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Monterey, CA, USA to San Diego, CA, USA from $22: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from Monterey 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.

$22 by trainBest price
615 kmDistance
1h 55m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Monterey 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  55m
Estimated price
$135-371
Recommended
Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
14h  48m
Estimated price
$22-228
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 615 km
Duration: 1h 55m

See more options

Company
FlixBus
Bus
Average Duration
12h  39m
Estimated price
$47-138
Company
Amtrak
Bus
Bus
Average Duration
13h  29m
Estimated price
$47-138
Company
Various
Drive
Plane
Average Duration
4h  38m
Estimated price
$82-331
Company
Various
Drive
Plane
Average Duration
5h  43m
Estimated price
$116-332
Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
7h  34m
Estimated price
$1350-1351
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Traveling From Monterey to San Diego

The scenic journey from Monterey to San Diego offers a striking contrast between Monterey's charming coastal beauty and San Diego's lively urban vibe, presenting you with a diverse range of experiences along the California coast.

Best Neighborhoods in San Diego

San Diego boasts vibrant neighborhoods, each offering unique experiences for visitors.

Gaslamp Quarter
• Lively nightlife with numerous bars and clubs
• Rich history with stunning Victorian architecture
La Jolla
• Picturesque beaches perfect for swimming and snorkeling
• Upscale dining and boutique shopping options
Little Italy
• Renowned for its authentic Italian cuisine
• Charming streets filled with art galleries and markets

Best Times To Visit San Diego's Attractions

Timing your visits can greatly enhance your San Diego experience.

Balboa Park
Weekdays early in the morning offer fewer crowds and cooler weather.
San Diego Zoo
Aim for weekday afternoons to explore popular exhibits with less wait.
USS Midway Museum
Visit right when it opens for a quieter experience and better tours.

San Diego Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

San Diego boasts a mild, Mediterranean climate characterized by warm, dry summers and cool, wet winters, making it an inviting destination year-round. The weather generally supports outdoor activities, with late spring and early fall offering the most pleasant conditions for exploring the city.

Dining Recommendation in San Diego

For a culinary adventure, try the delicious fish tacos at Juanita's Taco Shop, where the fresh seafood is complemented by vibrant salsas and toppings that reflect the lively culture of San Diego. This contrasts with Monterey's seafood focus, offering you a more casual, festive dining atmosphere infused with local flavors that capture the spirit of Southern California.

Monterey - San Diego operators

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

Plane
Website
alaskaair.com

Plane from Monterey (MRY) to San Diego (SAN)

Average Duration
1h 22m
Estimated price
$3711-1358
Website
southwest.com

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

Average Duration
1h 20m
Estimated price
$1357-1358

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

Average Duration
1h 28m
Estimated price
$1359-3710
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Salinas to Los Angeles

Average Duration
9h 5m
Estimated price
$3718-1356

Train from Los Angeles to San Diego

Average Duration
2h 54m
Estimated price
$225-1357

Train from Salinas to Los Angeles

Average Duration
7h 40m
Estimated price
$0-0
Bus
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
flixbus.com

Bus from Salinas Train Station to Los Angeles Union Station

Average Duration
6h 35m
Estimated price
$227-3712
Contact phone
+52 800 890 6821
Website
greyhound.com.mx

Bus from Los Angeles Union Station to San Diego

Average Duration
3h 15m
Estimated price
$226-3715
Shuttle
Contact phone
+1 831-373-7777
Website
groometransportation.com

Shuttle from Monterey - Calle Principal / Parking Garage to San Jose International Airport

Average Duration
1h 55m
Estimated price
$3715-221

Shuttle from Monterey - Calle Principal / Parking Garage to SFO Airport International Arrivals

Average Duration
2h 50m
Estimated price
$1355-3717

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

Traveling between Monterey 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 picturesque road trip from Monterey to San Diego spanning 444 miles, with approximately 7 hours and 34 minutes of driving time ahead. 🌊 Enjoy the scenic coastal views as you traverse down Highway 1, with the option to make memorable stops in charming towns like Santa Barbara and Malibu along the way. ⛵️ With car rental prices ranging from $80 to $120, this journey promises a blend of adventure and relaxation, culminating in the vibrant city of San Diego.
Average price
$80 - $120
🚆 Embark on a scenic train journey from Monterey to San Diego spanning approximately 14 hours and 48 minutes. Traverse through the picturesque landscapes of California as you relax on the train. 💰 Ticket prices for the train ride between Monterey and San Diego can range from as low as $22 to a maximum of $228, offering a range of options to suit different budgets and preferences.
🛫 Flying from Monterey to San Diego is a convenient and efficient way to travel, with a direct flight taking just 1 hour and 22 minutes on Alaska Airlines, Inc. ✈️ The total travel time from Monterey to San Diego by plane is approximately 1 hour and 55 minutes, allowing for a quick and comfortable journey between the two cities. 💰 The cost of a flight between Monterey and San Diego can range from $135 to $371, offering travelers flexibility in choosing a ticket that fits their budget and travel preferences.
Departure Point
Monterey Airport
Arrival Point
San Diego Airport
🚌 Traveling from Monterey to San Diego by bus requires navigating through transfers at Salinas Train Station and Los Angeles Union Station, with a total journey time of approximately 12 hours and 39 minutes. 🌉 The route encompasses a distance of 559 miles, with two transfers along the way. Passengers will first board the Monterey Airbus to SFO, then transfer to a Greyhound bus heading towards Los Angeles before finally reaching San Diego. 💰 Prices for this bus journey from Monterey to San Diego can range from $47 to $138, providing a cost-effective means of transportation for those looking to explore the scenic route between these two California cities.
Departure Point
Salinas Train Station
Arrival Point
San Diego station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between Monterey and San Diego is approximately 382 miles by air. By train, it takes around 14 hours and 49 minutes, while by car, it takes about 7 hours and 34 minutes. If you prefer to take a shuttle to San Jose and then fly, the travel time is around 4 hours and 38 minutes. Alternatively, taking a bus from Monterey to San Diego would take approximately 12 hours and 40 minutes.
The most cost-effective way to travel from Monterey to San Diego is by train, with prices ranging from $22 to $230 and a travel time of 14 hours and 49 minutes. However, if time efficiency is a priority, flying is the quickest option, taking only 3 hours and 7 minutes and costing between $110 and $340. While the train may be more affordable, flying provides a significantly shorter travel time.
The prices for a train ticket between Monterey and San Diego can range from $22 to $228 depending on factors such as class, time of booking, and availability. On the other hand, bus fares between San Diego and Monterey typically range from $45 to $138. Prices for both modes of transportation can vary, so it's recommended to check for the most up-to-date fares before making your travel arrangements.
To get from Monterey to San Diego without using public transportation, you can choose to drive. The road distance between the two cities is 444 miles, and it takes approximately 7 hours and 34 minutes to drive from Monterey to San Diego. The cost of a car rental can vary, with prices typically ranging from $80 to $120 depending on the rental agency and vehicle choice.
To travel from Monterey to San Diego without a car, you have a few options. The most convenient and fastest way is to fly, with an average flight time of 3 hours and 7 minutes. Prices for flights range from $110 to $340. If you prefer a more affordable option, you can take a bus, which takes approximately 12 hours and 40 minutes and costs between $45 and $140. Another option is to take a train, which takes 14 hours and 49 minutes and costs between $22 and $230. Both the bus and the train offer scenic routes, allowing you to enjoy the views during your journey.
Yes, there is a direct bus link between Monterey and San Diego. The bus services operated by Flixbus USA and Greyhound Mexico offer a route that includes transfers at Salinas Train Station and Los Angeles Union Station, with a total travel time of approximately 12 hours and 40 minutes. However, there is no direct bus route available, so passengers will need to transfer to reach their final destination in San Diego.
The flight between Monterey and San Diego typically takes around 1 hour and 26 minutes on a direct flight. The cost of the flight can vary between $112 and $336, depending on factors such as the airline, time of booking, and seat availability. It is advisable to check with different airlines or travel websites to find the best deals for your specific travel dates.
There are plenty of accommodation options near San Diego, ranging from budget-friendly hotels to luxury resorts. With over 1163 hotels to choose from, you will have no trouble finding a place that suits your preferences and budget. Prices start at $53 per night, making it affordable for all types of travelers. Whether you prefer staying near the beach or in the city center, there are numerous hotels available to ensure a comfortable and convenient stay in San Diego.

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