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Trip Summary
There are 2 daily trains from Phoenix to San Diego. Traveling by train from Phoenix to San Diego usually takes around 15 hours and 12 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak train can make the trip in 14 hours and 50 minutes.
| Distance | 299 mi (481 km) |
| Fastest train | 14h 50m |
| Lowest price | €112.14 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak |
| Train lines | 1 |
Which train should you take from Phoenix to San Diego?
Amtrak is the one and only train line which connects Phoenix to San Diego. The schedule is relatively limited as the train only runs twice a day.
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak | 2 | 15h 12m | €112.14 |
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 2 Amtrak trains from Phoenix to San Diego every day, as well as 8 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from €108.
Frequently Asked Questions
The distance between Phoenix and San Diego is approximately 299 miles, or 481 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 15 hours and 12 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 14 hours and 50 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.
Trains from Phoenix to San Diego are the most crowded on Monday. 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 traveling on Monday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.
The earliest train departs Phoenix at 19:00 while the last train of the day leaves at 20:00. To see all scheduled departure times, use the search function on this page to get the full schedule for your specific travel dates.
Trains leave the station in Phoenix twice a day, so there are a couple of options depending on your preferred travel time. However, there are no direct trains. This means that you will need to disembark from your original train and board a connecting train at some point during your journey. You will need to remember to bring your carry-on luggage with you when you change trains. Depending on the carrier's policy, you may also be responsible for transferring your own checked baggage.
You can also take a train for your return trip from San Diego to Phoenix.
City Information
Phoenix
Image credit: Unsplash
Image credit: Unsplash
Image credit: Unsplash
Phoenix, in the heart of the American Southwest, is the capital of Arizona and one of the best destinations for escaping the cold winter months. But we won't lie, it can get HOT.
Sure, you can sip a margarita by the pool at any one of the city's many resorts, or you can get outside and experience some of the Sonoran Desert's unique landscapes. For impressive views of the city and the desert beyond, hike up Camelback Mountain, a 2,700-foot humped mountain which resembles a kneeling camel. If you're more a fan of Tiger Woods than camel mountains, see why Phoenix is a top destination for golf at one of the city's 200+ golf courses.
Like a phoenix rising from the ashes, you too can overcome your sore muscles after a long day of hiking or golfing and get ready to hit the town. After all, Phoenix is one of the biggest party hubs in the U.S. Roosevelt Row, a creative arts district known for its galleries and mural-covered walls, is one of many spots where Phoenix comes to life after dark. Recommended haunts on Roosevelt Row include the Churchill and Arizona Wilderness Brewing Co, as well as The Duce which offers themed nights ranging from Cowboy Night to Burlesque.
Getting to Phoenix is surely easier than getting over your hangover. Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is a large and busy airport just outside of downtown, and bus service is operated from stations throughout the city connecting Phoenix to destinations in Arizona and beyond. Unfortunately, there is no train service to Phoenix.
San Diego
San Diego is known as "America's Finest City" for its sunny weather, white-sand beaches, and dazzling attractions from Belmont Park to SeaWorld. San Diego's 70 miles of pristine beaches include such gems as Mission Beach, Pacific Beach, La Jolla Cove, and Coronado Beach. The city's strong surfing culture may even inspire you to rent a surfboard and catch the epic waves, bro.
Visitors can spend days getting lost in Balboa Park, a 1,200-acre cultural hub which features 16 museums, immaculate gardens, and the world-famous San Diego Zoo. The historic heart of the city, Old Town, showcases San Diego's heritage and ties to Mexican culture, while other sights like the USS Midway pay tribute to the city's military and maritime history. Leave time for some evening exploring, too! San Diego is rated the #1 best city for craft beer in America, so don't miss out on the bars in the Gaslamp Quarter: 16 walkable blocks packed with nightlife and young crowds.
Two airports, as well as many bus and train options, mean it is easy to get to San Diego from afar or from nearby cities like Tijuana, Los Angeles, Phoenix, and Las Vegas.
Station Information
Where is the train station in Phoenix?
Main departure station: 2717 W Bell Rd
There are two stations in Phoenix where you can board the train to San Diego.
All train stations in Phoenix:
2717 W Bell Rd
Sky Harbor Apt, Terminal 4 Arrivals, Door 3
Where is the train station in San Diego?
Main arrival station: 4005 Taylor St
San Diego receives travelers from Phoenix at its two active train stations.
Train stations in San Diego:
4005 Taylor St
Santa Fe Depot - 1050 Kettner Blvd
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