The Best Route and Cost to Travel from San Francisco to Los Angeles by Train

Traveling from San Francisco to Los Angeles by train offers a scenic and affordable alternative to driving or flying. However, not all routes are created equal, and understanding the options can help you plan your journey more effectively. Amtrak provides several routes and connections that can make the trip both cost-effective and convenient. Let's explore the best routes and costs for this journey.

Understanding the Routes and Costs

The fastest and cheapest route is not the Coast Starlight, which runs through San Luis Obispo, but a combination of Amtrak Thruway bus and the regular Amtrak train service. The combination of an Amtrak Thruway bus from Los Angeles to Bakersfield, followed by the San Joaquin train from Bakersfield to the Bay Area, is often more economical. Here's a breakdown:

Option 1: Amtrak Thruway and San Joaquin Train

Amtrak Thruway bus from Los Angeles to Bakersfield: This transfer point is where you would board the Amtrak Thruway bus. The bus offers flexible options and can stop at various locations, including Santa Monica, UCLA, Van Nuys, Anaheim, and San Bernardino. San Joaquin train from Bakersfield to the Bay Area: From Bakersfield, you would board the San Joaquin train, which provides a scenic route through the Central Valley and up to the Bay Area.

Coach class ticket prices:

From Los Angeles to Bakersfield: Around $52 From Bakersfield to the Bay Area: Around $65 Total: Around $117 (one way)

Note that you can also opt for a longer bus ride up the 101 highway, which costs around $52.

Alternative Route: Coast Starlight

For those who prefer a scenic route and are willing to pay a bit more, the Coast Starlight is an option. However, the Coast Starlight is not a direct route, and you'll need to transfer in Oakland. The trip with the Coast Starlight is longer, taking approximately 12 to 14 hours. Here's the detailed itinerary:

The Coast Starlight departs Los Angeles at 09:51 AM. The journey to Jack London Square (Oakland) is about 12 hours.

Unfortunately, the San Joaquin train no longer offers a cafe car on four trains a day. However, you can still enjoy free snacks and drinks on the non-cafe cars, which might be a more attractive option for some travelers.

Amtrak Regional Operations

It's important to note that the San Joaquin is operated by a local or state agency, and tickets are purchased through Amtrak, but additional information, including service advisories, is available through the train's official website. You can also access useful information for other Amtrak regional services, such as the Coast Starlight and Pacific Surfliner, through their respective websites.

For a stress-free and enjoyable journey, be prepared to account for at least 12 hours for the train trip, as delays by priority freight train traffic are common.

Remember, it's always a good idea to check the latest schedules and travel times online, as they can vary.