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Fresno, CA, USA to San Diego, CA, USA from $30: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from Fresno 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.

$30 by busBest price
549 kmDistance
1h 47m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Fresno 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  47m
Estimated price
$92-383
Recommended
Company
FlixBus
Bus
Average Duration
8h  34m
Estimated price
$30-97
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 549 km
Duration: 1h 47m

See more options

Company
Greyhound
Bus
Average Duration
8h  21m
Estimated price
$30-97
Company
various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
9h  32m
Estimated price
$60-90
Company
various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
10h  24m
Estimated price
$60-90
Company
self-drive
Drive
Average Duration
5h  43m
Estimated price
$60-90
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Traveling From Fresno to San Diego

Traveling from Fresno to San Diego offers a journey from California's agricultural heartland to a vibrant coastal city known for its beaches and diverse culture.

Best Neighborhoods in San Diego

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

Gaslamp Quarter
• Known for vibrant nightlife and dining options.
• Historic buildings blend with modern attractions.
La Jolla
• Stunning coastal views and upscale shops.
• Great for outdoor activities like kayaking.
Little Italy
• Famous for its fresh farmer's market every Saturday.
• Authentic Italian restaurants and cafés abound.

Best Times To Visit San Diego's Attractions

Maximize your San Diego experience by timing your visits to popular attractions.

Balboa Park
Visit early on weekdays to enjoy quieter gardens and museums.
San Diego Zoo
Go in the morning during weekdays for shorter lines and cooler weather.
USS Midway Museum
Visit in the afternoon for fewer tourists and a relaxed atmosphere.

San Diego Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

San Diego boasts a Mediterranean climate, featuring mild, dry summers and cool, wet winters, making it an appealing destination year-round. Typically, the best times to visit are spring and fall, when temperatures are pleasant, allowing you to enjoy outdoor activities without the summer crowds.

Dining Recommendation

Make sure to try fish tacos at the iconic Oscar’s Mexican Seafood, where the fresh flavors of locally sourced seafood truly shine in a way that contrasts sharply with Fresno’s hearty, farm-based dishes. The laid-back beachside atmosphere and vibrant salsa bar create a dining experience that allows you to savor the essence of San Diego's coastal culture.

Fresno - San Diego operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
alaskaair.com

Plane from Fresno (FAT) to San Diego (SAN)

Average Duration
1h 13m
Estimated price
$922-923
Website
southwest.com

Plane from Fresno (FAT) to San Diego (SAN)

Average Duration
1h 11m
Estimated price
$90-390
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
flixbus.com

Bus from Fresno Bus Station to San Diego

Average Duration
7h 50m
Estimated price
$30-97

Bus from Fresno Bus Station to Bakersfield Train Station

Average Duration
1h 55m
Estimated price
$306-3830
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
greyhound.com

Bus from Fresno Bus Station to Bakersfield Train Station

Average Duration
1h 55m
Estimated price
$305-9245

Bus from Fresno Bus Station to Santa Fe Depot, CA

Average Duration
8h 21m
Estimated price
$30-97
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Fresno to Bakersfield

Average Duration
2h 8m
Estimated price
$924-925

Train from Bakersfield to Los Angeles

Average Duration
2h 30m
Estimated price
$30-100

Train from Los Angeles to San Diego

Average Duration
2h 54m
Estimated price
$3833-925
Drive

Drive from Fresno to San Diego

Average Duration
5h 43m
Estimated price
$60-90

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

Traveling between Fresno 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 Fresno to San Diego covering 341 miles, taking you through diverse landscapes and vibrant towns along the way. 💰 Enjoy the flexibility of prices ranging from $60 to $90 for the journey, giving you the opportunity to plan a budget-friendly or more indulgent trip based on your preferences. 🛣️ Navigate the highways and byways for approximately 5 hours and 43 minutes, savoring the freedom of the open road as you make your way from Fresno to the stunning coastal city of San Diego.
Average price
$60 - $90
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services for your trip from Fresno to San Diego are provided mainly by Amtrak. They offer a dining car with a selection of meals, snacks, and beverages. You can expect hot meals, sandwiches, and vegetarian options, as well as a café service for lighter fare and drinks throughout the journey.
• The Amtrak train from Fresno to San Diego typically offers three seating options: Coach Class, Business Class, and First Class. Coach Class is the most economical choice with basic amenities; Business Class provides roomier seats and complimentary snacks; while First Class offers an elevated experience with wider seats, priority boarding, and enhanced meal options.
• For your journey, the primary operator is Amtrak, and their website for bookings and information is ">">amtrak.com Your trip may include segments by other operators, so be sure to confirm your itinerary. Useful links include the Amtrak station map at San Diego (available on their website). Upon arriving at San Diego's Santa Fe Depot, you can store your luggage at the Amtrak luggage services, and take advantage of available restrooms. There are no shower facilities but several nearby cafés for a quick refresh.
🛫 Flying from Fresno to San Diego is a convenient option with a quick direct flight lasting just 1 hour and 11 minutes. Both Alaska Airlines, Inc. and Southwest Airlines operate flights on this route. 🌴 Upon arrival in San Diego, you can expect a flight duration of approximately 1 hour and 47 minutes. This efficient air route allows for a smooth and swift journey between the two Californian cities. 💸 Prices for flights between Fresno and San Diego typically range from $92 to $383, offering travelers a variety of options to suit their budget and preferences for this short domestic trip.
Departure Point
Fresno Airport
Arrival Point
San Diego Airport
🚌 Traveling from Fresno to San Diego by bus involves a journey of approximately 8 hours and 21 minutes with transfers. The route operates via Bakersfield before reaching the final destination at Santa Fe Depot. 🛣️ The distance covered during the trip is around 323 miles, with two transfers along the way. Passengers will first board a Greyhound bus towards Los Angeles, followed by a FlixBus service to Las Vegas North, and finally, another FlixBus to San Ysidro Bus Terminal at the USA-Mexico Border. 💰 Ticket prices for the Fresno to San Diego bus route can range from $30 to $97, offering a convenient and affordable travel option for those looking to explore different cities within California.
Departure Point
Fresno Bus Station
Arrival Point
Santa Fe Depot, CA station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Prior to your trip, check the schedules for both Greyhound and FlixBus as you will need to connect between services in Los Angeles; a suggested resource is greyhound.com for Greyhound and flixbus.com for FlixBus.
• To make your transfer in Los Angeles smoother, allow ample layover time between buses (at least 30-45 minutes) to navigate the terminal and find the correct platform.
• Upon arriving at Santa Fe Depot in San Diego, familiarize yourself with nearby transport options, including the San Diego Trolley and bus services; you can find helpful maps and schedules at sandiegometrotransit.com

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between Fresno and San Diego is approximately 317 miles. If you choose to travel by train and then bus, the typical travel time is 9 hours and 14 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a plane, which will take about 3 hours and 24 minutes. If you prefer to drive, it will take around 5 hours and 43 minutes. Lastly, taking a bus from Fresno to San Diego has a typical travel time of 9 hours and 9 minutes.
The prices for a bus ticket between San Diego and Fresno can range from $30 to $97. These prices may vary depending on factors such as the time of day, day of the week, and the company you choose to travel with. It is advisable to book your ticket in advance to secure the best possible price for your journey.
To travel from Fresno to San Diego without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of 341 miles. The drive usually takes around 5 hours and 43 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Additionally, the cost of the trip by car typically ranges from $60 to $90, taking into account factors like gas and toll fees.
To travel from Fresno to San Diego without a car, the best option is to take a bus via Bakersfield. This route takes approximately 8 hours and 21 minutes. The cost of the bus fare may vary depending on the specific bus company and time of travel. It is recommended to check the schedule and book the ticket in advance to ensure a smooth journey.
Yes, there is a link between Fresno and San Diego but it requires a transfer. You can take a Greyhound bus from Fresno Bus Station to Bakersfield, and then transfer to another bus to San Diego Santa Fe Depot. The total journey time, including transfers, is approximately 8 hours and 21 minutes. This is the most convenient option if you prefer to travel by bus.
The flight between Fresno and San Diego typically takes around 1 hour and 12 minutes. The prices of a flight between the two cities can vary between $77 to $376. It is important to note that these prices are subject to change and can vary depending on the airline and time of travel.
There are numerous options for accommodation near San Diego. With over 1163 hotels available, travelers can find something that suits their budget and preferences. Prices for hotels in San Diego start at $53 per night. Whether you're looking for a luxury hotel, a budget-friendly option, or something in between, there are plenty of choices to choose from in the area.

Trips to San Diego