Santa Cruz, CA to San Francisco, CA train with Amtrak

Thu, Aug 06
+ Add return
Amtrak
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
Amtrak
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
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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, Wednesday, August 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Amtrak6928 AMTRAK · 528 Capitol Corridor · 6631 AMTRAK8:25 AM Santa Cruz, CA
26h40
11:05 AM San Francisco, CA2 transfers

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Train companies: Amtrak from Santa Cruz, CA to San Francisco, CA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Santa Cruz, CA and San Francisco, CA from $29. 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
2h 31m
Cheapest Price
$29
Amtrak frequency
10 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 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

California Academy of Sciences

Renowned science museum with rainforest dome, aquarium, and planetarium. Interactive exhibits make it a standout for all ages.

  • 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.

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.

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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Santa Cruz, CA to San Francisco, CA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $29, while the average price is around $36.
The train from Santa Cruz, CA to San Francisco, CA takes 2h 31m and runs 10 per day.
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.
There is no high speed train available from Santa Cruz, CA to San Francisco, CA.
There is no direct train service currently available from Santa Cruz, CA to San Francisco, CA.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Santa Cruz, CA to 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.
Yes, you can take the train from Santa Cruz, CA to San Francisco, CA.
Popular day trips by train from San Francisco, CA include Davis, CA, San Jose, CA, Stockton, CA, Santa Clara, CA, West Sacramento, CA.
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 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.

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 Emeryville Station 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, USAWifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to Santa Cruz, Bus Station Metro Center from Santa Cruz city centre

TRUE

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.

HomeTrainsTrains in USATrain Times to San Francisco, CASanta Cruz, CA to San Francisco, CA train

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