Bakersfield, CA to San Diego, CA train with Amtrak

Fri 18 Sept
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Amtrak
Avanti West Coast
Great Western Railway
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2,000+ travel companies
Amtrak
Avanti West Coast
Great Western Railway
Regionale
West Midlands Trains
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Bakersfield, CA to San Diego, CA

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 19 Sept

Cheapest price on 19 Sept

£44

Average ticket price on 19 Sept

£44

Fastest journey on 19 Sept

6 h 5 m

Average journey duration on 19 Sept

6 h 6 m

Trains on 19 Sept

3

Distance

342 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Bakersfield, CA to San Diego, CA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Bakersfield, CA to San Diego, CA will cost around £44 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £44.

Fast trains

On Sat 19 Sept, we found 3 trains from Bakersfield, CA to San Diego, CA, including 3 direct services.

These direct trains cover the 342 km distance in an average of 6 h 6 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 6 h 5 m .

The slowest trains will take 6 h 6 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.

  • Amtrak
    2:456h05
    Bakersfield, CA
    8:50San Diego, CA
    £441One-way
    0 changes
  • Amtrak
    0:456h06
    Bakersfield, CA
    6:51San Diego, CA
    £441One-way
    0 changes
  • Amtrak
    23:456h06
    Bakersfield, CA
    5:51San Diego, CA
    £451One-way
    0 changes

Travel Information

Compare coach, train and flight for Bakersfield, CA to San Diego, CA

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Bakersfield, CA to San Diego, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the coach, with an average ticket price of £33 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 5h 7m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.3kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £33, while a flight costs an average of £295.

Distance: 342 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Coach
Flight
Driving

£44

Average Price

£33

Average Price

Cheapest

£295

Average Price

£36

Average Price

(fuel + tolls)

5h 31m

Average total duration

5h 1m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 27m

Average total duration

5h 57m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 7m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 7m

Onboard

+

2h 0m

Additional time*

3h 53m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.3kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.3 - 0.9kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Amtrak

Most popular train company

Greyhound

Most popular bus company

United

Most popular airline

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

The cheapest way to travel from Bakersfield, CA to San Diego, CA is a coach with an average price of £33.

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

A coach is £11 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Bakersfield, CA to San Diego, CA costing on average £44.

A coach is £262 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Bakersfield, CA to San Diego, CA costing on average £295.

The fastest way to travel from Bakersfield, CA to San Diego, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 7m.

Other travel options to San Diego, CA take longer:

Train takes on average 5h 1m.

Coach takes on average 5h 57m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Bakersfield, CA and San Diego, CA including taking a coach, train and flight.
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 £44 compared to roughly £36 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about £-8.92. The journey takes 5h 1m versus 3h 53m 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

Bakersfield, CA to San Diego, CA train times

The table below shows live departures for Bakersfield, CA to San Diego, CA trains for today, Thursday 17 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
Amtrak5874 · 7749:35 Bakersfield station, Bakersfield, CA
5h32
15:07 Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA1 change
Amtrak5874 · 7749:35 Bakersfield station, Bakersfield, CA
5h17
14:52 Old Town Station, San Diego, CA1 change
Amtrak5802 · 78212:50 Bakersfield station, Bakersfield, CA
6h17
19:07 Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA1 change
Amtrak5802 · 78212:50 Bakersfield station, Bakersfield, CA
6h02
18:52 Old Town Station, San Diego, CA1 change
Amtrak5810 · 78614:45 Bakersfield station, Bakersfield, CA
6h07
20:52 Old Town Station, San Diego, CA1 change
Amtrak5810 · 78614:45 Bakersfield station, Bakersfield, CA
6h22
21:07 Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA1 change
Amtrak5812 · 79016:45 Bakersfield station, Bakersfield, CA
6h22
23:07 Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA1 change
Amtrak5712 · 79016:45 Bakersfield station, Bakersfield, CA
6h06
22:51 Old Town Station, San Diego, CA1 change
Amtrak5812 · 79016:45 Bakersfield station, Bakersfield, CA
6h06
22:51 Old Town Station, San Diego, CA1 change
Amtrak5712 · 79016:45 Bakersfield station, Bakersfield, CA
6h22
23:07 Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA1 change
Amtrak0:45 Bakersfield, CA
6h06
6:51 San Diego, CA0 changesdirect
Thursday 17 September
Amtrak5714 · 79418:45 Bakersfield station, Bakersfield, CA
6h05
0:50 Old Town Station, San Diego, CA1 change
Amtrak5714 · 79418:45 Bakersfield station, Bakersfield, CA
6h19
1:04 Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA1 change
Friday 18 September
Amtrak2:45 Bakersfield, CA
6h05
8:50 San Diego, CA0 changesdirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Bakersfield, CA to San Diego, CA by coach, train or flight

Compare coach, 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.

Fri
18 Sept
Sat
19 Sept
Sun
20 Sept
Mon
21 Sept
Tue
22 Sept
Wed
23 Sept
Thu
24 Sept

Journey information

Overview: Train from Bakersfield, CA to San Diego, CA

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Icon of train

Trains from Bakersfield, CA to San Diego, CA run on average 12 times per day, taking around 5h 1m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £44 but you can travel from only £24 by coach.

The earliest train runs at 04:01, the last at 23:20. The fastest train covers the 342 km distance in 6h 6m.

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
Coach from £24
Distance
342 km
Average train duration
5h 1m
Cheapest ticket price
£44
Trains per day
12
Fastest train
6h 6m
First train
4:01
Last train
23:20
Cheapest Month
Oct
Cheapest Day
Sat
High Season
Jul - Sept
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Wed
Least Busy Day
Tue
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
Coach from £24

Train companies: Amtrak from Bakersfield, CA to San Diego, CA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Bakersfield, CA and San Diego, CA from £24. 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 Amtrak Duration
6h 6m
Cheapest Amtrak Price
£44
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

Train companies: Amtrak from Bakersfield, CA to San Diego, CA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Bakersfield, CA and San Diego, CA from £24. 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 Amtrak Duration
6h 6m
Cheapest Amtrak Price
£44
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

What's included in each class

Compare Amtrak classes and the amenities included in each one.

Bedroom
  • Power plugs
  • Extra legroom
  • Free Drinks
  • Free meal
  • Lounge Access
Business Class Seat
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Power plugs
  • Wide seats
  • Extra legroom
  • Free Drinks
  • Meals to buy
  • Snacks to buy
  • WC
Business Travel Roomette
  • Power plugs
  • Extra legroom
  • Free Drinks
  • Free meal
  • Lounge Access
Coach Lower Level Seat
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Power plugs
  • Extra legroom
  • Meals to buy
  • Snacks to buy
Coach Reserved Seat
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Power plugs
  • Extra legroom
  • Meals to buy
  • Snacks to buy
Coach Seat
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Power plugs
Coach Unreserved Seat
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Power plugs
  • Extra legroom
  • Meals to buy
  • Snacks to buy
Family Bedroom
  • Power plugs
  • Extra legroom
  • Free Drinks
  • Free meal
  • Lounge Access
Superliner Roomette
  • Power plugs
  • Extra legroom
  • Free Drinks
  • Free meal
  • Lounge Access
Viewliner Roomette
  • Power plugs
  • Extra legroom
  • Free Drinks
  • Free meal
  • Lounge Access

Complete guide to San Diego, CA

Things to do in San Diego, CA

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

  • Must visit

USS Midway Museum

Extensive naval aviation museum aboard a historic aircraft carrier. Visit for flight decks, restored aircraft, and hands-on maritime history.

  • Recommended

San Diego Museum of Art

Major Balboa Park art museum with Spanish old masters, Asian art, and sculpture. A strong choice for architecture and varied collections.

  • Recommended

Museum of Us

Interactive Balboa Park museum exploring anthropology, culture, and race. Climb the tower for city views with a separate ticket.

US dollar ($)

San Diego is pricier than many US cities, with high hotel and dining costs, though tacos, casual eats and public transport can help keep daily spending manageable.

Average meal costs

Budget
$10-18 for fast food or casual tacos.
Mid-range
$25-45 per person for a meal.
Fine dining
$80+ per person for upscale restaurants.
Coffee
$4-6 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Tip 18-20% in restaurants, 10-15% for taxis, and $1-2 for café drinks if table service or special prep is involved.

FAQs: Bakersfield, CA to San Diego, CA train

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bakersfield, 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
The cost of a train ticket from Bakersfield, CA to San Diego, CA can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £44, while the average price tends to be around £44.
The train journey from Bakersfield, CA to San Diego, CA covers a distance of 342 km and takes approximately 6h 6m. Trains run 12 per day.
The train distance from Bakersfield, CA to San Diego, CA is 342 km.
The first train from Bakersfield, CA to San Diego, CA leaves at 4:01.
The last train from Bakersfield, CA to San Diego, CA departs at 23:20.
Trains from Bakersfield, CA to San Diego, CA run approximately 12 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Bakersfield, CA to San Diego, CA.
Yes, there is a direct train between Bakersfield, CA and San Diego, CA. The service operates 0 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
To get from Bakersfield, CA to San Diego, CA, you can choose from several travel options including coach, train and flight.
There is no night train service from Bakersfield, CA to San Diego, CA.
The train station in Bakersfield, CA that goes to San Diego, CA is Bakersfield station, Bakersfield, CA, and it arrives at Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA.
The cheapest way to get from Bakersfield, CA to San Diego, CA is by coach, costing approximately £24.
Booking trains from Bakersfield, CA to San Diego, CA in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Bakersfield, CA to San Diego, CA offers passengers a variety of landscapes, including agricultural fields, rolling hills, and glimpses of the Pacific Ocean as you approach San Diego. While it may not be considered the most scenic route in California, it still provides pleasant views typical of the region.
A day trip from Bakersfield, CA to San Diego, CA is not feasible as the journey takes 6h 6m, covering a distance of 342 km. The frequency is 10 per day for trains.
In San Diego, CA, you can explore the vibrant art scene at the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego and enjoy a harbour cruise for stunning views of the skyline and naval ships. Hike the scenic trails at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, visit the Birch Aquarium to learn about marine life and ocean conservation, and experience the thrill of a whale watching tour off the coast. Discover Balboa Park with its museums, gardens, and the San Diego Zoo, explore the USS Midway Museum, and take in the picturesque views at La Jolla Cove. Enjoy the lively atmosphere of the Gaslamp Quarter and relax at Coronado Beach.
To fully explore San Diego, CA, and enjoy its main attractions such as the San Diego Zoo, Balboa Park, and the beaches, a stay of three to five days is typically recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Bakersfield, CA to San Diego, CA.

More options for your journey from Bakersfield, CA to San Diego, CA

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

HomeTrainsTrains in USATrain Times to San Diego, CA Bakersfield, CA to San Diego, CA train

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