Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA train with Amtrak

Tue 24 Feb
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1,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA

Showing times and prices for 25 Feb

Cheapest price

£29

Average price

£36

Fastest journey

2 h 39 m

Average duration

2 h 40 m

Trains per day

28

Distance

180 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Los Angeles, 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 Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA will cost around £36 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £29.

Fast trains

Of the 28 trains that leave Los Angeles, CA for San Diego, CA every day 26 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

These direct trains cover the 180 km distance in an average of 2 h 40 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 39 m .

The slowest trains will take 2 h 42 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.

Amtrak770 Pacific Surfliner
10:102h42
Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
12:52Old Town Station, San Diego, CA
£291One-way
0 changes
Amtrak584 Pacific Surfliner
17:102h42
Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
19:52Old Town Station, San Diego, CA
£291One-way
0 changes
Amtrak794 Pacific Surfliner
22:102h40
Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
00:50Old Town Station, San Diego, CA
£291One-way
0 changes
Amtrak774 Pacific Surfliner
12:102h42
Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
14:52Old Town Station, San Diego, CA
£291One-way
0 changes
Amtrak782 Pacific Surfliner
16:102h42
Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
18:52Old Town Station, San Diego, CA
£291One-way
0 changes

Travel Information

Compare train, coach and flight for Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £19. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 23m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £19, and a flight costs an average of £141.

Distance: 180 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Coach
Flight

£29

Average Price

£28

Average Price

Cheapest

£347

Average Price

4h 16m

Average total duration

3h 46m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 37m

Average total duration

3h 7m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 23m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 23m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.2 - 0.4kg

CO2 emissions

0.5 - 1.1kg

CO2 emissions

Amtrak

Most popular train company

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Spirit Airlines

Most popular airline

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

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

Live departures

Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA train times

The table below shows live departures for Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA trains for today, Tuesday 24 February. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 09:28
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
amtrak562 Pacific Surfliner14:10 Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
2h54
17:04 Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 changesdirect
amtrak564 Pacific Surfliner15:10 Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
2h54
18:04 Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 changesdirect
amtrak566 Pacific Surfliner16:10 Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
2h57
19:07 Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 changesdirect
amtrak14 Coast Starlight · 794 Pacific Surfliner17:51 Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
15h13
09:04 Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA1 change
amtrak770 Pacific Surfliner18:10 Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
2h57
21:07 Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 changesdirect
amtrak572 Pacific Surfliner19:10 Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
2h57
22:07 Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 changesdirect
amtrak774 Pacific Surfliner20:10 Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
2h57
23:07 Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 changesdirect
amtrak580 Pacific Surfliner23:10 Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
2h57
02:07 Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 changesdirect
Wednesday 25 February
amtrak782 Pacific Surfliner00:10 Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
2h57
03:07 Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 changesdirect
amtrak584 Pacific Surfliner01:10 Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
2h57
04:07 Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 changesdirect
amtrak01:10 Los Angeles, CA
2h40
03:50 San Diego, CA0 changesdirect
amtrak586 Pacific Surfliner02:10 Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
2h57
05:07 Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 changesdirect
amtrak588 Pacific Surfliner03:10 Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
2h57
06:07 Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 changesdirect
amtrak790 Pacific Surfliner04:10 Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
2h57
07:07 Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA0 changesdirect
amtrak04:10 Los Angeles, CA
2h41
06:51 San Diego, CA0 changesdirect
amtrak794 Pacific Surfliner06:10 Union Station, Los Angeles, CA
2h54
09:04 Santa Fe Depot, 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 Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA by train, coach or flight

Compare train, coach 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.

Tue
24 Feb
Wed
25 Feb
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28 Feb
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How far in advance should I book train tickets from Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA?

The best time to book your train from Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA is 49 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA

USAUSA
USAUSA
Icon of train

Trains from Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA run on average 21 times per day, taking around 3h 46m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £28 but you can travel from only £19 by coach.

There are 19 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 03:50, the last at 22:10. The fastest train covers the 180 km distance in 2h 39m.

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 £19
Distance
180 km
Average train duration
3h 46m
Cheapest ticket price
£28
Trains per day
21
Direct trains
19
Fastest train
2h 39m
First train
03:50
Last train
22:10
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 £19

Train companies: Amtrak from Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Los Angeles, CA and San Diego, CA from £19. 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 39m
Cheapest Price
£28
Amtrak frequency
21 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

FAQs: Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA train

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Los Angeles, 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 Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £28, while the average price tends to be around £29.
The train journey from Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA covers a distance of 180 km and takes approximately 2h 39m. Trains run 21 per day.
The first train from Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA leaves at 3:50.
The train distance from Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA is 180 km.
The last train from Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA departs at 22:10.
Trains from Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA run approximately 21 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA.
Yes, there is a direct train between Los Angeles, CA and San Diego, CA. The service operates 19 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
To get from Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA, you can choose from several travel options including train, coach and flight.
There is no night train service from Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA.
The train station in Los Angeles, CA that goes to San Diego, CA is Union Station, Los Angeles, CA, and it arrives at Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA.
The cheapest way to get from Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA is by coach, costing approximately £19.
Booking trains from Los Angeles, 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 Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA is considered scenic, offering views of the Pacific Ocean, rolling hills, and charming coastal towns along the way.
A day trip from Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA is not feasible as the journey duration is 2h 39m. However, there are 19 trains available per day for this route, covering a distance of 180 km.
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 Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Los Angeles, CA and San Diego, CA

Los Angeles
San Diego
The major train station for departures in Los Angeles is Union Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Union Station for your trip from Los Angeles to San Diego.
Union StationWifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelShowerLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
ShowerShower
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
Luggage CartsLuggage Carts
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 4:30 AM - 1:00 AM Monday - Sunday
platformCount
Number of platforms
12
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free
Parking
Parking
  • The car park is open 24/7. Access via Vignes Street and Cesar Chavez Avenue.
Dining
Dining
  • Traxx Restaurant
  • Union Station Cafe
  • Philippe The Original
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Elevators, restrooms.
WC
WC
  • $1
Hotel
Hotel
  • DoubleTree by Hilton Los Angeles Downtown
  • Miyako Hotel Los Angeles
  • Omni Los Angeles Hotel at California Plaza
Shower
Shower
  • Cost $10
Lounge
Lounge
  • Located in the main hall
Lost and Found Office
Lost and Found Office
  • Located in the main hall
Car Rental
Car Rental
  • Avis
  • Enterprise
  • Hertz
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
Luggage Carts
  • Free
Station Plan
  • Hall 1: Main entrance, platforms for Amtrak and Metrolink
  • Hall 2: Metro Rail connections
  • Hall 3: Bus terminal
Public transport options for Union Station
  • Metro: Red Line, Purple Line, Gold Line
  • Bus: Several lines available including DASH and Metro Bus
Van Nuys, Metrolink StationLockersParkingTaxisAccessibilityWCLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
Amenities at train station
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
Luggage CartsLuggage Carts
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
25 km
platformCount
Number of platforms
2
Parking
Parking
  • Parking is available at the station.
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main entrance.
WC
WC
  • $0.50
Lost and Found Office
Lost and Found Office
  • Located in the main hall
Car Rental
Car Rental
  • Enterprise
  • Hertz
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
Luggage Carts
  • Free
Public transport options for Van Nuys, Metrolink Station
  • Bus: Several lines available
  • Metro: Orange Line
Chatsworth StationParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation DeskLuggage Carts
Amenities at train station
ParkingParking
DiningDining
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Information DeskInformation Desk
Luggage CartsLuggage Carts
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM Monday - Friday
  • 7:00 AM - 9:00 PM Saturday - Sunday
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
39 km
platformCount
Number of platforms
2
Parking
Parking
  • Parking is available at the station.
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Ramps, restrooms.
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located near the main entrance
Luggage Carts
Luggage Carts
  • Free
Station Plan
  • The station is a single-level facility with platforms for Metrolink and Amtrak services.
Public transport options for Chatsworth Station
  • Bus: Several lines available
  • Metrolink: Ventura County Line

More options for your journey from Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA

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Most popular trains to and from San Diego, CA and Los Angeles, CA

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