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Trip Summary
There are usually 4 daily train trips available from San Francisco to Carlsbad. Traveling by train from San Francisco to Carlsbad usually takes 14 hours, but the fastest Amtrak train can make the trip in 11 hours and 43 minutes.
| Distance | 428 mi (689 km) |
| Fastest train | 12h 0m |
| Lowest price | $68.00 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak |
| Train lines | 1 |
Which train should you take from San Francisco to Carlsbad?
Amtrak is the one and only train line which connects San Francisco to Carlsbad. However, there are 4 trains per day to choose from.
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak | 4 | 13h 33m | $79.50 |
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 4 Amtrak trains from San Francisco to Carlsbad every day, as well as 4 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from $68.
Frequently Asked Questions
The distance between San Francisco and Carlsbad is approximately 428 miles, or 689 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 14 hours, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 11 hours and 43 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.
On a weekly basis, the greatest number of passengers tend to travel by trains from San Francisco to Carlsbad on Monday. Tickets for Monday 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 San Francisco at 7:00am while the last train of the day leaves at 10:00am. 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 4 scheduled trains on most days. Unfortunately, none of them are direct connections, so you will need to disembark from your original train and board a connecting train during your journey. Don't forget to bring your carry-on luggage when you switch trains. In some instances, you may also be responsible for transferring your own checked baggage.
You can also take a train for your return trip from Carlsbad to San Francisco.
City Information
San Francisco
Image credit: Unsplash
Image credit: Unsplash
Image credit: Unsplash
Located in the heart of Northern California's Bay Area, San Francisco is a geographically small but culturally huge city known for its historic cable cars, active waterfront, and the eclectic mix of hippies and techies who call it home. While it might be one of the most expensive U.S. cities to live in, San Fran can actually be very cheap to visit, and there is no shortage of unique sights to see.
If the city's omnipresent fog (nicknamed "Karl the Fog" by locals) takes a break, the best views and Instagram photo ops of the world-famous Golden Gate Bridge are found in Golden Gate Park. Stroll through the oldest Chinatown in North America to find the perfect dim sum, or if you and your boo prefer a little Full House moment, try a romantic picnic at Alamo Square Park in front of the Victorian "Painted Ladies." After all, San Francisco is one of the best vacation destinations for couples.
Since the city is condensed onto a small peninsula, exploring by bike is an efficient and scenic way to get around. When you’re ready to travel beyond city limits, San Francisco is a convenient hub for trips throughout Northern California. It's actually the first stop on Wanderu's West Coast Wine Tour, with the next stop, obviously, in Napa Valley. Whether traveling by bus, train, or through either of the two nearby airports, San Francisco is a can't-miss destination.
Station Information
Where is the train station in San Francisco?
Main departure station: Greyhound Station - 200 Folsom St
There is one train station in San Francisco.
All train stations in San Francisco:
Greyhound Station - 200 Folsom St
Where is the train station in Carlsbad?
Main arrival station: 2775 State St - Coaster Station
Carlsbad has one train station.
All train stations in Carlsbad:
2775 State St - Coaster Station
Get around town with Moovit
Need a return trip from Carlsbad to San Francisco?
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