Santa Clara, CA to San Diego, CA train with Amtrak

Sun, Jun 21
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Amtrak
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
Amtrak
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
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Travel Information

Compare bus, train, and flight for Santa Clara, CA to San Diego, CA

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Santa Clara, CA to San Diego, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $53. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 55m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $53, and a flight costs an average of $117.

Distance: 420 miles (676 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Flight
Bus
Driving

$122

Average price

$262

Average price

$98

Average price

Cheapest

$94

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

12h 52m

Average total duration

12h 22m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 55m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 55m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

12h 45m

Average total duration

12h 15m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

7h 57m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Santa Clara, CA to San Diego, CA is a bus with an average price of $98 (€80).

This is compared to other travel options from Santa Clara, CA to San Diego, CA:

A bus is $24 (€20) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Santa Clara, CA to San Diego, CA costing on average $122 (€100).

A bus is $164 (€134) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Santa Clara, CA to San Diego, CA costing on average $262 (€214).

The fastest way to travel from Santa Clara, CA to San Diego, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 55m.

Other travel options to San Diego, CA take longer:

Bus takes on average 12h 15m.

Train takes on average 12h 22m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Santa Clara, CA and San Diego, CA including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Santa Clara, CA to San Diego, 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 $122 (€100) compared to roughly $94 (€77) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-28.25 (€-23.12). The journey takes 12h 22m versus 7h 57m 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.

Compare prices and tickets Santa Clara, CA to San Diego, 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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Jun 21
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Journey information

Overview: Train from Santa Clara, CA to San Diego, CA

USAUSA
USAUSA
Icon of train

Trains from Santa Clara, CA to San Diego, CA run on average 5 times per day, taking around 12h 22m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $117 (€95) but you can travel from only $53 (€43) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 03:50, the last at 23:45. The fastest train covers the 420 miles (676 km) distance in 14h 42m.

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 $53 (€43)
Distance
420 miles (676 km)
Average train duration
12h 22m
Cheapest ticket price
$117 (€95)
Trains per day
5
Fastest train
14h 42m
First train
3:50 AM
Last train
11:45 PM
Cheapest Month
May
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Jul - Sep
Best time to book
7 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 $53 (€43)

Train companies: Amtrak from Santa Clara, CA to San Diego, CA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Santa Clara, CA and San Diego, CA from $53 (€43). 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
11h 35m
Cheapest Price
$110 (€90)
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 Diego

Things to do in San Diego

Discover the best of San Diego — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect San Diego trip today.

  • Must visit

USS Midway Museum

Museum aboard the historic aircraft carrier USS Midway with restored aircraft, flight deck exhibits, and audio tours on San Diego Bay.

  • Recommended

San Diego Museum of Art

Balboa Park art museum known for Spanish old masters, South Asian works, and rotating exhibitions in a landmark building.

  • Recommended

Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego

Leading contemporary art museum with major postwar and current works, especially strong in Southern California and Pacific Rim artists.

United States Dollar

Prices are high by U.S. standards, especially for hotels, dining, and parking near the coast and downtown.

Average meal costs

Budget
USD 10-18 for tacos, fast food, or casual takeout.
Mid-range
USD 20-40 per person at a standard sit-down restaurant.
Fine dining
USD 75+ per person before drinks and tax.
Coffee
USD 4-7 for a latte or cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Tip 18-20% at restaurants, 20%+ for great service. Tip USD 1-2 per drink at bars, round up taxis, and tip hotel staff and valet.

FAQs: Trains from Santa Clara, CA to San Diego, CA

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Santa Clara, CA to San Diego, 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 Diego, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Santa Clara, CA to San Diego, CA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $117 (€95), while the average price is around $122 (€100).
The train from Santa Clara, CA to San Diego, CA takes 14h 42m and runs 5 per day.
The first train from Santa Clara, CA to San Diego, CA leaves at 3:50 AM.
The distance by train from Santa Clara, CA to San Diego, CA is 420 miles (676 km).
The last train from Santa Clara, CA to San Diego, CA leaves at 11:45 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Santa Clara, CA to San Diego, CA.
There is no direct train service currently available from Santa Clara, CA to San Diego, CA.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Santa Clara, CA to San Diego, CA.
The train station in Santa Clara, CA that goes to San Diego, CA is San José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA, which connects to Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA.
The cheapest way to get from Santa Clara, CA to San Diego, CA is by bus, with a cost of around $53 (€43).
The train journey from Santa Clara, CA to San Diego, CA is considered scenic as it offers views of the Pacific coastline, rolling hills, and various landscapes of Southern California. Passengers can enjoy glimpses of ocean vistas, picturesque towns, and diverse natural beauty along the route.
A day trip from Santa Clara, CA to San Diego, CA is not feasible as the travel duration is 14h 42m and the distance is 420 miles (676 km). However, there are 5 trains available per day for this journey.
In San Diego, CA, you can explore the vibrant art scene at the Museum of Contemporary Art, enjoy a harbor cruise for stunning skyline and naval ship views, and hike the scenic trails at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve. Visit the Birch Aquarium to learn about marine life, or experience a whale watching tour off the coast. Don't miss Balboa Park, with its museums and the San Diego Zoo, the historic USS Midway Museum, picturesque La Jolla Cove, the lively Gaslamp Quarter, and the beautiful Coronado Beach.
Three to four days are ideal to explore San Diego's main attractions, including its beaches, Balboa Park, San Diego Zoo, and vibrant neighborhoods.
Yes, you can take the train from Santa Clara, CA to San Diego, CA.
Since neither Santa Clara, CA nor San Diego, 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 Diego, CA include Irvine, CA, Santa Ana, CA, Oceanside, CA, Orange, CA, San Juan Capistrano, CA.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Santa Clara, CA to San Diego, 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 Diego, CA, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like beaches, public transportation, and popular tourist spots such as the Gaslamp Quarter and Old Town. Common scams include overpriced parking fees and unauthorized ticket sellers near attractions. Staying aware of surroundings, securing belongings, and using official transportation services help reduce risks. Additionally, travelers should avoid isolated areas at night and be mindful of local traffic laws when using scooters or bikes.
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 Clara, CA to San Diego, CA

Santa Clara
San Diego
The major train station for departures in Santa Clara is Great America Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Great America Station for your trip from Santa Clara to San Diego.
Great America StationAccessibility
Amenities at train station
AccessibilityAccessibility
information
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
5 km

More options for your journey from Santa Clara, CA to San Diego, CA

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