Cheap train tickets from Chicago to San Jose
Find and compare the best ground travel options in one place.
Millions of travelers trust Wanderu every year to get:
Lowest Prices
We find the cheapest bus & train tickets, so you can wander for less.
Best Travel Options
We partner with 500+ carriers to bring you the most bus & train options.
Quick & Easy Booking
Book trips quickly with a simple, hassle-free checkout – online & on our app.
Fast Customer Support
We don’t monkey around. We respond within minutes to help you out.
See what travelers are saying about Wanderu:
Chicago to San Jose Train Schedule
Is it better to travel by bus or train from Chicago to San Jose?
There are usually 1 daily bus trips available from Chicago to San Jose.
Bus | Train | |
|---|---|---|
Avg. Price | Avg. PriceHUF 83,894.84 | Avg. PriceHUF 163,449.43 |
Daily Trips | Daily Trips1 | Daily Trips6 |
Duration | Duration2d 9h 38m | Duration2d 16h 58m |
Trip Summary
There are usually 7 daily train trips available from Chicago to San Jose. Traveling by train from Chicago to San Jose usually takes 63 hours and 56 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak train can make the trip in 54 hours and 10 minutes.
| Distance | 1838 mi (2958 km) |
| Fastest train | 54h 10m |
| Lowest price | HUF 63,295.38 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak |
| Train lines | 1 |
What is the price of a train ticket from Chicago to San Jose?
In the last 30 days, the average cost of a train ticket from Chicago to San Jose was HUF 102,980.58. Train tickets on this route are typically priced higher due to the distance covered. You have the best chances of scoring the cheapest ticket to San Jose if you book your train tickets at least 14 days in advance. Waiting to purchase until the day of your trip could end up costing you an extra HUF 45,733.42.
Average train ticket prices from Chicago to San Jose by travel date
Over the next 30 days, a one-way train trip from Chicago to San Jose will cost between HUF 90,087 and HUF 385,131. Book in advance to secure the best price in the next few weeks.
Monthly avg. prices
Prices as travel date approaches
If you're looking to save on your train trip from Chicago to San Jose, book online with Wanderu at least 14 days in advance. That way, you’ll save HUF 45,733.42 compared to booking your ticket last minute.
Which train should you take from Chicago to San Jose?
Amtrak is the one and only train line which connects Chicago to San Jose. However, there are 7 trains per day to choose from.
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak | 7 | 2d 15h 56m | HUF 128,288.68 |
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 7 Amtrak trains from Chicago to San Jose every day, as well as 6 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from HUF 63,295.
Frequently asked questions about traveling by train from Chicago to San Jose
The distance between Chicago and San Jose is approximately 1838 miles, or 2958 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 63 hours and 56 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 54 hours and 10 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 Chicago to San Jose 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 Thursday. Thursday also tend to have less passengers which may make boarding faster and let you snag your perfect seat.
The earliest train departs Chicago at 1:00pm 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 7 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 San Jose to Chicago.
City Information
Chicago
Known for its innovative architecture, cultural contributions to jazz and house music, and of course that irresistible deep-dish pizza, the many sights and experiences in Chicago make it one of the best urban vacation destinations for millennials and a top destination in Illinois.
You can't beat the views of the city and Lake Michigan from the SkyDeck in the Willis Tower; at over 1,300 feet, this is the highest observation deck in the U.S. Snap that classic selfie with the Bean in Millennium Park, then wander the many museums in nearby Grant Park. Navy Pier is a popular tourist hotspot for its parks, restaurants, and attractions right on Lake Michigan, and baseball fans will find paradise in Wrigleyville, home to the Chicago Cubs' Wrigley Field and sports bars galore.
Chicago's enormous parks offer plentiful opportunities for outdoor activities in gorgeous urban settings. Many companies offer kayak rentals or boat tours on the Chicago River, with special tours running on Saint Patrick's Day, when the entire river is dyed green. When you’re ready to buy some souvenirs from your epic trip, hit the big brand stores on the Magnificent Mile, or shop local in neighborhoods like Andersonville and Wicker Park. And don't miss the chance to laugh until you cry at The Second City comedy theater, famous for launching the careers of comedians like Tina Fey and Stephen Colbert.
Chicago is one of the biggest transportation hubs in the Midwest, and provides easy access to nearby destinations ideal for day trips, as well as international travel from two airports. Thanks to plenty of bus and train stations throughout the city, getting to the Windy City is a breeze.
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 Chicago?
Image credit: Jeramey Jannene
Link to image attribution
Main departure station: Union Station
The historic Chicago Union Station is the United States' third busiest train station and a hub for 15 Amtrak train lines with destinations throughout the country. The station also serves bus carriers like Greyhound, Indian Trails and Jefferson Lines, and offers connections to Metra commuter lines. Union Station is also just a quick walk to the nearest Chicago L lines. The current station was built in 1925, to replace the original one dating back to 1881, and today wows visitors with its impressive facade, massive columns, and opulent Great Hall. Located right in downtown and adjacent to the Chicago Loop, Union Station is equipped with many services and amenities, including phone charging stations, shops, and various food and drink options.
All train stations in Chicago:
Union Station
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
Get around town with Moovit
Need a return trip from San Jose to Chicago?
Search Train TicketsPlan your next adventure
More trains from Chicago
- Chicago to Denver
HUF 62,772+
- Train from Chicago to Atlanta
HUF 111,219+
- Chicago to Carbondale Train
HUF 20,771+
- Chicago to New Orleans
HUF 61,004+
- Chicago to Dearborn
HUF 22,669+
- Chicago to Detroit Train
HUF 22,830+
- Chicago to East Lansing Train
HUF 17,017+
- Chicago to Holland Train
HUF 16,671+
- Train from Chicago to New Buffalo
HUF 6,667+
- Train from Chicago to Saint Paul
HUF 34,252+
- Chicago to New York Train
HUF 83,232+
- Train from Chicago to Niagara Falls
HUF 41,901+
- Chicago to Pittsburgh
HUF 36,894+
- Chicago to Nashville Train
HUF 39,541+
- Chicago to Columbus Train
HUF 14,242+
- Train from Chicago to Madison
HUF 18,334+
- Chicago to Milwaukee Train
HUF 9,365+
- Train from Chicago to Wisconsin Dells
HUF 19,060+
Continue by train from San Jose
- Train from San Jose to Anaheim
HUF 36,750+
- Train from San Jose to Fairfield
HUF 9,099+
- San Jose to Fremont
HUF 3,349+
- San Jose to Fullerton
HUF 36,775+
- Train from San Jose to Los Angeles
HUF 32,099+
- Train from San Jose to Napa
HUF 10,656+
- Train from San Jose to Rocklin
HUF 14,401+
- Train from San Jose to Sacramento
HUF 12,508+
- San Jose to San Diego Train
HUF 40,995+
- Train from San Jose to San Francisco
HUF 9,247+
- San Jose to Santa Clarita
HUF 27,076+
- Train from San Jose to Suisun
HUF 9,073+
- San Jose to Ventura Train
HUF 30,203+
- Train from San Jose to Washington D.C.
HUF 160,286+
- Train from San Jose to Austin
HUF 134,264+
- San Jose to San Antonio Train
HUF 127,515+
- San Jose to Salt Lake City
HUF 47,308+
- Train from San Jose to Vancouver
HUF 47,192+
Check out these popular routes
- Vancouver to Toronto Train
HUF 159,516+
- Toronto to Niagara Falls Train
HUF 6,390+
- Train from Toronto to Niagara Falls
HUF 20,532+
- Montreal to Québec Train
HUF 16,106+
- Madrid to Barcelona
HUF 32,750+
- New Haven to New York Train
HUF 14,532+
- Train from Ann Arbor to Chicago
HUF 24,162+
- Train from New York to Boston
HUF 43,982+
- New York to Rensselaer Train
HUF 20,428+
- Train from New York to Providence
HUF 40,026+
- Seattle to Portland Train
HUF 102,263+
- Seattle to New York Train
HUF 223,770+
- Seattle to Portland Train
HUF 15,577+
Wanderu is the simplest way to book bus and train travel.
With just a quick search on Wanderu, you can compare bus and train schedules and prices from hundreds of travel companies in one convenient place to find the trip that works best for you. Wanderu’s simple checkout process makes it easy to book cheap bus and train tickets hassle-free. Most importantly, as Wanderu is an official partner of all leading bus and train companies, we always have the best bus and train deals out there.