Santa Cruz, CA to San Francisco, CA train with Amtrak

Sun, Apr 05
+ Add return
Amtrak
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
Amtrak
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Santa Cruz, CA to San Francisco, CA

Showing times and prices for Apr 11

Cheapest price

$29

Average price

$31

Fastest journey

4 h 6 m

Average duration

4 h 11 m

Trains per day

2

Distance

95 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Santa Cruz, CA to 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 Santa Cruz, CA to San Francisco, CA will cost around $31 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $29.

Fast trains

Of the 2 trains that leave Santa Cruz, CA for San Francisco, CA on Sat, Apr 11, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Sat, Apr 11 the direct trains cover the 95 km distance in an average of 4 h 11 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 6 m .

On Sat, Apr 11 the slowest trains will take 4 h 16 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
    1:15 AM4h16
    Santa Cruz, CA
    5:31 AMSan Francisco, CA
    $291One-way
    0 transfers
  • Amtrak
    2:15 AM4h06
    Santa Cruz, CA
    6:21 AMSan Francisco, CA
    $321One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus and train for Santa Cruz, CA to San Francisco, CA

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Santa Cruz, CA to San Francisco, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $37. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 20m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $37, and a train costs an average of $28.

Distance: 59 miles (95 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus

$40

Average price

$38

Average price

Cheapest

2h 50m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 20m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 13m

Average total duration

2h 43m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

Direct Options

Direct Options

Live departures

Santa Cruz, CA to San Francisco, CA train times

The table below shows live departures for Santa Cruz, CA to San Francisco, CA trains for tomorrow, Saturday, April 4. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
amtrak1:15 AM Santa Cruz, CA
4h16
5:31 AM San Francisco, CA0 transfersDirect
amtrak2:15 AM Santa Cruz, CA
4h06
6:21 AM San Francisco, CA0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Santa Cruz, CA to San Francisco, CA by bus or train

Compare bus and train 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.

Sun
Apr 05
Mon
Apr 06
Tue
Apr 07
Wed
Apr 08
Thu
Apr 09
Fri
Apr 10
Sat
Apr 11

Journey information

Overview: Train from Santa Cruz, CA to San Francisco, CA

USAUSA
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Icon of train

Trains from Santa Cruz, CA to San Francisco, CA run on average 12 times per day, taking around 2h 20m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $28 (€23) if you book in advance.

The earliest train runs at 04:55, the last at 20:43. The fastest train covers the 59 miles (95 km) distance in 2h 31m.

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
Distance
59 miles (95 km)
Average train duration
2h 20m
Cheapest ticket price
$28 (€23)
Trains per day
12
Fastest train
2h 31m
First train
4:55 AM
Last train
8:43 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

Train companies: Amtrak from Santa Cruz, CA to San Francisco, CA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Santa Cruz, CA and San Francisco, CA from $28 (€23). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

Amtrak

About
Amtrak is the main passenger train operator in the United States, providing medium- and long-distance intercity services across 46 states and three Canadian provinces. Operating over 300 trains daily and serving more than 500 destinations, Amtrak connects cities and regions nationwide through routes such as the high-speed Acela in the Northeast Corridor, the scenic Coast Starlight along the West Coast, and the Empire Builder linking Chicago to the Midwest and the Pacific Northwest. Other notable services include the Northeast Regional, Keystone Service, and the unique Auto Train, which allows passengers to bring their cars onboard. Amtrak offers a variety of classes to suit different budgets and travel needs, including Coach, Business, First Class, and Sleeper Class with options like Roomettes, Bedrooms, and Bedroom Suites for overnight journeys. Ticket types include Saver, Value, Flexible, Business, and Premium. Onboard amenities vary by service but may include comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, power outlets, dining options, and lounge access on select trains. Popular routes include Washington, D.C.–Boston, San Diego–San Luis Obispo, San Jose–Sacramento, and Chicago–Seattle.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 31m
Cheapest Price
$28 (€23)
Amtrak frequency
12 a day
Luggage included
2 personal items and 2 carry-on bags included free
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas at end of cars
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies depend on ticket type and timing
Refund
Full refund if train is canceled by Amtrak
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Café car with snacks, beverages, and light meals. Long-distance trains have full-service dining cars
Seat reservation
Included in ticket price for Business and First Class. Optional fee for Coach Class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible restrooms, Red Cap assistance service, accessible platforms and stations
Pets
Small pets under 20 pounds allowed for $26 fee. Must be in carrier. Service animals travel free
Quiet zone

FAQs: Trains from Santa Cruz, CA to San Francisco, CA

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Santa Cruz, CA to 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 San Francisco, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Santa Cruz, CA to San Francisco, CA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $28 (€23), while the average price is around $40 (€33).
The train from Santa Cruz, CA to San Francisco, CA takes 2h 31m and runs 12 per day.
The distance by train from Santa Cruz, CA to San Francisco, CA is 59 miles (95 km).
The first train from Santa Cruz, CA to San Francisco, CA leaves at 4:55 AM.
The last train from Santa Cruz, CA to San Francisco, CA leaves at 8:43 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Santa Cruz, CA to San Francisco, CA.
There is no direct train service currently available from Santa Cruz, CA to San Francisco, CA.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Santa Cruz, CA to San Francisco, CA.
The cheapest way to get from Santa Cruz, CA to San Francisco, CA is by train, with a cost of around $28 (€23).
The journey from Santa Cruz to San Francisco by train is considered scenic, as it offers views of the California coastline, passing through picturesque landscapes and charming towns along the way.
A day trip from Santa Cruz, CA to San Francisco, CA may not be feasible as the journey takes 2h 31m and covers 59 miles (95 km). However, there are 14 train trips available per day.
In San Francisco, CA, you can ride a cable car through steep streets, explore vibrant murals in the Mission District, and visit the Exploratorium, an interactive science museum. Take a scenic walk along the Embarcadero for views of the Bay Bridge and access to the Ferry Building Marketplace. Enjoy a wine tasting tour in nearby Napa Valley. Key sights include the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, Fisherman's Wharf, Golden Gate Park, and Chinatown, each offering unique experiences from panoramic views to vibrant culture and cuisine.
Three to four days in San Francisco, CA, allows you to explore major attractions like the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, Fisherman's Wharf, and neighborhoods like Chinatown and Haight-Ashbury, while also enjoying some of the city's renowned dining and cultural experiences.
Yes, you can take the train from Santa Cruz, CA to San Francisco, CA.
Since neither Santa Cruz, CA nor 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.
Popular day trips by train from San Francisco, CA include Davis, CA, San Jose, CA, Stockton, CA, Santa Clara, CA, West Sacramento, CA.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Santa Cruz, CA to San Francisco, CA among Omio's users.
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 San Francisco, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like Fisherman's Wharf and Union Square. Common scams include distraction techniques used by groups to steal wallets and fake charity solicitations. It's advisable to avoid poorly lit or isolated areas at night and be wary of unofficial taxi services to ensure safety.
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 Santa Cruz, CA to San Francisco, CA

Santa Cruz
San Francisco
The major train station for departures in Santa Cruz is Santa Cruz, Bus Station Metro Center. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Santa Cruz, Bus Station Metro Center for your trip from Santa Cruz to San Francisco.
Santa Cruz, Bus Station Metro Center
information
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