Carlsbad, CA, USA to San Marcos, CA, USA from $2: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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How to Get from Carlsbad to San Marcos: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$2 by carBest price

24 kmDistance

17m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Carlsbad to San Marcos with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

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Carlsbad - San Marcos operators

Explore transport companies operating between Carlsbad and San Marcos, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Train

Website

gonctd.com

Train from Coast Hwy Station to San Marcos Civic Center Station

Average Duration

38m

Estimated price

$2-6

Bus

Website

gonctd.com

Bus from Marron Rd & Monroe St to Vista Transit Center Stall 4

Average Duration

33m

Estimated price

$1-5

Bus from Vista Transit Center Stall 7 to Mission Rd & Pico Av

Average Duration

29m

Estimated price

$1-5

Taxi

Contact phone

+1 760-444-4444

Website

driveu.com

Taxi from Carlsbad to San Marcos

Average Duration

17m

Estimated price

$50-65

Contact phone

+1 760-722-2227

Website

craigscabs.com

Taxi from Carlsbad to San Marcos

Average Duration

17m

Estimated price

$50-65

Contact phone

+1 760-722-7472

Taxi from Carlsbad to San Marcos

Average Duration

17m

Estimated price

$50-65

Carlsbad to San Marcos: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Carlsbad and San Marcos offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on a scenic 15-mile journey from Carlsbad to San Marcos, enjoying the breathtaking views along the way. With only a 17-minute drive, you'll reach your destination in no time. 💰 Indulge in an affordable travel experience with prices ranging from $2 to $4 for the trip from Carlsbad to San Marcos by car. Budget-friendly and convenient, it's a cost-effective way to explore the area.

Average price

$2 - $4

🚆 Traveling from Carlsbad to San Marcos by train is a convenient and efficient journey. The direct train service operated by North County Transit departs from Coast Hwy Station and arrives at San Marcos Civic Center Station, with services running hourly every day. The trip typically takes around 38 minutes. 🌴 For longer-distance travel to San Marcos from Carlsbad there are two route options with multiple transfers. Route 1 involves taking a train to San Diego, then transferring to a train to Los Angeles, and finally boarding the Texas Eagle train to reach San Marcos 2 includes a train journey to L.A. Union Station before connecting to the Texas Eagle train for the final leg of the trip.

Departure Point

Coast Hwy Station

Arrival Point

San Marcos Civic Center Station

🚌 Although there is no direct bus from Carlsbad to San Marcos, you can take a journey with transfers that lasts approximately 1h 20m. 💸 The prices for a bus ticket between Carlsbad and San Marcos can range from $3 to $10, making it an affordable option for travel between the two cities.

Departure Point

Marron Rd & Monroe St station

Arrival Point

Mission Rd & Pico Av station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Carlsbad to San Marcos.

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The distance between Carlsbad and San Marcos is approximately 18 km or 24 km by road. Traveling by car, it typically takes around 20-30 minutes to reach Carlsbad from San Marcos. However, if you prefer to travel by bus, the journey usually takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes.

The most cost-effective option for traveling from Carlsbad to San Marcos is to drive, as it only takes 17 minutes and costs around $2-$4 for fuel expenses. If time is a priority, taking a taxi is the fastest option, also taking 17 minutes, but costs between $50-$65.

The prices for a bus ticket between San Marcos and Carlsbad vary from $3 to $10.

To travel from Carlsbad to San Marcos without using public transportation, you can drive the 24 km distance, which takes approximately 17 minutes. The driving route is convenient and allows you to have more flexibility in your schedule. The cost of fuel for the trip averages between $2 and $4, depending on the current gas prices.

The best way to travel from Carlsbad to San Marcos without a car is by tram. The tram journey takes approximately 38 minutes and costs between $2 and $6. This is a convenient and affordable option for those who do not have access to a car or prefer not to drive. Another alternative is taking a bus, which takes around 1 hour and 20 minutes, but the tram is generally quicker and more efficient.

Yes, there is a direct train link between Carlsbad and San Marcos. The train departs from Coast Hwy Station and arrives at San Marcos Civic Center Station, with services operating hourly every day. The journey takes approximately 38 minutes. Additionally, there is no direct bus route between Carlsbad and San Marcos, but there are bus services available with transfers. The bus journey, including transfers, takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes.

There are numerous options for accommodation near San Marcos. There are over 642 hotels to choose from, with prices starting at $52. Visitors can find a range of accommodations to suit their preferences, including budget hotels, luxury resorts, and cozy bed and breakfasts. Some popular options include the Residence Inn by Marriott, the Lakehouse Hotel and Resort, and the Hampton Inn San Marcos.

Yes, it is possible to travel from Carlsbad to San Marcos by bicycle. The distance between the two cities is approximately 2300 km, and the estimated travel time by bike is 119 hours and 30 minutes.