San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA train with Amtrak

Tue, Nov 03
+ Add return
Amtrak
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
Amtrak
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 03
Cheapest price on Nov 03
€59
Average ticket price on Nov 03
€68
Fastest journey on Nov 03
8 h 33 m
Average journey duration on Nov 03
8 h 42 m
Trains on Nov 03
17
Distance
431 km
Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, 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 San Diego, CA will cost around €68 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €59.

Fast trains

On Tue, Nov 03, we found 17 trains from San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA, including 6 direct services.

On Tue, Nov 03 the direct trains cover the 431 km distance in an average of 8 h 42 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 8 h 33 m .

On Tue, Nov 03 the slowest trains will take 8 h 52 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.

  • Amtrak774 Pacific Surfliner
    0 transfers
  • Amtrak786 Pacific Surfliner
    0 transfers
  • Amtrak786 Pacific Surfliner
    0 transfers
  • Amtrak774 Pacific Surfliner
    0 transfers
  • Amtrak794 Pacific Surfliner
    0 transfers

Journey information

Overview: Train from San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA

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Trains from San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA run on average 6 times per day, taking around 8h 38m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €55 but you can travel from only €27 by bus.

There are 5 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 03:45, the last at 16:40. The fastest train covers the 267 miles (431 km) distance in 8h 14m.

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 €27
Distance
267 miles (431 km)
Average train duration
8h 38m
Cheapest ticket price
€55
Trains per day
6
Direct trains
5
Fastest train
8h 14m
First train
3:45 AM
Last train
4:40 PM
Cheapest Month
Feb
Cheapest Day
Fri
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Apr - Jun
Busiest Day
Sat
Least Busy Day
Sat
Best time to book
1 day
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 €27

Frequently asked questions about your San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA trip

Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA.

Train ticket prices from San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €55, while the average price is around €69.
The train from San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA takes 8h 14m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA is 267 miles (431 km).
The first train from San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA leaves at 3:45 AM.
The last train from San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA leaves at 4:40 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA. This service operates 5 times per day, provided by Amtrak.

Live departures

San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA train times

The table below shows live departures for San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA trains for today, Monday, November 2. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Amtrak4794 Connecting Bus · 794 Pacific Surfliner3:30 PM San Luis Obispo, CA
9h34
1:04 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA1 transfer
Amtrak11 Coast Starlight · 5818 Connecting Bus3:37 PM San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA
13h58
5:35 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA1 transfer
Amtrak794 Pacific Surfliner4:17 PM San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA
8h47
1:04 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak794 Pacific Surfliner4:17 PM San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA
8h33
12:50 AM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Tuesday, November 3
Amtrak4770 Connecting Bus · 770 Pacific Surfliner3:45 AM San Luis Obispo, CA
9h22
1:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA1 transfer
Amtrak4770 Connecting Bus · 770 Pacific Surfliner4:00 AM San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA
9h07
1:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA1 transfer
Amtrak4770 Connecting Bus · 770 Pacific Surfliner4:00 AM San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA
8h52
12:52 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA1 transfer
Amtrak774 Pacific Surfliner6:11 AM San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA
8h56
3:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak774 Pacific Surfliner6:11 AM San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA
8h41
2:52 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak4782 Connecting Bus · 782 Pacific Surfliner9:30 AM San Luis Obispo, CA
9h37
7:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA1 transfer
Amtrak4782 Connecting Bus · 782 Pacific Surfliner9:50 AM San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA
9h17
7:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA1 transfer
Amtrak4782 Connecting Bus · 782 Pacific Surfliner9:50 AM San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA
9h02
6:52 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA1 transfer
Amtrak786 Pacific Surfliner12:15 PM San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA
8h52
9:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak786 Pacific Surfliner12:15 PM San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA
8h37
8:52 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak4790 Connecting Bus · 790 Pacific Surfliner1:10 PM San Luis Obispo, CA
9h57
11:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA1 transfer
Amtrak4790 Connecting Bus · 790 Pacific Surfliner1:30 PM San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA
9h37
11:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA1 transfer
Amtrak4790 Connecting Bus · 790 Pacific Surfliner1:30 PM San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA
9h21
10:51 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA1 transfer

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Train companies: Amtrak from San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between San Luis Obispo, CA and San Diego, CA from €27. 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 Amtrak Duration
8h 14m
Cheapest Amtrak Price
€55
Amtrak frequency
6 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

Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between San Luis Obispo, CA and San Diego, CA

Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.

Yes, there is a high-speed train from San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA.
Yes, there is a night train from San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA.
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.

Complete guide to San Diego, CA

Things to do in San Diego, CA

Discover the best of San Diego, CA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect San Diego, CA trip today.

  • Must visit

San Diego Museum of Art

Major Balboa Park museum with works from Spanish old masters to modern art, plus strong regional and international exhibitions.

  • Must visit

Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego

Acclaimed contemporary art museum in La Jolla featuring oceanfront settings, modern works, and rotating global exhibitions.

  • Must visit

USS Midway Museum

Museum aboard a historic aircraft carrier with restored aircraft, naval exhibits, and immersive views of life at sea.

US Dollar ($)

San Diego is pricey for US travel, with higher hotel rates, dining, and parking than many cities, though casual food and buses stay manageable.

Average meal costs

Budget
$10-18 for fast food or casual takeout.
Mid-range
$25-45 per person for a mid-range meal.
Fine dining
$75+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
$4-6 for coffee or cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Tip 18-20% at restaurants, 15-20% for taxis or rideshares, and $1-2 for coffee drinks or small cafe orders.

Plan your visit to San Diego, CA

Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in San Diego, CA.

Yes, the train journey from San Luis Obispo to San Diego is considered scenic as it offers views of the Pacific Ocean, picturesque coastal towns, and rolling hills, providing a pleasant visual experience along California’s coastline.
Popular day trips by train from San Diego, CA include Irvine, CA, Santa Ana, CA, Oceanside, CA, Orange, CA, San Juan Capistrano, CA.
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 San Diego, CA, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like beaches, public transportation, and popular tourist spots such as the Gaslamp Quarter and Old Town. Common scams include overpriced parking fees and unauthorized ticket sellers near attractions. Staying aware of surroundings, securing belongings, and using official transportation services help reduce risks. Additionally, travelers should avoid isolated areas at night and be mindful of local traffic laws when using scooters or bikes.
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.

FAQs: Trains from San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, 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 San Diego, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Yes, you can take the train from San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA

Most San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA trains use the San Luis Obispo Station to Santa Fe Depot station pair, with some services arriving at Old Town Station. Use this guide to compare San Luis Obispo, CA and San Diego, CA train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in San Luis Obispo
Arrival train stations in San Diego

Which San Luis Obispo, CA station do trains to San Diego, CA leave from?

Trains from San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA leave from San Luis Obispo Station. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from San Luis Obispo, CA city centre at 1011 Railroad Avenue, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401, USA.
San Luis Obispo Station1011 Railroad Avenue, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401, USA+1 800-872-7245WifiLockersParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation DeskLuggage Carts
City-centre transport

Getting to San Luis Obispo Station from San Luis Obispo city centre

Bus3A · 3m · €2 · every ~2 min

San Luis Obispo Station train station facilities and services

San Luis Obispo Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.

Food and drink

Food options include: Novo Restaurant & Lounge, Firestone Grill

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at San Luis Obispo Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at San Luis Obispo Station. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at San Luis Obispo Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at San Luis Obispo Station: Bike Parking.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at San Luis Obispo Station.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Apple Farm Inn, Hotel San Luis Obispo, Granada Hotel & Bistro.

Train stations for San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA

Check train stations information for San Luis Obispo, CA and San Diego, CA, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.

The train station in San Luis Obispo, CA that goes to San Diego, CA is San Luis Obispo Station, which connects to Santa Fe Depot.

Most popular trains to and from San Diego, CA and San Luis Obispo, CA

HomeTrainsTrains in USATrain Times to San Diego, CASan Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA train

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