San Diego, CA to South San Francisco, CA train

Wed, Apr 01
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Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
Italo
2,000+ travel companies
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
Italo
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from San Diego, CA to South San Francisco, CA

Showing times and prices for Apr 02

Cheapest price

$83

Average price

$83

Fastest journey

13 h 59 m

Average duration

13 h 59 m

Trains per day

1

Distance

727 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from San Diego, CA to South San Francisco, CA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from San Diego, CA to South San Francisco, CA will cost around $83 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $83.

Fast trains

Of the 1 trains that leave San Diego, CA for South San Francisco, CA on Thu, Apr 02, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Thu, Apr 02 the direct trains cover the 727 km distance in an average of 13 h 59 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 13 h 59 m .

On Thu, Apr 02 the slowest trains will take 13 h 59 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.

  • Amtrak
    2:01 PM13h59
    San Diego, CA
    4:00 AMSouth San Francisco, CA
    $831One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus, train, and flight for San Diego, CA to South San Francisco, CA

Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from San Diego, CA to South San Francisco, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $72. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 28m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $72, and a flight costs an average of $116.

Distance: 451 miles (727 km)

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Flight
Bus

$97

Average price

$226

Average price

$86

Average price

Cheapest

14h 37m

Average total duration

14h 7m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 28m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 28m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

14h 6m

Average total duration

13h 36m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Compare prices and tickets San Diego, CA to South San Francisco, CA by bus, train, or flight

Compare bus, train, and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.

Thu
Apr 02
Fri
Apr 03
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Apr 04
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Apr 05
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Apr 08

Journey information

Overview: Train from San Diego, CA to South San Francisco, CA

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Icon of train

Trains from San Diego, CA to South San Francisco, CA run on average 13 times per day, taking around 14h 7m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $83 (€68) but you can travel from only $72 (€59) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 04:01, the last at 22:35. The fastest train covers the 451 miles (727 km) distance in 13h 59m.

Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $72 (€59)
Distance
451 miles (727 km)
Average train duration
14h 7m
Cheapest ticket price
$83 (€68)
Trains per day
13
Fastest train
13h 59m
First train
4:01 AM
Last train
10:35 PM
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $72 (€59)

FAQs: Trains from San Diego, CA to South San Francisco, CA

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from San Diego, CA to South San Francisco, CA by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at South San Francisco, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from San Diego, CA to South San Francisco, CA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $83 (€68), while the average price is around $97 (€79).
The train from San Diego, CA to South San Francisco, CA takes 13h 59m and runs 13 per day.
The distance by train from San Diego, CA to South San Francisco, CA is 451 miles (727 km).
The first train from San Diego, CA to South San Francisco, CA leaves at 4:01 AM.
The last train from San Diego, CA to South San Francisco, CA leaves at 10:35 PM.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from San Diego, CA to South San Francisco, CA.
The train station in San Diego, CA that goes to South San Francisco, CA is Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA, which connects to Emeryville station, Emeryville, CA.
The cheapest way to get from San Diego, CA to South San Francisco, CA is by bus, with a cost of around $72 (€59).
The train journey from San Diego to South San Francisco offers scenic views, particularly along the Pacific coastline and through rolling hills, providing passengers with picturesque landscapes and glimpses of California's natural beauty.
A day trip from San Diego, CA to South San Francisco, CA is not feasible as the journey takes 13h 59m and covers 451 miles (727 km). There are 19 trains per day.
A stay of 2 to 3 days in South San Francisco, CA, is generally sufficient to explore the area, including nearby attractions like Oyster Point Marina and the scenic views of the San Bruno Mountains.
No, you cannot take the train from San Diego, CA to South San Francisco, CA.
Since neither San Diego, CA nor South San Francisco, CA are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of United States and United States. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
The currency used in the United States is the US Dollar (USD). For travelers, using cards is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially credit and debit cards, while cash is useful for small purchases or places that do not accept cards.
In South San Francisco, CA, travelers should be cautious of petty crimes such as pickpocketing and vehicle break-ins, especially in crowded or tourist-heavy areas. Common scams include overcharging by unlicensed taxi drivers or ride-share services, so it's advisable to use reputable transportation options. Staying aware of surroundings and securing personal belongings helps ensure a safe visit.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from San Diego, CA to South San Francisco, CA

San Diego
South San Francisco
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
Luggage CartsLuggage Carts
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 5:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
platformCount
Number of platforms
6
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free
Parking
Parking
  • Parking is available nearby with various public and private options.
Dining
Dining
  • The Fish Market
  • Karl Strauss Brewing Company
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Ramps.
WC
WC
  • $1.25
Hotel
Hotel
  • The Westin San Diego
  • The Guild Hotel, San Diego, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel
  • Embassy Suites by Hilton San Diego Bay Downtown
Lost and Found Office
Lost and Found Office
  • Located in the main hall
Car Rental
Car Rental
  • Enterprise
  • Hertz
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
Luggage Carts
  • Free
Station Plan
  • Hall 1: main entrance, platforms for Amtrak and Coaster trains
  • Hall 2: Trolley connections
Public transit options for Santa Fe Depot
  • San Diego Trolley: Blue Line, Green Line
  • Bus: Several lines available
  • Amtrak: Pacific Surfliner
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
Luggage CartsLuggage Carts
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM Monday - Sunday
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
5 km
platformCount
Number of platforms
2
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free
Parking
Parking
  • Parking is available with several spaces for commuters and visitors.
Dining
Dining
  • Casa Guadalajara
  • Old Town Mexican Cafe
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Elevators, ramps.
WC
WC
  • $0.25
Hotel
Hotel
  • Old Town Inn
  • Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott San Diego Old Town
  • Best Western Plus Hacienda Hotel Old Town
Lost and Found Office
Lost and Found Office
  • Located in the main hall
Car Rental
Car Rental
  • Enterprise
  • Hertz
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
Luggage Carts
  • Free
Station Plan
  • Hall 1: main entrance, platforms for Amtrak and Coaster trains
  • Hall 2: Trolley connections
Public transit options for Old Town Station
  • Trolley: Green Line
  • Bus: Several lines available including 8, 9, 10, 28, 30, 35, 44, 88, 105, 150, 923, 928

More options for your journey from San Diego, CA to South San Francisco, CA

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

Most popular train connections to South San Francisco, CA

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