Train from Chicago to San Diego, CA, US: Tickets & Timetables

Next train departures

Next departures from Chicago to San Diego on 28 January
Operated byVehicle typeDeparture timeDeparture locationTrip durationArrival timeArrival locationRecommendedPrice and booking link
AmtrakTrain
Chicago (Union Station), IL
Santa Fe DepotCheapest
AmtrakTrain
Chicago (Union Station), IL
Old Town San DiegoFastest
AmtrakTrain
Chicago (Union Station), IL
Santa Fe DepotNo tags
AmtrakTrain
Chicago (Union Station), IL
Santa Fe DepotNo tags
AmtrakTrain
Chicago (Union Station), IL
Santa Fe DepotNo tags

Last refresh of the prices: Yesterday at 8:18 PM CST.

Compare 2 ways to travel from Chicago to San Diego

We recommend taking the train

Among the sustainable travel choices, the Train stands out as a good way to reach San Diego. The journey takes about 2 days, 42 minutes and with fares starting at just R 3 045, it presents an excellent value for a comfortable ride.

3train per day
2d Average duration
2787 kmDistance
254kgCO₂ emissions
Bus
Average priceR 2 072 - R 16 552Average duration2d 9h
70kg CO₂e
Train
Average priceR 3 045 - R 28 773Average duration2d
254kg CO₂e

Frequently asked questions about travelling from Chicago to San Diego, CA, US by train

Please note that timetables, routes, or operator details shown here may be updated or differ at the time of your trip.

  1. How much is the train ticket from Chicago to San Diego?

    The cheapest train tickets from Chicago to San Diego start from R 3 045. The average price for this train route is around R 3 589. Busbud recommends booking your tickets in advance for a better chance to secure the lowest possible price.

  2. How long is the train journey from Chicago to San Diego?

    The average train journey time from Chicago to San Diego is 2d , covering a distance of 2787 km. The quickest train can get you there in 2d and is operated by Amtrak.

  3. Which train operators serve the Chicago to San Diego route?

    Several major train operators run on this route, with 3 trains available per day.

  4. What are the earliest and latest departure times for the train from Chicago to San Diego?

    The earliest train from Chicago to San Diego departs at 13:52. And the latest train departs at 14:25.

Find cheapest prices for trains

Price is for a one-way ticket for one passenger and based on past searches.

Best price found
25/01
R 3 366
26/01
R 3 990
Today
R 3 990
28/01
R 4 680
29/01
R 3 990
30/01
R 4 680
31/01
No data
01/02
R 4 680
busbud logoThe cheapest trip from Chicago to San Diego, CA, US was searched and found on 25 Jan 2026 with a price of R 3 366

To save money and be sure you have the best seat, it's a good idea to buy your train tickets from Chicago to San Diego, CA, US as early as possible.

You can expect to pay from R 3 366 to R 24 513 for a train ticket from Chicago to San Diego, CA, US based on the last 2 days. You can expect to find the cheapest price for the trip at R 3 990, which is on 2026-01-29.

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