- Must visit
Albuquerque Museum
Leading regional museum covering Southwestern art, Albuquerque history, and sculpture gardens in the heart of Old Town.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Santa Barbara, CA to Albuquerque, NM
Showing times and prices for Aug 27
Cheapest price
$158
Average price
$165
Fastest journey
20 h 56 m
Average duration
21 h 36 m
Trains per day
8
Distance
1193 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Santa Barbara, CA to Albuquerque, NM is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Santa Barbara, CA to Albuquerque, NM will cost around $165 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $158.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Santa Barbara, CA to Albuquerque, NM without transferring at least once.
774 Pacific Surfliner · 4 Southwest Chief8:31 AM25h10Goleta Station, Goleta, CA10:41 AMAlbuquerque Station, Albuquerque, NM$1581One-way1 transfer- 782 Pacific Surfliner · 4 Southwest Chief12:29 PM21h12Goleta Station, Goleta, CA10:41 AMAlbuquerque Station, Albuquerque, NM$1581One-way1 transfer
- 782 Pacific Surfliner · 4 Southwest Chief12:45 PM20h56Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA10:41 AMAlbuquerque Station, Albuquerque, NM$1581One-way1 transfer
- 774 Pacific Surfliner · 4 Southwest Chief8:49 AM24h52Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA10:41 AMAlbuquerque Station, Albuquerque, NM$1581One-way1 transfer
- 4770 AMTRAK · 770 Pacific Surfliner · 4 Southwest Chief6:00 AM27h41Santa Barbara, CA10:41 AMAlbuquerque Station, Albuquerque, NM$1661One-way2 transfers
- 782 Pacific Surfliner · 4 Southwest Chief12:45 PM20h56Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA10:41 AMAlbuquerque Station, Albuquerque, NM$1581One-way1 transfer
- 782 Pacific Surfliner · 4 Southwest Chief12:29 PM21h12Goleta Station, Goleta, CA10:41 AMAlbuquerque Station, Albuquerque, NM$1581One-way1 transfer
- 5619 AMTRAK · 4 Southwest Chief12:00 PM21h41Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA10:41 AMAlbuquerque Station, Albuquerque, NM$1791One-way1 transfer
- 4782 AMTRAK · 782 Pacific Surfliner · 4 Southwest Chief11:40 AM22h01Santa Barbara, CA10:41 AMAlbuquerque Station, Albuquerque, NM$1661One-way2 transfers
- 5619 AMTRAK · 4 Southwest Chief11:30 AM22h11Santa Barbara, CA10:41 AMAlbuquerque Station, Albuquerque, NM$1791One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Santa Barbara, CA to Albuquerque, NM
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Santa Barbara, CA to Albuquerque, NM among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $117. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 6h 37m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $117, and a flight costs an average of $302.
Distance: 741 miles (1193 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$121 Average price Cheapest | $302 Average price | $243 Average price | $177 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
20h 6m Average total duration 19h 36m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 37m Average total duration Fastest 6h 37m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 43h 5m Average total duration 42h 35m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 13h 4m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Santa Barbara, CA to Albuquerque, NM is a train with an average price of $121 (€98).
This is compared to other travel options from Santa Barbara, CA to Albuquerque, NM:
A train is $122 (€98) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Santa Barbara, CA to Albuquerque, NM costing on average $243 (€196).
A train is $181 (€146) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Santa Barbara, CA to Albuquerque, NM costing on average $302 (€243).
The fastest way to travel from Santa Barbara, CA to Albuquerque, NM is by flight with an average journey time of 6h 37m.
Other travel options to Albuquerque, NM take longer:
Train takes on average 19h 36m.
Bus takes on average 42h 35m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Santa Barbara, CA and Albuquerque, NM including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Santa Barbara, CA to Albuquerque, NM 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 $121 (€98) compared to roughly $177 (€142) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $56 (€45). The journey takes 19h 36m versus 13h 4m 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
Santa Barbara, CA to Albuquerque, NM train times
The table below shows live departures for Santa Barbara, CA to Albuquerque, NM trains for tomorrow, Thursday, August 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 · 4 Southwest Chief | 6:00 AM Santa Barbara, CA | 27h41 | 10:41 AM Albuquerque Station, Albuquerque, NM | 2 transfers | |
| 774 Pacific Surfliner · 4 Southwest Chief | 8:31 AM Goleta Station, Goleta, CA | 25h10 | 10:41 AM Albuquerque Station, Albuquerque, NM | 1 transfer | |
| 774 Pacific Surfliner · 4 Southwest Chief | 8:49 AM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 24h52 | 10:41 AM Albuquerque Station, Albuquerque, NM | 1 transfer | |
| 5619 AMTRAK · 4 Southwest Chief | 11:30 AM Santa Barbara, CA | 22h11 | 10:41 AM Albuquerque Station, Albuquerque, NM | 1 transfer | |
| 4782 AMTRAK · 782 Pacific Surfliner · 4 Southwest Chief | 11:40 AM Santa Barbara, CA | 22h01 | 10:41 AM Albuquerque Station, Albuquerque, NM | 2 transfers |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Santa Barbara, CA to Albuquerque, NM by bus, train, or flight
Compare bus, train, 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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Journey information
Overview: Train from Santa Barbara, CA to Albuquerque, NM
USAUSA
Trains from Santa Barbara, CA to Albuquerque, NM run on average 6 times per day, taking around 19h 36m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $117 (€94) if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 06:00, the last at 15:34. The fastest train covers the 741 miles (1193 km) distance in 24h 52m.
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
Distance 741 miles (1193 km) |
Average train duration 19h 36m |
Cheapest ticket price $117 (€94) |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 24h 52m |
First train 6:00 AM |
Last train 3:34 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
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
Train companies: Amtrak from Santa Barbara, CA to Albuquerque, NM trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Santa Barbara, CA and Albuquerque, NM from $117 (€94). 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
24h 52m
Cheapest Price
$117 (€94)
Amtrak frequency
7 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 Albuquerque, NM
Things to do in Albuquerque, NM
Discover the best of Albuquerque, NM — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Albuquerque, NM trip today.
- Must visit
New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science
Acclaimed natural history museum featuring dinosaurs, volcanoes, space, and New Mexico science in engaging permanent galleries.
- Must visit
Indian Pueblo Cultural Center
Smithsonian-affiliated museum presenting Native cultures of the Southwest through thoughtful art, history, and community-focused exhibitions.
- Must visit
Old Town
The city’s historic heart, filled with adobe architecture, plazas, shops, museums, and a walkable atmosphere that defines Albuquerque.
- Must visit
Sandia Peak
Scenic tramway destination with sweeping views, hiking, and alpine air atop the Sandia Mountains, especially popular at sunset.
- Must visit
Nob Hill
Lively downtown corridor on historic Route 66, known for neon signs, music venues, galleries, and classic Albuquerque character.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
New Mexico Green Chile
Roasted green chiles are a New Mexico staple, served whole, chopped, or as sauce. Albuquerque is famous for their smoky heat and annual chile season.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Blue Corn Enchiladas
Stacked blue corn tortillas layered with cheese, onion, and red or green chile, often topped with an egg. A classic New Mexican plate tied to local corn and chile.
- Vegetarian
Sopaipillas
A sopaipilla is a puffed fried bread served with honey or stuffed with savory fillings. It is a beloved New Mexican restaurant tradition across Albuquerque.
Barelas Coffee House
Beloved casual spot for hearty New Mexican breakfasts and burritos, especially known for generous portions and distinctive local chile.
High Noon Restaurant & Saloon
Long-running local favorite serving refined New Mexican cuisine and creative chile-driven dishes in a warm adobe setting near Old Town.
Church Street Cafe
Historic Old Town restaurant known for classic New Mexican plates, sopaipillas, and a lively, traditional atmosphere popular with locals and visitors.
US Dollar ($)
Generally cheaper than major US tourist cities; hotels, dining, and transport are usually more affordable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $10-15 for fast food or casual spots.
- Mid-range
- $18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $50+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- $3-6 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, and 10-15% for taxis. Cafes often have tip jars or screen prompts.
FAQs: Trains from Santa Barbara, CA to Albuquerque, NM
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Santa Barbara, CA to Albuquerque, NM 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 Albuquerque, NM, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Santa Barbara, CA to Albuquerque, NM can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $117 (€94), while the average price is around $121 (€98).
The train from Santa Barbara, CA to Albuquerque, NM takes 24h 52m and runs 6 per day.
The first train from Santa Barbara, CA to Albuquerque, NM leaves at 6:00 AM.
The distance by train from Santa Barbara, CA to Albuquerque, NM is 741 miles (1193 km).
The last train from Santa Barbara, CA to Albuquerque, NM leaves at 3:34 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Santa Barbara, CA to Albuquerque, NM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Santa Barbara, CA to Albuquerque, NM.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Santa Barbara, CA to Albuquerque, NM.
The train station in Santa Barbara, CA that goes to Albuquerque, NM is Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA, which connects to Albuquerque Station, Albuquerque, NM.
The cheapest way to get from Santa Barbara, CA to Albuquerque, NM is by train, with a cost of around $117 (€94).
Yes, the train journey from Santa Barbara, CA to Albuquerque, NM offers scenic views, including coastal landscapes, desert vistas, and mountain ranges, providing a diverse and picturesque travel experience.
A day trip from Santa Barbara, CA to Albuquerque, NM is not feasible as the journey takes 24h 52m. Trains run 4 times per day over a distance of 741 miles (1193 km).
To fully experience Albuquerque, NM, including its cultural sites, outdoor activities, and historic landmarks, plan for a stay of 3 to 4 days.
Yes, you can take the train from Santa Barbara, CA to Albuquerque, NM.
Since neither Santa Barbara, CA nor Albuquerque, NM 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 Albuquerque, NM include Santa Fe, NM.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Santa Barbara, CA to Albuquerque, NM 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 Albuquerque, NM, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and vehicle break-ins, especially in crowded areas and popular tourist spots like Old Town. Avoid walking alone at night in less populated neighborhoods. Common scams include overpriced taxi rides and unofficial tour operators. Staying alert and using reputable transportation services can help ensure a safe visit.
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 Santa Barbara, CA to Albuquerque, NM
Most Santa Barbara, CA to Albuquerque, NM trains use the Santa Barbara Station to Albuquerque Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Santa Barbara, CA and Albuquerque, NM train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Santa Barbara
Arrival train stations in Albuquerque
Which Santa Barbara, CA station do trains to Albuquerque, NM leave from?
Trains from Santa Barbara, CA to Albuquerque, NM leave from Santa Barbara Station. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Santa Barbara, CA city centre at 209 State Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, USA.
Santa Barbara Station209 State Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, USA+1 800-872-7245
City-centre transport
Getting to Santa Barbara Station from Santa Barbara city centre
Bus33 · 5m · $2 · every ~2 min
Santa Barbara Station train station facilities and services
Santa Barbara Station has practical services for this route, including Lockers, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: The Lark, Santo Mezcal
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Santa Barbara Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Santa Barbara Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Santa Barbara Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Santa Barbara Station: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Santa Barbara Station: Ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Californian, Harbor View Inn, Hotel Milo Santa Barbara.
Santa Barbara, University of CaliforniaSanta Barbara, CA 93106, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Santa Barbara, University of California from Santa Barbara city centre
Santa Barbara, University of California is 13 km from Santa Barbara city centre. Public transport options include:
TRUE
Santa Barbara, University of California train station facilities and services
Santa Barbara, University of California has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Food court located nearby on campus.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi available for passengers. ATMs are aTM located near the entrance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Santa Barbara, University of California.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Santa Barbara, University of California: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Santa Barbara, University of California: Wheelchair accessible with elevators and ramps.
Goleta Station25 South La Patera Lane, Goleta, CA 93117, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Goleta Station from Santa Barbara city centre
Goleta Station is 1 km from Santa Barbara city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainPacific Surfliner · 14m · $4
Bus12X, 6 · 53m · $2 · every ~5 min
Goleta Station train station facilities and services
Goleta Station has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: The Habit Burger Grill, Pepe's Mexican Restaurant
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Goleta Station. Information desks are located near the platform.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Goleta Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Goleta Station: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Goleta Station: Ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hampton Inn Santa Barbara/Goleta, Courtyard by Marriott Santa Barbara Goleta.
Which Albuquerque, NM station do trains from Santa Barbara, CA arrive at?
Trains from Santa Barbara, CA to Albuquerque, NM arrive at Albuquerque Station. Albuquerque Station is from Albuquerque, NM city centre.
Albuquerque Station100 1st Street SW, Albuquerque, NM 87102, USA+1 800-872-7245
City-centre transport
Getting to Albuquerque Station from Albuquerque city centre
BusABQ RIDE Routes 766, 777
Rail Runner Express
Albuquerque Station train station facilities and services
Albuquerque Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: 66 Diner, The Grove Cafe & Market
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Albuquerque Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Albuquerque Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Albuquerque Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Albuquerque Station: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Albuquerque Station: Ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Andaluz Albuquerque, Curio Collection by Hilton, Hyatt Regency Albuquerque, DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Albuquerque.
More options for your journey from Santa Barbara, CA to Albuquerque, NM
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Albuquerque, NM and Santa Barbara, CA
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