- Must visit
Berkeley Art Museum and Pacific Film Archive
UC Berkeley's art museum and film archive presents modern and contemporary art, rotating exhibitions, and one of the top film programs in the Bay Area.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest trains from Santa Barbara, CA to Berkeley, CA
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20
Cheapest price on Sep 20
$130
Average ticket price on Sep 20
$130
Fastest journey on Sep 20
9 h 37 m
Average journey duration on Sep 20
9 h 37 m
Trains on Sep 20
1
Distance
448 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Santa Barbara, CA to Berkeley, CA 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 Berkeley, CA will cost around $130 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $130.
Fast trains
On Sun, Sep 20, we found 1 trains from Santa Barbara, CA to Berkeley, CA, including 1 direct services.
On Sun, Sep 20 the direct trains cover the 448 km distance in an average of 9 h 37 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 9 h 37 m .
On Sun, Sep 20 the slowest trains will take 9 h 37 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.
6:47 PM9h37Santa Barbara, CA4:24 AMBerkeley, CA$1301One-way0 transfers
- 6:47 PM9h37Santa Barbara, CA4:24 AMBerkeley, CA$1301One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Santa Barbara, CA to Berkeley, CA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Santa Barbara, CA to Berkeley, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $78 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 5h 57m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.4kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $78, while a flight costs an average of $741.
Distance: 278 miles (448 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$234 Average price | $741 Average price | $78 Average price Cheapest | $66 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
9h 30m Average total duration 9h 0m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 57m Average total duration Fastest 3h 57m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 8h 43m Average total duration 8h 13m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 6m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 1.3 - 2.7kg CO2 emissions | 0.4 - 1.1kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
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 Santa Barbara, CA to Berkeley, CA is a bus with an average price of $78.
This is compared to other travel options from Santa Barbara, CA to Berkeley, CA:
A bus is $156 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Santa Barbara, CA to Berkeley, CA costing on average $234.
A bus is $663 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Santa Barbara, CA to Berkeley, CA costing on average $741.
The fastest way to travel from Santa Barbara, CA to Berkeley, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 57m.
Other travel options to Berkeley, CA take longer:
Bus takes on average 8h 13m.
Train takes on average 9h 0m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Santa Barbara, CA and Berkeley, CA including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Santa Barbara, CA to Berkeley, 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 $234 compared to roughly $66 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-167.56. The journey takes 9h 0m versus 5h 6m 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 Berkeley, CA train times
The table below shows live departures for Santa Barbara, CA to Berkeley, CA trains for today, Saturday, September 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:47 PM Santa Barbara, CA | 9h37 | 4:24 AM Berkeley, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:00 PM Santa Barbara, CA | 9h58 | 5:58 AM Berkeley, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Santa Barbara, CA to Berkeley, 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
Sep 20
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23
Sep 23
Thu
Sep 24
Sep 24
Fri
Sep 25
Sep 25
Sat
Sep 26
Sep 26
Journey information
Overview: Train from Santa Barbara, CA to Berkeley, CA
USAUSA
Trains from Santa Barbara, CA to Berkeley, CA run on average 2 times per day, taking around 9h 0m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $70 but you can travel from only $62 by bus.
There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 06:44, the last at 22:41. The fastest train covers the 278 miles (448 km) distance in 8h 45m.
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 $62
Distance 278 miles (448 km) |
Average train duration 9h 0m |
Cheapest ticket price $70 |
Trains per day 2 |
Direct trains 2 |
Fastest train 8h 45m |
First train 6:44 AM |
Last train 10:41 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Best time to book 28 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 $62
Train companies: Amtrak from Santa Barbara, CA to Berkeley, CA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Santa Barbara, CA and Berkeley, CA from $62. 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 45m
Cheapest Amtrak Price
$70
Amtrak frequency
2 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 Berkeley, CA
Things to do in Berkeley, CA
Discover the best of Berkeley, CA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Berkeley, CA trip today.
- Recommended
UC Museum of Paleontology at the Valley Life Sciences Building
Natural history museum on campus with dinosaur fossils, gems, and wildlife dioramas that introduce California science and biodiversity.
Museum of Vertebrate Zoology at the Valley Life Sciences Building
Campus museum focused on biological diversity, with research collections, public exhibits, and family-friendly displays on evolution and habitats.
- Must visit
Berkeley Rose Garden
Beloved hillside park with lawns, rose gardens, and one of Berkeley's best public sunset viewpoints over the Bay and Golden Gate.
- Must visit
Telegraph Avenue
Iconic commercial avenue linking downtown and campus, lined with shops, theaters, and historic university atmosphere ideal for an urban stroll.
- Recommended
Cesar Chavez Park
Large waterfront park with a marina, trails, open lawns, birdwatching, and broad bay views popular with walkers, cyclists, and kite flyers.
FAQs: Trains from Santa Barbara, CA to Berkeley, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Santa Barbara, CA to Berkeley, 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 Berkeley, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Santa Barbara, CA to Berkeley, CA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $70, while the average price is around $234.
The train from Santa Barbara, CA to Berkeley, CA takes 8h 45m and runs 2 per day.
The distance by train from Santa Barbara, CA to Berkeley, CA is 278 miles (448 km).
The first train from Santa Barbara, CA to Berkeley, CA leaves at 6:44 AM.
The last train from Santa Barbara, CA to Berkeley, CA leaves at 10:41 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Santa Barbara, CA to Berkeley, CA.
Yes, there is a direct train from Santa Barbara, CA to Berkeley, CA. This service operates 2 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Santa Barbara, CA to Berkeley, CA.
The train station in Santa Barbara, CA that goes to Berkeley, CA is Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA, which connects to Berkeley Station, Berkeley, CA.
The cheapest way to get from Santa Barbara, CA to Berkeley, CA is by bus, with a cost of around $62.
The train journey from Santa Barbara, CA to Berkeley, CA is quite scenic, offering picturesque views of the Pacific Ocean, rolling hills, and charming coastal towns, particularly along the stretch between Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo.
A day trip from Santa Barbara, CA to Berkeley, CA is not feasible as the journey takes 8h 45m. The distance is 278 miles (448 km), with a frequency of 8 trips per day for trains.
To fully experience Berkeley, CA, including its vibrant arts scene, diverse culinary offerings, and notable attractions like the University of California campus and Tilden Regional Park, plan for a stay of about 2 to 3 days.
Yes, you can take the train from Santa Barbara, CA to Berkeley, CA.
Since neither Santa Barbara, CA nor Berkeley, 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 Berkeley, CA include Sacramento, CA, Davis, CA, San Jose, CA, Santa Clara, CA, Stockton, CA.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Santa Barbara, CA to Berkeley, 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 Berkeley, CA, travelers should be cautious of petty theft, especially in crowded areas and near public transportation hubs. Common scams include distraction techniques and overcharging by unofficial taxi or ride-share drivers. It's advisable to stay alert in busy neighborhoods, secure personal belongings, and use licensed transportation services to ensure safety.
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 Berkeley, CA
Most Santa Barbara, CA to Berkeley, CA trains use the Santa Barbara Station to Jack London Square station pair. Use this guide to compare Santa Barbara, CA and Berkeley, CA 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 Berkeley
Which Santa Barbara, CA station do trains to Berkeley, CA leave from?
Trains from Santa Barbara, CA to Berkeley, CA 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.
More options for your journey from Santa Barbara, CA to Berkeley, CA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Berkeley, CA and Santa Barbara, CA
Most popular train connections to Berkeley, CA
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
