- Must visit
Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian
Major Smithsonian museum on the National Mall showcasing Native cultures, art, and history; an easy trip from Union Station.
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
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from San José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA to Union Station, 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 José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA to Union Station, Los Angeles, CA will cost around $159 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $152.
Of the 2 trains that leave San José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA for Union Station, Los Angeles, CA on Sun, May 31, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sun, May 31 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 Sun, May 31 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 Surfliner
11 Coast Starlight
4794 AMTRAK · 794 Pacific Surfliner
11 Coast StarlightOmio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from San José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA to Union Station, Los Angeles, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $48. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 7m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $48, and a flight costs an average of $111.
Distance: 305 miles (492 km)
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$133 Average price | $78 Average price Cheapest | $347 Average price | $2 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
11h 1m Average total duration 10h 31m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 34m Average total duration 8h 4m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 7m Average total duration Fastest 2h 7m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 5h 24m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular bus company | ![]() Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
This is compared to other travel options from San José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA to Union Station, Los Angeles, CA:
A bus is $54 (€44) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from San José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA to Union Station, Los Angeles, CA costing on average $133 (€107).
A bus is $268 (€216) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from San José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA to Union Station, Los Angeles, CA costing on average $347 (€279).
Other travel options to Union Station, Los Angeles, CA take longer:
Bus takes on average 8h 4m.
Train takes on average 10h 31m.
Tickets start at around $133 (€107) compared to roughly $2 (€2) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-130.51 (€-105.07). The journey takes 10h 31m versus 5h 24m 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.
The table below shows live departures for San José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA to Union Station, Los Angeles, CA trains for tomorrow, Sunday, May 31. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| 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 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.
Trains from San José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA to Union Station, Los Angeles, CA run on average 9 times per day, taking around 10h 31m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $78 (€63) but you can travel from only $48 (€38) by bus.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 01:00, the last at 19:25. The fastest train covers the 305 miles (492 km) distance in 8h 25m.
Distance 305 miles (492 km) |
Average train duration 10h 31m |
Cheapest ticket price $78 (€63) |
Trains per day 9 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 8h 25m |
First train 1:00 AM |
Last train 7:25 PM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Discover the best of Union Station — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Union Station trip today.
Major Smithsonian museum on the National Mall showcasing Native cultures, art, and history; an easy trip from Union Station.
World-class art museum with masterworks from Europe and America, plus sculpture and rotating exhibitions.
Smithsonian museum in the historic City Post Office building, with exhibits on U.S. mail, stamps, and transportation history near Union Station.
Washington's central monumental park corridor, lined with museums and memorials, ideal for first-time visitors and long walks.
Loop walk famous for cherry blossoms and postcard views of major memorials, especially photogenic in spring.
Historic neighborhood around the Capitol with classic rowhouses, civic institutions, and one of the city's most recognizable streetscapes.
A Hot Dog topped with chili, cheese, and onions, common at classic American diners and ballpark-style counters.
A Classic American burger with beef and melted cheese, widely associated with casual dining across the United States.
Fried chicken wings coated in spicy Buffalo sauce, a beloved American bar food often served with celery and dip.
Historic station complex with several dining options and a grand atmosphere, popular for casual meals in an iconic setting.
Established seafood and steak restaurant inside Union Station, known for its elegant interior and classic dining experience.
Casual American restaurant in the station serving breakfast, sandwiches, and comfort food in a historic setting.
Prices are moderate by U.S. city standards. Station food is often pricier than nearby casual spots.
Restaurants: tip 18-20% before tax. Bars: USD 1-2 per drink. Taxis/rideshares: 10-15%. Cafes: optional, often USD 1 or change. Hotel staff: USD 1-5 depending on service.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from San José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA to Union Station, 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 Union Station, Los Angeles, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
