- Must visit
California State Railroad Museum
One of North America’s premier rail museums, with restored locomotives, immersive exhibits, and strong California history context.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Santa Barbara, CA to Sacramento, CA
Showing times and prices for Jul 31
Cheapest price
$107
Average price
$111
Fastest journey
11 h 34 m
Average duration
12 h 40 m
Trains per day
8
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 $111 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $107.
Fast trains
Of the 8 trains that leave Santa Barbara, CA for Sacramento, CA on Fri, Jul 31, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, Jul 31 the direct trains cover the 490 km distance in an average of 12 h 40 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 11 h 34 m .
On Fri, Jul 31 the slowest trains will take 13 h 1 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.
774 Pacific Surfliner · 5919 AMTRAK · 719 Gold Runner · 3819 AMTRAK8:49 AM13h01Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA9:50 PMSacramento, CA$1071One-way3 transfers- 770 Pacific Surfliner · 5917 AMTRAK · 717 Gold Runner · 3717 AMTRAK6:53 AM12h47Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA7:40 PMSacramento, CA$1071One-way3 transfers
- 770 Pacific Surfliner · 5917 AMTRAK · 717 Gold Runner · 3717 AMTRAK6:53 AM12h57Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA7:50 PMSacramento Valley Station, Sacramento, CA$1101One-way3 transfers
- 770 Pacific Surfliner · 5917 AMTRAK · 717 Gold Runner · 3817 AMTRAK6:53 AM13h02Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA7:55 PMSacramento Valley Station, Sacramento, 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
- 14 Coast Starlight12:15 PM11h34Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA11:49 PMSacramento Valley Station, Sacramento, CA$1221One-way0 transfers
- 770 Pacific Surfliner · 5917 AMTRAK · 717 Gold Runner · 3717 AMTRAK6:53 AM12h47Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA7:40 PMSacramento, CA$1071One-way3 transfers
- 770 Pacific Surfliner · 5917 AMTRAK · 717 Gold Runner · 3717 AMTRAK6:53 AM12h57Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA7:50 PMSacramento Valley Station, Sacramento, CA$1101One-way3 transfers
- 774 Pacific Surfliner · 5919 AMTRAK · 719 Gold Runner · 3819 AMTRAK8:49 AM13h01Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA9:50 PMSacramento, CA$1071One-way3 transfers
- 770 Pacific Surfliner · 5917 AMTRAK · 717 Gold Runner · 3717 AMTRAK6:39 AM13h01Goleta Station, Goleta, CA7:40 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 $67. 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 $67, and a flight costs an average of $159.
Distance: 304 miles (490 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$127 Average price | $349 Average price | $98 Average price Cheapest | $76 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 $98 (€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 $127 (€105).
A bus is $250 (€205) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Santa Barbara, CA to Sacramento, CA costing on average $349 (€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 $127 (€105) compared to roughly $76 (€63) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-51.11 (€-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, Thursday, July 30. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:21 PM Santa Barbara, CA | 11h28 | 7:49 AM 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 $67 (€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 $67 (€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 $67 (€55)
Train companies: Amtrak from Santa Barbara, CA to Sacramento, CA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Santa Barbara, CA and Sacramento, CA from $67 (€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
$67 (€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, CA
Things to do in Sacramento, CA
Discover the best of Sacramento, CA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Sacramento, CA trip today.
- Must visit
Crocker Art Museum
Excellent art museum known for California art, ceramics, photography, and engaging modern exhibitions in Midtown Sacramento.
- Recommended
California State Capitol Museum
State history museum inside the capitol, featuring restored offices, political artifacts, and architecture that defines California government.
- Must visit
Midtown Sacramento
Tree-lined central district known for restaurants, shops, murals, nightlife, and easy walking between major Sacramento attractions.
- Recommended
William Land Park
Large riverside park with trails, gardens, ponds, and open lawns, ideal for strolling, picnics, and seeing local wildlife.
- Recommended
Sacramento River Parkway Trail
Long riverfront path popular for walking and cycling, linking parks and neighborhoods with broad Sacramento River views.
Farm-To-Fork Seasonal Plates
Farm-to-fork seasonal plates built from Sacramento Valley produce. They reflect the city's agricultural identity and restaurant culture more than a single fixed recipe.
- Gluten-free
California Salmon Plate
A local spin on California cuisine using grilled salmon, asparagus, citrus, and herbs. It highlights nearby river fish and regional produce.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Delta Asparagus
Fresh Delta asparagus, often grilled, roasted, or served in salads. It is a celebrated spring ingredient from the nearby Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta.
The Kitchen Restaurant
Contemporary fine dining destination focused on seasonal Sacramento ingredients, tasting menus, and polished service.
Tower Cafe
Beloved local bakery and cafe for breakfast, sandwiches, pastries, and coffee with a lively neighborhood feel.
The Firehouse Restaurant
Historic upscale restaurant in Old Sacramento known for steaks, seafood, and classic dining room service in a refined setting.
US Dollar ($)
Moderate for California. Hotels are often pricier than smaller US cities, while casual dining and local transit stay fairly manageable for visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $10-18 for fast food or casual lunch.
- Mid-range
- $20-40 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- $4-6 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 15-20% at restaurants, 18-22% for excellent service. Taxis usually 10-15%. Cafes often have tip jars or screen prompts; small tips are appreciated.
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 $127 (€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 $67 (€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
Most Santa Barbara, CA to Sacramento, CA trains use the Santa Barbara Station to Sacramento Valley Station station pair, with some services arriving at Sacramento, California State Capitol. Use this guide to compare Santa Barbara, CA and Sacramento, 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 Sacramento
Which Santa Barbara, CA station do trains to Sacramento, CA leave from?
Trains from Santa Barbara, CA to Sacramento, 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.
Goleta Station25 South La Patera Lane, Goleta, CA 93117, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Goleta Station from Santa Barbara city centre
Goleta Station is 1 km from Santa Barbara city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainPacific Surfliner · 14m · $4
Bus12X, 6 · 53m · $2 · every ~5 min
Goleta Station train station facilities and services
Goleta Station has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: The Habit Burger Grill, Pepe's Mexican Restaurant
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Goleta Station. Information desks are located near the platform.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Goleta Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Goleta Station: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Goleta Station: Ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hampton Inn Santa Barbara/Goleta, Courtyard by Marriott Santa Barbara Goleta.
Santa Barbara, University of California
Which Sacramento, CA station do trains from Santa Barbara, CA arrive at?
Trains from Santa Barbara, CA to Sacramento, CA most often arrive at Sacramento Valley Station. Some services arrive at Sacramento, California State Capitol, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Sacramento, CA arrival station.
Sacramento Valley Station401 I Street, Sacramento, CA 95814, USA+1 800-872-7245
City-centre transport
Getting to Sacramento Valley Station from Sacramento city centre
Bus30, 38, 62 · 6m · $4 · every ~10 min
45 · 23m · $4
TramGold · 3m · $4 · every ~7 min
Sacramento Valley Station train station facilities and services
Sacramento Valley Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: The Firehouse Restaurant, Ten22
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Sacramento Valley Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Sacramento Valley Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Sacramento Valley Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Sacramento Valley Station: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Sacramento Valley Station: Ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Embassy Suites by Hilton Sacramento Riverfront Promenade, Holiday Inn Sacramento Downtown - Arena, Kimpton Sawyer Hotel.
Sacramento, California State Capitol
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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