- Must visit
The Tech Interactive
Interactive science center with hands-on exhibits, an IMAX dome theater, and family-friendly displays in the heart of downtown.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Santa Barbara, CA to San Jose, CA
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 02
Cheapest price on Sep 02
€108
Average ticket price on Sep 02
€108
Fastest journey on Sep 02
7 h 31 m
Average journey duration on Sep 02
7 h 31 m
Trains on Sep 02
1
Distance
380 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Santa Barbara, CA to San Jose, 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 San Jose, CA will cost around €108 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €108.
Fast trains
On Wed, Sep 02, we found 1 trains from Santa Barbara, CA to San Jose, CA, including 1 direct services.
On Wed, Sep 02 the direct trains cover the 380 km distance in an average of 7 h 31 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 7 h 31 m .
On Wed, Sep 02 the slowest trains will take 7 h 31 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.
14 Coast Starlight12:15 PM7h31Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA7:46 PMSan José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA€1081One-way0 transfers
- 14 Coast Starlight12:15 PM7h31Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA7:46 PMSan José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA€1081One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Santa Barbara, CA to San Jose, CA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Santa Barbara, CA to San Jose, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of €74 For those with little time, consider booking a bus, which has an average total journey time of 5h 59m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.3kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €74, while a flight costs an average of €706.
Distance: 236 miles (380 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
€125 Average price | €74 Average price Cheapest | €706 Average price | €47 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
7h 57m Average total duration 7h 27m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 59m Average total duration Fastest 5h 29m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 29m Average total duration 6h 29m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 4h 19m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.4 - 0.9kg CO2 emissions | 1.1 - 2.3kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Santa Barbara, CA to San Jose, CA is a bus with an average price of €74.
This is compared to other travel options from Santa Barbara, CA to San Jose, CA:
A bus is €52 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Santa Barbara, CA to San Jose, CA costing on average €125.
A bus is €632 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Santa Barbara, CA to San Jose, CA costing on average €706.
The fastest way to travel from Santa Barbara, CA to San Jose, CA is by bus with an average journey time of 5h 29m.
Other travel options to San Jose, CA take longer:
Flight takes on average 6h 29m.
Train takes on average 7h 27m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Santa Barbara, CA and San Jose, CA 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 San Jose, 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 €125 compared to roughly €47 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about €-78.26. The journey takes 7h 27m versus 4h 19m 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 San Jose, CA train times
The table below shows live departures for Santa Barbara, CA to San Jose, CA trains for today, Tuesday, September 1. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 14 Coast Starlight | 12:15 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 7h31 | 7:46 PM San José Diridon Station, San Jose, 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 San Jose, CA 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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Journey information
Overview: Train from Santa Barbara, CA to San Jose, CA
USAUSA
Trains from Santa Barbara, CA to San Jose, CA run on average 1 times per day, taking around 7h 27m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €63 but you can travel from only €32 by bus.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 06:39, the last at 22:05. The fastest train covers the 236 miles (380 km) distance in 7h 25m.
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 €32
Distance 236 miles (380 km) |
Average train duration 7h 27m |
Cheapest ticket price €63 |
Trains per day 1 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 7h 25m |
First train 6:39 AM |
Last train 10:05 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 14 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 €32
Train companies: Amtrak from Santa Barbara, CA to San Jose, CA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Santa Barbara, CA and San Jose, CA from €32. 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 Amtrak Duration
7h 25m
Cheapest Amtrak Price
€63
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 $26 fee. Must be in carrier. Service animals travel free
Quiet zone
Complete guide to San Jose, CA
Things to do in San Jose, CA
Discover the best of San Jose, CA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect San Jose, CA trip today.
- Must visit
San Jose Museum of Art
Large art museum known for modern and contemporary works, strong West Coast focus, and thoughtful rotating exhibitions.
- Must visit
Computer History Museum
A vast collection of restored computer history, from early machines to supercomputers, popular with tech enthusiasts.
- Must visit
Plaza de César Chávez
Signature downtown plaza for festivals, concerts, and civic life, surrounded by museums, hotels, and historic buildings.
- Must visit
Japantown
A vibrant historic district with Japanese shops, temples, murals, and a strong sense of local community and heritage.
- Must visit
SoFA District
Lively arts district centered on galleries, murals, and monthly South First Fridays, ideal for an evening walk downtown.
Pho
A Vietnamese noodle soup with beef or chicken in a fragrant broth. San Jose's large Vietnamese community makes it a defining local comfort food.
Banh Mi
A Vietnamese sandwich on a crisp baguette, often filled with grilled pork, pickled vegetables, herbs, and pate. A staple tied to San Jose's Little Saigon.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Dosa
A South Indian rice and lentil crepe served with chutney and sambar. It is a local favorite thanks to San Jose's strong South Asian community.
Le Papillon
Refined fine dining destination offering modern French cuisine, polished service, and an elegant special-occasion atmosphere.
Henry's Hi-Life
Beloved San Jose institution serving smoked meats, ribs, and classic sides in a casual, old-school barbecue setting.
Pupuseria Los Dubon
Casual neighborhood favorite for handcrafted pupusas and Salvadoran comfort food with a warm, family-run feel.
US Dollar ($)
San Jose is pricier than many US cities. Hotels, dining, and parking add up fast, though public transit and casual food can help control daily costs.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $12-18 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- $25-45 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $80+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- $4-6 for a coffee drink.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, 15-20% for taxis or rideshares, and $1-2 at cafes for good service. Tax is usually added separately.
FAQs: Trains from Santa Barbara, CA to San Jose, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Santa Barbara, CA to San Jose, 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 San Jose, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Santa Barbara, CA to San Jose, CA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €63, while the average price is around €125.
The train from Santa Barbara, CA to San Jose, CA runs once a day and takes approximately 7h 25m.
The distance by train from Santa Barbara, CA to San Jose, CA is 236 miles (380 km).
The first train from Santa Barbara, CA to San Jose, CA leaves at 6:39 AM.
The last train from Santa Barbara, CA to San Jose, CA leaves at 10:05 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Santa Barbara, CA to San Jose, CA.
Yes, there is a direct train from Santa Barbara, CA to San Jose, CA. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Santa Barbara, CA to San Jose, CA.
The train station in Santa Barbara, CA that goes to San Jose, CA is Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA, which connects to San José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA.
The cheapest way to get from Santa Barbara, CA to San Jose, CA is by bus, with a cost of around €32.
The train journey from Santa Barbara, CA to San Jose, CA is considered scenic, offering views of the Pacific Ocean, picturesque coastal landscapes, and rolling hills, especially along the segment between Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo.
A day trip from Santa Barbara, CA to San Jose, CA is not feasible as the journey takes 7h 25m each way. Trains operate 4 times per day.
In San Jose, CA, you can explore the Japanese Friendship Garden, visit the Children's Discovery Museum, enjoy performances at the San Jose Center for the Performing Arts, and discover Silicon Valley's history at the Computer History Museum. For outdoor activities, take a scenic hike in Alum Rock Park. Top sights include the Winchester Mystery House, The Tech Interactive, San Jose Museum of Art, Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum, and the Municipal Rose Garden.
Typically, spending 2 to 3 days in San Jose, CA is sufficient to explore its key attractions, such as the Tech Interactive, Winchester Mystery House, Santana Row, and local museums.
Yes, you can take the train from Santa Barbara, CA to San Jose, CA.
Since neither Santa Barbara, CA nor San Jose, 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 San Jose, CA include Oakland, CA, San Francisco, CA, Salinas, CA, Berkeley, CA, Emeryville, CA.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Santa Barbara, CA to San Jose, 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 San Jose, CA, travelers should be aware of pickpocketing and vehicle break-ins, especially in crowded areas and parking lots. Common scams include fake charity requests and overcharging by unauthorized taxi or ride-share drivers. Staying alert in busy districts and using official transportation services helps 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 San Jose, CA
Most Santa Barbara, CA to San Jose, CA trains use the Santa Barbara Station to San José Diridon Station station pair, with some services arriving at Santa Clara Station. Use this guide to compare Santa Barbara, CA and San Jose, 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 San Jose
Which Santa Barbara, CA station do trains to San Jose, CA leave from?
Trains from Santa Barbara, CA to San Jose, 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 · €3
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 CaliforniaSanta Barbara, CA 93106, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Santa Barbara, University of California from Santa Barbara city centre
Santa Barbara, University of California is 13 km from Santa Barbara city centre. Public transport options include:
TRUE
Santa Barbara, University of California train station facilities and services
Santa Barbara, University of California has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Food court located nearby on campus.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi available for passengers. ATMs are aTM located near the entrance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Santa Barbara, University of California.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Santa Barbara, University of California: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Santa Barbara, University of California: Wheelchair accessible with elevators and ramps.
Which San Jose, CA station do trains from Santa Barbara, CA arrive at?
Trains from Santa Barbara, CA to San Jose, CA most often arrive at San José Diridon Station. Some services arrive at Santa Clara Station, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your San Jose, CA arrival station.
San José Diridon Station65 Cahill Street, San Jose, CA 95110, USA+1 800-872-7245
City-centre transport
Getting to San José Diridon Station from San Jose city centre
San José Diridon Station is 1 km from San Jose city centre. Public transport options include:
BusRapid 500, Rapid 568, 64A, 64B, 68, 202 · 6m · €5 · every ~26 min
TramGreen Line · 14m · €3 · every ~7 min
San José Diridon Station train station facilities and services
San José Diridon Station has practical services for this route, including 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 Farmers Union, Poor House Bistro, La Victoria Taqueria
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at San José Diridon Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at San José Diridon Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at San José Diridon Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at San José Diridon Station: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at San José Diridon Station: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel De Anza, The Westin San Jose, AC Hotel by Marriott San Jose Downtown.
Santa Clara Station1001 Railroad Ave, Santa Clara, CA 95050, USA+1 800-660-4287
City-centre transport
Getting to Santa Clara Station from San Jose city centre
Santa Clara Station is 1 km from San Jose city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainCapitol Corridor · 6m · €5
BusRapid 522, 22 · 17m · €5 · every ~16 min
22, Rapid 522 · 19m · €5 · every ~16 min
Santa Clara Station train station facilities and services
Santa Clara Station has practical services for this route, including Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, and WC.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Santa Clara Station.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Santa Clara Station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Santa Clara Station: Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Santa Clara Station.
More options for your journey from Santa Barbara, CA to San Jose, CA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from San Jose, CA and Santa Barbara, CA
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