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Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA Train
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Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA by train
The journey from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA by train is 2,986.73 km and takes 54 hr 55 min. There are 1 connections per day, with the first departure at 11:00 AM and the last at 11:00 AM. It is possible to travel from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA by train for as little as ฿7,839.17 or as much as ฿8,132.83. The best price for this journey is ฿7,839.17.
| Lowest Price | ฿7,839.17 |
| Journey Duration | 54 hr 55 min |
| Connection per Day | Amtrak, Burlington Trailways, Greyhound 1 |
| Lowest Price | Amtrak, Burlington Trailways, Greyhound ฿7,839.17 |
| Highest Price | Amtrak, Burlington Trailways, Greyhound ฿8,132.83 |
| First Departure | Amtrak, Burlington Trailways, Greyhound 11:00 AM |
| Last Departure | Amtrak, Burlington Trailways, Greyhound 11:00 AM |
| Distance | Amtrak, Burlington Trailways, Greyhound 2,986.73 km |
| Departure | Amtrak, Burlington Trailways, Greyhound Chicago, IL |
| Arrival | Amtrak, Burlington Trailways, Greyhound San Francisco, CA |
| Carriers | Amtrak, Burlington Trailways Amtrak, Burlington Trailways, Greyhound |
Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA Train Times
Traveling from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA with Virail
Do you know the best way to get from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA? No? Don't worry, Virail knows. Our search tool uses data from thousands of travel providers to show you all the available routes for your chosen travel dates. Whether you want to travel by train, bus, plane, or carpool, we can help. Filter your results to suit your personal needs: decide whether you want a one-way or round trip ticket, look for a direct journey or one with connections, and choose the time of day that you prefer to travel. Take a look at all the information and find the transport option that's right for you. When you've selected your ideal journey, Virail will transfer you to the website of your chosen travel provider, where you can complete your booking. Your adventure is waiting - let Virail help you today.
How can I find the cheapest train tickets to get from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA?
On average, a train ticket from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA will cost you ฿7,986.00. However, there may be cheaper alternatives available. Virail will show you the lowest prices available for your chosen travel dates, which could be as little as ฿7,839.17. If you are trying to stick to a budget, there are several ways you can seek out lower ticket prices. For example, if your travel dates are flexible, you might find that some days of the week are cheaper than others. Traveling during peak season will usually cost more, so avoid that if you want to save money. Even the time of day can affect the price of tickets sometimes. You can also look for an indirect route, which may be cheaper than a direct connection. Often, the cheapest train tickets can be found by booking well in advance. However, be mindful that many companies do not offer refunds or exchanges on their cheapest tickets.
Unfortunately, no price was found for your trip from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA. Selecting a new departure or arrival city, without dramatically changing your itinerary could help you find price results.
When you're traveling from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA, you can expect to pay an average of approximately ฿7,986.00. Some forms of transport are cheaper than others, and prices will vary according to time of day, day of the week, season, and other factors. For the cheapest train tickets, make your reservation well in advance. If you can, travel at an off-peak time, as train ticket prices will often be reduced. You might also be able to save money by booking a connecting journey, rather than a direct route. Be sure to check the conditions of the ticket before booking, as sometimes cheaper train tickets cannot be changed or refunded. Use Virail to check your options before booking, to ensure that you find the lowest price for your journey.
How much time will it take to go from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA by train?
The distance between Chicago, IL and San Francisco, CA is approximately 2,986.73 km. In general, it will take you about 54 hr 55 min to complete the journey between the two cities. However, it is important to remember that journey times may vary according to a number of factors, including seasonal weather conditions, local events or diversions. Keep this in mind if you are intending to make a later connection, and always plan accordingly. In order to get from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA faster, consider looking for an express service that makes fewer stops along the way. Conversely, a connecting route may, in some circumstances, be faster than a direct journey. The fastest routes between Chicago, IL and San Francisco, CA will complete the journey in 54 hr 55 min. On average, it will take you about 54 hr 55 min to travel the 2,986.73 km between Chicago, IL and San Francisco, CA.
When do departures from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA leave?
The first journey of the day departs from Chicago, IL at 11:00 AM. If you prefer to travel later in the day, the last departure will leave at 11:00 AM. Remember, these are the general times of journeys between Chicago, IL and San Francisco, CA. However, they are somewhat changeable as they may be affected by local events or holidays, peak seasons, or other factors. Always check your travel dates in advance to be on the safe side. The first journey of the night departs from Chicago, IL at 11:00 AM. If you prefer to travel later in that night, the last departure will leave at 11:00 AM. Remember, these are the general times of journeys between Chicago, IL and San Francisco, CA. However, they are somewhat changeable as they may be affected by local events or holidays, peak seasons, or other factors. Always check your travel dates in advance to be on the safe side.
Which stations can I use to travel from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA?
Depending on the type of transport, and the provider you decide to use for your journey, you will be able to depart Chicago, IL from the following stations: O Hare International Airport, ORD,Chicago Midway International Airport,Chicago Rockford International Airport,Chicago Union Station. Arriving at San Francisco, CA, your route will pass through all or some of the following stations: San Francisco, CA, Union Square,San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street,San Francisco, Stonestown. Not all transport providers serve every station, so check in advance to see exactly where your route takes you. You may need to use another form of transport to get from one station to another or to your final destination when you arrive in San Francisco, CA.
How many journeys from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA take place each day?
On average, there are 1 daily departures from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA. However, there may be more or less on different days. Providers' timetables can change on certain days of the week or public holidays, and many also vary at particular times of year. Some providers change their schedules during the summer season, for example. At very busy times, there may be up to departures each day. The providers that travel along this route include , and each operates according to their own specific schedules. As a traveler, you may prefer a direct journey, or you may not mind making changes and connections. If you have heavy suitcases, a direct journey could be best; otherwise, you might be able to save money and enjoy more flexibility by making a change along the way. Every day, there are an average of 0 departures from Chicago, IL which travel directly to San Francisco, CA. There are 1 journeys with one change or more. Unfortunately, no connection was found for your trip from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA. Selecting a new departure or arrival city, without dramatically changing your itinerary could help you find connections.
Compare prices and tickets from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA
Book in advance and save
If you're looking for the best deal for your trip from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, 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 Chicago, IL to San Francisco, 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.
Virail Pro Tip ✌: Booking 10 days in advance save 10% on average
Best time to book cheap train tickets from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA
The cheapest Chicago, IL - San Francisco, CA train tickets can be found for as low as ฿4,525.57 if you’re lucky, or ฿6,960.65 on average. The most expensive ticket can cost as much as ฿12,604.74.
Find the best day to travel to San Francisco, CA by train
When travelling to San Francisco, 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!
Carriers on this route
Find out more about the carriers on this route.
Amtrak, formally known as the National Railroad Passenger Corporation, is a U.S. government-owned entity that delivers intercity passenger train services across the country. Operating over 300 trains daily, Amtrak connects more than 500 destinations in 46 states, the District of Columbia, and three Canadian provinces. Its services include a variety of routes, from short-distance commuter lines to extended journeys featuring sleeper car accommodations.
Ticket types and facilities from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA
Compare the different ticket types and the facilities provided by Amtrak when traveling from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA.
Coach
Coach Class passengers enjoy reclining seats with plenty of legroom and fold-down tray tables, along with outlets for electronic devices. They also have access to the Cafe car for food and beverages, along with carry-on baggage service and, on some routes, checked baggage service.
WiFi 
Power sockets 
Luggage 
Accessibility 
Food and drink 
Air conditioning 
Bicycle First Class
On Acela trains, First Class passengers enjoy all the benefits of Business Class with further enhancements. The seats are adjustable leather with extra space for comfort. There is also a complimentary meal service delivered directly to the passengers' seats. First Class travelers have access to ClubAcela lounges at select stations. WiFi 
Quiet zone Power sockets Luggage Accessibility Food and drink Air conditioning Bicycle Business
Stepping up to Business Class, passengers receive all the amenities of Coach Class plus additional legroom and complimentary non-alcoholic drinks. They also gain access to lounges at select stations for a more relaxed wait before boarding. WiFi Quiet zone Power sockets Luggage Accessibility Food and drink Air conditioning Bicycle Facility Description
Find out more about the different facilities available onboard with each carrier on this route.
WiFi Free basic WiFi available in select trains and stations. Some include Acela, Adirondack (not available in Canada), Amtrak Cascades (not available in Canada), Amtrak Hartford Line, Auto Train, Blue Water, Capitol Corridor, Cardinal, Carolinian, Crescent, Downeaster, Empire Service, Ethan, Allen Express, Hiawatha Service, Illini/Saluki, and Illinois Zephyr/Carl Sandburg
WiFi 
Quiet zone Quiet Cars, designed for limited conversation and subdued tones, are available on various trains like Acela, Northeast Regional, and more. The atmosphere is calm with low lighting. Seating follows first-come, first-served and one seat per person policies.
First Class Rooms: For those seeking privacy and space, First Class private rooms are an available option. Quiet zone Power sockets Electric outlets are distributed on trains. For example, Superliner and Viewliner sleepers provide outlets in Roomettes and Bedrooms. Power sockets Air conditioning All trains are air-conditioned. In coaches, temperature is staff-controlled. Sleeper cars offer air temperature adjustments, with vent positioning recommended for comfort. Air conditioning Luggage On Amtrak, regardless of your ticket type, you can typically bring two carry-on bags and two personal items. Just make sure your carry-ons are within 28 x 22 x 14 inches and under 50 lbs. Some locations even allow up to four checked bags: two come free, and two for $20 each, but they should stay under 75 linear inches and 50 lbs. You can also check in overweight luggage, up to 70 lbs and 100 linear inches, for an additional $20 fee. Luggage Accessibility All trains accommodate passengers with disabilities. Features include accessible seats with extra room and areas where passengers can remain in their wheelchairs. Accessibility Food and drink Trains offer various dining options, from meals to café services. Meal service is available for passengers with disabilities. Guidelines are present for personal food, beverages, and medication. Nutritional and allergen information provided for menu items. Food and drink Bicycle Amtrak accommodates various types of special equipment with certain conditions. Bicycles are allowed on many routes, often requiring a reservation and small fee. Wheelchairs, scooters, and other mobility devices are accepted on all trains, with specific accessible seating and bedrooms available. Small musical instruments can be carried on if they fit under the seat or overhead rack, while larger ones must meet carry-on restrictions or be checked. Some sports equipment, like skis or golf clubs, can be carried on or checked depending on size. Bicycle | Facilities | Amtrak | Burlington Trailways | Greyhound |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Quiet zone |  |  | |
|
WiFi | | | |
|
Power sockets | | | |
|
Luggage | | | |
|
Accessibility | | | |
|
Food and drink | | | |
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Air conditioning | | | |
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Bicycle | | | |
Sleeper | | | |
Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA CO2 Emissions by Train
Anything we can improve?