- Must visit
California State Railroad Museum
One of the premier railroad museums in North America, with restored locomotives, railcars, and exhibits on California and transcontinental rail history in Old Sacramento.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Santa Barbara, CA to Sacramento, CA
Showing times and prices for Jun 16
Cheapest price
$110
Average price
$110
Fastest journey
13 h 1 m
Average duration
13 h 10 m
Trains per day
2
Distance
490 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Santa Barbara, CA to Sacramento, 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 Sacramento, CA will cost around $110 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $110.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Santa Barbara, CA to Sacramento, CA without transferring at least 3 times.
774 Pacific Surfliner · 5919 AMTRAK · 719 Gold Runner · 3819 AMTRAK8:31 AM13h19Goleta Station, Goleta, CA9:50 PMSacramento, CA$1101One-way3 transfers- 770 Pacific Surfliner · 5917 AMTRAK · 717 Gold Runner · 3717 AMTRAK6:39 AM13h01Goleta Station, Goleta, CA7:40 PMSacramento, CA$1101One-way3 transfers
- 770 Pacific Surfliner · 5917 AMTRAK · 717 Gold Runner · 3717 AMTRAK6:39 AM13h01Goleta Station, Goleta, CA7:40 PMSacramento, CA$1101One-way3 transfers
- 774 Pacific Surfliner · 5919 AMTRAK · 719 Gold Runner · 3819 AMTRAK8:31 AM13h19Goleta Station, Goleta, CA9:50 PMSacramento, CA$1101One-way3 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Santa Barbara, CA to Sacramento, CA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Santa Barbara, CA to Sacramento, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $68. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 4h 12m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $68, and a flight costs an average of $161.
Distance: 304 miles (490 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$129 Average price | $353 Average price | $100 Average price Cheapest | $77 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
11h 48m Average total duration 11h 18m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 12m Average total duration Fastest 4h 12m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 10h 2m Average total duration 9h 32m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 54m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Santa Barbara, CA to Sacramento, CA is a bus with an average price of $100 (€81).
This is compared to other travel options from Santa Barbara, CA to Sacramento, CA:
A bus is $29 (€24) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Santa Barbara, CA to Sacramento, CA costing on average $129 (€105).
A bus is $254 (€205) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Santa Barbara, CA to Sacramento, CA costing on average $353 (€286).
The fastest way to travel from Santa Barbara, CA to Sacramento, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 4h 12m.
Other travel options to Sacramento, CA take longer:
Bus takes on average 9h 32m.
Train takes on average 11h 18m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Santa Barbara, CA and Sacramento, CA 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 Sacramento, 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 $129 (€105) compared to roughly $77 (€63) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-51.78 (€-41.92). The journey takes 11h 18m versus 5h 54m 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 Sacramento, CA train times
The table below shows live departures for Santa Barbara, CA to Sacramento, CA trains for today, Monday, June 15. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 770 Pacific Surfliner · 5917 AMTRAK · 717 Gold Runner · 3717 AMTRAK | 6:39 AM Goleta Station, Goleta, CA | 13h01 | 7:40 PM Sacramento, CA | 3 transfers | |
| 770 Pacific Surfliner · 5917 AMTRAK · 717 Gold Runner · 3717 AMTRAK | 6:53 AM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 12h57 | 7:50 PM Sacramento Valley Station, Sacramento, CA | 3 transfers | |
| 770 Pacific Surfliner · 5917 AMTRAK · 717 Gold Runner · 3817 AMTRAK | 6:53 AM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 13h02 | 7:55 PM Sacramento Valley Station, Sacramento, CA | 3 transfers | |
| 770 Pacific Surfliner · 5917 AMTRAK · 717 Gold Runner · 3717 AMTRAK | 6:53 AM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 12h47 | 7:40 PM Sacramento, CA | 3 transfers | |
| 774 Pacific Surfliner · 5919 AMTRAK · 719 Gold Runner · 3819 AMTRAK | 8:31 AM Goleta Station, Goleta, CA | 13h19 | 9:50 PM Sacramento, CA | 3 transfers | |
| 774 Pacific Surfliner · 5919 AMTRAK · 719 Gold Runner · 3819 AMTRAK | 8:49 AM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 13h11 | 10:00 PM Sacramento Valley Station, Sacramento, CA | 3 transfers | |
| 774 Pacific Surfliner · 5919 AMTRAK · 719 Gold Runner · 3819 AMTRAK | 8:49 AM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 13h01 | 9:50 PM Sacramento, CA | 3 transfers | |
| 14 Coast Starlight | 12:21 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 11h28 | 11:49 PM Sacramento Valley Station, Sacramento, 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 Sacramento, CA 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 Sacramento, CA
USAUSA
Trains from Santa Barbara, CA to Sacramento, CA run on average 12 times per day, taking around 11h 18m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $72 (€59) but you can travel from only $68 (€55) by bus.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:10, the last at 22:20. The fastest train covers the 304 miles (490 km) distance in 11h 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 $68 (€55)
Distance 304 miles (490 km) |
Average train duration 11h 18m |
Cheapest ticket price $72 (€59) |
Trains per day 12 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 11h 28m |
First train 5:10 AM |
Last train 10:20 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 63 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 $68 (€55)
Train companies: Amtrak from Santa Barbara, CA to Sacramento, CA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Santa Barbara, CA and Sacramento, CA from $68 (€55). 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
9h 50m
Cheapest Price
$68 (€55)
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 Sacramento
Things to do in Sacramento
Discover the best of Sacramento — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Sacramento trip today.
- Must visit
Crocker Art Museum
The oldest public art museum west of the Mississippi, known for California art, European paintings, ceramics, and a respected rotating exhibition program.
- Must visit
California State Capitol Museum
Museum rooms inside the historic state capitol interpret California political history, architecture, and restored government spaces.
- Must visit
Capitol Park
A central park surrounding the State Capitol with memorials, gardens, mature trees, and one of the best easy walks in downtown Sacramento.
- Must visit
Old Sacramento Waterfront
The city’s most famous walking area, blending boardwalk-style streets, river views, historic storefronts, and easy access to major attractions.
- Recommended
Midtown Sacramento
A lively central district known for murals, tree-lined streets, independent shops, nightlife, and a strong local creative atmosphere.
Farm-To-Fork Seasonal Plate
A seasonal dish built around produce, cheese, and meats from the Sacramento Valley. It reflects Sacramento’s identity as California’s Farm-To-Fork Capital.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Sacramento Delta Asparagus
Tender asparagus grown in the nearby Delta, often grilled, roasted, or served in salads. It is one of the region’s most iconic spring ingredients.
- Gluten-free
Tri-Tip Barbecue
California-style beef tri-tip, usually smoked or grilled and sliced. It is a popular regional barbecue dish often served with beans, salad, and bread.
Mulvaney's B&L
A respected Midtown restaurant celebrated for seasonal Farm-To-Fork cooking, local sourcing, and a warm but polished atmosphere.
The Firehouse Restaurant
A long-established fine dining restaurant in Old Sacramento known for elegant service, historic atmosphere, and an extensive wine program.
Tower Cafe
A well-known casual Sacramento favorite with eclectic global dishes, generous brunches, and a lively garden setting next to the Tower Theatre.
United States Dollar
Moderate by U.S. standards. Dining and coffee are fairly priced, while hotels can rise during events and peak periods.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-18 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- USD 20-40 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 60-120+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- USD 4-7 for a coffee drink.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at sit-down restaurants before tax; 20%+ for great 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 Sacramento, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Santa Barbara, CA to Sacramento, 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 Sacramento, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Santa Barbara, CA to Sacramento, CA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $72 (€59), while the average price is around $129 (€105).
The train from Santa Barbara, CA to Sacramento, CA takes 11h 28m and runs 12 per day.
The first train from Santa Barbara, CA to Sacramento, CA leaves at 5:10 AM.
The distance by train from Santa Barbara, CA to Sacramento, CA is 304 miles (490 km).
The last train from Santa Barbara, CA to Sacramento, CA leaves at 10:20 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Santa Barbara, CA to Sacramento, CA.
Yes, there is a direct train from Santa Barbara, CA to Sacramento, CA. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Santa Barbara, CA to Sacramento, CA.
The train station in Santa Barbara, CA that goes to Sacramento, CA is Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA, which connects to Sacramento Valley Station, Sacramento, CA.
The cheapest way to get from Santa Barbara, CA to Sacramento, CA is by bus, with a cost of around $68 (€55).
Yes, the train journey from Santa Barbara, CA to Sacramento, CA is considered scenic as it travels through picturesque coastal landscapes, rolling hills, and charming towns, providing beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean and California's diverse countryside.
A day trip from Santa Barbara, CA to Sacramento, CA is not feasible as the journey takes 11h 28m. There are 11 train trips per day covering a distance of 304 miles (490 km).
To fully explore Sacramento's key attractions, including the California State Capitol Museum, Old Sacramento Waterfront, and the Crocker Art Museum, a 2 to 3-day visit is recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Santa Barbara, CA to Sacramento, CA.
Since neither Santa Barbara, CA nor Sacramento, 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 Sacramento, CA include Oakland, CA, Richmond, CA, Berkeley, CA, Martinez, CA, Emeryville, CA.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Santa Barbara, CA to Sacramento, 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 Sacramento, CA, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like Old Sacramento and transit stations. Common scams include fake charity solicitations and overcharging by unofficial taxi services. It's advisable to use official transportation options, avoid displaying valuables openly, and stay aware of surroundings, particularly at night in less busy neighborhoods.
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 Sacramento, CA
Santa Barbara
Sacramento
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 Sacramento.
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
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
Santa Barbara, University of California
information
The major train station for arrivals in Sacramento is Sacramento Valley Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Sacramento Valley Station for your journey to Sacramento from Santa Barbara.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDining
ATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike Rental
Car RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Number of platforms
4Wifi
- Free
Parking
- Parking is available 24/7 with both short-term and long-term options.
Dining
- The Firehouse Restaurant
- Ten22
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Ramps.
WC
- $1
Hotel
- Embassy Suites by Hilton Sacramento Riverfront Promenade
- Holiday Inn Sacramento Downtown - Arena
- Kimpton Sawyer Hotel
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
- 60 places, covered
Car Rental
- Enterprise
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- The station has a main hall with ticketing and waiting areas, platforms are accessible via a concourse.
Public transit options for Sacramento Valley Station
- Light Rail: Blue Line, Gold Line
- Bus: Several lines available including local and regional buses
Sacramento, California State Capitol
information
More options for your journey from Santa Barbara, CA to Sacramento, CA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Sacramento, CA and Santa Barbara, CA
Most popular train connections to Sacramento, CA
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