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The cheapest and fastest trains from San Jose, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 18 Sept
Cheapest price on 18 Sept
£104
Average ticket price on 18 Sept
£223
Fastest journey on 18 Sept
7 h 46 m
Average journey duration on 18 Sept
7 h 46 m
Trains on 18 Sept
2
Distance
380 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from San Jose, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from San Jose, CA to Santa Barbara, CA will cost around £223 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £104.
Fast trains
On Fri 18 Sept, we found 2 trains from San Jose, CA to Santa Barbara, CA, including 2 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 380 km distance in an average of 7 h 46 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 7 h 46 m .
The slowest trains will take 7 h 46 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.
17:267h46San Jose, CA1:12Santa Barbara, CA£1041One-way0 changes- 18:267h46San Jose, CA2:12Santa Barbara, CA£3431One-way0 changes
- 18:267h46San Jose, CA2:12Santa Barbara, CA£3431One-way0 changes
- 17:267h46San Jose, CA1:12Santa Barbara, CA£1041One-way0 changes
Travel Information
Compare train, coach and flight for San Jose, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from San Jose, CA to Santa Barbara, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the coach, with an average ticket price of £59 For those with little time, consider booking a coach, which has an average total journey time of 7h 42m. 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 £59, while a flight costs an average of £360.
Distance: 380 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
£95 Average Price | £59 Average Price Cheapest | £360 Average Price | £42 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
8h 15m Average total duration 7h 45m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 42m Average total duration Fastest 7h 12m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 10h 48m Average total duration 8h 48m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 4h 18m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.4 - 0.9kg CO2 emissions | 1.1 - 2.3kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
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 San Jose, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is a coach with an average price of £59.
This is compared to other travel options from San Jose, CA to Santa Barbara, CA:
A coach is £37 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from San Jose, CA to Santa Barbara, CA costing on average £95.
A coach is £301 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from San Jose, CA to Santa Barbara, CA costing on average £360.
The fastest way to travel from San Jose, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is by coach with an average journey time of 7h 12m.
Other travel options to Santa Barbara, CA take longer:
Train takes on average 7h 45m.
Flight takes on average 8h 48m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between San Jose, CA and Santa Barbara, CA including taking a train, coach 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 £95 compared to roughly £42 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about £-53.28. The journey takes 7h 45m versus 4h 18m 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
San Jose, CA to Santa Barbara, CA train times
The table below shows live departures for San Jose, CA to Santa Barbara, CA trains for today, Thursday 17 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 11 | 10:26 San José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA | 7h46 | 18:12 Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets San Jose, CA to Santa Barbara, 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.
Fri
18 Sept
18 Sept
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19 Sept
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Journey information
Overview: Train from San Jose, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
USAUSA
Trains from San Jose, CA to Santa Barbara, CA run on average 4 times per day, taking around 7h 45m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £43 but you can travel from only £30 by coach.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 06:39, the last at 22:05. The fastest train covers the 380 km distance in 7h 46m.
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 £30
Distance 380 km |
Average train duration 7h 45m |
Cheapest ticket price £43 |
Trains per day 4 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 7h 46m |
First train 6:39 |
Last train 22:05 |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 4 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 £30
Train companies: Amtrak from San Jose, CA to Santa Barbara, CA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between San Jose, CA and Santa Barbara, CA from £30. 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
5h 58m
Cheapest Amtrak Price
£43
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
Train companies: Amtrak from San Jose, CA to Santa Barbara, CA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between San Jose, CA and Santa Barbara, CA from £30. 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
5h 58m
Cheapest Amtrak Price
£43
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
What's included in each class
Compare Amtrak classes and the amenities included in each one.
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 Santa Barbara, CA
Things to do in Santa Barbara, CA
Discover the best of Santa Barbara, CA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Santa Barbara, CA trip today.
- Must visit
Santa Barbara Museum of Art
Major art museum with American, Asian and European works. A strong central stop for varied collections in a handsome downtown setting.
- Recommended
Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History
Engaging natural history museum with regional exhibits, astronomy and family-friendly displays. A good choice near Mission Canyon.
- Recommended
Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara
Contemporary art museum on State Street showing rotating exhibitions. Best for visitors interested in current visual culture and smaller-scale galleries.
- Must visit
State Street
Lively downtown pedestrian-friendly stretch with shops, historic architecture and regular people-watching. Ideal for browsing and an easy city walk.
- Recommended
West Beach
Waterfront neighbourhood with beaches, harbour access and a long palm-lined promenade. Excellent for walking, cycling and sunset views.
- Recommended
Franceschi Park
Scenic hillside viewpoint reached by a short hike or drive. Popular for panoramic views over the city, coastline and Channel Islands on clear days.
- Gluten-free
Santa Barbara Sea Urchin (Uni)
Grilled local sea urchin roe served fresh from nearby waters. It is a prized Santa Barbara coastal delicacy known for its sweet, creamy taste.
- Gluten-free
Santa Barbara Spot Prawns
Fresh spot prawns from the Santa Barbara Channel, often simply grilled or sautéed. They are celebrated for their sweet flavour and short seasonal availability.
- Gluten-free
California Spiny Lobster
Spiny lobster from local waters, commonly grilled or roasted. It is a classic regional seafood treat during the local lobster season.
Los Agaves
Lively Mexican restaurant famous for tacos, grilled seafood and vibrant salsas. A dependable choice near the waterfront.
Santa Barbara Shellfish Company
Refined seafood restaurant on Stearns Wharf known for local catch, ocean views and a polished but relaxed setting.
Lucky's
Elegant steakhouse and seafood restaurant focused on premium ingredients, classic service and a special-occasion atmosphere.
US dollar ($)
Santa Barbara is pricier than many US beach cities, with higher hotel and dining costs. Public transport is modestly priced, but tourist areas and coastal restaurants raise daily spend.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $12-20 for fast food or a casual meal.
- Mid-range
- $25-45 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $75+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- $4-6 for a cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
Tip 15-20% in restaurants, more for excellent service. Round up or tip 10% for taxis. Tip $1-2 for café drinks only if there is table service.
FAQs: San Jose, CA to Santa Barbara, CA train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from San Jose, CA to Santa Barbara, 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 Santa Barbara, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from San Jose, CA to Santa Barbara, CA can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £43, while the average price tends to be around £95.
The train journey from San Jose, CA to Santa Barbara, CA covers a distance of 380 km and takes approximately 7h 46m. Trains run 4 per day.
The train distance from San Jose, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is 380 km.
The first train from San Jose, CA to Santa Barbara, CA leaves at 6:39.
The last train from San Jose, CA to Santa Barbara, CA departs at 22:05.
Trains from San Jose, CA to Santa Barbara, CA run approximately 4 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from San Jose, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
Yes, there is a direct train between San Jose, CA and Santa Barbara, CA. The service operates 1 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
To get from San Jose, CA to Santa Barbara, CA, you can choose from several travel options including train, coach and flight.
There is no night train service from San Jose, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
The train station in San Jose, CA that goes to Santa Barbara, CA is San José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA, and it arrives at Santa Barbara Station, Santa Barbara, CA.
The cheapest way to get from San Jose, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is by coach, costing approximately £30.
Booking trains from San Jose, CA to Santa Barbara, 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 Jose, CA to Santa Barbara, CA offers scenic views, especially as it travels along the Pacific coast, providing vistas of the ocean, beaches, and rolling hills.
A day trip from San Jose, CA to Santa Barbara, CA is not feasible as the journey takes 7h 46m each way. There are 4 trains available per day. The distance is 380 km.
In Santa Barbara, CA, you can explore State Street with its vibrant shopping, dining, and entertainment, or visit the Santa Barbara Museum of Art for a diverse collection of artwork. Take a wine tasting tour in the Santa Ynez Valley, known for its beautiful vineyards. Enjoy a scenic hike in the Santa Ynez Mountains for breathtaking views, or visit the Santa Barbara Maritime Museum to learn about the region's maritime history. For sights, the Santa Barbara Mission offers stunning architecture and gardens, while Stearns Wharf provides shops and ocean views. The Santa Barbara Botanic Garden showcases native plants, the Santa Barbara Zoo offers family-friendly animal exhibits, and Lotusland features exotic botanical gardens.
Three to four days in Santa Barbara, CA, is ideal to explore the key attractions, enjoy the beaches, and experience the local cuisine and culture.
Yes, you can take the train from San Jose, CA to Santa Barbara, CA.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in San Jose, CA and Santa Barbara, CA
Most San Jose, CA to Santa Barbara, CA trains use the San José Diridon Station to Santa Barbara Station station pair. Use this guide to compare San Jose, CA and Santa Barbara, CA train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in San Jose
Arrival train stations in Santa Barbara
Which San Jose, CA station do trains to Santa Barbara, CA leave from?
Trains from San Jose, CA to Santa Barbara, CA leave from San José Diridon Station. The station is 1 km from San Jose, CA city centre at 65 Cahill Street, San Jose, CA 95110, USA.
San José Diridon Station65 Cahill Street, San Jose, CA 95110, USA+1 800-872-7245
City-centre transport
Getting to San José Diridon Station from San Jose city centre
San José Diridon Station is 1 km from San Jose city centre. Public transport options include:
BusRapid 500, Rapid 568, 64A, 64B, 68, 202 · 6m · £4 · every ~26 min
TramGreen Line · 14m · £3 · every ~7 min
San José Diridon Station train station facilities and services
San José Diridon Station has practical services for this route, including Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: The Farmers Union, Poor House Bistro, La Victoria Taqueria
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at San José Diridon Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at San José Diridon Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at San José Diridon Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at San José Diridon Station: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at San José Diridon Station: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel De Anza, The Westin San Jose, AC Hotel by Marriott San Jose Downtown.
Which Santa Barbara, CA station do trains from San Jose, CA arrive at?
Trains from San Jose, CA to Santa Barbara, CA arrive at Santa Barbara Station. Santa Barbara Station is 1 km from Santa Barbara, CA city centre.
Santa Barbara Station209 State Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, USA+1 800-872-7245
City-centre transport
Getting to Santa Barbara Station from Santa Barbara city centre
Bus33 · 5m · £2 · every ~2 min
Santa Barbara Station train station facilities and services
Santa Barbara Station has practical services for this route, including Lockers, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: The Lark, Santo Mezcal
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Santa Barbara Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Santa Barbara Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Santa Barbara Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Santa Barbara Station: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Santa Barbara Station: Ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Californian, Harbor View Inn, Hotel Milo Santa Barbara.
More options for your journey from San Jose, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Santa Barbara, CA and San Jose, CA
Most popular train connections to Santa Barbara, CA
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