- Must visit
California State Railroad Museum
One of North America’s premier rail museums, with restored locomotives, immersive exhibits, and strong California history context.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from San Jose, CA to Sacramento, CA
Showing times and prices for Aug 24
Cheapest price
CHF35
Average price
CHF41
Fastest journey
3 h 6 m
Average duration
3 h 10 m
Trains per day
12
Distance
143 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from San Jose, CA to Sacramento, 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 Sacramento, CA will cost around CHF41 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only CHF35.
Fast trains
Of the 12 trains that leave San Jose, CA for Sacramento, CA on Mon, Aug 24, 8 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Mon, Aug 24 the direct trains cover the 143 km distance in an average of 3 h 10 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 6 m .
On Mon, Aug 24 the slowest trains will take 3 h 16 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.
4785 AMTRAK · 522 Capitol Corridor4:30 AM4h00San José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA8:30 AMSacramento Valley Station, Sacramento, CACHF351One-way1 transfer- 4785 AMTRAK · 524 Capitol Corridor4:30 AM5h10San José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA9:40 AMSacramento Valley Station, Sacramento, CACHF351One-way1 transfer
- 530 Capitol Corridor10:35 AM3h10San José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA1:45 PMSacramento Valley Station, Sacramento, CACHF361One-way0 transfers
- 544 Capitol Corridor5:25 PM3h16San José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA8:41 PMSacramento Valley Station, Sacramento, CACHF361One-way0 transfers
- 550 Capitol Corridor6:55 PM3h10San José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA10:05 PMSacramento Valley Station, Sacramento, CACHF361One-way0 transfers
- 538 Capitol Corridor2:50 PM3h06San José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA5:56 PMSacramento Valley Station, Sacramento, CACHF361One-way0 transfers
- 542 Capitol Corridor4:17 PM3h09San José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA7:26 PMSacramento Valley Station, Sacramento, CACHF361One-way0 transfers
- 530 Capitol Corridor10:35 AM3h10San José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA1:45 PMSacramento Valley Station, Sacramento, CACHF361One-way0 transfers
- 550 Capitol Corridor6:55 PM3h10San José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA10:05 PMSacramento Valley Station, Sacramento, CACHF361One-way0 transfers
- 544 Capitol Corridor5:25 PM3h16San José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA8:41 PMSacramento Valley Station, Sacramento, CACHF361One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for San Jose, CA to Sacramento, CA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from San Jose, CA to Sacramento, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from CHF18. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 2h 48m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of CHF18, and a train costs an average of CHF27.
Distance: 88 miles (143 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
CHF35 Average price | CHF32 Average price Cheapest | CHF25 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 41m Average total duration 3h 11m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 18m Average total duration Fastest 2h 48m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 52m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
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 Sacramento, CA is a train with an average price of CHF34.
This is compared to other travel options from San Jose, CA to Sacramento, CA:
A train is CHF3 less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from San Jose, CA to Sacramento, CA costing on average CHF37.
The fastest way to travel from San Jose, CA to Sacramento, CA is by bus with an average journey time of 2h 50m.
Other travel options to Sacramento, CA take longer:
Train takes on average 3h 11m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between San Jose, CA and Sacramento, CA including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from San Jose, CA to Sacramento, CA 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 CHF34 compared to roughly CHF25 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about CHF-8.73. The journey takes 3h 11m versus 1h 52m 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.
Live departures
San Jose, CA to Sacramento, CA train times
The table below shows live departures for San Jose, CA to Sacramento, CA trains for today, Sunday, August 23. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4785 AMTRAK · 6 California Zephyr | 4:30 AM San José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA | 5h42 | 10:12 AM Sacramento Valley Station, Sacramento, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 4785 AMTRAK · 724 Capitol Corridor | 4:30 AM San José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA | 7h37 | 12:07 PM Sacramento Valley Station, Sacramento, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 4785 AMTRAK · 720 Capitol Corridor | 4:30 AM San José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA | 5h20 | 9:50 AM Sacramento Valley Station, Sacramento, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 724 Capitol Corridor | 8:50 AM San José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA | 3h17 | 12:07 PM Sacramento Valley Station, Sacramento, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 728 Capitol Corridor | 10:50 AM San José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA | 3h15 | 2:05 PM Sacramento Valley Station, Sacramento, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 734 Capitol Corridor | 12:50 PM San José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA | 3h15 | 4:05 PM Sacramento Valley Station, Sacramento, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 738 Capitol Corridor | 2:50 PM San José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA | 3h15 | 6:05 PM Sacramento Valley Station, Sacramento, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 744 Capitol Corridor | 4:50 PM San José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA | 3h03 | 7:53 PM Sacramento Valley Station, Sacramento, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 746 Capitol Corridor | 5:50 PM San José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA | 3h15 | 9:05 PM Sacramento Valley Station, Sacramento, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 14 Coast Starlight | 7:58 PM San José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA | 3h51 | 11:49 PM Sacramento Valley Station, Sacramento, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 748 Capitol Corridor | 8:05 PM San José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA | 3h10 | 11:15 PM Sacramento Valley Station, Sacramento, CA | 0 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 Sacramento, CA by bus or train
Compare bus and train 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.
Mon
Aug 24
Aug 24
Tue
Aug 25
Aug 25
Wed
Aug 26
Aug 26
Thu
Aug 27
Aug 27
Fri
Aug 28
Aug 28
Sat
Aug 29
Aug 29
Sun
Aug 30
Aug 30
How far in advance should I book train tickets from San Jose, CA to Sacramento, CA?
The best time to book your train from San Jose, CA to Sacramento, CA is 77 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the San Jose, CA to Sacramento, CA route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from San Jose, CA to Sacramento, 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 Sacramento, CA.
Trains
from CHF35Buses
from CHF23Journey information
Overview: Train from San Jose, CA to Sacramento, CA
USAUSA
Trains from San Jose, CA to Sacramento, CA run on average 11 times per day, taking around 3h 11m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at CHF27 but you can travel from only CHF21 by bus.
There are 8 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:10, the last at 23:23. The fastest train covers the 88 miles (143 km) distance in 3h 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 CHF21
Distance 88 miles (143 km) |
Average train duration 3h 11m |
Cheapest ticket price CHF27 |
Trains per day 11 |
Direct trains 8 |
Fastest train 3h 10m |
First train 4:10 AM |
Last train 11:23 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 28 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 CHF21
Train companies: Amtrak from San Jose, CA to Sacramento, CA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between San Jose, CA and Sacramento, CA from CHF18. 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
3h 15m
Cheapest Price
CHF27
Amtrak frequency
11 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 Sacramento, CA
Things to do in Sacramento, CA
Discover the best of Sacramento, CA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Sacramento, CA trip today.
- Must visit
Crocker Art Museum
Excellent art museum known for California art, ceramics, photography, and engaging modern exhibitions in Midtown Sacramento.
- Recommended
California State Capitol Museum
State history museum inside the capitol, featuring restored offices, political artifacts, and architecture that defines California government.
- Must visit
Midtown Sacramento
Tree-lined central district known for restaurants, shops, murals, nightlife, and easy walking between major Sacramento attractions.
- Recommended
William Land Park
Large riverside park with trails, gardens, ponds, and open lawns, ideal for strolling, picnics, and seeing local wildlife.
- Recommended
Sacramento River Parkway Trail
Long riverfront path popular for walking and cycling, linking parks and neighborhoods with broad Sacramento River views.
Farm-To-Fork Seasonal Plates
Farm-to-fork seasonal plates built from Sacramento Valley produce. They reflect the city's agricultural identity and restaurant culture more than a single fixed recipe.
- Gluten-free
California Salmon Plate
A local spin on California cuisine using grilled salmon, asparagus, citrus, and herbs. It highlights nearby river fish and regional produce.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Delta Asparagus
Fresh Delta asparagus, often grilled, roasted, or served in salads. It is a celebrated spring ingredient from the nearby Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta.
The Kitchen Restaurant
Contemporary fine dining destination focused on seasonal Sacramento ingredients, tasting menus, and polished service.
Tower Cafe
Beloved local bakery and cafe for breakfast, sandwiches, pastries, and coffee with a lively neighborhood feel.
The Firehouse Restaurant
Historic upscale restaurant in Old Sacramento known for steaks, seafood, and classic dining room service in a refined setting.
US Dollar ($)
Moderate for California. Hotels are often pricier than smaller US cities, while casual dining and local transit stay fairly manageable for visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $10-18 for fast food or casual lunch.
- Mid-range
- $20-40 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- $4-6 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 15-20% at restaurants, 18-22% for excellent service. Taxis usually 10-15%. Cafes often have tip jars or screen prompts; small tips are appreciated.
FAQs: Trains from San Jose, CA to Sacramento, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from San Jose, CA to Sacramento, 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 Sacramento, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from San Jose, CA to Sacramento, CA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at CHF27, while the average price is around CHF34.
The train from San Jose, CA to Sacramento, CA takes 3h 10m and runs 11 per day.
The distance by train from San Jose, CA to Sacramento, CA is 88 miles (143 km).
The first train from San Jose, CA to Sacramento, CA leaves at 4:10 AM.
The last train from San Jose, CA to Sacramento, CA leaves at 11:23 PM.
There is no high speed train available from San Jose, CA to Sacramento, CA.
Yes, there is a direct train from San Jose, CA to Sacramento, CA. This service operates 8 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from San Jose, CA to Sacramento, CA.
The train station in San Jose, CA that goes to Sacramento, CA is San José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA, which connects to Sacramento Valley Station, Sacramento, CA.
The cheapest way to get from San Jose, CA to Sacramento, CA is by bus, with a cost of around CHF21.
The train journey from San Jose, CA to Sacramento, CA offers scenic views of California’s diverse landscapes, including rolling hills, farmlands, and glimpses of the San Francisco Bay and Sacramento River, providing a pleasant and picturesque travel experience.
A day trip from San Jose, CA to Sacramento, CA is not feasible as the journey duration is 3h 10m. However, there are 10 trains per day. The distance between the two cities is 88 miles (143 km).
To fully explore Sacramento's key attractions, including the California State Capitol Museum, Old Sacramento Waterfront, and the Crocker Art Museum, a 2 to 3-day visit is recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from San Jose, CA to Sacramento, CA.
Since neither San Jose, CA nor Sacramento, 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 Sacramento, CA include Oakland, CA, Richmond, CA, Berkeley, CA, Martinez, CA, Emeryville, CA.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from San Jose, CA to Sacramento, 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 Sacramento, CA, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like Old Sacramento and transit stations. Common scams include fake charity solicitations and overcharging by unofficial taxi services. It's advisable to use official transportation options, avoid displaying valuables openly, and stay aware of surroundings, particularly at night in less busy 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 Jose, CA to Sacramento, CA
Most San Jose, CA to Sacramento, CA trains use the San José Diridon Station to Sacramento Valley Station station pair. Use this guide to compare San Jose, CA and Sacramento, 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 Sacramento
Which San Jose, CA station do trains to Sacramento, CA leave from?
Trains from San Jose, CA to Sacramento, 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+1 800-872-7245
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 · CHF5 · every ~26 min
TramGreen Line · 14m · CHF3 · 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+1 800-660-4287
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 · CHF5
BusRapid 522, 22 · 17m · CHF5 · every ~16 min
22, Rapid 522 · 19m · CHF5 · 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.
Which Sacramento, CA station do trains from San Jose, CA arrive at?
Trains from San Jose, CA to Sacramento, CA arrive at Sacramento Valley Station. Sacramento Valley Station is 0 miles (1 km) from Sacramento, CA city centre.
Sacramento Valley Station401 I Street, Sacramento, CA 95814, USA+1 800-872-7245
City-centre transport
Getting to Sacramento Valley Station from Sacramento city centre
Bus30, 38, 62 · 6m · CHF3 · every ~10 min
45 · 23m · CHF3
TramGold · 3m · CHF3 · every ~7 min
Sacramento Valley Station train station facilities and services
Sacramento Valley Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, 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 Firehouse Restaurant, Ten22
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Sacramento Valley Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Sacramento Valley Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Sacramento Valley Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Sacramento Valley Station: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Sacramento Valley Station: Ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Embassy Suites by Hilton Sacramento Riverfront Promenade, Holiday Inn Sacramento Downtown - Arena, Kimpton Sawyer Hotel.
More options for your journey from San Jose, CA to Sacramento, CA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Sacramento, CA and San Jose, CA
Most popular train connections to Sacramento, CA
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