San Diego, CA, USA to Riverside, CA, USA from $12: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car
Compare Travel Options and Prices
How to Get from San Diego to Riverside: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way
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$12 by busBest price
159 kmDistance
1h 43m Fastest
Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options
Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from San Diego to Riverside 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.
San Diego - Riverside operators
Explore transport companies operating between San Diego and Riverside, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html
Train from San Diego to Santa Ana
Average Duration
1h 58mEstimated price
$133-134Train from San Diego - Santa Fe Depot to Oceanside Transit Center Platform 3
Average Duration
1h 2mEstimated price
$124-123Contact phone
(800) 371-LINK (5465)Website
https://metrolinktrains.com
Train from Santa Ana to Riverside-Downtown
Average Duration
57mEstimated price
$120-137Train from Oceanside to Riverside-Downtown
Average Duration
2h 4mEstimated price
$139-130Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585Website
https://www.flixbus.com
Bus from San Diego to Riverside
Average Duration
2h 25mEstimated price
$131-132San Diego to Riverside: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips
Traveling between San Diego and Riverside 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 journey from San Diego to Riverside, covering a distance of 99 miles. Enjoy the smooth ride as you cruise through the diverse landscapes of Southern California.
💰 Experience affordable travel options, with prices ranging from $17 to $26 for the road trip from San Diego to Riverside. Budget-friendly yet fulfilling, this journey promises both convenience and savings for travelers.
🌄 Arrive in Riverside in just under 2 hours, feeling refreshed and ready to explore the city's unique attractions and vibrant culture. Your road trip adventure from San Diego to Riverside is sure to be a memorable experience filled with excitement and discovery.
Average price
$17 - $26
🚆 When traveling from San Diego to Riverside by train, there is no direct route available. Passengers will need to make a transfer at Santa Ana station, making the journey approximately 3 hours and 55 minutes in duration.
🚆 Prices for the train journey between San Diego and Riverside can vary, with fares ranging from $13 to $101. Despite the need for a transfer, taking the train offers a comfortable and efficient mode of transportation between these two Southern California cities.
Departure Point
San Diego station
Arrival Point
Riverside-Downtown station
Useful tips for train travellers
Onboard Services: If you are traveling with Amtrak, they offer a café car where you can purchase snacks, beverages, and light meals during the journey. It's advisable to check the menu in advance online to plan your meals, especially if you have dietary restrictions.
Seating Options: On the Amtrak Pacific Surfliner, which runs on this route, you can choose between Coach Class and Business Class. Coach Class provides spacious seats that recline, while Business Class offers larger, more comfortable seats with extra legroom and access to complimentary beverages. Make your selection based on your comfort preference and budget.
Arrival Station Tip: Upon arrival at Riverside station, note that there are restroom facilities available. For luggage storage, check ahead as the station may not offer luggage-check services. After your journey, be prepared to navigate through the compact layout of the station, which connects you easily to local transit options.
🚌 Traveling from San Diego to Riverside by bus takes approximately 4 hours and 27 minutes, offering a convenient transportation option for those looking to make this journey.
🚌 The bus prices between Riverside and San Diego can range from $12 to $54, providing a budget-friendly means of transportation for travelers.
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Make sure to check the Greyhound bus schedule in advance, as the San Diego to San Bernardino leg of your journey can vary in frequency; you can find more information at greyhound.com
• Bring snacks and water for the journey, especially since depending on your chosen route, transfers can take time and you may not have access to food during the journey.
• Upon arriving at the Riverside Transit Agency stop (University @ Lemon), be aware that it's a busy area; familiarize yourself with local dining options like The Salted Pig or The Green Room, both within walking distance, to enjoy a meal before heading to your final destination.
Frequently asked questions
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The distance between San Diego and Riverside is approximately 140 km by road. The typical travel time by train is around 3 hours and 55 minutes. If you prefer to drive, it usually takes about 1 hour and 43 minutes to reach San Diego from Riverside. Alternatively, taking a bus from San Diego to Riverside typically takes around 4 hours and 56 minutes.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from San Diego to Riverside is to drive. The drive takes approximately 1 hour and 43 minutes and costs between $17 and $26. Taking a train is also a viable option, although it takes longer at 3 hours and 55 minutes.
The prices for train travel between San Diego and Riverside can range from $13 to $101, depending on factors such as the class of service and the time of booking. On the other hand, bus tickets for travel between Riverside and San Diego can vary from $12 to $51, again depending on factors such as the bus company and the time of travel.
To travel from San Diego to Riverside without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of 159 km, which takes approximately 1 hour and 43 minutes. The driving route between the two cities is easily accessible and well-maintained. The cost of the journey by car can range from $17 to $26, depending on factors such as fuel prices and tolls.
The best way to travel from San Diego to Riverside without a car is by train. The journey takes approximately 3 hours and 55 minutes. Train tickets can cost anywhere from $12 to $110, depending on the class and availability.
Yes, there is a link between San Diego and Riverside through train and bus services. However, there is no direct train from San Diego to Riverside, and the journey takes approximately 3 hours and 55 minutes with a transfer at Santa Ana station. The bus journey, operated by Flixbus USA and Riverside Transit Agency, takes approximately 4 hours and 56 minutes with transfers.
There are several accommodation options available near Riverside. With over 197 hotels to choose from, visitors have a wide range of choices to suit their budget and preferences. Prices for hotels start at $69, offering affordable options for travelers.