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Tucson, AZ, USA to San Diego, CA, USA from $48: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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from
Tucson, United States of America
to
San Diego, United States of America

How to Get from Tucson 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.

$48 by busBest price
591 kmDistance
1h 58m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Tucson 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
various
Plane
Average Duration
1h  58m
Estimated price
$157-506
Recommended
Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
13h  54m
Estimated price
$26-259
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 591 km
Duration: 1h 58m

See more options

Company
FlixBus
Bus
Average Duration
11h  51m
Estimated price
$48-168
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
6h  26m
Estimated price
$75-1570
Company
various
Drive
Bus
Average Duration
15h  30m
Estimated price
$117-167
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Traveling From Tucson to San Diego

Your journey from Tucson's desert landscapes to San Diego's stunning coastline offers a delightful contrast between arid beauty and vibrant ocean view.

Best Neighbourhoods in San Diego

San Diego boasts a variety of neighborhoods, each with its own charm.

La Jolla
• Stunning coastal views and beaches.
• Upscale dining and shopping options.
Gaslamp Quarter
• Vibrant nightlife and entertainment scene.
• Historic architecture and modern amenities.
Little Italy
• Renowned for its authentic Italian cuisine.
• Hosts popular weekly farmers' market.

Best Times To Visit San Diego's Attractions

Timing your visits can greatly enhance your San Diego experience.

Balboa Park
Visit early on weekdays to enjoy fewer crowds and peaceful walks.
San Diego Zoo
Arrive right when it opens for shorter lines and cooler temperatures.
USS Midway Museum
Explore during late afternoons for a quieter experience and stunning sunset views.

San Diego Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

San Diego boasts a mild Mediterranean climate, making it an inviting destination any time of year; however, the best periods to visit are typically in spring and fall when temperatures are comfortable and crowds are lighter. Weather plays a significant role in your travel plans, as sunny days enhance outdoor activities while cooler nights offer pleasant evenings by the coast.

Dining Recommendation in San Diego

For a refreshing change from Tucson's Southwestern fare, try the fish tacos at The Fish Market, where you can savor incredibly fresh seafood right by the waterfront. The vibrant atmosphere and use of local ingredients highlight San Diego's coastal flavors, offering a dining experience that feels both laid-back and invigorating.

Tucson - San Diego operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
southwest.com

Plane from Tucson Airport (TUS) to San Diego Airport (SAN)

Average Duration
1h 19m
Estimated price
$1575-1576
Website
aa.com

Plane from Tucson Airport (TUS) to San Diego Airport (SAN)

Average Duration
3h 20m
Estimated price
$1577-1578
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Tucson Amtrak Station to Los Angeles

Average Duration
10h
Estimated price
$1579-5060

Train from Los Angeles to San Diego

Average Duration
2h 54m
Estimated price
$5068-5069
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
flixbus.com

Bus from Tucson to Riverside

Average Duration
8h 10m
Estimated price
$5062-5064

Bus from Riverside to San Diego

Average Duration
2h 30m
Estimated price
$267-5065
Shuttle
Contact phone
+1 602 442 6802
Website
nenasshuttles.com

Shuttle from Tucson to Puerto Peñasco

Average Duration
4h 30m
Estimated price
$75-0
all-pages.other Show other routes
Contact phone
+52 664 104 7400
Website
abc.com.mx

Other from Puerto Peñasco to Tijuana

Average Duration
7h 10m
Estimated price
$268-5061

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

Traveling between Tucson 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 scenic road trip from Tucson to San Diego spanning a distance of 413 miles. Enjoy the diverse landscapes of the Southwest as you cruise towards California's vibrant coast. 🌄 The journey typically takes around 6 hours and 26 minutes, offering ample time to appreciate the changing scenery and make pit stops in charming towns along the way. From desert vistas to coastal views, this drive showcases the beauty of the Southwest. 💸 Prices for this road trip adventure can range from $75 to $110, providing budget-friendly options for travelers seeking a memorable journey from Tucson to the sunny shores of San Diego. Pack your bags, hit the road, and create lasting memories on this exciting drive through the Southwest.
Average price
$75 - $110
🚆 Embark on a scenic train journey from Tucson to San Diego with a total travel time of approximately 13 hours and 54 minutes. While there is no direct route, you'll pass through Los Angeles before reaching your final destination. 🎟️ Enjoy the convenience and comfort of Amtrak train services, with prices ranging from $26 to $259 for the Tucson to San Diego route. Make sure to plan for transfers during the trip to seamlessly reach San Diego station. 🌴 Take in the breathtaking views as you cover a distance of 627 miles over the course of this train adventure. With two steps involving trains from Tucson to Los Angeles and then to San Diego, this trip promises to be a memorable way to explore the Southwest landscapes.
Departure Point
Tucson Amtrak Station
Arrival Point
San Diego station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services for your train trip from Tucson to San Diego typically include dining options like snack bars or refreshment carts, depending on the operator. Amtrak offers a Café Car with a variety of snacks, meals, and beverages, so consider purchasing food or drinks to enjoy during your journey.
• Seating options for this route generally include Business Class and Coach (Economy) Class. In Business Class, you can expect more spacious seating, additional legroom, and a quiet environment, while Coach Class will offer a more affordable option but with standard seating. Amtrak provides comfortable seating in both classes, but if you prefer a more luxurious experience, Business Class is the way to go.
• The primary operator for this route is Amtrak. You can visit their website at amtrak.com for schedules and booking options. Another option for this journey is Greyhound if you consider bus travel. Visit greyhound.com for more details. For local transport schedules in San Diego, the Metropolitan Transit System provides valuable resources at sdmts.com
🛫 Flying from Tucson to San Diego is a breeze with a quick direct flight that only takes 1 hour and 15 minutes. Both American Airlines and Southwest Airlines operate flights on this route. 🏖 The total travel time from Tucson to San Diego by plane is approximately 1 hour and 58 minutes, making it a convenient and efficient way to reach this coastal destination from the desert. 💸 Flight prices between Tucson and San Diego can range from $157 to $506, offering travelers a variety of options to suit their budget and travel preferences.
Departure Point
Tucson Airport
Arrival Point
San Diego Airport
🚌 Traveling from Tucson to San Diego by bus takes approximately 11 hours and 51 minutes. The prices for this journey can vary from $48 to $168, offering affordable options for different budgets.
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Make sure to check the schedule for transfers at the Los Angeles station, as your journey will involve a significant layover; planning your meals and breaks can help make this waiting time more enjoyable. You can find schedules on the Greyhound website: greyhound.com
• Bring snacks and drinks for the bus ride, as there can be limited options during the trip; consider packing items that are easy to eat and won't create a mess, as some buses allow you to carry food as long as it remains sealed.
• Upon arrival at the San Diego Bus Station (500 W Broadway), be prepared to navigate the area by familiarizing yourself with nearby public transport options such as the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) for buses and trolleys, which easily connects you to downtown San Diego; more information can be found here: sdmts.com

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Tucson to San Diego.

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The cheapest way to get from Tucson to San Diego is by train. The train tickets can range from $26 to $260, depending on the class and availability. The journey duration is approximately 13 hours and 54 minutes. However, it is advisable to check the train schedules and prices before traveling to ensure the most accurate information.
The fastest way to travel from Tucson to San Diego is by flying. The flight duration is approximately 3 hours and 26 minutes, making it the most time-efficient option. Flight fares can range between $120 and $430, depending on the airline and the time of booking. Flying allows you to reach your destination quickly and comfortably, avoiding the long travel time associated with other modes of transportation.
Tucson is approximately 367 miles away from San Diego. The road distance is slightly longer, around 412.5 miles. The driving time may vary depending on traffic and the chosen route, but it usually takes around 6-7 hours to drive from Tucson to San Diego. Keep in mind that these are approximations and actual travel times may differ.
The best way to travel from Tucson to San Diego without a car is by taking a bus. The journey takes approximately 13 hours and 30 minutes, depending on traffic and other factors, and the price ranges from $55 to $170. There are several bus companies that operate the route between Tucson and San Diego, offering comfortable and convenient transportation options for travelers. It is advisable to check the schedules and book your ticket in advance to secure your preferred travel time.
The travel time from Tucson to San Diego varies depending on the mode of transportation. By car, the journey typically takes about 6-7 hours, depending on traffic and route. By bus, it usually takes around 8-10 hours, depending on the specific bus schedule and stops. By plane, the flight duration is typically around 1 hour and 15 minutes, including check-in and security procedures.
The quickest way to travel from Tucson to San Diego is by flying, which takes about 3 hours and 26 minutes and costs between $120 and $430. Another option is to take a bus, which takes about 13 hours and 30 minutes and costs between $55 and $170. Alternatively, you can choose to take a train, which takes about 13 hours and 54 minutes and costs between $26 and $260. The mode of transportation will depend on your budget and preference for travel time.
There are numerous accommodation options near San Diego. With over 1163 hotels available, travelers can choose from a range of options suitable for various budgets and preferences. Prices for hotels start at $53 per night, providing affordable options for those on a budget. Visitors can explore different neighborhoods in San Diego to find hotels that best suit their needs, whether they prefer beachfront locations, downtown convenience, or suburban tranquility.
Yes, you can drive from Tucson to San Diego. The distance between the two cities is approximately 413 miles, and the drive typically takes around 6 hours and 26 minutes. It is important to plan your route, taking into consideration any possible traffic or road conditions. Additionally, ensure that your vehicle is in good condition and that you have enough fuel for the journey.
Yes, there is no direct bus service between Tucson and San Diego. However, you can take a bus from Tucson to San Diego with a transfer in Los Angeles Union Station. The journey takes around 13 hours and 30 minutes, including the transfer. It is recommended to check the schedules and book your tickets in advance to ensure a smooth journey.
You can catch the Tucson to San Diego bus from the Tucson station. The bus service is provided by Flixbus USA. Make sure to check the schedule and arrive at the station on time. Bus tickets can be purchased online or at the station.
The Tucson to San Diego bus arrives at the San Diego station. The bus service is operated by Greyhound Mexico, and this is the final destination for this particular route. The San Diego station is conveniently located in the heart of downtown San Diego, making it easily accessible for travelers to reach their final destination.
To get to San Diego from Tucson Airport, you can take a connecting flight from Tucson to San Diego International Airport. There are multiple airlines that offer direct flights between the two cities. The average flight duration is around 1 hour and 20 minutes. Upon arrival at San Diego International Airport, you can easily access the city by taking a taxi, shuttle service, rideshare, or renting a car.
American Airlines and Southwest Airlines are the two main airlines that operate flights between Tucson and San Diego. Both airlines offer direct flights from Tucson Airport to San Diego Airport. It is recommended to check their websites or use a flight search engine to find the most up-to-date information on flight schedules and prices for this route.
The fastest way to travel from Tucson to San Diego is by plane. The quickest flight from Tucson Airport to San Diego Airport is a direct flight which takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. American Airlines and Southwest Airlines offer flights on this route. The total travel time by plane is approximately 3 hours and 26 minutes. Flight prices between Tucson and San Diego range from $121 to $425.
The flight from Tucson to San Diego typically takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes for a direct flight. However, depending on factors such as weather conditions and air traffic, the duration may vary. It is always recommended to check with the airline for the most accurate and up-to-date flight information.
Trains from Tucson to San Diego arrive at the San Diego station. This is the final destination for the train journey. The San Diego station is located in downtown San Diego, making it convenient for travelers to explore the city upon arrival. Amtrak operates the train services between Tucson and San Diego, providing a reliable transportation option for travelers.
Yes, there is no direct train between Tucson and San Diego. However, you can take a train from Tucson Amtrak Station to San Diego with a transfer in Los Angeles. The journey takes approximately 13 hours and 54 minutes. It is recommended to check the train schedules and make sure to allow enough time for the transfer in Los Angeles.
To catch the train from Tucson to San Diego you will need to go to the Tucson Amtrak Station. This is where the train services, operated by Amtrak, depart from. Make sure to check the train schedule in advance and arrive at the station ahead of time to ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey.
The cost of a flight from Tucson to San Diego can range from $121 to $425 depending on various factors such as the airline, time of booking, and availability. It is advisable to book your flight in advance and explore different airlines to find the best deal. Additionally, keep an eye out for any promotions or discounts offered by airlines to potentially get a cheaper fare.
The cost of a train from Tucson to San Diego ranges from $26 to $259. The actual price depends on factors such as the type of ticket, the class of service, and the availability of discounts or promotions. It is recommended to check the specific prices and options with the train service provider for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
The cost of a bus ticket from Tucson to San Diego ranges from $56 to $167. The price may vary depending on factors such as the bus company, time of travel, and availability of discounts. It is recommended to check with different bus operators to compare prices and find the best deal. Additionally, booking in advance or being flexible with travel dates can help in securing lower fares.
The cost of driving from Tucson to San Diego can vary depending on factors such as the type of vehicle, gas prices, and tolls. On average, the cost ranges from $75 to $110 for a one-way trip. This estimate includes expenses for fuel, tolls, and possibly additional costs such as parking fees. It is always a good idea to budget for potential extra expenses and to check gas prices and toll rates before embarking on the journey.

Trips to San Diego