available per day. Passengers will depart from San José Diridon Station and arrive at Union Station in Los Angeles, with an additional stop at Van Nuys Metrolink Station.
San Jose, CA to Los Angeles, CA
The first daily train journey departs from San Jose at 1:10 PM, providing travelers with a convenient afternoon option. The last departure for the day is scheduled at 11:35 PM from Los Angeles, allowing late-night arrivals for those wishing to maximize their time in the city.
Train Tickets Price for San Jose, CA to Los Angeles, CA
The cheapest ticket price for the train connection between San Jose and Los Angeles is $53 (48€). The average ticket price tends to be around $86 (77.4€), making it a convenient option for travelers looking to explore these vibrant Californian cities.
Exploring Los Angeles: Iconic Landmarks and Cultural Treasures
The Hollywood Sign, originally erected in 1923 as an advertisement for a real estate development called "Hollywoodland," has become an iconic symbol of the entertainment industry and dreams of stardom. Its towering letters stand at 45 feet tall and can be seen from miles away, drawing millions of visitors each year who seek to capture that perfect photo against this legendary backdrop. As we explore its history, you'll discover how it transformed from a simple sign into a cultural landmark representing not just Los Angeles but the entire film industry.
Next on our journey is Griffith Observatory, which opened in 1935 and has since served as both an astronomical observatory and a public space for education about science and astronomy. This stunning Art Deco structure offers breathtaking views of the city skyline while housing fascinating exhibits that engage visitors with interactive displays about our universe. The significance lies not only in its role as a scientific institution but also as a beloved gathering place where people come together to marvel at the stars above.
Finally, we arrive at The Getty Center, renowned for its impressive collection of European paintings alongside modern architecture set amidst beautifully landscaped gardens. Opened in 1997 by oil tycoon J.Paul Getty's foundation, this cultural haven attracts art lovers with free admission while showcasing masterpieces by artists like Van Gogh and Monet within striking galleries designed by architect Richard Meier. Beyond art appreciation, The Getty Center stands out due to its commitment to conservation efforts—preserving both artistic heritage and natural beauty right here in Los Angeles.
FAQs: Trains from San Jose, CA to Los Angeles, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from San Jose, CA to Los Angeles, 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 Los Angeles, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from San Jose, CA to Los Angeles, CA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $67 (€55), while the average price is around $143 (€118).
The train from San Jose, CA to Los Angeles, CA takes 8h 10m and runs 10 per day.
The first train from San Jose, CA to Los Angeles, CA leaves at 12:15 AM.
The distance by train from San Jose, CA to Los Angeles, CA is 305 miles (492 km).
The last train from San Jose, CA to Los Angeles, CA leaves at 11:45 PM.
There is no high speed train available from San Jose, CA to Los Angeles, CA.
Yes, there is a direct train from San Jose, CA to Los Angeles, CA. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from San Jose, CA to Los Angeles, CA.
The train station in San Jose, CA that goes to Los Angeles, CA is San José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA, which connects to Union Station, Los Angeles, CA.
The cheapest way to get from San Jose, CA to Los Angeles, CA is by bus, with a cost of around $46 (€38).
The train journey from San Jose, CA to Los Angeles, CA offers a scenic experience, showcasing California's diverse landscapes. Passengers can enjoy views of coastal areas, lush valleys, and rolling hills along the route, particularly when traveling on the Coast Starlight service.
A day trip from San Jose, CA to Los Angeles, CA is not feasible as the journey takes 8h 10m, which exceeds the 120-minute limit. The distance is 305 miles (492 km), and there are 10 trips available per day for trains.
In Los Angeles, CA, you can explore Venice Beach Boardwalk with its eclectic shops and street performers, visit the historic El Capitan Theatre for a classic movie experience, or take a scenic hike in Runyon Canyon Park for panoramic city views. Enjoy a live performance at the Walt Disney Concert Hall, or discover unique exhibits at the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County. Best sights include the Griffith Observatory for stunning city views and astronomy exhibits, The Getty Center for art and gardens, the historic Santa Monica Pier, the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) with its diverse collections.
To fully experience Los Angeles, CA, it's ideal to spend at least 3 to 5 days. This allows time to visit popular attractions like Hollywood, Santa Monica, and the Getty Center, while also exploring the city's diverse neighborhoods and cultural offerings.
Yes, you can take the train from San Jose, CA to Los Angeles, CA.
Since neither San Jose, CA nor Los Angeles, 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 Los Angeles, CA include Anaheim, CA, Irvine, CA, Carlsbad, CA, Santa Ana, CA, Fullerton, CA.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from San Jose, CA to Los Angeles, 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 Los Angeles, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and vehicle break-ins, especially in crowded or tourist-heavy areas like Hollywood and Venice Beach. Common scams include fake ticket vendors near popular attractions and overcharging by unlicensed ride services. It's important to use official transportation options, stay aware of surroundings, and avoid sharing personal information with strangers to stay safe.
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.
More options for your journey from San Jose, CA to Los Angeles, CA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Los Angeles, CA and San Jose, CA
Most popular train connections to Los Angeles, CA
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
