Cheap train tickets from Vancouver, WA to San Jose, CA

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Trip Summary

There are usually 2 daily train trips available from Vancouver, WA to San Jose, CA. Travelling by train from Vancouver, WA to San Jose, CA usually takes 21 hours and 36 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak Coast Starlight train can make the trip in 20 hours and 59 minutes.

Distance: 575 mi (925 km)
Fastest train: 20h 59m
Lowest price: $164.71
Trains per day: 1
Most frequent service: Amtrak
Train lines: 2

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Vancouver, WA to San Jose, CA Train Schedule

There are several train options that can take you from Vancouver, WA to San Jose, CA:

See more details

What is the price of a train ticket from Vancouver, WA to San Jose, CA?

In the last month, the average price of a train ticket from Vancouver, WA to San Jose, CA was $168. This is somewhat expensive compared to other train fares, but it makes sense given the route’s long distance. Good news! You can find the cheapest tickets if you book your trip at least 27 days prior to the travel date. You’ll likely pay around $121.87 more if you wait to book until the last minute.

Average train ticket prices from Vancouver, WA to San Jose, CA by travel date

Over the next 30 days, a one-way train trip from Vancouver, WA to San Jose, CA will cost between $141 and $250. Book in advance to secure the best price in the next few weeks.

Average train ticket prices from Vancouver, WA to San Jose, CA by month

Ticket prices for the train from Vancouver, WA to San Jose, CA often fluctuate based on the time of year. For the best prices on this route, book in October when the average ticket price is only $179. If you're thinking of travelling from Vancouver, WA to San Jose, CA during July, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of $283 during this time of year. The best way to score a cheap deal, even in July, is to book your trip well in advance.

Prices as travel date approaches

By booking your train trip from Vancouver, WA to San Jose, CA on Wanderu at least 27 days ahead of time, you can save about $121.87 on your ticket. Waiting until the last minute means missing out on these savings!

Which train should you take from Vancouver, WA to San Jose, CA?

2 train services operate from Vancouver, WA to San Jose, CA. However, each train line only offers one daily trip.

Train	Daily Trips	Avg. Time	Avg. Price
Amtrak	1	22h 10m	$227.94
Amtrak Coast Starlight	1	20h 59m	$228.73

Amtrak is the largest passenger railroad service in America, offering daily intercity trains to hundreds of destinations across the contiguous United States, as well as several cities in Canada. Every Amtrak train comes equipped with comfortable seats with extra legroom, as well as several four-seat areas with tables in the middle. In addition, each car has a freshly cleaned restroom, free WiFi and power outlets at every seat. There are also snack bars where you can purchase drinks or food during your journey. On average, there are 1 Amtrak trains from Vancouver, WA to San Jose, CA every day, as well as 1 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from $150.51.
The Coast Starlight is an Amtrak train that travels the entire length of the West Coast, connecting Los Angeles to Seattle. The route starts hugging the California coastline, treating passengers to swoon-worthy views of the Pacific, before continuing into the verdant forests of the Cascade Mountains. The Coast Starlight indisputably earns its spot among the most scenic Amtrak train routes. Seating options include Coach or Business Class and roomettes or bedrooms for extra space. A trip from Vancouver, WA to San Jose, CA takes 20 hours and 59 minutes on average, and Coach tickets start at $141.99.

Frequently asked questions about travelling by train from Vancouver, WA to San Jose, CA

Trains leave the station in Vancouver, WA twice a day, so there are a couple of options depending on your preferred travel time. One of these is a direct train, which will typically get you to San Jose, CA faster. While it might still have stops along the way, you will not need to switch trains during your trip. You can also take a train for your return trip from San Jose, CA to Vancouver, WA.

Trains per day

Direct trains

The distance between Vancouver, WA and San Jose, CA is approximately 925 kilometres. The average train journey between these two cities takes 21 hours and 36 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 20 hours and 59 minutes. Looking for ways to pass the time? Most trains are equipped with Wi-Fi, which means you can stream music, browse social media or get some work done during your ride. That said, in case your train has a spotty signal, or is among the few without Wi-Fi, we also recommend downloading TV shows and movies to your mobile device in advance of your trip. That way the ride will fly by whatever the Wi-Fi situation.

Distance (mi)

575

Distance (km)

925

The earliest train departs Vancouver, WA at 1:15 p.m. while the last train of the day leaves at 1:15 p.m. To see all scheduled departure times, use the search function on this page to get the full schedule for your specific travel dates.

First train

1:15pm

Last train

1:15pm

Trains from Vancouver, WA to San Jose, CA are the most crowded on Sunday. Tickets also tend to be more expensive then. If you are looking for a great deal on your train tickets or just want extra room to stretch out, consider travelling on Thursday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.

Busiest

Sunday

Least crowded

Thursday

City Information

Vancouver

Vancouver sits on the northern banks of the Columbia River in Washington and is the state's fourth most populated city. The surrounding Cascade Mountains offer incredible Pacific Northwest adventures. Mount Saint Helens and Mount Hood, two snow-topped volcanoes, are within short drives of Vancouver for easy access to hikes and ski runs. Beacon Rock State Park includes a trail to the summit of a monolithic rock formation. Plus, the Columbia River Gorge is easily one of the best destinations in Washington for breathtaking scenery.

Vancouver is located just across the Columbia from Portland, and Interstates 5 and 205 have north to south bridges connecting Portland to Vancouver. Within the city, you will find Vancouver's mass transit system, C-Tran, to get around with ease.

Several Amtrak services operate from Vancouver, including the Coast Starlight, Empire Builder, and Cascades routes. If you're arriving by air, the nearest airport is Portland International Airport, just a few minutes' drive from downtown Vancouver.

San Jose

San Jose is located in the heart of the world-famous Silicon Valley in California’s Bay Area. It is the largest city in Northern California and, as such, it is the area’s cultural, political and financial center.

While you’re in San Jose, make sure to check out the city’s various museums. Since you’re in the world’s foremost technology hub, the Tech Museum of Innovation is a must-visit. And since you’re on the West Coast, you should stop by the San Jose Museum of Art that features the largest permanent collection of works from West Coast artists.

Thanks to its mild California climate, San Jose is one of the best cities in the U.S. for outdoor activities, and due to its largely younger-leaning population, it offers quite the vibrant nightlife. In fact, San Jose is among the biggest party hubs in America.

San Jose is served by various bus carriers and has several Amtrak stops within its vicinity. In addition, the city’s airport is located right near the downtown area, which makes travel to and from San Jose a breeze.

Station Information

Where is the train station in Vancouver, WA?

Main departure station: 1301 W 11th St

There is one train station in Vancouver, WA.

All train stations in Vancouver, WA:

1301 W 11th St

Where is the train station in San Jose, CA?

Main arrival station: Diridon Caltrain Station - 65 Cahill St

Diridon Caltrain Station - 65 Cahill St - SJCDCS-0

Diridon Station opened in 1935 with architecture inspired by the Italian Renaissance, and today is a vital part of Silicon Valley’s transportation system. Diridon Station connects Amtrak train service to local commuter service like the Caltrain and VTA Light Rail. The station is also a major hub for bus transit on Amtrak Thruway and Greyhound buses. With paid parking onsite, bicycle racks, and accessible entrances, travelers can easily reach the station from nearby downtown San Jose. As a bonus, food trucks frequently set up outside the station to provide delicious cheap eats for passengers.

Train stations in San Jose, CA:

Diridon Caltrain Station - 65 Cahill St

Need a return trip from San Jose, CA to Vancouver, WA?

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Plan your next adventure

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San Jose to San Francisco Train$38+
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San Jose to Orlando Train$1,123+
San Jose, CA to Vancouver, WA Train$169+

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