Cheap train tickets from San Juan Capistrano to Riverside
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Trip Summary
3 trains operate daily from San Juan Capistrano to Riverside. The train trip from San Juan Capistrano to Riverside is usually about 2 hours and 28 minutes long. However, traveling on the fastest Amtrak train can get you there in as little as 2 hours and 8 minutes.
Distance | 35 mi (56 km) |
Fastest train | 2h 8m |
Lowest price | €16.71 |
Most frequent service | Amtrak |
Train lines | 1 |

Which train should you take from San Juan Capistrano to Riverside?
Amtrak is the one and only train line which connects San Juan Capistrano to Riverside. However, there are 3 trains per day to choose from.
Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
---|---|---|---|
Amtrak | 3 | 2h 29m | €20.19 |
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 San Juan Capistrano to Riverside every day, as well as 3 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from €17.
Frequently asked questions about traveling by train from San Juan Capistrano to Riverside
On a weekly basis, the greatest number of passengers tend to travel by trains from San Juan Capistrano to Riverside on Saturday. Tickets for Saturday tend to also be the most expensive. For savvy travelers looking for cheaper priced tickets search for travel departing on Tuesday. Tuesday also tend to have less passengers which may make boarding faster and let you snag your perfect seat.
The earliest train departs San Juan Capistrano at 9:00am while the last train of the day leaves at 3:00pm. 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 3 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 Riverside to San Juan Capistrano.
City Information
San Juan Capistrano

Image credit: Unsplash
Located in Orange County, California, San Juan Capistrano is a small city founded by the Spanish in 1776. Although largely destroyed by an earthquake in 1812, this city is a growing destination south of Los Angeles and is often used as a backdrop in major Hollywood movies.
San Juan Capistrano has many historical religious sites to explore, and Mission San Juan Capistrano is one of its most renowned. The "Jewel of California Missions" includes a chapel with regular Mass, stunning gardens, and a museum to learn about the many Native American, Mexican, and Spanish influences in the region. Visit in mid-March to experience the annual Return of the Swallows celebration. Local cliff swallows return from winters in Argentina, and the Mission plans parades, fairs, and other events to welcome them home.
The area around the Mission is a historic downtown with local restaurants, green spaces, and retail services. In the center of this historic core, San Juan Capistrano's Amtrak station welcomes Pacific Surfliner trains that run from Los Angeles to San Diego.
Riverside

Image credit: Unsplash

Image credit: Unsplash

Image credit: Unsplash
Riverside is the most populous city in the Inland Empire and the birthplace of the local citrus industry. One of the most popular buildings in the city is the Mission Inn, a historic landmark that is also the largest Mission Revival Style building in the country. The building is now a popular local hotel and spa, offering top-notch hospitality services. While nearby, don't forget to check out the Mission Inn Museum as well. If you are looking to enjoy a great panoramic view of the entire city, take a short hike to the top of Mount Rubidoux, and you will not be disappointed!
Riverside boasts a generally vibrant food scene with plenty of establishments to choose from. The Mission Inn itself offers incredible traditional Spanish dishes and a fabulous open-air patio dining spot. For seasonal produce and local dishes, check out Salted Pig!
Riverside is served by Amtrak trains and several bus companies that operate routes throughout Southern California and beyond. In addition, there are three major airports in Riverside's general area: Ontario International Airport, Los Angeles International Airport, and John Wayne Orange County Airport.
Station Information
Where is the train station in San Juan Capistrano?
Main departure station: 26701 Verdugo St
There is one train station in San Juan Capistrano.
All train stations in San Juan Capistrano:
26701 Verdugo St
Where is the train station in Riverside?

Image credit: Juan Enrique Gilardi
Link to image attributionMain arrival station: Downtown Metrolink Station - 4066 Vine St
On June 14, 1993, the Riverside station on Vine Street opened as a transportation facility. It comprises a platform with modest shelters to shield visitors from the sun and adverse weather. On April 29, 2002, the station was added as a stop on the Southwest Chief route, putting an end to Amtrak trains just passing through Riverside without making a scheduled stop. In addition to Amtrak, the station now primarily operates as a Metrolink commuter rail and transit bus terminal.
All train stations in Riverside:
Downtown Metrolink Station - 4066 Vine St
Get around town with Moovit
Need a return trip from Riverside to San Juan Capistrano?
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