- Must visit
Portland Art Museum
Major art museum with strong Native American, Northwest, and contemporary collections in downtown Portland.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Santa Barbara, CA to Portland, OR
Showing times and prices for Jun 07
Cheapest price
$240
Average price
$241
Fastest journey
1 d 3 h 19 m
Average duration
1 d 3 h 30 m
Trains per day
2
Distance
1260 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Santa Barbara, CA to Portland, OR 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 Portland, OR will cost around $241 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $240.
Fast trains
Of the 2 trains that leave Santa Barbara, CA for Portland, OR on Sun, Jun 07, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sun, Jun 07 the direct trains cover the 1260 km distance in an average of 1 d 3 h 30 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 d 3 h 19 m .
On Sun, Jun 07 the slowest trains will take 1 d 3 h 40 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.
8:21 PM27h19Santa Barbara, CA11:40 PMPortland, OR$2401One-way0 transfers- 7:00 PM27h40Santa Barbara, CA10:40 PMPortland, OR$2421One-way0 transfers
- 8:21 PM27h19Santa Barbara, CA11:40 PMPortland, OR$2401One-way0 transfers
- 7:00 PM27h40Santa Barbara, CA10:40 PMPortland, OR$2421One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Santa Barbara, CA to Portland, OR
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Santa Barbara, CA to Portland, OR among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $157. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 5h 21m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $157, and a train costs an average of $132.
Distance: 782 miles (1260 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$298 Average price | $222 Average price Cheapest | $296 Average price | $198 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
27h 42m Average total duration 27h 12m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 23h 26m Average total duration 22h 56m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 21m Average total duration Fastest 5h 21m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 14h 28m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Santa Barbara, CA to Portland, OR is a bus with an average price of $222 (€181).
This is compared to other travel options from Santa Barbara, CA to Portland, OR:
A bus is $75 (€61) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Santa Barbara, CA to Portland, OR costing on average $296 (€242).
A bus is $77 (€63) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Santa Barbara, CA to Portland, OR costing on average $298 (€243).
The fastest way to travel from Santa Barbara, CA to Portland, OR is by flight with an average journey time of 5h 21m.
Other travel options to Portland, OR take longer:
Bus takes on average 22h 56m.
Train takes on average 27h 12m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Santa Barbara, CA and Portland, OR 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 Portland, OR 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 $298 (€243) compared to roughly $198 (€161) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-100.59 (€-81.97). The journey takes 27h 12m versus 14h 28m 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 Portland, OR train times
The table below shows live departures for Santa Barbara, CA to Portland, OR trains for today, Saturday, June 6. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5619 AMTRAK · 719 Gold Runner · 3819 AMTRAK · 14 Coast Starlight | 12:00 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 27h40 | 3:40 PM Portland Union Station, Portland, OR | 3 transfers | |
| 14 Coast Starlight | 12:21 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 27h19 | 3:40 PM Portland Union Station, Portland, OR | 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 Portland, OR 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.
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Jun 07
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Santa Barbara, CA to Portland, OR
USAUSA
Trains from Santa Barbara, CA to Portland, OR run on average 2 times per day, taking around 27h 12m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $132 (€108) if you book in advance.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 09:58, the last at 14:22. The fastest train covers the 782 miles (1260 km) distance in 27h 19m.
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 782 miles (1260 km) |
Average train duration 27h 12m |
Cheapest ticket price $132 (€108) |
Trains per day 2 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 27h 19m |
First train 9:58 AM |
Last train 2:22 PM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Fri |
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
Train companies: Amtrak from Santa Barbara, CA to Portland, OR trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Santa Barbara, CA and Portland, OR from $132 (€108). 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
27h 19m
Cheapest Price
$132 (€108)
Amtrak frequency
1 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 Portland
Things to do in Portland
Discover the best of Portland — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Portland trip today.
- Must visit
Oregon Museum of Science and Industry
Large hands-on science museum on the Willamette River with labs, exhibits, and family-friendly programming.
- Recommended
Portland Japanese Garden Cultural Village
Exhibition spaces and cultural programming complement one of the city’s best-known Japanese garden destinations.
- Must visit
Washington Park
Large urban park with gardens, trails, and major attractions; one of Portland’s essential outdoor areas.
- Must visit
International Rose Test Garden
Famous hillside rose garden with city and mountain views, especially popular in bloom season.
- Must visit
Forest Park
One of the largest urban forests in the US, prized for hiking, quiet trails, and natural scenery.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Craft Beer
Portland is famous for its dense concentration of breweries and wide range of styles, from hop-forward IPAs to saisons and stouts.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Stumptown-Style Coffee
Specialty coffee is central to Portland food culture, with carefully roasted beans and espresso drinks shaping the city’s café identity.
- Vegetarian
Marionberry Pie
A classic Oregon dessert made with the local marionberry, prized for its deep, tangy-sweet flavor and strong regional identity.
Le Pigeon
Well-known bistro serving inventive French-inspired cuisine with rich flavors in an intimate, lively setting.
Screen Door
Popular Southern restaurant loved for hearty brunches and fried chicken in a bustling, casual atmosphere.
Andina
Established Peruvian restaurant offering polished ceviches, grilled meats, and cocktails in a stylish space.
United States Dollar
Moderate by major U.S. city standards. Coffee and casual food are reasonable, while hotels and fine dining can be pricey in central areas.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-18 for food carts or casual spots.
- Mid-range
- USD 20-40 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 75+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- USD 4-7 for a coffee drink.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% in restaurants; 20%+ for excellent service. Tip USD 1-2 per drink at bars, round up taxis, and tip hotel staff USD 2-5 as appropriate.
FAQs: Trains from Santa Barbara, CA to Portland, OR
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Santa Barbara, CA to Portland, OR 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 Portland, OR, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Santa Barbara, CA to Portland, OR can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $132 (€108), while the average price is around $298 (€243).
The train from Santa Barbara, CA to Portland, OR takes 27h 19m and runs 2 per day.
The first train from Santa Barbara, CA to Portland, OR leaves at 9:58 AM.
The distance by train from Santa Barbara, CA to Portland, OR is 782 miles (1260 km).
The last train from Santa Barbara, CA to Portland, OR leaves at 2:22 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Santa Barbara, CA to Portland, OR.
Yes, there is a direct train from Santa Barbara, CA to Portland, OR. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Santa Barbara, CA to Portland, OR.
The train station in Santa Barbara, CA that goes to Portland, OR is Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA, which connects to Portland Union Station, Portland, OR.
The cheapest way to get from Santa Barbara, CA to Portland, OR is by train, with a cost of around $132 (€108).
Yes, the train journey from Santa Barbara, CA to Portland, OR is scenic, offering views of the Pacific coastline, lush forests, and the Cascade Range, providing passengers with a picturesque travel experience.
A day trip from Santa Barbara, CA to Portland, OR is not feasible due to the travel duration of 27h 19m and the distance of 782 miles (1260 km). The journey frequency is 2 per day for trains.
Three to four days in Portland, OR, is ideal to explore its vibrant food scene, visit nearby natural attractions like the Columbia River Gorge, and experience local cultural highlights such as the Portland Art Museum and Powell's City of Books.
Yes, you can take the train from Santa Barbara, CA to Portland, OR.
Since neither Santa Barbara, CA nor Portland, OR 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 Portland, OR include Salem, OR, Olympia, WA, Albany, OR, Lacey, WA, Centralia, WA.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Santa Barbara, CA to Portland, OR 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 Portland, OR, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and occasional vehicle break-ins, especially in crowded areas and popular tourist spots. Scams involving fake ticket sellers and unauthorized ride services have been reported, so it’s best to use official transportation providers and purchase tickets through reputable sources. Staying aware of surroundings and securing belongings 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 Portland, OR
Santa Barbara
Portland
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 Portland.
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
The major train station for arrivals in Portland is Portland Union Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Portland Union Station for your journey to Portland from Santa Barbara.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDining
ATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike Rental
Car RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 5:30 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Number of platforms
3Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 24/7. Access is available via NW 6th Avenue.
Dining
- Wilf's Restaurant & Bar
- Al-Amir Lebanese Restaurant
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
- $1.50
Hotel
- Embassy Suites by Hilton Portland Downtown
- The Benson, a Coast Hotel
- Courtyard by Marriott Portland City Center
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
- The station has a main entrance leading to platforms 1-3 for Amtrak services
- waiting areas and ticket counters are located in the main hall.
Public transit options for Portland Union Station
- MAX Light Rail: Green Line, Yellow Line
- Bus: Several lines available
- Streetcar: NS Line
More options for your journey from Santa Barbara, CA to Portland, OR
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Portland, OR and Santa Barbara, CA
Most popular train connections to Portland, OR
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