Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA Train

10/03/2024
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2 days $32.44
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Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA by train

The journey from Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA by train is 111.75 mi and takes 3 hr 14 min. There are 34 connections per day, with the first departure at 6:10 AM and the last at 10:10 PM. It is possible to travel from Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA by train for as little as $32.15 or as much as $37.41. The best price for this journey is $32.15.

Lowest Price$32.15
Journey Duration3 hr 14 min
Connection per Day34
Lowest Price$32.15
Highest Price$37.41
First Departure6:10 AM
Last Departure10:10 PM
Distance111.75 mi
DepartureLos Angeles, CA
ArrivalSan Diego, CA
CarriersAmtrak

Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA Train Times

Departure date
Thursday, Oct 3, 2024

Traveling from Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA by Train

Board the train from Los Angeles International Airport,Los Angeles (Americanstar) in Los Angeles to San Diego, CA - Old Town,San Diego (Downtown - Seaport),San Diego (Balboa Park),San Diego CA - Santa Fe Depot (SAN) in San Diego. The journey typically takes about 3 hr 14 min. Approximately 34 trains traverse this path daily, offering passengers multiple departure times. Those seeking a cost-effective journey will find fares starting at $32.15.

Amtrak is the primary service provider on this route, particularly with its Pacific Surfliner Route. All connections are expected to be direct, but occasional situations might lead to an Amtrak Thruway bus service substituting a segment of the journey.

The Pacific Surfliner line serves as a direct connection between various cities before reaching San Diego. While it averages a speed of 41.2 miles per hour (66 km/h), it can accelerate up to 90 miles per hour (145 km/h). Beyond efficient travel, this train route promises breathtaking views of Southern California's coastline, including renowned surfing locales. Onboard amenities include complimentary Wi-Fi, power outlets, and a Market Cafe. Pet lovers will appreciate that cats and dogs weighing up to 20 pounds are welcome.

Boarding the Amtrak: Key Points

Initiate your journey from Los Angeles to the iconic Union Station, the West Coast's largest train station. A central hub for various transit services, this station also boasts an array of dining and shopping options. Furthermore, there are several Intercity stations available for boarding:

  1. 10040 Old Depot Plaza Rd, Chatsworth
  2. Amtrak Metrolink Station - 7724 Van Nuys Blvd
  3. Metrolink Station
  4. 592 Gayley Ave
  5. Exploring San Diego: Key Arrival Points

In San Diego, travelers have two primary station options:

  1. Old Town Station: Strategically located near the Old Town San Diego State Historic Park, it provides access to significant historical sites and convenient transit connections.
  2. Santa Fe Depot: This main train terminal, adorned in Spanish Colonial style, lies in the city's heart. It offers easy access to various city attractions and facilitates connections with other transit services.

Things to Do in San Diego

San Diego boasts a rich blend of natural beauty, history, and modern attractions. Here are some must-visit sites:

  1. San Diego Zoo is known globally as home to over 3,500 rare and endangered animals.
  2. USS Midway Museum: Discover the historic aircraft carrier's life at sea.
  3. La Jolla Cove: A picturesque beach perfect for snorkeling and observing sea lions.
  4. Gaslamp Quarter: A vibrant area teeming with historic buildings, shops, and eateries.
  5. Coronado Island: Accessible via the iconic Coronado Bridge, it offers stunning beaches and views.

What to Eat in San Diego

With its coastal location and diverse culture, San Diego offers a plethora of culinary delights:

  1. Fish Tacos: A local favorite, best enjoyed by the beachside.
  2. California Burrito: A twist on the classic, with added French fries inside.
  3. Craft Beer: San Diego is known for its booming craft beer scene; take advantage of local brews!
  4. Acai Bowls: A refreshing treat, perfect for sunny mornings.
  5. Carne Asada Fries: A delicious medley of fries topped with meat, guacamole, sour cream, and cheese.

Travel Tips While in San Diego

Here are some additional insights to enhance your San Diego experience:

  1. Weather: San Diego generally boasts mild weather, but evenings can be chilly. It's wise to pack a light sweater or jacket.
  2. Transit: Utilize the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System, especially the trolleys, for an affordable and efficient mode of transport.
  3. Parking: Downtown San Diego and famous beaches can have limited parking. Consider using public transport or rideshares during peak hours.
  4. Local Events: To enrich your stay, check local calendars for events like Comic-Con, music festivals, or farmers' markets.
  5. Outdoor Activities: With its coastal position, consider indulging in water sports like surfing, paddleboarding, or kayaking.

Let us assist if you're considering the train for your Los Angeles to San Diego journey. Our platform examines countless routes across various transportation modes for the best deals. Check out our price calendar below for an overview of the most competitive fares between the two cities.

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Compare prices and tickets from Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA

Cheap train tickets from Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA
Looking for the best deal on a train ticket for your trip? Here are 4 ways to get cheap train tickets from Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA.

Book in advance and save

If you're looking for the best deal for your trip from Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA, booking train tickets in advance is a great way to save money, but keep in mind that advance tickets are usually not available until 3 months before your travel date.

Stay flexible with your travel time and explore off-peak journeys

Planning your trips around off-peak travel times not only means that you'll be able to avoid the crowds, but can also end up saving you money. Being flexible with your schedule and considering alternative routes or times will significantly impact the amount of money you spend on getting from Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA.

Always check special offers

Checking on the latest deals can help save a lot of money, making it worth taking the time to browse and compare prices. So make sure you get the best deal on your ticket and take advantage of special fares for children, youth and seniors as well as discounts for groups.

Unlock the potential of slower trains or connecting trains

If you're planning a trip with some flexible time, why not opt for the scenic route? Taking slower trains or connecting trains that make more stops may save you money on your ticket – definitely worth considering if it fits in your schedule.

Best time to book Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA travel

Virail Pro Tip ✌: Booking 10 days in advance save 10% on average

Price as departure date approaches

Train companies may charge higher ticket prices as the date of departure approaches. Prices in the next days can range from around $29.07 to $34.31 but may be subject to change. Our advice is to book as early as possible to potentially save up to 15% on your trip!

Best time to book cheap train tickets from Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA

The cheapest Los Angeles, CA - San Diego, CA train tickets can be found for as low as $28.45 if you’re lucky, or $33.54 on average. The most expensive ticket can cost as much as $43.08.

Find the best day to travel to San Diego, CA by train

When travelling to San Diego, CA by train, if you want to avoid crowds you can check how frequently our customers are travelling in the next 30-days using the graph below. On average, the peak hours to travel are between 6:30am and 9am in the morning, or between 4pm and 7pm in the evening. Please keep this in mind when travelling to your point of departure as you may need some extra time to arrive, particularly in big cities!

Services on board Amtrak from Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA
Compare services on board when travelling from Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA by train.
Facilities Amtrak
quiet_zone Quiet zone check
wifi WiFi check
power_sockets Power sockets check
luggage Luggage check
accessibility Accessibility check
food_and_drink Food and drink check
air_con Air conditioning check
bicycle Bicycle check
sleeper_couchette Sleeper check

Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA CO2 Emissions by Train

Ecology
Train
12.59kg
Bus
13.49kg
Flight
35.97kg
Car
28.78kg
What are the CO2 emissions from Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA by train? The CO2 emissions from taking the train between Los Angeles, CA and San Diego, CA are 12.59kg.
How much CO2 do I save by taking the train between Los Angeles, CA and San Diego, CA? By taking the train between Los Angeles, CA and San Diego, CA you will save 23.38kg CO2 emissions compared to a flight, 0.9kg compared to a bus and 16.19kg compared to a car.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How much is a train ticket from Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA?
A train ticket from Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA is $34.38. However the price varies depending on how early you buy, and if it's peak time to travel. Occasionally you can find them for as cheap as $32.15.
What's the cheapest train ticket from Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA?
The cheapest ticket you can get from Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA is $32.15. We recommend booking as early as possible and off-peak hours to get the cheapest ticket possible. Off-peak times are usually from 09:30 to 16:00, and after 19:00.
What's the distance between Los Angeles, CA and San Diego, CA by train?
Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA is 111.75 mi.
How long does the train between Los Angeles, CA and San Diego, CA take?
Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA is on average 3 hr 14 min. However the fastest option will get you there in 2 hr 38 min.
How many train connections per day go from Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA?
Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA has 34 connection(s) per day on average.
What time does the first train from Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA leave?
The earliest train from Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA departs at 6:10 AM. However be sure to check with us the schedule on the day you want to leave as the time may differ.
What time does the last train from Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA depart?
The latest train from Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA departs at 10:10 PM. However be sure to check with us the schedule on the day you want to leave as the time may differ.
Should I book my ticket from Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA in advance?
If you can, we recommend booking your ticket as early as possible to ensure you get better savings. The cheapest train ticket we have found is $32.15 but this may be subject to change depending on the day of travel, hour you wish to depart and how far in advance you book.
How many direct connections depart from Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA?
There are on average 34 direct connection(s) from Los Angeles, CA to go to San Diego, CA.
What's the fastest journey time between Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA by train?
The fastest journey time by train between Los Angeles, CA and San Diego, CA is 2 hr 38 min.
Is there a direct train from Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA?
Yes, there is a direct train between Los Angeles, CA and San Diego, CA.
What are the CO2 emissions for Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA by train?
The train journey from Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA creates 12.59kg of CO2 emissions.

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