4.0
Pros: Was comfortable. Cons: Better restrooms signs. Tips: Take headphones.
Cheap train tickets from South Lake Tahoe to San Jose
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Trip Summary
There is one daily train from South Lake Tahoe to San Jose. Traveling by train from South Lake Tahoe to San Jose usually takes 6 hours and 53 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak train can make the trip in 6 hours and 31 minutes.
| Distance | 152 mi (244 km) |
| Fastest train | 6h 31m |
| Lowest price | €67.71 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak |
| Train lines | 1 |
Train Trip Reviews from Wanderu Customers
Average score for trains from South Lake Tahoe to San Jose
(Based on 2 ratings and reviews)
4.0
Price trends for trains from South Lake Tahoe to San Jose
Average train ticket prices from South Lake Tahoe to San Jose by month
Which train should you take from South Lake Tahoe to San Jose?
Amtrak is the one and only train line which connects South Lake Tahoe 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 | 6h 53m | €67.71 |
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 South Lake Tahoe to San Jose every day, as well as 2 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from €68.
Frequently asked questions about traveling by train from South Lake Tahoe to San Jose
While the train is the main method of transportation from South Lake Tahoe to San Jose, it will only take you part of the way there. Please note that part of your trip will be on a different vehicle, most commonly a bus or express shuttle.
The distance between South Lake Tahoe and San Jose is approximately 152 miles, or 244 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 6 hours and 53 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 6 hours and 31 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.
Trains from South Lake Tahoe to San Jose are the most crowded on Monday. 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 Friday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.
Most days, there is only one train which leaves South Lake Tahoe at 1:00pm and arrives in San Jose around 6 hours later.
Typically there is only one scheduled train per day. However, it is not a direct train. This means that you will need to disembark from your original train and board a connecting train at some point during your journey. You will need to remember to bring your carry-on luggage with you when you transfer trains. Depending on the carrier's policy, you may also be responsible for transferring your own checked baggage.
You can also take a train for your return trip from San Jose to South Lake Tahoe.
City Information
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 South Lake Tahoe?
Main departure station: South Y Transit Ctr - 1000 Emerald Bay Rd
There are two stations in South Lake Tahoe where you can board the train to San Jose.
All train stations in South Lake Tahoe:
South Y Transit Ctr - 1000 Emerald Bay Rd
Transp Ctr
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.
All train stations in San Jose:
Diridon Caltrain Station - 65 Cahill St
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