- Must visit
Seattle Art Museum
Major art museum with global collections, strong Native and modern holdings, and rotating blockbuster exhibitions downtown.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Santa Barbara, CA to Seattle, WA
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Aug 29
Cheapest price on Aug 29
€675
Average ticket price on Aug 29
€754
Fastest journey on Aug 29
1 d 7 h 36 m
Average journey duration on Aug 29
1 d 7 h 44 m
Trains on Aug 29
2
Distance
1482 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Santa Barbara, CA to Seattle, WA 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 Seattle, WA will cost around €754 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €675.
Fast trains
On Sat, Aug 29, we found 2 trains from Santa Barbara, CA to Seattle, WA, including 1 direct services.
On Sat, Aug 29 the direct trains cover the 1482 km distance in an average of 1 d 7 h 44 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 d 7 h 36 m .
On Sat, Aug 29 the slowest trains will take 1 d 7 h 51 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.
5619 AMTRAK · 719 Gold Runner · 3819 AMTRAK · 14 Coast Starlight12:00 PM31h51Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA7:51 PMKing Street Station, Seattle, WA€6751One-way3 transfers- 14 Coast Starlight12:15 PM31h36Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA7:51 PMKing Street Station, Seattle, WA€8321One-way0 transfers
- 14 Coast Starlight12:15 PM31h36Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA7:51 PMKing Street Station, Seattle, WA€8321One-way0 transfers
- 5619 AMTRAK · 719 Gold Runner · 3819 AMTRAK · 14 Coast Starlight12:00 PM31h51Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA7:51 PMKing Street Station, Seattle, WA€6751One-way3 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Santa Barbara, CA to Seattle, WA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Santa Barbara, CA to Seattle, WA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of €160 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 8h 31m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €160, while a flight costs an average of €563.
Distance: 920 miles (1482 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
€252 Average price | €563 Average price | €160 Average price Cheapest | €192 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
32h 3m Average total duration 31h 33m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 31m Average total duration Fastest 6h 31m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 31h 49m Average total duration 31h 19m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 17h 5m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Santa Barbara, CA to Seattle, WA is a bus with an average price of €160.
This is compared to other travel options from Santa Barbara, CA to Seattle, WA:
A bus is €92 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Santa Barbara, CA to Seattle, WA costing on average €252.
A bus is €402 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Santa Barbara, CA to Seattle, WA costing on average €563.
The fastest way to travel from Santa Barbara, CA to Seattle, WA is by flight with an average journey time of 6h 31m.
Other travel options to Seattle, WA take longer:
Bus takes on average 31h 19m.
Train takes on average 31h 33m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Santa Barbara, CA and Seattle, WA 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 Seattle, WA 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 €252 compared to roughly €192 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about €-59.80. The journey takes 31h 33m versus 17h 5m 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 Seattle, WA train times
The table below shows live departures for Santa Barbara, CA to Seattle, WA trains for today, Friday, August 28. 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 | 31h51 | 7:51 PM King Street Station, Seattle, WA | 3 transfers | |
| 14 Coast Starlight | 12:15 PM Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 31h36 | 7:51 PM King Street Station, Seattle, WA | 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 Seattle, WA 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 Seattle, WA
USAUSA
Trains from Santa Barbara, CA to Seattle, WA run on average 1 times per day, taking around 31h 33m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €125 but you can travel from only €111 by bus.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 09:55, the last at 12:21. The fastest train covers the 920 miles (1482 km) distance in 31h 30m.
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 €111
Distance 920 miles (1482 km) |
Average train duration 31h 33m |
Cheapest ticket price €125 |
Trains per day 1 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 31h 30m |
First train 9:55 AM |
Last train 12:21 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Best time to book 5 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 €111
Train companies: Amtrak from Santa Barbara, CA to Seattle, WA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Santa Barbara, CA and Seattle, WA from €125. 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
31h 30m
Cheapest Price
€125
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 Seattle, WA
Things to do in Seattle, WA
Discover the best of Seattle, WA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Seattle, WA trip today.
- Must visit
Museum of Pop Culture
Immersive pop-culture museum with music, science fiction, gaming, and film exhibits in a Frank Gehry building.
- Must visit
The Museum of Flight
Leading aviation museum featuring historic aircraft, spacecraft, and hands-on exhibits near Boeing Field.
- Must visit
Discovery Park
Vast urban park with forests, beaches, bluffs, and trails, plus some of Seattle’s finest Puget Sound views.
- Must visit
Seattle Waterfront
Lively waterfront district with ferries, the Great Wheel, promenades, and classic Elliott Bay scenery.
- Must visit
Kerry Park
Beloved hilltop park offering postcard views of downtown, Elliott Bay, and Mount Rainier, especially at sunset.
- Gluten-free
Cedar Plank Salmon
Cedar plank salmon is Pacific Northwest salmon roasted on cedar, adding smoky wood aroma. It reflects Seattle's strong salmon culture and regional cooking style.
Seattle-Style Teriyaki
Seattle-style teriyaki is grilled meat with sweet-savory sauce, usually over rice and salad. It became a defining everyday local meal across the city.
- Gluten-free
Geoduck
Geoduck is a large Pacific Northwest clam, often served raw or lightly cooked. It is prized locally for its sweet taste and connection to regional seafood.
Pike Place Chowder
Historic Pike Place Market spot famed for clam chowder, seafood sandwiches, and casual counter service with a lively market atmosphere.
Matt's in the Market
Long-running market restaurant known for Dungeness crab cakes, seafood entrées, and views over Pike Place with a classic local feel.
The Pink Door
Acclaimed fine dining destination focused on seasonal Pacific Northwest ingredients, refined tasting menus, and elegant service near Pike Place.
US dollar ($)
Seattle is pricier than many US cities, with higher hotel, dining, and parking costs. Transit is reasonable, but central stays and waterfront meals raise typical visitor budgets.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $12-20 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- $25-45 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $80+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- $4-7 for a coffee drink.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, more for excellent service. Taxis usually 10-15%. Cafes often have tip jars or screens; small tips are appreciated.
FAQs: Trains from Santa Barbara, CA to Seattle, WA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Santa Barbara, CA to Seattle, WA 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 Seattle, WA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Santa Barbara, CA to Seattle, WA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €125, while the average price is around €252.
The train from Santa Barbara, CA to Seattle, WA runs once a day and takes approximately 31h 30m.
The first train from Santa Barbara, CA to Seattle, WA leaves at 9:55 AM.
The distance by train from Santa Barbara, CA to Seattle, WA is 920 miles (1482 km).
The last train from Santa Barbara, CA to Seattle, WA leaves at 12:21 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Santa Barbara, CA to Seattle, WA.
Yes, there is a direct train from Santa Barbara, CA to Seattle, WA. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Santa Barbara, CA to Seattle, WA.
The train station in Santa Barbara, CA that goes to Seattle, WA is Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA, which connects to King Street Station, Seattle, WA.
The cheapest way to get from Santa Barbara, CA to Seattle, WA is by train, with a cost of around €125.
The train journey from Santa Barbara, CA to Seattle, WA is considered scenic, offering views of California's coastline, lush forests, and the Cascade Mountains, making it a picturesque route.
A day trip from Santa Barbara, CA to Seattle, WA is not feasible, as the journey takes 31h 30m and covers 920 miles (1482 km). There are 3 trips per day for trains.
In Seattle, WA, you can take a ferry ride to Bainbridge Island for stunning views and a charming small-town experience, explore the vibrant neighborhoods of Capitol Hill and Fremont, visit the Seattle Aquarium, and enjoy a walk or bike ride along the Burke-Gilman Trail. For cultural experiences, see a live performance at the historic Paramount Theatre. Must-see sights include the Space Needle, Pike Place Market, Chihuly Garden and Glass, the Museum of Pop Culture, and the Seattle Art Museum.
For a comprehensive experience in Seattle, WA, 3 to 4 days are typically sufficient to explore major attractions such as the Space Needle, Pike Place Market, and the Museum of Pop Culture, while also allowing time for side trips to nearby destinations like Mount Rainier or Bainbridge Island.
Yes, you can take the train from Santa Barbara, CA to Seattle, WA.
Since neither Santa Barbara, CA nor Seattle, WA 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 Seattle, WA include Olympia, WA, Tacoma, WA, Lacey, WA, Centralia, WA, Mount Vernon, WA.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Santa Barbara, CA to Seattle, WA 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 Seattle, WA, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and vehicle break-ins, especially in crowded areas and popular tourist spots like Pike Place Market. Scams involving fake charity collectors and street performers asking for money are common. It's advisable to stay alert in public transit and avoid unlicensed taxis. Travelers should also be aware of occasional aggressive panhandling in certain 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 Seattle, WA
Most Santa Barbara, CA to Seattle, WA trains use the Santa Barbara Station to King Street Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Santa Barbara, CA and Seattle, WA 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 Seattle
Which Santa Barbara, CA station do trains to Seattle, WA leave from?
Trains from Santa Barbara, CA to Seattle, WA 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 Seattle, WA station do trains from Santa Barbara, CA arrive at?
Trains from Santa Barbara, CA to Seattle, WA most often arrive at King Street Station. Some services arrive at Tukwila Amtrak, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Seattle, WA arrival station.
King Street Station303 South Jackson Street, Seattle, WA 98104, USA+1 206-553-3000
City-centre transport
Getting to King Street Station from Seattle city centre
BusDungeness Line · 4m · €18
1, 101, 13, 14, 150, 177, 2, 3, 36, 4, 7, 70, 49, 102, 162 · 5m · €3 · every ~52 min
Tram1 Line, 2 Line · 3m · €3 · every ~28 min
King Street Station train station facilities and services
King Street Station has practical services for this route, including Lockers, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: The London Plane, Salumi
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at King Street Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at King Street Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at King Street Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at King Street Station: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at King Street Station: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Embassy Suites by Hilton Seattle Downtown Pioneer Square, The Arctic Club Seattle - a DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel, Best Western Plus Pioneer Square Hotel Downtown.
More options for your journey from Santa Barbara, CA to Seattle, WA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Seattle, WA and Santa Barbara, CA
Most popular train connections to Seattle, WA
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