Santa Barbara, CA to Palm Springs, CA train with Amtrak

Sun, Nov 01
+ 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 Santa Barbara, CA to Palm Springs, CA

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 01
Cheapest price on Nov 01
€37
Average ticket price on Nov 01
€37
Fastest journey on Nov 01
10 h 6 m
Average journey duration on Nov 01
10 h 6 m
Trains on Nov 01
1
Distance
298 km
Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Santa Barbara, CA to Palm Springs, 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 Palm Springs, CA will cost around €37 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €37.

Fast trains

On Sun, Nov 01, we found 1 trains from Santa Barbara, CA to Palm Springs, CA, including 1 direct services.

On Sun, Nov 01 the direct trains cover the 298 km distance in an average of 10 h 6 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 10 h 6 m .

On Sun, Nov 01 the slowest trains will take 10 h 6 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.

  • Amtrak
    0 transfers

Journey information

Overview: Train from Santa Barbara, CA to Palm Springs, CA

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Trains from Santa Barbara, CA to Palm Springs, CA run on average 2 times per day, taking around 5h 30m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €52 but you can travel from only €28 by bus.

The earliest train runs at 02:02, the last at 18:19. The fastest train covers the 185 miles (298 km) distance in 5h 28m.

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 €28

Plan this route

Journey facts

  • Distance185 miles (298 km)
  • Average train duration5h 30m
  • Cheapest ticket price€52
  • Trains per day2
  • Fastest train5h 28m
  • First train2:02 AM
  • Last train6:19 PM
  • Cheapest MonthApr
  • Cheapest DayFri
  • High SeasonJul - Sep
  • Low SeasonOct - Dec
  • Busiest DayMon
  • Least Busy DayMon
  • Best time to book7 days

Understand & plan this route

Explore this journey

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  • Why book with Omio?Compare options, payment & support
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 €28

Frequently asked questions about your Santa Barbara, CA to Palm Springs, CA trip

Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Santa Barbara, CA to Palm Springs, CA.

Train ticket prices from Santa Barbara, CA to Palm Springs, CA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €52, while the average price is around €82.
The train from Santa Barbara, CA to Palm Springs, CA takes 5h 28m and runs 2 per day.
The first train from Santa Barbara, CA to Palm Springs, CA leaves at 2:02 AM.
The distance by train from Santa Barbara, CA to Palm Springs, CA is 185 miles (298 km).
The last train from Santa Barbara, CA to Palm Springs, CA leaves at 6:19 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Santa Barbara, CA to Palm Springs, CA.

Train companies

Train companies from Santa Barbara, CA to Palm Springs, CA

Trains from Santa Barbara, CA to Palm Springs, CA with Amtrak. Night trains available on this route with Amtrak. High-speed trains available on this route with Amtrak. Use the details below to compare onboard facilities.

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
5h 28m
Cheapest Amtrak Price
€52
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

Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Santa Barbara, CA and Palm Springs, 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 Santa Barbara, CA to Palm Springs, CA.
Yes, there is a night train from Santa Barbara, CA to Palm Springs, 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 Palm Springs, CA

Things to do in Palm Springs, CA

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

  • Must visit

Palm Springs Art Museum

A leading Palm Springs museum with modern and contemporary art, architecture, and rotating exhibitions in a downtown setting.

  • Must visit

Palm Springs Air Museum

A compact aviation museum with vintage aircraft, exhibits, and stories from military and civil flight history.

  • Recommended

Agua Caliente Cultural Museum

A small local museum on Agua Caliente history and culture, featuring artifacts and interpretation near downtown.

US Dollar ($)

Palm Springs is pricier than many US desert cities, with higher hotel rates in peak season and resort dining, though casual meals and rideshares remain manageable.

Average meal costs

Budget
$12-$20 for fast food or casual lunch.
Mid-range
$25-$45 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
$60+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
$4-$6 for coffee or cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Tip 18-20% at restaurants, $1-$2 per drink at bars, and 10-15% for taxis. Small tips are appreciated at cafes, but not always expected.

Plan your visit to Palm Springs, 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 Palm Springs, CA.

The train journey from Santa Barbara to Palm Springs offers scenic views, including the picturesque California coastline, rolling hills, and charming small towns, providing travelers with an enjoyable visual experience.
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 Palm Springs, CA, travelers should be cautious of petty theft, especially in crowded areas and parking lots. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers or ride-share services and unauthorized street vendors. It's advisable to use official transportation options and stay aware of surroundings, particularly at night. Additionally, travelers should be mindful of heat-related risks during summer months.
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 Santa Barbara, CA to Palm Springs, CA

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Santa Barbara, CA to Palm Springs, 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 Palm Springs, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Yes, you can take the train from Santa Barbara, CA to Palm Springs, CA.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Santa Barbara, CA to Palm Springs, CA

Most Santa Barbara, CA to Palm Springs, CA trains use the Santa Barbara Station to Palm Springs Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Santa Barbara, CA and Palm Springs, 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 Palm Springs

Which Santa Barbara, CA station do trains to Palm Springs, CA leave from?

Trains from Santa Barbara, CA to Palm Springs, 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+1 800-872-7245LockersParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
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.

Train stations for Santa Barbara, CA to Palm Springs, CA

Check train stations information for Santa Barbara, CA and Palm Springs, CA, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.

The train station in Santa Barbara, CA that goes to Palm Springs, CA is Santa Barbara Station, which connects to Palm Springs Station.

Most popular train connections to Palm Springs, CA

HomeTrainsTrains in USATrain Times to Palm Springs, CASanta Barbara, CA to Palm Springs, CA train

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