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Los Angeles to San Diego train

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Los Angeles - San Diego Train Timetable

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Trip Summary

You can pick from 19 daily train trips between Los Angeles and San Diego. The average train journey from Los Angeles to San Diego takes 3 hours and 49 minutes, but some Amtrak train trips are as short as 2 hours and 38 minutes.

Distance111 mi (179 km)
Fastest train2h 38m
Lowest price€20.45
Trains per day44
Most frequent serviceAmtrak
Train lines2

Train Trip Reviews from Wanderu Customers

Overall score for trains from Los Angeles to San Diego

(Based on 54 ratings and reviews)

4.9

4.0

Eric

25 November 2023- Visiting friends

Amtrak Pacific Surfliner

Pros: Taking the Surfliner rather than an airplane hop was a good choice during the Thanksgiving holiday week. This train was late leaving LA and did not make up much time during the trip to San Diego. All in all, it was a pretty mellow and low stress way to travel. Cons: It would be nice to see the trains running on time. Tips: You can check your suitcase for no additional cost and is handy if you do not wish to lug it up the stairs to the upper section of the train car.

5.0

Richard

30 June 2023- Visiting family

Amtrak Pacific Surfliner

Pros: The peace and quiet and the views. Cons: Everything good. Tips: Just enjoy.

5.0

Barbara

4 June 2023- Vacation

Amtrak Pacific Surfliner

Pros: View, comfort, clean facilities. Cons: Nothing. Tips: Go for it.. very relaxing!

5.0

Iliana

22 April 2023- Vacation

Amtrak Pacific Surfliner

Pros: It is an amazing experience and I was very surprised to travel on this train !!! Cons: Nothing.

5.0

Anastasia

12 February 2023

Amtrak

Pros: I like this train because it’s clean and I have a lot of space on my seat. Cons: It’s perfect. Tips: Yes.

Los Angeles to San Diego Route Map

Los Angeles San Diego

What is the price of a train ticket from Los Angeles to San Diego?

Over the past month, a train ticket between Los Angeles and San Diego cost €34.21, on average. This price makes taking the train a budget-friendly option to get to San Diego. Booking your trip at least 12 days in advance can help you secure tickets at the best price. For same-day bookings, you’ll likely have to pay around €4.63 more.

Average prices by travel date

€56€37€19DecDec

The average cost of a one-way train trip from Los Angeles to San Diego is expected to fluctuate between €33 and €44 in the next 30 days. If you’re planning a train trip to San Diego in the upcoming week, the cheapest price in the next 7 days for a ticket from Los Angeles is €35.

Monthly average prices

€70€56€42€28€14JFMAMJJASOND

Ticket prices for the train from Los Angeles to San Diego often fluctuate based on the time of year. For the best prices on this route, book in May when the average ticket price is only €34,

If you're thinking of traveling from Los Angeles to San Diego during June, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of €55 during this time of year. The best way to score a cheap deal, even in June, is to book your trip well in advance.

Prices as travel date approaches

€46€37€28€19€93020100

If you're looking to save on your train trip from Los Angeles to San Diego, book online with Wanderu at least 12 days in advance. That way, you’ll save €4.63 compared to booking your ticket last minute.

Which train should you take from Los Angeles to San Diego?

2 train services operate from Los Angeles to San Diego. Amtrak usually has more trains scheduled, with 15 trips per day. That said, it's still worth comparing the prices and trip durations:

TrainDaily TripsAvg. TimeAvg. Price
Amtrak154h 10m€36.83
Amtrak Pacific Surfliner53h 6m€33.66
  • 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 15 Amtrak trains from Los Angeles to San Diego every day, as well as 37 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from €20.

  • The Pacific Surfliner is Amtrak’s passenger train service that runs along the Pacific coast of Southern California, connecting San Luis Obispo to the north with San Diego to the south. The line is among the most famous Amtrak routes due to the unique scenic views it presents, as the train parallels the coastline for large portions of the 268-mile railroad stretch. The Pacific Surfliner offers first-class amenities like onboard restrooms, free WiFi, seats with extra legroom and power outlets, as well as storage racks for surfboards. On average, the service offers 5 train trips from Los Angeles to San Diego every day, and prices for a one-way train ticket start from €33.

Frequently Asked Questions

The amenities at Union Station in L.A. include dining, gift kiosks, bike hubs and more. They have a wide array of dining options, from elegant New American fare to fast food and coffee for taking on the train.

Located at the North Arcade, the Bike Center offers secure luggage storage. (Chinatown is less than a half-mile walk from Union Station, making it a great spot to get lunch after dropping off your bags.)

You can also kill time waiting for a train by getting your shoes shined for just $8 in the Passenger Concourse.

The Amtrak Pacific Surfliner is a 350-mile long train service that runs from San Diego to San Luis Obispo. It has 25 stops and the entire route is about four hours long. These trains have an average speed of 41 miles per hour, but can reach a maximum of 80 to 90 miles per hour. They operate 12 daily round trips from L.A. to San Diego.

The Pacific Surfliner offers some amazing ocean views of Southern California, and has enough space and racks to carry a surfboard or bike. The train features comfortable, reclining seats as well as power outlets, free Wi-Fi, restrooms, bike and luggage racks and large picture windows. An onboard Market Café offers fresh food, snacks, and beverages, including soft drinks, wine, cocktails and local craft beer. You can also upgrade to Business Class for additional perks.

Our train partners have implemented several different policies to keep you safe during the COVID-19 pandemic. From limiting vehicle capacity to enhancing cleaning protocols and upgrading air filters, train carriers are committed to maintaining a safe environment. For details on what each company is doing to ensure their fleet remains safe for travel, click here.

Although masks are no longer required on public transportation, we stand behind CDC guidelines that encourage passengers to wear a mask over their nose and mouth while on the train or in stations.

Please visit our COVID-19 Travel Guide for more information on all carrier policies and the latest travel advisories issued by every U.S. state, Canadian province, and European country.

Yes, there are trains that can take you the entire way from Los Angeles to San Diego. However, there are also some trips on this route that require you to board another vehicle, such as a bus or a shuttle, during your journey. This is worth paying attention to as you book your trip, since a direct train may be preferable for its speed and convenience.
The distance between Los Angeles and San Diego is approximately 111 miles, or 179 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 3 hours and 49 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 2 hours and 38 minutes. Although it takes a couple of hours each way, it's still possible to make a round trip in a single day. Since most trains are equipped with Wi-Fi, you should be able to browse the Internet or get some work done during your journey.

Wednesday tends to be the busiest day of the week with travelers taking trains from Los Angeles to San Diego. Ticket price also tend to be more expensive on Wednesday than other days. If you are hoping to have more room on the train and even save some change check out travel options on Monday instead, as less people travel then and deals are more likely to be found.

The earliest train departs Los Angeles at 02:00 while the last train of the day leaves at 23:00. To see all scheduled departure times, use the search function on this page to get the full schedule for your specific travel dates.

There are 19 scheduled trains on most days. 44 of these are direct connections to San Diego. While direct trains may still make stops along the way, you will not need to switch trains at any point. If you're looking to get to your destination faster, a direct train is the convenient and time-efficient choice.

You can also take a train for your return trip from San Diego to Los Angeles.

City Information

Los Angeles

Los Angeles, the sprawling heart of Southern California, is a captivating mosaic of cultures, creativity, and culinary delights. Known as much for its cinematic influence as its diverse population, LA is a city where dreams are woven into the fabric of its streets.

Beyond its global recognition, Los Angeles boasts a culinary scene that mirrors its diversity. From street-side taco trucks to upscale rooftop eateries, the city’s food culture caters to every palate. Foodies can explore the Grand Central Market, a gastronomic hub offering a world of flavors under one roof, or savor the farm-to-table offerings in trendy neighborhoods like Silver Lake and Echo Park.

Day trips from Los Angeles open doors to varied experiences. The nearby beaches of Santa Monica and Venice invite relaxation and sun-soaked exploration, while Malibu’s coastal beauty provides a serene escape from the city’s hustle.

For nature enthusiasts, a trip to Griffith Park offers panoramic views of the city and the iconic Griffith Observatory, a gateway to the cosmos. Within a few hours, you can find yourself in the Santa Ynez Valley, tasting wine amidst rolling vineyards, or hiking in the San Gabriel Mountains. Art lovers can journey to the Getty Center, a masterpiece of architecture housing world-class art collections, or immerse themselves in the enchanting gardens of The Huntington Library.

Los Angeles is a place where you can discover new things around every corner. As you traverse its diverse neighborhoods and embark on day trips, enjoy a city brimming with dreams, diversity, and endless possibilities.

San Diego

Welcome to sunny San Diego, where the laid-back vibe meets stunning coastal beauty. Known for its year-round pleasant climate and vibrant culture, this Southern California gem is a must-visit destination. Whether you're a beach lover, foodie, or history buff, San Diego has something for everyone.

Start your journey in Balboa Park, a sprawling urban oasis bursting with museums, gardens, and architectural wonders. From the renowned San Diego Zoo to the fascinating museums, this park offers a rich cultural experience. Don't miss the Spanish Village Art Center, a hub for local artisans.

Just a short drive away, La Jolla beckons with its breathtaking coastline and upscale atmosphere. Stroll along the cove to witness seals lounging in their natural habitat, or hit the waves for some thrilling water activities. Explore boutique shops and enjoy delectable seafood at oceanfront restaurants.

Downtown San Diego is a vibrant blend of entertainment, history, and culinary delights. Wander along the bustling waterfront of the Embarcadero, where the USS Midway Museum and Maritime Museum of San Diego await. Seaport Village offers quirky shops and charming eateries with bay views.

Navigating San Diego is a breeze with its well-connected transportation hubs. The San Diego International Airport welcomes visitors from all corners of the globe, providing a smooth entry point. The Santa Fe Depot, a historic train station, serves as a gateway to the city and beyond.

Whether you're catching a wave at Pacific Beach, exploring the Gaslamp Quarter's nightlife, or indulging in SoCal cuisine, San Diego promises an unforgettable experience. With its stunning landscapes, diverse neighborhoods, and accessible transportation, this city invites you to create memories that will last a lifetime.

Station Information

Where is the train station in Los Angeles?

Los Angeles, CA - Union Station - LAXUST-0

Image credit: David Wilson

Link to image attribution

Main departure station: Union Station

Union Station is the main train station in Los Angeles and the largest railroad passenger terminal in the Western United States. The station was opened in 1939 and has become one of California’s busiest transportation hubs, serving more than 100 thousand passengers per day. Every Amtrak route that goes through Los Angeles stops at Union Station. In addition, the area around the station serves as the main bus stop for several bus carriers that conduct trips in and out of the city. Located in Downtown LA, Union Station offers easy transit connections to other parts of the city via three Metro Rail lines and one Metro Busway line, as well as a shuttle service to LAX airport. Union Station also serves as the main LA hub for six lines of Metrolink, Southern California’s primary commuter rail service.

All train stations in Los Angeles:

  • Union Station

  • Amtrak Metrolink Station - 7724 Van Nuys Blvd

  • 10040 Old Depot Plaza Rd, Chatsworth

  • 601 Truxtun Ave - Transit Station

  • Metrolink Station

  • 450 Orange St

  • Amtrak Station - 840 Second St

  • 401 S Illinois Ave

  • 592 Gayley Ave

  • 5885 Horton St

  • BART Station - 1700 Nevin Ave

  • 210 Railroad Ave

  • 700 University Ave under University Ave overpass W of 4th St

  • 555 Mission Street

  • Pacific Central Station

Where is the train station in San Diego?

San Diego, CA - Santa Fe Depot (1050 Kettner Blvd) - SANAMT2-0

Image credit: Doug Letterman

Link to image attribution

Main arrival station: Santa Fe Depot - 1050 Kettner Blvd

The Santa Fe Depot is the main train station in San Diego and one of the end points of the Pacific Surfliner, the only Amtrak train line that serves the city. The station is also used by the Green Line of the San Diego Trolley light rail transit service and the COASTER commuter rail service that connects the city with the central and northern coastal regions of San Diego County. Opened in 1915, the Santa Fe Depot is famous for its Spanish Colonial Revival Style architecture and grand interior space that features natural redwood beam ceilings and ceramic details. The train station is located in the heart of Downtown San Diego, making it easy to reach from all parts of the city.

Train stations in San Diego:

  • Santa Fe Depot - 1050 Kettner Blvd

  • 4005 Taylor St

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Need a return trip from San Diego to Los Angeles?

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