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The Getty Center
Major hilltop art museum with European paintings, decorative arts, gardens, and panoramic city views.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from San Luis Obispo, CA to Los Angeles, CA
Showing times and prices for Jul 12
Cheapest price
$61
Average price
$71
Fastest journey
5 h 29 m
Average duration
5 h 35 m
Trains per day
10
Distance
260 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from San Luis Obispo, 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 Luis Obispo, CA to Los Angeles, CA will cost around $71 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $61.
Fast trains
Of the 10 trains that leave San Luis Obispo, CA for Los Angeles, CA on Sun, Jul 12, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sun, Jul 12 the direct trains cover the 260 km distance in an average of 5 h 35 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 29 m .
On Sun, Jul 12 the slowest trains will take 5 h 46 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.
774 Pacific Surfliner6:11 AM5h32San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA11:43 AMUnion Station, Los Angeles, CA$611One-way0 transfers- 794 Pacific Surfliner4:17 PM5h29San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA9:46 PMUnion Station, Los Angeles, CA$611One-way0 transfers
- 786 Pacific Surfliner12:15 PM5h35San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA5:50 PMUnion Station, Los Angeles, CA$611One-way0 transfers
- 4794 AMTRAK · 794 Pacific Surfliner3:30 PM6h16San Luis Obispo, CA9:46 PMUnion Station, Los Angeles, CA$691One-way1 transfer
- 4782 AMTRAK · 782 Pacific Surfliner9:50 AM5h55San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA3:45 PMUnion Station, Los Angeles, CA$731One-way1 transfer
- 794 Pacific Surfliner4:17 PM5h29San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA9:46 PMUnion Station, Los Angeles, CA$611One-way0 transfers
- 774 Pacific Surfliner6:11 AM5h32San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA11:43 AMUnion Station, Los Angeles, CA$611One-way0 transfers
- 11 Coast Starlight3:37 PM5h34San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA9:11 PMUnion Station, Los Angeles, CA$941One-way0 transfers
- 786 Pacific Surfliner12:15 PM5h35San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA5:50 PMUnion Station, Los Angeles, CA$611One-way0 transfers
- 4770 AMTRAK · 770 Pacific Surfliner4:00 AM5h46San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA9:46 AMUnion Station, Los Angeles, CA$731One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for San Luis Obispo, CA to Los Angeles, CA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from San Luis Obispo, CA to Los Angeles, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $37. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 4h 12m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $37, and a flight costs an average of $247.
Distance: 161 miles (260 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$59 Average price Cheapest | $60 Average price | $415 Average price | $38 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 4m Average total duration 5h 34m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 23m Average total duration 4h 53m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 12m Average total duration Fastest 4h 12m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 3h 29m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.3 - 0.6kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Direct Options | 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 Luis Obispo, CA to Los Angeles, CA is a train with an average price of $59 (€48).
This is compared to other travel options from San Luis Obispo, CA to Los Angeles, CA:
A train is $1 (€0.98) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from San Luis Obispo, CA to Los Angeles, CA costing on average $60 (€49).
A train is $356 (€293) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from San Luis Obispo, CA to Los Angeles, CA costing on average $415 (€341).
The fastest way to travel from San Luis Obispo, CA to Los Angeles, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 4h 12m.
Other travel options to Los Angeles, CA take longer:
Bus takes on average 4h 53m.
Train takes on average 5h 34m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between San Luis Obispo, CA and Los Angeles, CA including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from San Luis Obispo, CA to Los Angeles, 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 $59 (€48) compared to roughly $38 (€31) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-21.18 (€-17.42). The journey takes 5h 34m versus 3h 29m 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 Luis Obispo, CA to Los Angeles, CA train times
The table below shows live departures for San Luis Obispo, CA to Los Angeles, CA trains for today, Saturday, July 11. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 774 Pacific Surfliner | 6:11 AM San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA | 5h32 | 11:43 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 4782 AMTRAK · 782 Pacific Surfliner | 9:30 AM San Luis Obispo, CA | 6h15 | 3:45 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 4782 AMTRAK · 782 Pacific Surfliner | 9:50 AM San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA | 5h55 | 3:45 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 786 Pacific Surfliner | 12:15 PM San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA | 5h35 | 5:50 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 4790 AMTRAK · 790 Pacific Surfliner | 1:30 PM San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA | 6h13 | 7:43 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 11 Coast Starlight | 3:37 PM San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA | 5h34 | 9:11 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, 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 Luis Obispo, 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.
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How far in advance should I book train tickets from San Luis Obispo, CA to Los Angeles, CA?
The best time to book your train from San Luis Obispo, CA to Los Angeles, CA is 4 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the San Luis Obispo, CA to Los Angeles, CA route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from San Luis Obispo, 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 Luis Obispo, CA to Los Angeles, CA.
Trains
from $53Buses
from $57Journey information
Overview: Train from San Luis Obispo, CA to Los Angeles, CA
USAUSA
Trains from San Luis Obispo, CA to Los Angeles, CA run on average 14 times per day, taking around 5h 34m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $37 (€31) but you can travel from only $31 (€26) by bus.
There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 03:45, the last at 19:59. The fastest train covers the 161 miles (260 km) distance in 5h 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
Bus from $31 (€26)
Distance 161 miles (260 km) |
Average train duration 5h 34m |
Cheapest ticket price $37 (€31) |
Trains per day 14 |
Direct trains 3 |
Fastest train 5h 32m |
First train 3:45 AM |
Last train 7:59 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 56 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 $31 (€26)
Train companies: Amtrak from San Luis Obispo, CA to Los Angeles, CA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between San Luis Obispo, CA and Los Angeles, CA from $31 (€26). 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 32m
Cheapest Price
$37 (€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
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.
FAQs: Trains from San Luis Obispo, CA to Los Angeles, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from San Luis Obispo, 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 Luis Obispo, CA to Los Angeles, CA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $37 (€31), while the average price is around $59 (€48).
The train from San Luis Obispo, CA to Los Angeles, CA takes 5h 32m and runs 14 per day.
The first train from San Luis Obispo, CA to Los Angeles, CA leaves at 3:45 AM.
The distance by train from San Luis Obispo, CA to Los Angeles, CA is 161 miles (260 km).
The last train from San Luis Obispo, CA to Los Angeles, CA leaves at 7:59 PM.
There is no high speed train available from San Luis Obispo, CA to Los Angeles, CA.
Yes, there is a direct train from San Luis Obispo, CA to Los Angeles, CA. This service operates 3 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from San Luis Obispo, CA to Los Angeles, CA.
The train station in San Luis Obispo, CA that goes to Los Angeles, CA is San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA, which connects to Union Station, Los Angeles, CA.
The cheapest way to get from San Luis Obispo, CA to Los Angeles, CA is by bus, with a cost of around $31 (€26).
Yes, the train journey from San Luis Obispo to Los Angeles is scenic, offering views of the Pacific Ocean, rolling hills, and picturesque vineyards along the way.
A day trip from San Luis Obispo, CA to Los Angeles, CA is not feasible since the one-way travel time is 5h 32m. However, there are 13 train trips available per day over a distance of 161 miles (260 km).
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 Luis Obispo, CA to Los Angeles, CA.
Since neither San Luis Obispo, 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 train as it is the most popular way to get from San Luis Obispo, 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.
Most popular train connections from San Luis Obispo, CA
More options for your journey from San Luis Obispo, 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 Luis Obispo, CA
Most popular train connections to Los Angeles, CA
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