- Must visit
The National WWII Museum
A major campus of immersive exhibits on World War II, widely regarded as one of the top museums in the United States.
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Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Santa Barbara, CA to New Orleans, LA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Santa Barbara, CA to New Orleans, LA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $240. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 6h 55m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $240, and a train costs an average of $402.
Distance: 1752 miles (2821 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$890 Average price | $260 Average price Cheapest | $433 Average price | $395 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
80h 11m Average total duration 79h 41m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 46h 40m Average total duration 46h 10m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 55m Average total duration Fastest 6h 55m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 28h 45m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Santa Barbara, CA to New Orleans, LA is a bus with an average price of $260 (€212).
This is compared to other travel options from Santa Barbara, CA to New Orleans, LA:
A bus is $173 (€142) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Santa Barbara, CA to New Orleans, LA costing on average $433 (€354).
A bus is $630 (€516) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Santa Barbara, CA to New Orleans, LA costing on average $890 (€728).
The fastest way to travel from Santa Barbara, CA to New Orleans, LA is by flight with an average journey time of 6h 55m.
Other travel options to New Orleans, LA take longer:
Bus takes on average 46h 10m.
Train takes on average 79h 41m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Santa Barbara, CA and New Orleans, LA 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 New Orleans, LA 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 $890 (€728) compared to roughly $395 (€323) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-495.35 (€-405.42). The journey takes 79h 41m versus 28h 45m 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.
Compare prices and tickets Santa Barbara, CA to New Orleans, LA 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 New Orleans, LA
USAUSA
Trains from Santa Barbara, CA to New Orleans, LA run on average 2 times per day, taking around 79h 41m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $402 (€329) but you can travel from only $229 (€187) by flight.
The earliest train runs at 09:00, the last at 22:20. The fastest train covers the 1752 miles (2821 km) distance in 87h 42m.
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
Flight from $229 (€187)
Distance 1752 miles (2821 km) |
Average train duration 79h 41m |
Cheapest ticket price $402 (€329) |
Trains per day 2 |
Fastest train 87h 42m |
First train 9:00 AM |
Last train 10:20 PM |
Cheapest Month Apr |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
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
Flight from $229 (€187)
Train companies: Amtrak from Santa Barbara, CA to New Orleans, LA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Santa Barbara, CA and New Orleans, LA from $229 (€187). 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
87h 42m
Cheapest Price
$402 (€329)
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 New Orleans
Things to do in New Orleans
Discover the best of New Orleans — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect New Orleans trip today.
- Must visit
New Orleans Museum of Art
The city’s leading fine arts museum, known for its broad collection and its sculpture garden in City Park.
- Recommended
Ogden Museum of Southern Art
A respected museum focused on Southern art, with strong permanent collections and rotating exhibitions.
- Must visit
French Quarter
The city’s signature historic neighborhood, known for balconies, music, architecture, and its dense concentration of sights.
- Must visit
Bourbon Street
The most famous street in New Orleans, known for nightlife, music, and nonstop energy in the French Quarter.
- Must visit
Garden District
A picturesque neighborhood of oak-lined streets and grand historic mansions, popular for walking and architecture.
Gumbo
A Rich Louisiana stew often made with a dark roux, the holy trinity of vegetables, and seafood or sausage. It is one of the city’s signature Creole and Cajun dishes.
- Gluten-free
Jambalaya
A Spiced rice dish cooked with meat or seafood, aromatics, and stock. It is a classic New Orleans favorite influenced by Spanish and French cooking traditions.
Po' Boy
A Traditional sandwich on French bread, usually filled with fried shrimp, oysters, or roast beef with gravy. It is one of the city’s most iconic everyday meals.
Commander's Palace
An Iconic Garden District restaurant serving refined Creole cuisine in an elegant historic setting. Known for jazz brunch and polished service.
Dooky Chase's Restaurant
A Legendary Treme institution famous for Creole soul food, gumbo, and local history. The atmosphere is classic, welcoming, and deeply tied to the city’s culture.
Cochon
A Popular Warehouse District restaurant focused on Cajun-inspired cooking, Louisiana meats, and bold regional flavors in a stylish rustic room.
United States Dollar
Moderate for U.S. city travel. Food and drinks range widely, while hotels rise sharply during festivals and weekends.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-18 for po'boys, fast food, or casual spots.
- Mid-range
- USD 25-45 per person at a standard sit-down restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 75-150+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- USD 3-6 for drip coffee or a latte.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants; 20%+ for great service. Bartenders: USD 1-2 per drink. Taxis/rideshares: 10-15%. Hotel staff: USD 2-5. Tip musicians only if invited or a tip jar is out.
FAQs: Trains from Santa Barbara, CA to New Orleans, LA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Santa Barbara, CA to New Orleans, LA 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 New Orleans, LA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Santa Barbara, CA to New Orleans, LA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $402 (€329), while the average price is around $890 (€728).
The train from Santa Barbara, CA to New Orleans, LA takes 87h 42m and runs 2 per day.
The distance by train from Santa Barbara, CA to New Orleans, LA is 1752 miles (2821 km).
The first train from Santa Barbara, CA to New Orleans, LA leaves at 9:00 AM.
The last train from Santa Barbara, CA to New Orleans, LA leaves at 10:20 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Santa Barbara, CA to New Orleans, LA.
There is no direct train service currently available from Santa Barbara, CA to New Orleans, LA.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Santa Barbara, CA to New Orleans, LA.
The train station in Santa Barbara, CA that goes to New Orleans, LA is Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA, which connects to Union Passenger Terminal, New Orleans, LA.
The cheapest way to get from Santa Barbara, CA to New Orleans, LA is by flight, with a cost of around $229 (€187).
The train journey from Santa Barbara, CA to New Orleans, LA offers scenic views, especially along the California coastline and through the desert landscapes of the Southwest, providing a picturesque and diverse travel experience.
In New Orleans, LA, you can enjoy traditional jazz performances at Preservation Hall, relax in Audubon Park with its zoo and golf course, and experience live music on Frenchmen Street. Take a scenic cruise on the Steamboat Natchez and explore City Park's botanical gardens and art museum. Discover the French Quarter's vibrant nightlife and cultural heritage, visit Jackson Square and the historic St. Louis Cathedral, admire the Garden District's antebellum mansions, and explore the National WWII Museum's immersive exhibits.
Three to four days are recommended to fully explore New Orleans, allowing time to visit its historic neighborhoods, enjoy live music, savor local cuisine, and experience cultural landmarks such as the French Quarter and Garden District.
Yes, you can take the train from Santa Barbara, CA to New Orleans, LA.
Since neither Santa Barbara, CA nor New Orleans, LA 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 New Orleans, LA include Hammond, LA, Gulfport, MS, McComb, MS, Bay Saint Louis, MS, Picayune, MS.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Santa Barbara, CA to New Orleans, LA 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 New Orleans, LA, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like the French Quarter. Common scams include overpriced taxi rides and street vendors selling counterfeit goods. It's advisable to avoid walking alone late at night in less populated neighborhoods and to use authorized 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 New Orleans, LA
Santa Barbara
New Orleans
The major train station for departures in Santa Barbara is Santa Barbara Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Santa Barbara Station for your trip from Santa Barbara to New Orleans.
Amenities at train station
Lockers
Parking
Dining
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Information Desk
Luggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Number of platforms
2Parking
- Parking is available at the station
Dining
- The Lark
- Santo Mezcal
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance
Accessibility
- Ramps, restrooms
WC
- $1
Hotel
- Hotel Californian
- Harbor View Inn
- Hotel Milo Santa Barbara
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 main hall with ticketing and waiting areas.
Public transit options for Santa Barbara Station
- Bus: Several lines available
- Trolley: Downtown Waterfront Shuttle
Santa Barbara, University of California
information
Goleta Station
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
1 kmNumber of platforms
1Parking
- Parking is available adjacent to the station, with spaces for both short-term and long-term parking
Dining
- The Habit Burger Grill
- Pepe's Mexican Restaurant
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance
Accessibility
- Ramps
WC
- Free for passengers
Hotel
- Hampton Inn Santa Barbara/Goleta
- Courtyard by Marriott Santa Barbara Goleta
Information Desk
- Located near the platform
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- The station consists of a single platform with a waiting area and parking facilities nearby.
Public transit options for Goleta Station
- Bus: Santa Barbara MTD Line 6, Line 11
The major train station for arrivals in New Orleans is Union Passenger Terminal. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Union Passenger Terminal for your journey to New Orleans from Santa Barbara.
Union Passenger Terminal
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 5:00 AM - 11:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Number of platforms
4Wifi
- Free
Parking
- Parking is available adjacent to the station, accessible 24/7
Dining
- Cochon Restaurant
- Herbsaint
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms
WC
- $1
Hotel
- Hyatt Regency New Orleans
- Le Pavillon Hotel
- Drury Plaza Hotel New Orleans
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Car Rental
- Enterprise
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, ticket office, and waiting area
- Hall 2: platforms for Amtrak services
- Hall 3: bus and streetcar connections
Public transit options for Union Passenger Terminal
- Bus: Several lines available
- Streetcar: Loyola-UPT Line
More options for your journey from Santa Barbara, CA to New Orleans, LA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from New Orleans, LA and Santa Barbara, CA
Most popular train connections to New Orleans, LA
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