- Must visit
The Getty Center
Vast hilltop art museum with European paintings, sculpture, gardens, and impressive architecture overlooking the city.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from San Diego, CA to Los Angeles, CA
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 10 Oct
Cheapest price on 10 Oct
£28
Average ticket price on 10 Oct
£29
Fastest journey on 10 Oct
2 h 47 m
Average journey duration on 10 Oct
2 h 47 m
Trains on 10 Oct
3
Distance
180 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from San Diego, CA to Los Angeles, CA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from San Diego, CA to Los Angeles, CA will cost around £29 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £28.
Fast trains
On Sat 10 Oct, we found 3 trains from San Diego, CA to Los Angeles, CA, including 3 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 180 km distance in an average of 2 h 47 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 47 m .
The slowest trains will take 2 h 47 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.
22:102h47San Diego, CA0:57Los Angeles, CA£281One-way0 changes- 21:102h47San Diego, CA23:57Los Angeles, CA£281One-way0 changes
- 20:102h47San Diego, CA22:57Los Angeles, CA£301One-way0 changes
- 22:102h47San Diego, CA0:57Los Angeles, CA£281One-way0 changes
- 21:102h47San Diego, CA23:57Los Angeles, CA£281One-way0 changes
- 20:102h47San Diego, CA22:57Los Angeles, CA£301One-way0 changes
Journey information
Overview: Train from San Diego, CA to Los Angeles, CA
USAUSA
Trains from San Diego, CA to Los Angeles, CA run on average 25 times per day, taking around 2h 52m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £27 but you can travel from only £15 by coach.
There are 25 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 42m.
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 £15
Distance 180 km |
Average train duration 2h 52m |
Cheapest ticket price £27 |
Trains per day 25 |
Direct trains 25 |
Fastest train 2h 42m |
First train 3:50 |
Last train 22:10 |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 91 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
Coach from £15
Live departures
San Diego, CA to Los Angeles, CA train times
The table below shows live departures for San Diego, CA to Los Angeles, CA trains for today, Friday 9 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 579 Pacific Surfliner | 13:01 Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 2h56 | 15:57 Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 0 changesdirect | |
| 579 Pacific Surfliner | 13:10 Old Town Station, San Diego, CA | 2h47 | 15:57 Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 0 changesdirect | |
| 581 Pacific Surfliner | 14:01 Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 2h56 | 16:57 Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 0 changesdirect | |
| 581 Pacific Surfliner | 14:10 Old Town Station, San Diego, CA | 2h47 | 16:57 Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 0 changesdirect | |
| 587 Pacific Surfliner | 17:01 Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 3h03 | 20:04 Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 0 changesdirect | |
| 587 Pacific Surfliner | 17:10 Old Town Station, San Diego, CA | 2h54 | 20:04 Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 0 changesdirect | |
| 591 Pacific Surfliner | 19:01 Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 2h56 | 21:57 Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 0 changesdirect | |
| 591 Pacific Surfliner | 19:10 Old Town Station, San Diego, CA | 2h47 | 21:57 Union Station, Los Angeles, CA | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
How far in advance should I book train tickets from San Diego, CA to Los Angeles, CA?
The best time to book your train from San Diego, CA to Los Angeles, CA is 91 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the San Diego, CA to Los Angeles, CA route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from San Diego, CA to Los Angeles, 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 San Diego, CA to Los Angeles, CA.
Trains
from £28Coaches
from £18Flights
from £98Train companies: Amtrak from San Diego, CA to Los Angeles, CA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between San Diego, CA and Los Angeles, CA from £15. 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
2h 42m
Cheapest Amtrak Price
£27
Amtrak frequency
26 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 Los Angeles, CA
Things to do in Los Angeles, CA
Discover the best of Los Angeles, CA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Los Angeles, CA trip today.
- Must visit
Los Angeles County Museum of Art
Major art museum on Wilshire Boulevard with global collections, special exhibitions, and the famous Urban Light installation outside.
- Must visit
The Broad
Downtown contemporary art museum known for broad post-war collections, bold exhibitions, and free general admission.
- Must visit
Venice Beach
Famous beachfront district with canals, skate culture, broad sands, and a lively promenade ideal for people-watching and walks.
- Must visit
Santa Monica Pier
Classic Santa Monica pier area with ocean views, amusements, beach paths, and an easy-going coastal atmosphere.
- Recommended
Griffith Park
Large urban park with hiking trails, picnic grounds, viewpoints, and access to several of the city’s best-known attractions.
French Dip
French dip sandwich with thin-sliced roast beef in a roll, served with meat jus for dipping. A classic Los Angeles lunch linked to the city’s early 20th-century diners.
- Gluten-free
Hard-Shell Tacos
Crisp hard-shell tacos filled with beef, lettuce and cheese. This Mexican-American staple became a defining everyday food across Los Angeles.
Danger Dog
Smoked bacon-wrapped hot dog topped with peppers, onions, mayonnaise, ketchup and mustard. A famous late-night street food around Los Angeles venues.
Langer's Delicatessen
Long-running Jewish deli famous for hot pastrami sandwiches, matzo ball soup and classic diner fare in a traditional setting.
Leo's Taco Truck
Lively taqueria known for tacos al pastor sliced from the spit. Informal, fast-paced and deeply tied to Los Angeles taco culture.
Philippe The Original
Historic downtown deli famed for French dip sandwiches. Casual, bustling and ideal for a classic Los Angeles lunch.
US dollar ($)
Los Angeles is pricier than many US cities, with high hotel, dining and transport costs, especially in tourist areas and without a car.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $12-18 for fast food or casual takeaway.
- Mid-range
- $25-45 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $80+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- $4-6 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% in restaurants, 15-20% for taxis and rideshares, and $1-2 per drink or coffee in cafés if there is table service.
FAQs: San Diego, CA to Los Angeles, CA train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from San Diego, CA to Los Angeles, 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 Los Angeles, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from San Diego, CA to Los Angeles, CA can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £27, while the average price tends to be around £29.
The train journey from San Diego, CA to Los Angeles, CA covers a distance of 180 km and takes approximately 2h 42m. Trains run 25 per day.
The train distance from San Diego, CA to Los Angeles, CA is 180 km.
The first train from San Diego, CA to Los Angeles, CA leaves at 3:50.
The last train from San Diego, CA to Los Angeles, CA departs at 22:10.
Trains from San Diego, CA to Los Angeles, CA run approximately 25 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from San Diego, CA to Los Angeles, CA.
Yes, there is a direct train between San Diego, CA and Los Angeles, CA. The service operates 25 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
There is no night train service from San Diego, CA to Los Angeles, CA.
The train station in San Diego, CA that goes to Los Angeles, CA is Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA, and it arrives at Union Station, Los Angeles, CA.
Booking trains from San Diego, CA to Los Angeles, 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 San Diego to Los Angeles is considered scenic, offering passengers views of the Pacific Ocean, beaches, and coastal landscapes along much of the route.
Yes, you can take the train from San Diego, CA to Los Angeles, CA.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in San Diego, CA and Los Angeles, CA
Most San Diego, CA to Los Angeles, CA trains use the Santa Fe Depot to Union Station station pair, with some services arriving at Chatsworth Station. Use this guide to compare San Diego, CA and Los Angeles, CA train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in San Diego
Arrival train stations in Los Angeles
Which San Diego, CA station do trains to Los Angeles, CA leave from?
Trains from San Diego, CA to Los Angeles, CA leave from Santa Fe Depot. The station is 1 km from San Diego, CA city centre at 1050 Kettner Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101, USA.
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 · £4 · 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 · £5 · every ~2 min
Pacific Surfliner · 7m · £0.89 · every ~2 min
BusFlixBus 2017 · 15m · £0.89
83 · 26m · £4
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.
Which Los Angeles, CA station do trains from San Diego, CA arrive at?
Trains from San Diego, CA to Los Angeles, CA most often arrive at Union Station. Some services arrive at Chatsworth Station, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Los Angeles, CA arrival station.
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 · £748
Southwest Chief, Texas Eagle · 60h 6m · £800
BusGreyhound US1210 · 59h 10m · £404
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.
Chatsworth Station10046 Old Depot Plaza Road, Chatsworth, CA 91311, USA+1 800-371-5465
City-centre transport
Getting to Chatsworth Station from Los Angeles city centre
Chatsworth Station is 39 km from Los Angeles city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainPacific Surfliner · 45m · £7
VC Line · 48m · £7
Bus419 · 1h 16m · £4
419 · 1h 27m · £4
Metro G Line · 1h 36m · £4 · every ~11 min
Chatsworth Station train station facilities and services
Chatsworth Station has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Chatsworth Station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Chatsworth Station. Information desks are located near the main entrance.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Chatsworth Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Chatsworth Station: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Chatsworth Station: Ramps, restrooms.
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 · £5
VC Line · 31m · £6
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.
More options for your journey from San Diego, CA to Los Angeles, CA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Los Angeles, CA and San Diego, CA
Most popular train connections to Los Angeles, CA
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