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Cheap train tickets from Philadelphia to San Diego

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Philadelphia to San Diego Train Schedule

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Trip Summary

There is usually just one train option from Philadelphia to San Diego per day. The average train journey from Philadelphia to San Diego takes 79 hours and 45 minutes, but some Amtrak train trips are as short as 79 hours and 38 minutes.

Distance2368 mi (3811 km)
Fastest train79h 38m
Lowest price$375.00
Most frequent serviceAmtrak
Train lines1

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What is the price of a train ticket from Philadelphia to San Diego?

The average price for a train ticket from Philadelphia to San Diego is $375.50, The lengthy distance traveled between Philadelphia and San Diego often means relatively more expensive train tickets. By booking your trip at least 5 days in advance, you increase your chances of scoring even cheaper tickets. But if you wait until the day of your trip to book tickets, expect to pay $136.00 more.

Monthly avg. prices

$575$460$345$230$115JFMAMJJASOND
Ticket prices for the train from Philadelphia to San Diego often fluctuate based on the time of year. For the best prices on this route, book in February when the average ticket price is only $328. If you're thinking of traveling from Philadelphia to San Diego during October, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of $573 during this time of year. The best way to score a cheap deal, even in October, is to book your trip well in advance.

Which train should you take from Philadelphia to San Diego?

Amtrak is the one and only train line which connects Philadelphia to San Diego. 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.

TrainDaily TripsAvg. TimeAvg. Price
Amtrak13d 7h 45m$443.50
  • 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 1 Amtrak trains from Philadelphia to San Diego every day, as well as 0 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from $375.

Frequently asked questions about traveling by train from Philadelphia to San Diego

The distance between Philadelphia and San Diego is approximately 2368 miles, or 3811 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 79 hours and 45 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 79 hours and 38 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 departing from Philadelphia to San Diego tend to have the most passengers on Saturday. With higher demand ticket prices also tend to be higher on Saturday. If you are trying to snag a cheap train tickets or just want an emptier train you'll have better luck by booking travel departing on Saturday as the least number of people tend to travel then.

Most days, there is only one train which leaves Philadelphia at 8:00am and arrives in San Diego around 79 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 Diego to Philadelphia.

City Information

Philadelphia

We may feel a little bit more than just brotherly love for Philadelphia, a city steeped in history and culture. Where else can you channel your inner Rocky Balboa on his epic run, and later enjoy an authentic Philly cheesesteak as a reward?

Philadelphia’s affordability (especially compared to other East Coast cities) is just one of many reasons it is among Wanderu’s best destinations for college students. Another reason is how much there is to do! Early American history takes precedence at Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell, while museums abound on Benjamin Franklin Parkway, sometimes called the most artistic mile in the city. Head to Reading Terminal Market to fuel up for a night hitting the bars, clubs, and live music joints that line South Street.

Philadelphia is a major hub for both Greyhound and Amtrak, and its 30th Street Station is one of the busiest stations in the country. The plentitude of ground travel and the nearby Philadelphia International Airport make this exciting city very easily accessible, even on a budget.

San Diego

San Diego is known as "America's Finest City" for its sunny weather, white-sand beaches, and dazzling attractions from Belmont Park to SeaWorld. San Diego's 70 miles of pristine beaches include such gems as Mission Beach, Pacific Beach, La Jolla Cove, and Coronado Beach. The city's strong surfing culture may even inspire you to rent a surfboard and catch the epic waves, bro.

Visitors can spend days getting lost in Balboa Park, a 1,200-acre cultural hub which features 16 museums, immaculate gardens, and the world-famous San Diego Zoo. The historic heart of the city, Old Town, showcases San Diego's heritage and ties to Mexican culture, while other sights like the USS Midway pay tribute to the city's military and maritime history. Leave time for some evening exploring, too! San Diego is rated the #1 best city for craft beer in America, so don't miss out on the bars in the Gaslamp Quarter: 16 walkable blocks packed with nightlife and young crowds.

Two airports, as well as many bus and train options, mean it is easy to get to San Diego from afar or from nearby cities like Tijuana, Los Angeles, Phoenix, and Las Vegas.

Station Information

Where is the train station in Philadelphia?

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Image credit: Ben Schumin

Link to image attribution

Main departure station: 30th St Station - 2955 Market St

There is one train station in Philadelphia.

All train stations in Philadelphia:

  • 30th St Station - 2955 Market St

Where is the train station in San Diego?

Main arrival station: 4005 Taylor St

San Diego receives travelers from Philadelphia at its two active train stations.

All train stations in San Diego:

  • 4005 Taylor St

  • Santa Fe Depot - 1050 Kettner Blvd

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Need a return trip from San Diego to Philadelphia?

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