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Modesto, CA, USA to San Diego, CA, USA from $51: 10 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from Modesto 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.

$51 by busBest price
653 kmDistance
3h 23m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Modesto 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  53m
Estimated price
$68-333
Recommended
Company
Greyhound USA
Bus
Average Duration
11h  28m
Estimated price
$51-111
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 653 km
Duration: 3h 23m

See more options

Company
various
Bus
Plane
Average Duration
5h  35m
Estimated price
$54-331
Company
various
Bus
Plane
Average Duration
5h  43m
Estimated price
$84-327
Company
various
Drive
Plane
Average Duration
3h  23m
Estimated price
$94-680
Company
various
Drive
Plane
Average Duration
4h  11m
Estimated price
$681-682
Company
various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
6h  32m
Estimated price
$683-684
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
10h  58m
Estimated price
$685-686
Company
various
Train
Bus
Train
Average Duration
12h  56m
Estimated price
$687-688
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
7h  16m
Estimated price
$687-688

Traveling From Modesto to San Diego

The journey from Modesto to San Diego offers a striking contrast, taking you from the Central Valley's cozy charm to the vibrant coastal atmosphere filled with sun-kissed beaches and thriving urban life.

Best Neighborhoods in San Diego

San Diego boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences and attractions.

Gaslamp Quarter
• Historic district with vibrant nightlife and dining options.
• Unique Victorian architecture blends with modern attractions.
La Jolla
• Stunning coastal views and upscale shopping experiences.
• Popular spot for beach activities and art galleries.
Mission Beach
• Boardwalk perfect for beach walks and biking.
• Family-friendly area with amusement park attractions.

Best Times To Visit San Diego's Attractions

Timing your visits can significantly enhance your San Diego experience.

Balboa Park
Visit early mornings on weekdays for fewer crowds and cooler temperatures.
San Diego Zoo
Go on weekdays during school hours for a more serene exploration.
USS Midway Museum
Plan visits in the late afternoon for smaller crowds and sunset views.

San Diego Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

San Diego boasts a mild, Mediterranean climate characterized by warm, sunny summers and cool, pleasant winters, making it an appealing destination any time of year. Generally, spring and fall offer the most comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds, enhancing your travel experience.

Dining in San Diego

For an unforgettable meal, try the fish tacos at — a local favorite that showcases the city's fresh seafood and vibrant flavors, presenting a tasty twist on the classic Californian cuisine. This contrasts with Modesto's hearty comfort food and offers a lively beachfront atmosphere that elevates the dining experience.

Modesto - San Diego operators

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

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
https://www.greyhound.com/

Bus from Modesto Bus Stop to Hayward Bus Station

Average Duration
1h 35m
Estimated price
$3271-517

Bus from Modesto Bus Stop to San Diego Greyhound Bus Stop

Average Duration
11h 15m
Estimated price
$689-3333

Bus from Modesto Bus Stop to Oakland

Average Duration
2h 5m
Estimated price
$3272-517
Website
http://crossborderxpress.com

Bus from Modesto to San Ysidro Bus Terminal

Average Duration
10h 10m
Estimated price
$689-687
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from Modesto to Sacramento

Average Duration
1h 38m
Estimated price
$519-687

Train from Modesto to Bakersfield

Average Duration
4h 1m
Estimated price
$841-3333
Plane Show flights
Website
https://www.spirit.com/

Plane from Oakland (OAK) to San Diego (SAN)

Average Duration
1h 31m
Estimated price
$515-516
Website
https://www.southwest.com/

Plane from San Francisco (SFO) to San Diego (SAN)

Average Duration
1h 28m
Estimated price
$3331-3335

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

Average Duration
1h 20m
Estimated price
$3336-3337

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

Traveling between Modesto 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 an exciting road trip from Modesto to the beautiful coastal city of San Diego covering a driving distance of 435 miles in approximately 7 hours and 16 minutes. 💰 Enjoy the flexibility to choose from a range of prices, typically between $75 to $120, for the journey by car from Modesto to San Diego, making it a budget-friendly travel option.
Average price
$75 - $120
🛫 Flying from Modesto you can easily catch a connecting flight from Oakland Airport to San Diego Airport. The quickest option is a direct flight that takes just 1 hour and 20 minutes, making it a convenient choice for travelers.
Departure Point
Oakland Airport
Arrival Point
San Diego Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Book a non-stop flight with either Southwest Airlines or Spirit Airlines to maximize your travel efficiency; these airlines typically have several options daily from Modesto (via Oakland) to San Diego.
• Upon arrival at San Diego International Airport (SAN), expect a relatively compact airport layout making it easy to navigate; follow the signs to baggage claim and consider checking out the airport's food options if you have time – the airport has some popular local eateries.
• Taxi fares from San Diego International Airport to downtown San Diego generally range from $10 to $25, depending on traffic and your specific destination; be sure to check local ride-sharing services for potentially cheaper alternatives.
🚌 Embark on a scenic journey from Modesto to San Diego by bus, with a travel time of approximately 11 hours and 28 minutes. 💵 The prices for bus tickets between San Diego and Modesto range from $51 to $111, offering budget-friendly options for travelers looking to explore these two vibrant cities.

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance by road between Modesto and San Diego is approximately 434.8 miles. If traveling by car, the typical travel time is around 7 hours and 16 minutes. Alternatively, taking a bus between the two cities will take about 11 hours and 28 minutes. However, the quickest option is to take a bus from Modesto to Oakland and then fly to San Diego, which can be done in approximately 4 hours and 58 minutes.
The most cost-effective way to travel from Modesto to San Diego is by bus via San Ysidro Station, with costs ranging from $50 to $75. This option takes approximately 10 hours and 58 minutes. However, if time is a priority, the quickest option is to take a combination of bus and flight, which takes around 4 hours and 58 minutes and costs between $65 and $320. Ultimately, the choice between cost-effectiveness and time-efficiency depends on personal preferences and priorities.
The prices of a bus ticket between Modesto and San Diego can vary depending on factors such as the day of travel and the type of ticket. On average, bus tickets can range from $51 to $111. It is recommended to check with the specific bus company or online travel websites for the most up-to-date prices and any current promotions or discounts that may be available.
To get from Modesto to San Diego without using public transportation, you can drive. The driving distance is approximately 435 miles, and it takes about 7 hours and 16 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions. The cost of the trip by car can vary between $75 to $120, depending on factors such as fuel prices and tolls.
To travel from Modesto to San Diego without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The journey typically takes around 10 hours and 58 minutes and costs between $50 and $75. The bus route usually includes a transfer at the San Ysidro Station. This option allows you to sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenery while someone else does the driving.
The flight between Modesto and San Diego typically takes 1 hour and 25 minutes. This is the quickest option for travel between the two cities. The cost of the flight can vary depending on the airline and time of booking, but on average, it can cost around $150 to $250 for a one-way ticket. It's recommended to compare prices and book in advance to get the best deals on flights.
There are many options for accommodation near San Diego. With over 1163 hotels to choose from, you have a wide range of choices. Prices for hotels in San Diego start at $53 per night, making it affordable for various budgets. Whether you prefer luxury hotels, budget-friendly options, or somewhere in between, there are plenty of options available to suit your needs.

Trips from Modesto

Trips to San Diego