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Palm Springs, CA, USA to San Diego, CA, USA from $16: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Palm Springs, United States
to
San Diego, United States

How to Get from Palm Springs to San Diego: 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.

$16 - Bus, TrainBest price
199 kmDistance
2h 11m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Palm Springs to San Diego 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
FlixBus
Bus
Average Duration
5h  35m
Estimated price
$23-103
Recommended
Company
Various
Bus
Train
Average Duration
5h  51m
Estimated price
$16-133
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 199 km
Duration: 2h 11m

See more options

Company
Various
Bus
Train
Average Duration
5h  38m
Estimated price
$22-35
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
2h  11m
Estimated price
$22-35
Company
Various
Bus
Plane
Average Duration
4h  45m
Estimated price
$72-363
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Traveling From Palm Springs to San Diego

The journey from the sunny desert oasis of Palm Springs to the vibrant coastal city of San Diego offers you a stark contrast between tranquil mountain views and lively beach scenes.

Best Neighbourhoods in San Diego

San Diego boasts diverse neighborhoods, each with its own character and charm.

Gaslamp Quarter
• Vibrant nightlife with countless bars and clubs.
• Stunning Victorian architecture throughout the area.
La Jolla
• Beautiful beaches ideal for sunbathing and kayaking.
• Upscale shops and dining with ocean views.
Little Italy
• Culinary haven known for delicious Italian cuisine.
• Charming streets lined with art galleries and boutiques.

Best Times To Visit San Diego's Attractions

Planning your visit to San Diego's attractions can elevate your experience.

Balboa Park
Early morning on weekdays offers a peaceful stroll through lush gardens.
San Diego Zoo
Visit during the cooler hours of the morning for fewer crowds.
Cabrillo National Monument
Weekdays in the late afternoon provide stunning sunset views and quieter trails.

San Diego Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

San Diego boasts a mild, Mediterranean climate with pleasant temperatures year-round, making it a desirable destination at any time. While summer draws larger crowds, spring and fall offer ideal weather for outdoor activities and site exploration.

Dining Recommendation in San Diego

For a taste of San Diego's coastal influences, try the fish tacos at Oscar’s Mexican Seafood, which showcase fresh, local fish and vibrant flavors that contrast with the upscale dining scene of Palm Springs. The casual atmosphere and commitment to using fresh ingredients provide a dining experience that embodies the laid-back Southern California lifestyle.

Palm Springs - San Diego operators

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

Bus
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
flixbus.com

Bus from Palm Springs Downtown to Los Angeles Downtown

Average Duration
1h 50m
Estimated price
$16-103

Bus from Los Angeles Downtown to San Diego

Average Duration
2h 45m
Estimated price
$16-103
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Los Angeles to San Diego

Average Duration
2h 54m
Estimated price
$16-1036

Train from Fullerton Amtrak Station to San Diego

Average Duration
2h 23m
Estimated price
$234-235
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Palm Springs Amtrak Bus Stop to Fullerton Amtrak Station

Average Duration
2h 15m
Estimated price
0-0
Plane
Website
delta.com

Plane from Los Angeles Airport to San Diego Airport

Average Duration
54m
Estimated price
$230-231
Website
united.com

Plane from Los Angeles Airport to San Diego Airport

Average Duration
1h
Estimated price
$232-233

Palm Springs to San Diego: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Palm Springs and San Diego 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 picturesque road trip from Palm Springs to San Diego, covering a scenic driving distance of 124 miles. Enjoy the beautiful California landscape as you make your way to the vibrant city by the sea. 💰 Explore different price options ranging from $22 to $35 for a journey filled with adventure and excitement. Plan your budget accordingly and make the most of your drive from Palm Springs to San Diego, experiencing the best of both destinations. 🌴 Arrive in San Diego after approximately 2 hours and 11 minutes of smooth driving, ready to discover the stunning beaches, delicious food, and diverse culture this coastal city has to offer. Start your memorable coastal adventure with a drive that promises both relaxation and excitement.
Average price
$22 - $35
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard Services: Several operators, such as Amtrak, provide catering services on their Pacific Surfliner trains, offering various snack and beverage options available for purchase. First Class passengers receive complimentary snacks and beverages, while Business Class and Economy Class travelers have access to a café car where they can buy food and drinks.
• Seating Options: For your journey from Palm Springs to San Diego, Amtrak offers Business Class and Economy seating on their Pacific Surfliner route. Business Class features more spacious and comfortable seating with extra legroom, while Economy seats are standard but still provide a comfortable travel experience. Be sure to arrive early to secure your preferred seating choice, especially during busy travel seasons.
• Arrival Station Tip: Upon arriving at San Diego's Santa Fe Depot, you'll find facilities including restrooms, and while there are no shower services available, you can find nearby public showers at local gyms. The station allows for luggage storage at a reasonable fee, so you can explore the city without carrying your bags. To reach the city center quickly, take the Trolley’s 'Blue Line' (towards UTC), exiting at 'America Plaza' station, which is downtown.
🛫 Embark on a quick and convenient journey from Palm Springs to San Diego by catching a flight from Los Angeles Airport. The direct flight typically takes just 52 minutes, offering a stress-free way to travel between the two vibrant California cities.
Departure Point
Los Angeles Airport
Arrival Point
San Diego Airport
🚌 Taking a bus from Palm Springs to San Diego involves a transfer in Los Angeles Downtown. The journey, operated by Flixbus USA, lasts approximately 5 hours and 35 minutes. 🚌 While the journey may take around 6 hours, the affordable prices and scenic views along the way make traveling by bus a convenient and enjoyable option for reaching San Diego from Palm Springs.
Departure Point
Palm Springs Downtown station
Arrival Point
San Diego station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Make sure to check the FlixBus schedule for the latest updates on your departure, as routes can vary; you can find the timetable at flixbus.com
• Since your journey involves transfers, be prepared for a brief wait at each station; always allow for additional time for connections, especially at popular transfer points like San Bernardino Greyhound Station, which can be busy—visit greyhound.com for info.
• Upon arrival at San Diego's Greyhound Station, head to the nearby Santa Fe Depot if you plan to use local transit; it's a major hub for buses and the trolley, making it easy to navigate around the city—more details can be found at sandiatrolley.com

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Palm Springs to San Diego.

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The distance between Palm Springs and San Diego is approximately 137 km when measured in a straight line, or 199 km when driving on the road. Typical travel times differ depending on the mode of transportation chosen. By car, it takes around 2 hours and 11 minutes to reach Palm Springs from San Diego. Alternatively, taking a bus and then a train can take approximately 5 hours and 38 minutes to travel from Palm Springs to San Diego.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Palm Springs to San Diego is by driving. It takes approximately 2 hours and 11 minutes and costs around $22-$35 in fuel expenses.
The prices of a bus ticket for travel between San Diego and Palm Springs can range from $25 to $107 depending on factors such as the time of travel and the type of bus service.
To get from Palm Springs to San Diego without using public transportation, you can drive. The distance between the two cities is approximately 200 km, and it takes around 2 hours and 11 minutes to drive. The cost of driving from Palm Springs to San Diego is typically between $22 and $35, depending on factors such as gas prices and vehicle efficiency.
The best way to travel from Palm Springs to San Diego without a car is to take a combination of bus and train. The journey takes approximately 5 hours and 38 minutes.
Yes, there is a link between Palm Springs and San Diego although there is no direct bus route. Travelers can take a combination of bus and train, with a journey time of approximately 5 hours and 40 minutes, including transfers. The bus departs from Palm Springs Amtrak Bus Stop and arrives at San Diego Santa Fe Depot via Fullerton Amtrak Station.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near San Diego. With over 1163 hotels to choose from, travelers have a wide range of choices to suit their preferences and budgets. Prices start at $53, ensuring that there are options available for all types of travelers.