Cheap train tickets from Monterey to San Jose
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Trip Summary
There is one daily train from Monterey to San Jose. Traveling by train from Monterey to San Jose usually takes 3 hours and 11 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak train can make the trip in 2 hours and 51 minutes.
| Distance | 51 mi (82 km) |
| Fastest train | 2h 51m |
| Lowest price | $48.00 |
| Trains per day | 0 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak |
| Train lines | 1 |
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Monterey to San Jose Train Schedule

There are several train options that can take you from Monterey to San Jose:
See more detailsWhat is the price of a train ticket from Monterey to San Jose?
In the last month, the average price of a train ticket from Monterey to San Jose was $53.20. Good news! You can find the cheapest tickets if you book your trip at least 29 days prior to the travel date. You’ll likely pay around $10.15 more if you wait to book until the last minute.
Average train ticket prices from Monterey to San Jose by travel date
Over the next 30 days, a one-way train trip from Monterey to San Jose will cost between $50 and $61. Book in advance to secure the best price in the next few weeks.
Average train ticket prices from Monterey to San Jose by month
Ticket prices for the train from Monterey to San Jose 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 $52. If you're thinking of traveling from Monterey to San Jose during August, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of $58 during this time of year. The best way to score a cheap deal, even in August, is to book your trip well in advance.
Prices as travel date approaches
By booking your train trip from Monterey to San Jose on Wanderu at least 29 days ahead of time, you can save about $10.15 on your ticket. Waiting until the last minute means missing out on these savings!
Which train should you take from Monterey to San Jose?
Amtrak is the one and only train line which connects Monterey to San Jose. Furthermore, there is only one train per day, so you will have to plan your travel around this limited availability. On the other hand, you won't have to spend a ton of time comparing a bunch of possible options.
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak | 1 | 3h 11m | $58.63 |
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 Monterey to San Jose every day, as well as 5 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from $48.










Frequently asked questions about traveling by train from Monterey to San Jose
The distance between Monterey and San Jose is approximately 51 miles, or 82 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 3 hours and 11 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 2 hours and 51 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.
Distance (mi)
51
Distance (km)
82
Most days, there is only one train which leaves Monterey at 4:15pm and arrives in San Jose around 2 hours later.
First train
4:15pm
Last train
4:55pm
Trains from Monterey to San Jose are the most crowded on Tuesday. 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 Sunday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.
Busiest
Tuesday
Least crowded
Sunday
City Information
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 Monterey?
Main departure station: Monterey (Calle Principal Parking Garage), California
Because some trains make multiple stops before leaving the city, there are 5 stops and stations in Monterey where you can board the train.
All train stations in Monterey:
- Monterey (Calle Principal Parking Garage), California
- 500 Tyler St
- 351 Fremont St
- 1 Old Golf Course Rd
- Monterey Bay Aquarium
Where is the train station in San Jose?
Main 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.
All train stations in San Jose:
- Diridon Caltrain Station - 65 Cahill St
Need a return trip from San Jose to Monterey?
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