- Must visit
USS Midway Museum
A large aircraft carrier museum on the waterfront with restored aircraft, flight deck exhibits, and naval history. One of the city's most visited cultural attractions.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Seattle, WA to San Diego, CA
Showing times and prices for Jul 03
Cheapest price
$353
Average price
$384
Fastest journey
1 d 10 h 57 m
Average duration
1 d 11 h 51 m
Trains per day
9
Distance
1712 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Seattle, WA to San Diego, CA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Seattle, WA to San Diego, CA will cost around $384 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $353.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Seattle, WA to San Diego, CA without transferring at least 2 times.
11 Coast Starlight · 5818 AMTRAK9:55 AM43h40King Street Station, Seattle, WA5:35 AMSanta Fe Depot, San Diego, CA$3531One-way1 transfer- 11 Coast Starlight · 794 Pacific Surfliner9:55 AM38h55King Street Station, Seattle, WA12:50 AMOld Town Station, San Diego, CA$3651One-way1 transfer
- 11 Coast Starlight · 794 Pacific Surfliner9:55 AM39h09King Street Station, Seattle, WA1:04 AMSanta Fe Depot, San Diego, CA$3671One-way1 transfer
- 11 Coast Starlight · 4794 AMTRAK · 794 Pacific Surfliner9:55 AM39h09King Street Station, Seattle, WA1:04 AMSanta Fe Depot, San Diego, CA$3871One-way2 transfers
- 11 Coast Starlight · 4794 AMTRAK · 794 Pacific Surfliner9:55 AM38h55King Street Station, Seattle, WA12:50 AMOld Town Station, San Diego, CA$3871One-way2 transfers
- 11 Coast Starlight · 3710 AMTRAK · 710 Gold Runner · 5810 AMTRAK9:55 AM34h57King Street Station, Seattle, WA8:52 PMOld Town Station, San Diego, CA$3991One-way4 transfers
- 11 Coast Starlight · 3810 AMTRAK · 710 Gold Runner · 5810 AMTRAK9:55 AM34h57King Street Station, Seattle, WA8:52 PMOld Town Station, San Diego, CA$3991One-way4 transfers
- 11 Coast Starlight · 3710 AMTRAK · 710 Gold Runner · 5810 AMTRAK9:55 AM35h12King Street Station, Seattle, WA9:07 PMSanta Fe Depot, San Diego, CA$4011One-way4 transfers
- 11 Coast Starlight · 3810 AMTRAK · 710 Gold Runner · 5810 AMTRAK9:55 AM35h12King Street Station, Seattle, WA9:07 PMSanta Fe Depot, San Diego, CA$4011One-way4 transfers
- 11 Coast Starlight · 4794 AMTRAK · 794 Pacific Surfliner9:55 AM38h55King Street Station, Seattle, WA12:50 AMOld Town Station, San Diego, CA$3871One-way2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Seattle, WA to San Diego, CA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Seattle, WA to San Diego, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $106. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 42m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $106, and a flight costs an average of $86.
Distance: 1063 miles (1712 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus |
|---|---|---|
$289 Average price | $307 Average price | $238 Average price Cheapest |
37h 4m Average total duration 36h 34m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 42m Average total duration Fastest 3h 42m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 31h 54m Average total duration 31h 24m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Seattle, WA to San Diego, CA is a bus with an average price of $238 (€196).
This is compared to other travel options from Seattle, WA to San Diego, CA:
A bus is $51 (€42) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Seattle, WA to San Diego, CA costing on average $289 (€239).
A bus is $69 (€57) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Seattle, WA to San Diego, CA costing on average $307 (€253).
The fastest way to travel from Seattle, WA to San Diego, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 42m.
Other travel options to San Diego, CA take longer:
Bus takes on average 31h 24m.
Train takes on average 36h 34m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Seattle, WA and San Diego, CA including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Seattle, WA to San Diego, CA among Omio's users.
Live departures
Seattle, WA to San Diego, CA train times
The table below shows live departures for Seattle, WA to San Diego, CA trains for today, Thursday, July 2. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 11 Coast Starlight · 3810 AMTRAK · 710 Gold Runner · 5810 AMTRAK | 9:55 AM King Street Station, Seattle, WA | 35h12 | 9:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 4 transfers | |
| 11 Coast Starlight · 3710 AMTRAK · 710 Gold Runner · 5810 AMTRAK | 9:55 AM King Street Station, Seattle, WA | 34h57 | 8:52 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA | 4 transfers | |
| 11 Coast Starlight · 794 Pacific Surfliner | 9:55 AM King Street Station, Seattle, WA | 39h09 | 1:04 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 11 Coast Starlight · 3810 AMTRAK · 710 Gold Runner · 5810 AMTRAK | 9:55 AM King Street Station, Seattle, WA | 34h57 | 8:52 PM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA | 4 transfers | |
| 11 Coast Starlight · 3710 AMTRAK · 710 Gold Runner · 5810 AMTRAK | 9:55 AM King Street Station, Seattle, WA | 35h12 | 9:07 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 4 transfers | |
| 11 Coast Starlight · 4794 AMTRAK · 794 Pacific Surfliner | 9:55 AM King Street Station, Seattle, WA | 38h55 | 12:50 AM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA | 2 transfers | |
| 11 Coast Starlight · 4794 AMTRAK · 794 Pacific Surfliner | 9:55 AM King Street Station, Seattle, WA | 39h09 | 1:04 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 2 transfers | |
| 11 Coast Starlight · 794 Pacific Surfliner | 9:55 AM King Street Station, Seattle, WA | 38h55 | 12:50 AM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 11 Coast Starlight · 5818 AMTRAK | 9:55 AM King Street Station, Seattle, WA | 43h40 | 5:35 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Seattle, WA to San Diego, 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 Seattle, WA to San Diego, CA
USAUSA
Trains from Seattle, WA to San Diego, CA run on average 6 times per day, taking around 36h 34m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $152 (€126) but you can travel from only $86 (€71) by flight.
The earliest train runs at 04:01, the last at 09:55. The fastest train covers the 1063 miles (1712 km) distance in 38h 55m.
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
Flight from $86 (€71)
Distance 1063 miles (1712 km) |
Average train duration 36h 34m |
Cheapest ticket price $152 (€126) |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 38h 55m |
First train 4:01 AM |
Last train 9:55 AM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 49 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
Flight from $86 (€71)
Train companies: Amtrak from Seattle, WA to San Diego, CA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Seattle, WA and San Diego, CA from $86 (€71). 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
38h 55m
Cheapest Price
$152 (€126)
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.
- Recommended
San Diego Museum of Art
Balboa Park's flagship art museum, known for European old masters, South Asian art, and major rotating exhibitions in a landmark Spanish Colonial building.
- Recommended
Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego
Contemporary art museum with a major La Jolla campus and strong collection of postwar and current works, plus ocean-view architecture and installations.
- Must visit
Balboa Park
San Diego's signature urban park, filled with gardens, plazas, museums, and Spanish Colonial architecture. It is one of the city's essential places to explore.
- Must visit
La Jolla Cove
A scenic coastal area known for sea lions, turquoise water, dramatic cliffs, and some of the most photographed ocean views in San Diego.
- Recommended
Seaport Village
A popular waterfront walking area with bay views, promenades, and public spaces near downtown, especially appealing at sunset and on casual strolls.
- Gluten-free
Fish Tacos
Baja-style fish tacos are a San Diego staple, usually made with battered or grilled local fish, cabbage, crema, and salsa in a corn tortilla.
California Burrito
A classic San Diego burrito filled with carne asada, fries, cheese, and salsa, reflecting the city’s Mexican borderland food culture.
- Gluten-free
Carne Asada Fries
A beloved local late-night dish of fries topped with carne asada, cheese, guacamole, sour cream, and salsa.
Las Cuatro Milpas
An iconic casual spot in Barrio Logan known for house-made tortillas, rice, beans, and traditional Mexican plates with a no-frills atmosphere.
Point Loma Seafoods
A long-running waterfront seafood market and eatery loved for fresh fish sandwiches, chowder, and a classic San Diego harbor setting.
The Crack Shack
A popular casual restaurant serving upscale fried chicken, sandwiches, and local beers in a lively indoor-outdoor setting.
United States Dollar
San Diego is pricey by U.S. standards, especially for hotels and dining near beaches and downtown.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-18 for tacos, fast food, or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- USD 25-45 per person at a standard restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 75+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- 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 USD 2-5.
FAQs: Trains from Seattle, WA to San Diego, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Seattle, WA 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.
Train ticket prices from Seattle, WA to San Diego, CA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $152 (€126), while the average price is around $289 (€239).
The train from Seattle, WA to San Diego, CA takes 38h 55m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Seattle, WA to San Diego, CA is 1063 miles (1712 km).
The first train from Seattle, WA to San Diego, CA leaves at 4:01 AM.
The last train from Seattle, WA to San Diego, CA leaves at 9:55 AM.
There is no high speed train available from Seattle, WA to San Diego, CA.
There is no direct train service currently available from Seattle, WA to San Diego, CA.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Seattle, WA to San Diego, CA.
The train station in Seattle, WA that goes to San Diego, CA is King Street Station, Seattle, WA, which connects to Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA.
The cheapest way to get from Seattle, WA to San Diego, CA is by flight, with a cost of around $86 (€71).
Yes, the train journey from Seattle, WA to San Diego, CA is considered scenic, offering views of the Pacific Ocean coastline, lush forests, and picturesque landscapes as it passes through diverse regions including the Cascade Range and along California's beaches.
A day trip from Seattle, WA to San Diego, CA is not feasible as the travel duration is 38h 55m. However, there are 6 trips per day available for this journey. The distance is 1063 miles (1712 km).
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 Seattle, WA to San Diego, CA.
Since neither Seattle, WA 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 Seattle, WA 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 Seattle, WA to San Diego, CA
Most Seattle, WA to San Diego, CA trains use the King Street Station to Santa Fe Depot station pair, with some services arriving at Old Town Station. Use this guide to compare Seattle, WA and San Diego, CA train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Seattle
Arrival train stations in San Diego
Which Seattle, WA station do trains to San Diego, CA leave from?
Trains from Seattle, WA to San Diego, CA leave from King Street Station. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Seattle, WA city centre at 303 South Jackson Street, Seattle, WA 98104, USA.
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 · $22
1, 101, 13, 14, 150, 177, 2, 3, 36, 4, 7, 70, 49, 102, 162 · 5m · $4 · every ~52 min
Tram1 Line, 2 Line · 3m · $4 · 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.
Which San Diego, CA station do trains from Seattle, WA arrive at?
Trains from Seattle, WA to San Diego, CA most often arrive at Santa Fe Depot. Some services arrive at Old Town Station, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your San Diego, CA arrival station.
Santa Fe Depot1050 Kettner Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101, USA+1 800-872-7245
City-centre transport
Getting to Santa Fe Depot from San Diego city centre
Santa Fe Depot is 1 km from San Diego city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus215, 225, 235, 910 · 5m · $6 · every ~22 min
TramBlue, Orange · 2m · every ~15 min
Santa Fe Depot train station facilities and services
Santa Fe Depot has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, 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 Fish Market, Karl Strauss Brewing Company
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Santa Fe Depot. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Santa Fe Depot. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Santa Fe Depot: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Santa Fe Depot: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Santa Fe Depot: Ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include The Westin San Diego, The Guild Hotel, San Diego, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, Embassy Suites by Hilton San Diego Bay Downtown.
Old Town Station4009 Taylor Street, San Diego, CA 92110, United States
City-centre transport
Getting to Old Town Station from San Diego city centre
Old Town Station is 5 km from San Diego city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainCoaster · 7m · $7 · every ~2 min
Pacific Surfliner · 7m · $1 · every ~2 min
BusFlixBus 2017 · 15m · $1
83 · 26m · $6
TramGreen, Blue, Event · 9m · every ~18 min
Blue · 14m · every ~9 min
Old Town Station train station facilities and services
Old Town Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, 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: Casa Guadalajara, Old Town Mexican Cafe
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Old Town Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Old Town Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Old Town Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Old Town Station: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Old Town Station: Elevators, ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Old Town Inn, Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott San Diego Old Town, Best Western Plus Hacienda Hotel Old Town.
Most popular train connections from Seattle, WA
More options for your journey from Seattle, WA to San Diego, CA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from San Diego, CA and Seattle, WA
Most popular train connections to San Diego, CA
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