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

Sun, Jun 21
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Deutsche Bahn
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2,000+ travel companies
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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 and prices for Jun 21

Cheapest price

$69

Average price

$86

Fastest journey

8 h 33 m

Average duration

8 h 43 m

Trains per day

19

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 $86 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $69.

Fast trains

Of the 19 trains that leave San Luis Obispo, CA for San Diego, CA on Sun, Jun 21, 6 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Sun, Jun 21 the direct trains cover the 431 km distance in an average of 8 h 43 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 8 h 33 m .

On Sun, Jun 21 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.

  • Amtrak786 Pacific Surfliner
    12:12 PM8h55
    San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA
    9:07 PMSanta Fe Depot, San Diego, CA
    $691One-way
    0 transfers
  • Amtrak774 Pacific Surfliner
    6:11 AM8h41
    San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA
    2:52 PMOld Town Station, San Diego, CA
    $691One-way
    0 transfers
  • Amtrak786 Pacific Surfliner
    12:12 PM8h40
    San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA
    8:52 PMOld Town Station, San Diego, CA
    $691One-way
    0 transfers
  • Amtrak794 Pacific Surfliner
    4:17 PM8h33
    San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA
    12:50 AMOld Town Station, San Diego, CA
    $691One-way
    0 transfers
  • Amtrak774 Pacific Surfliner
    6:11 AM8h56
    San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA
    3:07 PMSanta Fe Depot, San Diego, CA
    $691One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $61. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 15m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $61, and a flight costs an average of $116.

Distance: 267 miles (431 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Flight
Bus
Driving

$68

Average price

Cheapest

$291

Average price

$90

Average price

$69

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

9h 14m

Average total duration

8h 44m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 15m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 15m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

8h 25m

Average total duration

7h 55m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 19m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA is a train with an average price of $68 (€55).

This is compared to other travel options from San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA:

A train is $23 (€19) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA costing on average $90 (€74).

A train is $224 (€183) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA costing on average $291 (€238).

The fastest way to travel from San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 15m.

Other travel options to San Diego, CA take longer:

Bus takes on average 7h 55m.

Train takes on average 8h 44m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between San Luis Obispo, CA and San Diego, 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 San Diego, 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 {cheapestPrice} compared to roughly {drivingPriceInCents} in fuel and tolls — a saving of about {savingsAmount}. The journey takes {durationInMinutes} versus {drivingDurationInMinutes} 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.

Direct services run with Amtrak.

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 San Diego, CA train times

The table below shows live departures for San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA trains for today, Saturday, June 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Amtrak786 Pacific Surfliner12:12 PM San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA
8h40
8:52 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak786 Pacific Surfliner12:12 PM San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA
8h55
9:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak4790 AMTRAK · 790 Pacific Surfliner1:15 PM San Luis Obispo, CA
9h52
11:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA1 transfer
Amtrak4790 AMTRAK · 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 AMTRAK · 790 Pacific Surfliner1:30 PM San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA
9h21
10:51 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA1 transfer
Amtrak4794 AMTRAK · 794 Pacific Surfliner3:30 PM San Luis Obispo, CA
9h34
1:04 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA1 transfer
Amtrak11 Coast Starlight · 5818 AMTRAK3:37 PM San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA
13h58
5:35 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA1 transfer
Amtrak11 Coast Starlight · 794 Pacific Surfliner3:37 PM San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA
9h27
1:04 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA1 transfer
Amtrak11 Coast Starlight · 794 Pacific Surfliner3:37 PM San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA
9h13
12:50 AM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA1 transfer
Amtrak794 Pacific Surfliner4:17 PM San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA
8h33
12:50 AM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak794 Pacific Surfliner4:17 PM San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA
8h47
1:04 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Sunday, June 21
Amtrak4770 AMTRAK · 770 Pacific Surfliner3:45 AM San Luis Obispo, CA
9h22
1:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA1 transfer
Amtrak4770 AMTRAK · 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 AMTRAK · 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
8h41
2:52 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak774 Pacific Surfliner6:11 AM San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA
8h56
3:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak4782 AMTRAK · 782 Pacific Surfliner9:30 AM San Luis Obispo, CA
9h37
7:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA1 transfer
Amtrak4782 AMTRAK · 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 AMTRAK · 782 Pacific Surfliner9:50 AM San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA
9h02
6:52 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

Compare prices and tickets San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, 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.

Sun
Jun 21
Mon
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Jun 23
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Jun 26
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Jun 27

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 15 times per day, taking around 8h 44m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $61 (€50) but you can travel from only $52 (€43) by bus.

There are 4 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 38m.

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 $52 (€43)
Distance
267 miles (431 km)
Average train duration
8h 44m
Cheapest ticket price
$61 (€50)
Trains per day
15
Direct trains
4
Fastest train
8h 38m
First train
3:45 AM
Last train
4:40 PM
Cheapest Month
Feb
Cheapest Day
Mon
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Apr - Jun
Busiest Day
Sat
Least Busy Day
Tue
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 $52 (€43)

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 $52 (€43). 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
8h 38m
Cheapest Price
$61 (€50)
Amtrak frequency
15 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 San Diego

Things to do in San Diego

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

  • Must visit

USS Midway Museum

Museum aboard the historic aircraft carrier USS Midway with restored aircraft, flight deck exhibits, and audio tours on San Diego Bay.

  • Recommended

San Diego Museum of Art

Balboa Park art museum known for Spanish old masters, South Asian works, and rotating exhibitions in a landmark building.

  • Recommended

Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego

Leading contemporary art museum with major postwar and current works, especially strong in Southern California and Pacific Rim artists.

United States Dollar

Prices are high by U.S. standards, especially for hotels, dining, and parking near the coast and downtown.

Average meal costs

Budget
USD 10-18 for tacos, fast food, or casual takeout.
Mid-range
USD 20-40 per person at a standard sit-down restaurant.
Fine dining
USD 75+ per person before drinks and tax.
Coffee
USD 4-7 for a latte or cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Tip 18-20% at restaurants, 20%+ for great service. Tip USD 1-2 per drink at bars, round up taxis, and tip hotel staff and valet.

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
Train ticket prices from San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $61 (€50), while the average price is around $68 (€55).
The train from San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA takes 8h 38m and runs 15 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.
There is no high speed train available from San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA.
Yes, there is a direct train from San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA. This service operates 4 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA.
The train station in San Luis Obispo, CA that goes to San Diego, CA is San Luis Obispo Station, San Luis Obispo, CA, which connects to Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA.
The cheapest way to get from San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA is by bus, with a cost of around $52 (€43).
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.
A day trip from San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA is not feasible as the one-way travel duration is 8h 38m. Trains operate 15 times per day for this journey, covering a distance of 267 miles (431 km).
In San Diego, CA, you can explore the vibrant art scene at the Museum of Contemporary Art, enjoy a harbor cruise for stunning skyline and naval ship views, and hike the scenic trails at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve. Visit the Birch Aquarium to learn about marine life, or experience a whale watching tour off the coast. Don't miss Balboa Park, with its museums and the San Diego Zoo, the historic USS Midway Museum, picturesque La Jolla Cove, the lively Gaslamp Quarter, and the beautiful Coronado Beach.
Three to four days are ideal to explore San Diego's main attractions, including its beaches, Balboa Park, San Diego Zoo, and vibrant neighborhoods.
Yes, you can take the train from San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, CA.
Since neither San Luis Obispo, CA nor San Diego, 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 San Diego, CA include Irvine, CA, Santa Ana, CA, Oceanside, CA, Orange, CA, San Juan Capistrano, CA.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from San Luis Obispo, CA to San Diego, 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 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.

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.

San Luis Obispo, Cal Poly Ticket Office

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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