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Los Altos, CA, USA to San Diego, CA, USA from $27: 9 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Los Altos, United States of America
to
San Diego, United States of America

How to Get from Los Altos 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.

$27 by trainBest price
716 kmDistance
3h 19m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Los Altos 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
Bus
Plane
Average Duration
4h  24m
Estimated price
$47-299
Recommended
Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
16h  33m
Estimated price
$27-256
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 716 km
Duration: 3h 19m

See more options

Company
various
Tram
BART
Plane
Average Duration
5h  20m
Estimated price
$65-307
Company
various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
4h  43m
Estimated price
$80-297
Company
various
Drive
Plane
Average Duration
3h  19m
Estimated price
$135-470
Company
various
Bus
Train
Average Duration
12h  10m
Estimated price
$471-472
Company
Greyhound USA
Bus
Average Duration
12h  58m
Estimated price
$473-474
Company
FlixBus
Bus
Average Duration
12h  19m
Estimated price
$475-472
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
8h  1m
Estimated price
$476-477

Traveling From Los Altos to San Diego

The journey from Los Altos to San Diego presents a fascinating shift from the serene, wooded neighborhoods of Silicon Valley to the vibrant, sun-soaked beaches and lively atmosphere of Southern California.

Best Neighbourhoods in San Diego

San Diego boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences for visitors.

Gaslamp Quarter
• Known for its vibrant nightlife and restaurants.
• Rich in historic architecture and charm.
La Jolla
• Stunning coastal views and upscale shopping.
• Popular spot for kayaking and marine life watching.
Mission Beach
• Ideal for surfing, beach volleyball, and sunbathing.
• Offers a lively boardwalk with shops and eateries.

Best Times To Visit San Diego's Attractions

Planning your visits to San Diego's attractions can enhance your experience.

Balboa Park
Visit early in the morning on weekdays for fewer crowds and cooler weather.
San Diego Zoo
Choose midweek in the off-season to enjoy shorter lines and better animal activity.
USS Midway Museum
Early afternoons offer a quieter visit, allowing for a more immersive experience.

San Diego Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

San Diego enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate, making it a welcoming destination throughout the year. While spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds, summer can bring heat and visitors seeking coastal relief.

Dining Recommendation in San Diego

In San Diego, savor the fish tacos at Oscar's Mexican Seafood, where fresh, local ingredients and bold flavors create a lively dining experience that contrasts sharply with the California cuisine found in Los Altos. The casual beachside atmosphere and the tantalizing blend of spices and textures provide a unique taste of Southern California's coastal culture.

Los Altos - San Diego operators

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

Bus
Contact phone
+1 408-321-2300
Website
vta.org

Bus from San Antonio & Almond to Mountain View Transit Center

Average Duration
34m
Estimated price
$279-2561
Contact phone
+1 714-839-3500
Website
gotobus.com

Bus from San Jose - Huong Lan Sandwich to Chinatown Station

Average Duration
Estimated price
$0-0
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
greyhound.com

Bus from San Jose Diridon Station to San Diego Greyhound Bus Stop

Average Duration
10h 20m
Estimated price
$2991-2994
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
flixbus.com

Bus from San Jose Downtown to San Diego

Average Duration
9h 50m
Estimated price
$478-477
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-660-4287
Website
caltrain.com

Train from Mountain View Caltrain Northbound to Millbrae Caltrain Northbound

Average Duration
47m
Estimated price
$275-276
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Los Angeles to San Diego

Average Duration
2h 54m
Estimated price
$2561-476

Train from San Jose to Los Angeles

Average Duration
10h 45m
Estimated price
$2797-27960
Plane
Website
southwest.com

Plane from San Jose (SJC) to San Diego (SAN)

Average Duration
1h 20m
Estimated price
$476-650
Website
alaskaair.com

Plane from San Jose (SJC) to San Diego (SAN)

Average Duration
1h 25m
Estimated price
$2998-2999
Website
united.com

Plane from San Francisco to San Diego

Average Duration
1h 42m
Estimated price
$2994-470
Website
spirit.com

Plane from San Jose to San Diego

Average Duration
1h 22m
Estimated price
$271-272
Website
flyfrontier.com

Plane from San Francisco to San Diego

Average Duration
1h 33m
Estimated price
$273-2999

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Los Altos to San Diego.

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The distance between Los Altos and San Diego is approximately 450 miles. By car, the trip typically takes around 7 to 8 hours, depending on traffic. If traveling by train, expect a journey of about 12 to 14 hours, while a direct flight will take around 1.5 hours, not including airport processing times. Each mode of transportation has its unique advantages, so your choice may depend on your preferences for convenience and scenery.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Los Altos to San Diego is typically by bus, which can offer competitive pricing and take around 8 to 10 hours. If you prefer a faster option, flying can be time-efficient, with flights taking about 1.5 hours, although prices can vary based on how early you book. Additionally, driving may be a convenient choice if you're traveling with others, as it allows for shared fuel costs and flexibility in stops along the way. Ultimately, the best option depends on your budget, schedule, and travel preferences.
Prices for traveling from Los Altos to San Diego vary based on the mode of transportation. A bus ticket typically ranges from $30 to $70, while a flight can cost anywhere from $50 to $150, depending on the time of booking and demand. If you choose to drive, consider gas prices, which can add up to around $60 to $80 for the round trip. Additionally, rental car rates may vary, typically ranging from $30 to $100 per day, depending on the vehicle and rental company.
To travel from Los Altos to San Diego without using public transportation, you can drive your own car or rent a vehicle for the journey. This route primarily follows Interstate 5 South, offering a direct and scenic drive. Alternatively, you could use a rideshare service or arrange for a personal driver, although these options can be more expensive. If you prefer a more leisurely approach, consider booking a private car service for comfort and convenience.
To travel from Los Altos to San Diego without a car, you can consider booking a long-distance bus service, which offers affordable options and typically takes around 10 to 12 hours. Another option is to take a train from nearby stations; Amtrak offers routes that connect through key Californian cities. Additionally, you could look into rideshare services where you can request a ride directly to your destination or join a carpool with others making the same journey. Finally, if you prefer more flexibility, explore options for shuttle services that cater to long-distance travel.
There is no direct public transportation link, such as a train or bus, specifically from Los Altos to San Diego. However, you can easily reach larger transit hubs nearby, like San Jose or San Francisco, where direct bus and train services to San Diego are available. Amtrak's Coast Starlight and several long-distance bus companies offer routes connecting those cities directly to San Diego. Alternatively, using a rideshare or shuttle service might provide more direct travel options, depending on availability.
A direct flight from the San Jose International Airport, which is the nearest major airport to Los Altos, to San Diego International Airport typically takes around 1.5 hours. The cost of a one-way ticket can vary widely, usually ranging from $50 to $150, depending on the time of booking, the airline, and season. Additional fees may apply for checked luggage or seat selection. It's advisable to check various airlines and booking platforms for the best deals and flight options.
When visiting San Diego, you have a wide range of accommodation options suited to various budgets and preferences. Popular areas to stay include the Gaslamp Quarter, known for its vibrant nightlife and restaurants, and Mission Beach, which offers a laid-back atmosphere with easy access to the ocean. For families, hotels near Balboa Park provide proximity to attractions like the San Diego Zoo. Additionally, if you're seeking a more luxurious experience, there are numerous upscale resorts along the coastline that deliver stunning ocean views and top-notch amenities.