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Los Angeles, CA, USA to Tijuana from $24: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Los Angeles, United States
to
Tijuana, Mexico

How to Get from Los Angeles to Tijuana: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$24 by busBest price
209.2 kmDistance
2h 25m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Los Angeles to Tijuana 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.

Company
various
Train
Tram
Average Duration
3h  55m
Estimated price
$7-88
Recommended
route map
Distance: 209.2 km
Duration: 2h 25m

See more options

Company
Greyhound USA
Bus
Average Duration
4h  55m
Estimated price
$19-45
Company
Sacramento
Bus
Average Duration
4h  54m
Estimated price
$24-37
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
2h  25m
Estimated price
$25-40
Company
various
Plane
Tram
Average Duration
3h  55m
Estimated price
$62-318
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Traveling From Los Angeles to Tijuana

Embark on a journey from the vibrant, sprawling streets of Los Angeles to the lively, cultural atmosphere of Tijuana, where urban style meets rich Mexican traditions.

Best Neighbourhoods in Tijuana

Tijuana boasts vibrant neighborhoods, each offering its own character and charm.

Zona Rio
• Known for its modern shopping and dining options.
• Home to cultural sites and lively nightlife.
Centro
• Features a mix of historic and contemporary architecture.
• Ideal for street food lovers and local artisans.
Playas de Tijuana
• Stunning ocean views and a relaxed beach atmosphere.
• Great for water activities and seaside restaurants.

Best Times To Visit Tijuana's Attractions

Timing your visit can enhance your experience at Tijuana's top destinations.

Cultural Center Tijuana
Visit early in the morning during weekdays for fewer crowds and a calm atmosphere.
Avenida Revolución
Explore late afternoon or early evening for vibrant street life and fewer tourists.
Playas de Tijuana
Go on a weekday morning to enjoy tranquility and beautiful coastal views.

Tijuana Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Tijuana enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate, making it comfortable for year-round visits. The best times to explore are from late spring to early fall when the weather is warm and sunny, ensuring pleasant outdoor activities and vibrant local events.

Dining in Tijuana: A Flavorful Contrast

Try the street tacos at La Taquía, where fresh tortillas and bold salsas create an explosion of flavors that set them apart from Los Angeles dining. The casual, vibrant atmosphere and the use of locally sourced ingredients elevate the experience, showcasing authentic Mexican culinary traditions.

Los Angeles - Tijuana operators

Explore transport companies operating between Los Angeles and Tijuana, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Bus
Website
crossborderxpress.com

Bus from East Los Angeles to Tijuana, MX

Average Duration
3h 20m
Estimated price
$22-35
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
greyhound.com

Bus from Los Angeles Union Station to Tijuana

Average Duration
4h 55m
Estimated price
$16-55
Contact phone
+52 800 890 6821
Website
greyhound.com.mx

Bus from Los Angeles Union Station to Tijuana Central Bus Terminal

Average Duration
5h 40m
Estimated price
$19-45
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Los Angeles to San Diego Old Town Transportation Center

Average Duration
2h 40m
Estimated price
$5-85
Tram
Contact phone
+1 619-233-3004
Website
sdmts.com

Tram from Old Town Station to San Ysidro Station

Average Duration
57m
Estimated price
$1-3
Plane
Website
delta.com

Plane from Los Angeles Airport to San Diego Airport

Average Duration
54m
Estimated price
$190-320
Website
united.com

Plane from Los Angeles Airport to San Diego Airport

Average Duration
1h
Estimated price
$180-380

Los Angeles to Tijuana: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Los Angeles and Tijuana 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 road trip from Los Angeles to Tijuana, covering a distance of 225.3 km in just over 2 hours. 💸 Explore budget-friendly options as the cost of driving from Los Angeles to Tijuana by car ranges from $25 to $40.
Average price
$25 - $40
Useful tips for car travellers
• Fill up your gas tank before crossing the border; gas prices in the U.S. are approximately $1.20 per liter, while in Mexico, expect to pay around $1.04 per liter, making it cheaper once you arrive.
• Take the I-5 South to the San Ysidro border crossing, but be aware of heavy traffic during peak hours, especially weekends; use navigation apps like Waze or Google Maps to check real-time conditions and potential detours.
• Once in Tijuana, parking in the city center can range from $10 to $20 per day; avoid restricted zones marked with red curbs and be mindful of local traffic laws, such as no drinking and driving and mandatory seatbelt use.
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services vary by operator, but typically you'll find options like complimentary snacks and beverages in First Class, while Economy may offer purchase options. For example, Amtrak offers a café car with a variety of food and drink selections. Check Amtrak's website for their onboard menu: amtrak.com
• For your journey, the main train operator is Amtrak, which provides options like Business Class and Economy seating. Business Class features more spacious seating and complimentary amenities, while Economy offers standard seating. Visit the Amtrak website for detailed seating arrangements: amtrak.com
• After arriving in Tijuana at the Tijuana International Airport station, navigate to the bus terminal just outside the station for quick access to the city center. The fastest way is to take the Tijuana Trolebus (Bus lines 1 or 2) which will connect you directly to downtown. More info can be found here: tijuana.gob.mx and for bus routes here: tijuanatransport.com
🛫 The quickest way to travel from Los Angeles to Tijuana by plane is to first fly from Los Angeles Airport to San Diego Airport, which takes approximately 52 minutes on a direct flight. Delta and United Airlines are some of the airlines that offer this route.
Departure Point
Los Angeles Airport
Arrival Point
San Diego Airport
🚌 The bus journey from Los Angeles to Tijuana takes approximately 4 hours and 55 minutes, departing every four hours from Los Angeles Union Station. 🌮 Upon arrival in Tijuana, you will reach the Tijuana station after a comfortable ride operated by Greyhound USA. The prices for this route can vary between $24 to $37.
Departure Point
Los Angeles Union Station
Arrival Point
Tijuana station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Be sure to book your tickets in advance through Greyhound USA, greyhound.com, to avoid any last-minute hassles as buses often fill up, especially on weekends.
• Pack snacks and drinks for the journey, but note that you cannot bring liquids over 3.4 ounces across the border, so plan accordingly—consider purchasing beverages after passing through security at the Tijuana station.
• Upon arrival at the Tijuana station, familiarize yourself with the layout, as you will need to go through customs and immigration; look for clearly marked signs for international arrivals, and consider downloading the Tijuana Metro app (available on iOS and Android) to navigate public transport options smoothly.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Los Angeles to Tijuana.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Los Angeles and Tijuana is approximately 209.2 km. The road distance is slightly longer at 224.5 km. The typical travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. By train and tram, it takes about 3 hours and 55 minutes to reach Tijuana from Los Angeles. By car, the travel time is around 2 hours and 25 minutes to reach Los Angeles from Tijuana. Lastly, by bus, the journey takes approximately 4 hours and 54 minutes to reach Tijuana from Los Angeles.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Los Angeles to Tijuana is by bus, with prices ranging from $23 to $40. The bus journey takes approximately 4 hours and 54 minutes. However, if you are looking for a quicker option, driving from Los Angeles to Tijuana is the best choice. It takes around 2 hours and 25 minutes to reach Tijuana by car, with costs ranging from $25 to $40 for fuel and tolls.
When traveling from Los Angeles to Tijuana, the prices for a bus ticket can range from $24 to $37.
To get from Los Angeles to Tijuana without using public transportation, you can opt to drive your own car. The driving distance between Los Angeles and Tijuana is approximately 225.3 km, and it takes around 2 hours and 25 minutes to drive.
If you don't have a car, the best way to travel from Los Angeles to Tijuana is by bus. The journey takes approximately 4 hours and 54 minutes, and ticket prices range from $23 to $40.
Yes, there is a direct link between Los Angeles and Tijuana. Greyhound USA operates a bus service that departs from Los Angeles Union Station and arrives at Tijuana station. The bus journey typically takes around 4 hours and 55 minutes.
The flight between Los Angeles and Tijuana typically takes around 59 minutes. This is for the direct flight from Los Angeles Airport to San Diego Airport, which is the nearest airport to Tijuana. The cost of the flight can vary depending on the specific airline and time of booking, but it is generally quite affordable, with prices starting as low as $100 round trip.
There are numerous options for accommodation near Tijuana. With over 406 hotels available, travelers can find a range of choices to suit their needs and budget. Prices for hotels start at $54 per night, providing affordable options for those on a tight budget.

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