- Must visit
de Young Museum
Major art museum in Golden Gate Park with American collections, a sculpture garden and a rooftop terrace with fine city views.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Los Angeles, CA to San Francisco, CA
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 05 Nov
- Cheapest price on 05 Nov
- £71
- Average ticket price on 05 Nov
- £75
- Fastest journey on 05 Nov
- 9 h 25 m
- Average journey duration on 05 Nov
- 9 h 32 m
- Trains on 05 Nov
- 10
- Distance
- 559 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Los Angeles, CA to San Francisco, 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 Francisco, CA will cost around £75 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £71.
Fast trains
To travel from Los Angeles, CA to San Francisco, CA you need to make at least 2 changes.
5715 Connecting Bus · 715 Gold Runner · 6615 Connecting Bus7:50 9h40 Union Station, Los Angeles, CA 17:30 San Francisco, CA £71 1 One-way 2 changes- 5811 Connecting Bus · 711 Gold Runner · 6611 Connecting Bus
1:45 9h45 Union Station, Los Angeles, CA 11:30 San Francisco, CA £71 1 One-way 2 changes - 5719 Connecting Bus · 719 Gold Runner · 6619 Connecting Bus
12:55 9h35 Union Station, Los Angeles, CA 22:30 San Francisco, CA £71 1 One-way 2 changes - 5713 Connecting Bus · 713 Gold Runner · 6613 Connecting Bus
5:55 9h35 Union Station, Los Angeles, CA 15:30 San Francisco, CA £71 1 One-way 2 changes - 5817 Connecting Bus · 717 Gold Runner · 6617 Connecting Bus
11:05 9h25 Union Station, Los Angeles, CA 20:30 San Francisco, CA £71 1 One-way 2 changes
- 5817 Connecting Bus · 717 Gold Runner · 6617 Connecting Bus
11:05 9h25 Union Station, Los Angeles, CA 20:30 San Francisco, CA £71 1 One-way 2 changes - 5815 Connecting Bus · 715 Gold Runner · 6615 Connecting Bus
8:00 9h30 Union Station, Los Angeles, CA 17:30 San Francisco, CA £71 1 One-way 2 changes - 5719 Connecting Bus · 719 Gold Runner · 6619 Connecting Bus
12:55 9h35 Union Station, Los Angeles, CA 22:30 San Francisco, CA £71 1 One-way 2 changes - 5713 Connecting Bus · 713 Gold Runner · 6613 Connecting Bus
5:55 9h35 Union Station, Los Angeles, CA 15:30 San Francisco, CA £71 1 One-way 2 changes - 5717 Connecting Bus · 717 Gold Runner · 6617 Connecting Bus
10:55 9h35 Union Station, Los Angeles, CA 20:30 San Francisco, CA £71 1 One-way 2 changes
Journey information
Overview: Train from Los Angeles, CA to San Francisco, CA
USAUSA
Trains from Los Angeles, CA to San Francisco, CA run on average 3 times per day, taking around 11h 38m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £52 but you can travel from only £16 by flight.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:15, the last at 22:35. The fastest train covers the 559 km distance in 11h 30m.
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 £16
Distance 559 km |
Average train duration 11h 38m |
Cheapest ticket price £52 |
Trains per day 3 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 11h 30m |
First train 0:15 |
Last train 22:35 |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 56 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 £16
Frequently asked questions about your Los Angeles, CA to San Francisco, CA trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Los Angeles, CA to San Francisco, CA.
The cost of a train ticket from Los Angeles, CA to San Francisco, CA can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £52, while the average price tends to be around £75.
The train journey from Los Angeles, CA to San Francisco, CA covers a distance of 559 km and takes approximately 11h 30m. Trains run 3 per day.
The train distance from Los Angeles, CA to San Francisco, CA is 559 km.
The first train from Los Angeles, CA to San Francisco, CA leaves at 0:15.
The last train from Los Angeles, CA to San Francisco, CA departs at 22:35.
Trains from Los Angeles, CA to San Francisco, CA run approximately 3 times per day.
Yes, there is a direct train between Los Angeles, CA and San Francisco, CA. The service operates 1 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
Live departures
Los Angeles, CA to San Francisco, CA train times
The table below shows live departures for Los Angeles, CA to San Francisco, CA trains for today, Wednesday 4 November. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5813 Connecting Bus · 713 Gold Runner · 6613 Connecting Bus | 5:50 Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 9h40 | 15:30 San Francisco, CA | 2 changes | |
| 5713 Connecting Bus · 713 Gold Runner · 6613 Connecting Bus | 5:55 Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 9h35 | 15:30 San Francisco, CA | 2 changes | |
| 5715 Connecting Bus · 715 Gold Runner · 6615 Connecting Bus | 7:50 Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 9h40 | 17:30 San Francisco, CA | 2 changes | |
| 5815 Connecting Bus · 715 Gold Runner · 6615 Connecting Bus | 8:00 Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 9h30 | 17:30 San Francisco, CA | 2 changes | |
| 14 Coast Starlight · 6014 Connecting Bus | 9:51 Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 12h39 | 22:30 San Francisco, CA | 1 change | |
| 14 Coast Starlight · 6619 Connecting Bus | 9:51 Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 12h39 | 22:30 San Francisco, CA | 1 change | |
| 5717 Connecting Bus · 717 Gold Runner · 6617 Connecting Bus | 10:55 Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 9h35 | 20:30 San Francisco, CA | 2 changes | |
| 5817 Connecting Bus · 717 Gold Runner · 6617 Connecting Bus | 11:05 Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 9h25 | 20:30 San Francisco, CA | 2 changes | |
| 5719 Connecting Bus · 719 Gold Runner · 6619 Connecting Bus | 12:55 Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 9h35 | 22:30 San Francisco, CA | 2 changes | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Train companies: Amtrak from Los Angeles, CA to San Francisco, CA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Los Angeles, CA and San Francisco, CA from £16. 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
11h 30m
Cheapest Amtrak Price
£52
Amtrak frequency
3 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
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Los Angeles, CA and San Francisco, CA
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
Yes, there is a high-speed train service from Los Angeles, CA to San Francisco, CA.
Yes, there is a night train from Los Angeles, CA to San Francisco, CA.
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
Expansive science museum with a rainforest dome, aquarium, planetarium and natural history displays, ideal for curious visitors of all ages.
- Must visit
San Francisco Museum of Modern Art
Modern and contemporary art museum with strong rotating exhibitions and a central location near Yerba Buena Gardens.
- Must visit
Fisherman's Wharf
Historic waterfront district with sea lions, bay views, ferries and lively promenades. Busy but still a classic first-time stop.
- Must visit
Lombard Street
Steep Lombard Street block famed for tight curves, gardens and postcard views. Best enjoyed on foot from the steps beside the roadway.
- Must visit
Golden Gate Park
Large urban park with gardens, lakes, museums and broad walking routes. An easy place to balance sightseeing with green space.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
San Francisco Sourdough
A crusty, tangy loaf rooted in Gold Rush-era baking. It is one of San Francisco’s signature foods and is often served with local seafood dishes.
Cioppino
A rich tomato-and-cream crab soup linked to Italian-American cooking in North Beach. It is a longstanding local speciality tied to Dungeness crab season.
- Gluten-free
Dungeness Crab
Fresh Dungeness crab, usually simply cracked and served to highlight its sweet flavour. It is one of the Bay Area’s most prized seasonal seafood traditions.
Sotto Mare
Long-running North Beach restaurant famed for cioppino and classic Italian-American seafood in an old-school dining room.
La Taqueria
Casual Mission institution known for hefty Mission-style burritos and quick counter service in a busy neighbourhood setting.
Caffè Trieste
Historic North Beach café known for espresso and Italian atmosphere. A classic stop for coffee and light bites in a lively local setting.
US Dollar ($)
San Francisco is pricier than most US cities, with high hotel rates, costly dining, and parking. Public transport helps, but overall visitor costs are usually high.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $12-20 for fast food or casual takeaway.
- Mid-range
- $25-45 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $90+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- $4-7 for a coffee.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% in restaurants, more for excellent service. Taxis usually get 10-15%. In cafés, rounding up or $1-2 is common.
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 train journey from Los Angeles to San Francisco offers a scenic experience with views of the Pacific Ocean, coastal cliffs, and picturesque towns along the California coastline, particularly on routes like the Coast Starlight.
FAQs: Los Angeles, CA to San Francisco, CA train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Los Angeles, 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.
Booking trains from Los Angeles, CA to San Francisco, CA in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
Yes, you can take the train from Los Angeles, CA to San Francisco, CA.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Los Angeles, CA and San Francisco, CA
Most Los Angeles, CA to San Francisco, CA trains use the Union Station to station pair. Use this guide to compare Los Angeles, 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 Los Angeles
Arrival train stations in San Francisco
Which Los Angeles, CA station do trains to San Francisco, CA leave from?
Trains from Los Angeles, CA to San Francisco, CA leave from Union Station. The station is 1 km from Los Angeles, CA city centre at 800 N. Alameda Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012, USA.
Union Station800 N. Alameda Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012, USA+1 213-683-6875
City-centre transport
Getting to Union Station from Los Angeles city centre
TrainSouthwest Chief, Texas Eagle · 57h 43m · £738
Southwest Chief, Texas Eagle · 60h 6m · £789
BusGreyhound US1210 · 59h 10m · £398
Union Station train station facilities and services
Union Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Shower, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Traxx Restaurant, Union Station Cafe, Philippe The Original
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Union Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Union Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Union Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Union Station: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Union Station: Elevators, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include DoubleTree by Hilton Los Angeles Downtown, Miyako Hotel Los Angeles, Omni Los Angeles Hotel at California Plaza.
Van Nuys, Metrolink Station7720 Van Nuys Blvd., Van Nuys, CA 91405, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Van Nuys, Metrolink Station from Los Angeles city centre
Van Nuys, Metrolink Station is 25 km from Los Angeles city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainPacific Surfliner · 30m · £6
VC Line · 31m · £7
Bus20 · 2h 30m · £4 · every ~8 min
Van Nuys, Metrolink Station train station facilities and services
Van Nuys, Metrolink Station has practical services for this route, including Lockers, Parking, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Car Rental, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Van Nuys, Metrolink Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Van Nuys, Metrolink Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Van Nuys, Metrolink Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Van Nuys, Metrolink Station: Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Van Nuys, Metrolink Station.
Most popular train connections from Los Angeles, CA
More options for your journey from Los Angeles, CA to San Francisco, CA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from San Francisco, CA and Los Angeles, CA
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