- Must visit
California Academy of Sciences
Renowned science museum with rainforest dome, aquarium, and planetarium. Interactive exhibits make it a standout for all ages.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Santa Cruz, CA to San Francisco, CA
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 04
- Cheapest price on Nov 04
- $37
- Average ticket price on Nov 04
- $37
- Fastest journey on Nov 04
- 1 d 2 h 45 m
- Average journey duration on Nov 04
- 1 d 2 h 45 m
- Trains on Nov 04
- 1
- Distance
- 95 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Santa Cruz, CA to San Francisco, CA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Santa Cruz, CA to San Francisco, CA will cost around $37 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $37.
Fast trains
On Wed, Nov 04, we found 1 trains from Santa Cruz, CA to San Francisco, CA, including 1 direct services.
On Wed, Nov 04 the direct trains cover the 95 km distance in an average of 1 d 2 h 45 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 d 2 h 45 m .
On Wed, Nov 04 the slowest trains will take 1 d 2 h 45 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.
3:20 PM 26h45 Santa Cruz, CA 6:05 PM San Francisco, CA $37 1 One-way 0 transfers
3:20 PM 26h45 Santa Cruz, CA 6:05 PM San Francisco, CA $37 1 One-way 0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Train from Santa Cruz, CA to San Francisco, CA
USAUSA
Take a train from Santa Cruz, CA to San Francisco, CA and enjoy the approximately 59 miles (95 km) long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.
The earliest train runs at 04:55, the last at 20:43.
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
Plan this route
Journey facts
- Distance59 miles (95 km)
- First train4:55 AM
- Last train8:43 PM
- Cheapest MonthFeb
- Cheapest DayFri
- High SeasonApr - Jun
- Low SeasonJan - Mar
- Best time to book49 days
Explore this journey
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
Frequently asked questions about your Santa Cruz, CA to San Francisco, CA trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Santa Cruz, CA to San Francisco, CA.
The distance by train from Santa Cruz, CA to San Francisco, CA is 59 miles (95 km).
The first train from Santa Cruz, CA to San Francisco, CA leaves at 4:55 AM.
The last train from Santa Cruz, CA to San Francisco, CA leaves at 8:43 PM.
Live departures
Santa Cruz, CA to San Francisco, CA train times
The table below shows live departures for Santa Cruz, CA to San Francisco, CA trains for today, Tuesday, November 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3:20 PM Santa Cruz, CA | 26h45 | 6:05 PM San Francisco, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Complete guide to San Francisco, CA
Things to do in San Francisco, CA
Discover the best of San Francisco, CA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect San Francisco, CA trip today.
- Must visit
de Young Museum
Major fine arts museum in Golden Gate Park with American art, textiles, and a panoramic tower. A classic cultural highlight.
- Must visit
San Francisco Museum of Modern Art
Leading modern and contemporary art museum with landmark architecture and strong global collections. Essential for art-focused visitors.
- Must visit
Golden Gate Park
Large urban park with gardens, lakes, museums, and trails. It is a must for relaxing, walking, and seeing several major attractions.
- Must visit
Lombard Street
Steeply curving block lined with flowers and grand homes. This famous street offers classic photos and a quintessential San Francisco scene.
- Must visit
The Embarcadero
Popular waterfront promenade with bay views, piers, and ferries. Great for walking, people-watching, and connecting to nearby sights.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
San Francisco Sourdough
A crusty loaf with a tangy flavor shaped by the city’s historic wild yeast culture. It is one of San Francisco’s most iconic foods.
- Gluten-free
Dungeness Crab
Fresh local Dungeness crab, often cracked and served simply or in cioppino. It is a Bay Area seasonal specialty tied to the fishing waterfront.
Cioppino
A tomato-based seafood stew created by Italian American fishermen in North Beach. It is a classic San Francisco dish built from the day’s catch.
Benu
Celebrated fine dining destination known for inventive tasting menus and polished service in an elegant, intimate setting.
Sotto Mare
Historic North Beach seafood house famous for cioppino, crab, and old-school San Francisco waterfront charm.
La Taqueria
Legendary Mission taqueria known for large Mission-style burritos and a lively, no-frills local atmosphere.
US Dollar ($)
Very high hotel, dining, and transport costs make San Francisco pricier than most US cities and many major tourist destinations.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $12-20 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- $25-45 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $90+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- $4-7 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, 15-20% for taxis, and round up or tip $1 at cafes for good service.
Plan your visit to San Francisco, CA
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in San Francisco, CA.
The journey from Santa Cruz to San Francisco by train is considered scenic, as it offers views of the California coastline, passing through picturesque landscapes and charming towns along the way.
Popular day trips by train from San Francisco, CA include Davis, CA, San Jose, CA, Stockton, CA, Santa Clara, CA, West Sacramento, CA.
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 Francisco, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like Fisherman's Wharf and Union Square. Common scams include distraction techniques used by groups to steal wallets and fake charity solicitations. It's advisable to avoid poorly lit or isolated areas at night and be wary of unofficial taxi services to 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.
FAQs: Trains from Santa Cruz, CA to San Francisco, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Santa Cruz, CA to San Francisco, 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 Francisco, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
No, you cannot take the train from Santa Cruz, CA to San Francisco, CA.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Santa Cruz, CA to San Francisco, CA
Most Santa Cruz, CA to San Francisco, CA trains use the Santa Cruz, Bus Station Metro Center to San Francisco, Mission Street (Chase Bank) station pair. Use this guide to compare Santa Cruz, CA and San Francisco, CA train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Santa Cruz
Arrival train stations in San Francisco
Which Santa Cruz, CA station do trains to San Francisco, CA leave from?
Trains from Santa Cruz, CA to San Francisco, CA leave from Santa Cruz, Bus Station Metro Center. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Santa Cruz, CA city centre at Santa Cruz, CA, USA.
Santa Cruz, Bus Station Metro CenterSanta Cruz, CA, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Santa Cruz, Bus Station Metro Center from Santa Cruz city centre
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Santa Cruz, Bus Station Metro Center train station facilities and services
Santa Cruz, Bus Station Metro Center 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 with various options available.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free WiFi available throughout the station. ATMs are several ATMs available near ticket counters.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Santa Cruz, Bus Station Metro Center.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Santa Cruz, Bus Station Metro Center: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Santa Cruz, Bus Station Metro Center: Station is fully accessible with ramps and elevators.
Which San Francisco, CA station do trains from Santa Cruz, CA arrive at?
Trains from Santa Cruz, CA to San Francisco, CA arrive at San Francisco, Mission Street (Chase Bank). San Francisco, Mission Street (Chase Bank) is 1 miles (3 km) from San Francisco, CA city centre.
San Francisco, Mission Street (Chase Bank)4669 Mission St, San Francisco, CA 94112, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to San Francisco, Mission Street (Chase Bank) from San Francisco city centre
San Francisco, Mission Street (Chase Bank) is 2 km from San Francisco city centre. Public transport options include:
TRUE
San Francisco, Mission Street (Chase Bank) train station facilities and services
San Francisco, Mission Street (Chase Bank) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Restaurants are accessible in the vicinity.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
WiFi available at surrounding public areas. ATMs are aTMs available in nearby buildings.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at San Francisco, Mission Street (Chase Bank).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at San Francisco, Mission Street (Chase Bank): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at San Francisco, Mission Street (Chase Bank): Station is accessible to individuals with disabilities.
Train stations for Santa Cruz, CA to San Francisco, CA
Check train stations information for Santa Cruz, CA and San Francisco, CA, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.
The train station in Santa Cruz, CA that goes to San Francisco, CA is Santa Cruz, Bus Station Metro Center, which connects to San Francisco, Mission Street (Chase Bank).
Most popular trains to and from San Francisco, CA and Santa Cruz, CA
Most popular train connections to San Francisco, CA
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