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Trip Summary
10 trains operate daily from Richmond to San Jose. The train trip from Richmond to San Jose is usually about 2 hours and 9 minutes long. However, traveling on the fastest Amtrak Capitol Corridor train can get you there in as little as one hour and 38 minutes.
| Distance | 48 mi (78 km) |
| Fastest train | 1h 38m |
| Lowest price | US$18.00 |
| Trains per day | 6 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak Capitol Corridor |
| Train lines | 2 |
What is the price of a train ticket from Richmond to San Jose?
In the last 30 days, the average cost of a train ticket from Richmond, CA to San Jose, CA was US$18.67. This is a fantastic deal for train travel. You have the best chances of scoring the cheapest ticket to San Jose if you book your train tickets at least 12 days in advance. Waiting to purchase until the day of your trip could end up costing you an extra US$1.69.
Monthly average prices
Prices as travel date approaches
The average price of train tickets from Richmond to San Jose is pretty stable year-round. However, we still suggest buying your train tickets at least 48 hours prior to departure to avoid unexpected price hikes and the possibility of the train being sold out.
Which train should you take from Richmond to San Jose?
2 train services operate from Richmond to San Jose. Amtrak Capitol Corridor usually has more trains scheduled, with 6 trips per day. That said, it's still worth comparing the prices and trip durations:
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak | 3 | 3h 1m | US$19.67 |
| Amtrak Capitol Corridor | 6 | 1h 43m | US$20.00 |
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 3 Amtrak trains from Richmond to San Jose every day, as well as 4 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from US$18.
Since 1991, Capitol Corridor has connected Auburn to San Jose, with stops in Sacramento, Oakland, Berkeley, and 15 other cities in Northern California. The route's convenient transport to various cities includes breathtaking scenery guaranteed to help pass the time. Each train offers onboard WiFi and a cafe car for the comfort of passengers, as well as ample bicycle and luggage storage. Most Capitol Corridor trips make the journey from Richmond to San Jose in about 1 hours and 43 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
On a weekly basis, the greatest number of passengers tend to travel by trains from Richmond to San Jose on Sunday. Tickets for Sunday tend to also be the most expensive. For savvy travelers looking for cheaper priced tickets search for travel departing on Friday. Friday also tend to have less passengers which may make boarding faster and let you snag your perfect seat.
The earliest train departs Richmond at 05:00 while the last train of the day leaves at 21:00. 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 10 scheduled trains on most days. 6 of these are direct connections to San Jose. 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 Jose to Richmond.
City Information
Richmond
Image credit: Unsplash
Richmond is a city in the South Francisco Bay Area, popular for its rich naval history, specifically its role in the World War 2 home front. During this time, thousands of workers moved to the city to support wartime industries. Richmond features different waterfront neighborhoods and houses facing the river with miles of waterfront areas. Richmond offers its residents scenic parks, shorelines, and outdoor spaces, including Tilden Regional Park, Point Pinole Regional Shoreline, and Regional Parks Botanic Garden. The city also has some unique places to check out, like the Miller/Knox Regional Shoreline, which combines a park with a rail museum, and the Redwood Valley Railway.
In Richmond, there are exciting things to do, like zipline adventures in Sonoma and Brazen Racing. The city boasts a fast-growing craft beer scene, with popular names like Fieldwork Brewing and East Brother Beer Company. You can time your visit to participate in the Richmond Main Street Initiative, beer and food, and art festivals. For shopping and restaurants, check out Downtown Richmond.
Richmond is easily accessible from 137 other cities by train, with most trains provided by Amtrak Capitol Corridor. If you prefer to travel by bus, you can follow the routes provided by FlixBus US US from tens of other cities. Within Richmond, there are dedicated public transit routes through BART and Amtrak.
San Jose
Image credit: Unsplash
Image credit: Unsplash
Image credit: Unsplash
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 Richmond?
Main departure station: BART Station - 1700 Nevin Ave
There is one train station in Richmond.
All train stations in Richmond:
BART Station - 1700 Nevin Ave
Where is the train station in San Jose?
Image credit: SPUR
Link to image attributionMain arrival station: Diridon Caltrain Station - 65 Cahill St
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:
Diridon Caltrain Station - 65 Cahill St
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