Cheap train tickets from Reno to Santa Cruz
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Reno to Santa Cruz Train Schedule
Trip Summary
On most days, there is one scheduled train that travels from Reno to Santa Cruz. The train trip from Reno to Santa Cruz is usually about 18 hours and 8 minutes long. However, traveling on the fastest Amtrak train can get you there in as little as 8 hours and 39 minutes.
| Distance | 214 mi (344 km) |
| Fastest train | 8h 39m |
| Lowest price | RON 410.45 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak |
| Train lines | 1 |

What is the price of a train ticket from Reno to Santa Cruz?
In the last 30 days, the average cost of a train ticket from Reno to Santa Cruz was RON 410.45. You have the best chances of scoring the cheapest ticket to Santa Cruz if you book your train tickets at least 12 days in advance. Waiting to purchase until the day of your trip could end up costing you an extra RON 2.89.
Monthly avg. prices
Which train should you take from Reno to Santa Cruz?
Amtrak is the one and only train line which connects Reno to Santa Cruz. 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 | 18h 8m | RON 428.59 |
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 Reno to Santa Cruz every day, as well as 2 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from RON 410.
Frequently asked questions about traveling by train from Reno to Santa Cruz
The distance between Reno and Santa Cruz is approximately 214 miles, or 344 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 18 hours and 8 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 8 hours and 39 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.
Sunday tends to be the busiest day of the week with travelers taking trains from Reno to Santa Cruz. Ticket price also tend to be more expensive on Sunday than other days. If you are hoping to have more room on the train and even save some change check out travel options on Monday instead, as less people travel then and deals are more likely to be found.
Most days, there is only one train which leaves Reno at 6:00am and arrives in Santa Cruz around 8 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 Santa Cruz to Reno.
City Information
Reno



Dazzling with neon lights and bustling through the night, Reno is a great destination for those seeking top-class entertainment. Though considerably outshined by Las Vegas, Reno still brings unique attractions to the table. Among the most notable destinations for non-gamblers is an independent art scene down at Riverwalk, where indie galleries as well as restaurants abound. Fans of the great outdoors should not miss out on nearby Lake Tahoe, which stands among the most beautiful vacation destinations in the country.
At its core, Reno is still a city for gamblers, and it certainly does not disappoint. Slot machines, table games and cabaret shows are available at the local casinos, ready to tempt risk-takers who wish to court Lady Luck.
Right in the heart of downtown Reno, you will find the Reno Amtrak station from where you can take a train to Northern California and beyond. The local Reno-Tahoe International Airport is located outside of the city and it provides quick access to international flight routes. The main bus stop that serves Reno is also located at the airport.
Station Information
Where is the train station in Reno?

Image credit: Mark Hogan
Link to image attribution
Image credit: Mark Hogan
Link to image attribution
Image credit: Adam Moss
Link to image attributionMain departure station: Reno Amtrak Train Station
The Amtrak Station in Reno is one of the main travel hubs in the city and opened in 1868. Located on North Center St, the station is surrounded by the casinos, restaurants, and hotels which put Reno on the map. Due to its downtown location, the station waiting area and the train tracks are actually placed below ground level. The California Zephyr train line passes through this station on its route from Chicago to Emeryville as well as Amtrak Thruway buses which connect to Sacramento.
All train stations in Reno:
Reno Amtrak Train Station
Where is the train station in Santa Cruz?
Main arrival station: Santa Cruz, California
Santa Cruz has one train station.
All train stations in Santa Cruz:
Santa Cruz, California
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Need a return trip from Santa Cruz to Reno?
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