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Major art museum and hilltop campus known for European paintings, gardens, and architecture, with 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 May 28
Cheapest price
$61
Average price
$69
Fastest journey
5 h 29 m
Average duration
5 h 36 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 $69 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 Thu, May 28, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Thu, May 28 the direct trains cover the 260 km distance in an average of 5 h 36 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 29 m .
On Thu, May 28 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.
786 Pacific Surfliner12:12 PM5h38San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA5:50 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
- 794 Pacific Surfliner4:17 PM5h29San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA9:46 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
- 11 Coast Starlight3:37 PM5h34San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA9:11 PMUnion Station, Los Angeles, CA$711One-way0 transfers
- 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$711One-way0 transfers
- 786 Pacific Surfliner12:12 PM5h38San 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 $38. 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 $38, and a flight costs an average of $251.
Distance: 161 miles (260 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$60 Average price Cheapest | $61 Average price | $423 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 $60 (€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 $61 (€49).
A train is $363 (€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 $423 (€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 $60 (€48) compared to roughly $38 (€31) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-21.59 (€-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, Wednesday, May 27. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4770 AMTRAK · 770 Pacific Surfliner | 3:45 AM San Luis Obispo, CA | 6h01 | 9:46 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 4770 AMTRAK · 770 Pacific Surfliner | 4:00 AM San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA | 5h46 | 9:46 AM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 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 | 12:12 PM San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA | 5h38 | 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 | |
| 4794 AMTRAK · 794 Pacific Surfliner | 3:30 PM San Luis Obispo, CA | 6h16 | 9:46 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 | |
| 794 Pacific Surfliner | 4:17 PM San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA | 5h29 | 9:46 PM Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
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.
Thu
May 28
May 28
Fri
May 29
May 29
Sat
May 30
May 30
Sun
May 31
May 31
Mon
Jun 01
Jun 01
Tue
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Jun 02
Wed
Jun 03
Jun 03
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 $54Buses
from $58Journey 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 $38 (€31) but you can travel from only $32 (€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 $32 (€26)
Distance 161 miles (260 km) |
Average train duration 5h 34m |
Cheapest ticket price $38 (€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 $32 (€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 $32 (€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
$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
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, famous for broad global collections and the Urban Light installation.
- Must visit
The Broad
Contemporary art museum with works by Warhol, Kusama, and Koons; one of Downtown Los Angeles's most popular cultural stops.
- Must visit
Santa Monica Pier
Classic Southern California waterfront area with ocean views, street performers, and a lively boardwalk atmosphere.
- Must visit
Venice Beach Boardwalk
Famous beachfront promenade known for skate culture, murals, performers, and nonstop people-watching.
- Must visit
Griffith Park
Large urban park with hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and access to several of Los Angeles's best-known attractions.
French Dip Sandwich
A classic Los Angeles sandwich of thin-sliced roast beef on a French roll, often served with savory jus for dipping. It is one of the city’s best-known historic dishes.
Fish Tacos
Baja-style fish tacos are deeply rooted in Southern California food culture, especially in Los Angeles. They usually feature battered or grilled fish with cabbage, crema, and salsa.
- Gluten-free
Street Tacos Al Pastor
Los Angeles is famous for its taco culture, and al pastor is a local favorite. Marinated pork is shaved from a spit and served on small corn tortillas with onion, cilantro, and pineapple.
Musso & Frank Grill
Legendary Hollywood restaurant serving classic American fare, steaks, and martinis. Formal, old Los Angeles atmosphere with deep culinary history.
Philippe The Original
Historic casual eatery best known for the French dip sandwich. Old-school atmosphere and one of Los Angeles’s most famous classic food institutions.
Guelaguetza
Well-known Oaxacan restaurant celebrated for mole, tlayudas, and mezcal. Lively, established dining room with strong local and national recognition.
United States Dollar
Los Angeles is costly for visitors, especially hotels, parking, and dining. Budget eats exist, but transport and attractions add up quickly.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-18 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- USD 25-45 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 80+ per person before drinks and tax.
- Coffee
- USD 4-7 for a regular coffee or latte.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% in restaurants; 20%+ for great service. Bars: USD 1-2 per drink. Taxis/rideshares: 10-15%. Hotel staff: USD 2-5. Small counter-service tips are optional.
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 $38 (€31), while the average price is around $60 (€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 $32 (€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.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from San Luis Obispo, CA to Los Angeles, CA
San Luis Obispo
Los Angeles
The major train station for departures in San Luis Obispo is San Luis Obispo Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at San Luis Obispo Station for your trip from San Luis Obispo to Los Angeles.
San Luis Obispo Station
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Number of platforms
1Wifi
- Free
Parking
- Parking is available on-site with both short-term and long-term options.
Dining
- Novo Restaurant & Lounge
- Firestone Grill
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
WC
- $1
Hotel
- Apple Farm Inn
- Hotel San Luis Obispo
- Granada Hotel & Bistro
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- The station has a single platform with a waiting area and ticketing services.
Public transit options for San Luis Obispo Station
- Bus: SLO Transit Route 1A, 1B, 3, 4, 5
- RTA Route 9
San Luis Obispo, Cal Poly Ticket Office
information
The major train station for arrivals in Los Angeles is Union Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Union Station for your journey to Los Angeles from San Luis Obispo.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDining
ATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotel
Shower
LoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike Parking
Bike Rental
Car RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 4:30 AM - 1:00 AM Monday - Sunday
Number of platforms
12Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 24/7. Access via Vignes Street and Cesar Chavez Avenue.
Dining
- Traxx Restaurant
- Union Station Cafe
- Philippe The Original
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, restrooms.
WC
- $1
Hotel
- DoubleTree by Hilton Los Angeles Downtown
- Miyako Hotel Los Angeles
- Omni Los Angeles Hotel at California Plaza
Shower
- Cost $10
Lounge
- Located in the main hall
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Car Rental
- Avis
- Enterprise
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: Main entrance, platforms for Amtrak and Metrolink
- Hall 2: Metro Rail connections
- Hall 3: Bus terminal
Public transit options for Union Station
- Metro: Red Line, Purple Line, Gold Line
- Bus: Several lines available including DASH and Metro Bus
Van Nuys, Metrolink Station
Amenities at train station
LockersParkingTaxisAccessibilityWCLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
25 kmNumber of platforms
2Parking
- Parking is available at the station.
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
WC
- $0.50
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Car Rental
- Enterprise
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Public transit options for Van Nuys, Metrolink Station
- Bus: Several lines available
- Metro: Orange Line
Chatsworth Station
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM Monday - Friday
- 7:00 AM - 9:00 PM Saturday - Sunday
Distance to city center
39 kmNumber of platforms
2Parking
- Parking is available at the station.
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Ramps, restrooms.
Information Desk
- Located near the main entrance
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- The station is a single-level facility with platforms for Metrolink and Amtrak services.
Public transit options for Chatsworth Station
- Bus: Several lines available
- Metrolink: Ventura County Line
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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