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Palm Springs, CA, USA to San Diego, CA, USA from $16: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Palm Springs, United States of America
to
San Diego, United States of America

How to Get from Palm Springs 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.

$16 - Bus, TrainBest price
199 kmDistance
2h 11m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Palm Springs 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
FlixBus
Bus
Average Duration
5h  35m
Estimated price
$23-103
Recommended
Company
Various
Bus
Train
Average Duration
5h  51m
Estimated price
$16-133
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 199 km
Duration: 2h 11m

See more options

Company
Various
Bus
Train
Average Duration
5h  38m
Estimated price
$22-35
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
2h  11m
Estimated price
$22-35
Company
Various
Bus
Plane
Average Duration
4h  45m
Estimated price
$72-363

Traveling From Palm Springs to San Diego

The journey from Palm Springs to San Diego offers a shift from the desert's warm serenity to the vibrant coastal vibes of the city, presenting you with diverse landscapes and experiences.

Best Neighborhoods in San Diego

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

Gaslamp Quarter
• Vibrant nightlife and dining options abound.
• Historic architecture enhances the urban experience.
La Jolla
• Stunning coastal views and beautiful beaches.
• Upscale shops and galleries line the streets.
Little Italy
• Renowned for its authentic Italian cuisine.
• Hosts lively farmers' market every Saturday.

Best Times To Visit San Diego's Attractions

Maximize your San Diego experience by visiting attractions at optimal times.

Balboa Park
Visit early in the morning on weekdays for fewer crowds.
San Diego Zoo
Arrive right at opening times to enjoy cooler temperatures and less traffic.
USS Midway Museum
Explore in the late afternoon for a quieter, more relaxed experience.

San Diego Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

San Diego boasts a mild Mediterranean climate, with sunny days and moderate temperatures throughout the year, making it a great destination any season. Visiting in spring or fall often offers the most comfortable weather and fewer tourists, enhancing your travel experience.

Dining Recommendation

Try the fish tacos at Oscar's Mexican Seafood, which encapsulate San Diego's coastal flair and fresh ingredients, contrasting with the desert-influenced cuisine of Palm Springs. The vibrant, laid-back atmosphere and bold flavors of the local seafood create a dining experience that reflects the city's rich maritime culture.

Palm Springs - San Diego operators

Explore transport companies operating between Palm Springs 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 (855) 626-8585
Website
flixbus.com

Bus from Palm Springs Downtown to Los Angeles Downtown

Average Duration
1h 50m
Estimated price
$16-103

Bus from Los Angeles Downtown to San Diego

Average Duration
2h 45m
Estimated price
$16-103
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Los Angeles to San Diego

Average Duration
2h 54m
Estimated price
$16-1036

Train from Fullerton Amtrak Station to San Diego

Average Duration
2h 23m
Estimated price
$234-235
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Palm Springs Amtrak Bus Stop to Fullerton Amtrak Station

Average Duration
2h 15m
Estimated price
0-0
Plane Show flights
Website
delta.com

Plane from Los Angeles Airport to San Diego Airport

Average Duration
54m
Estimated price
$230-231
Website
united.com

Plane from Los Angeles Airport to San Diego Airport

Average Duration
1h
Estimated price
$232-233

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

Traveling between Palm Springs 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 Palm Springs to San Diego, covering a scenic driving distance of 124 miles. Enjoy the beautiful California landscape as you make your way to the vibrant city by the sea. 💰 Explore different price options ranging from $22 to $35 for a journey filled with adventure and excitement. Plan your budget accordingly and make the most of your drive from Palm Springs to San Diego, experiencing the best of both destinations. 🌴 Arrive in San Diego after approximately 2 hours and 11 minutes of smooth driving, ready to discover the stunning beaches, delicious food, and diverse culture this coastal city has to offer. Start your memorable coastal adventure with a drive that promises both relaxation and excitement.
Average price
$22 - $35
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard Services: Several operators, such as Amtrak, provide catering services on their Pacific Surfliner trains, offering various snack and beverage options available for purchase. First Class passengers receive complimentary snacks and beverages, while Business Class and Economy Class travelers have access to a café car where they can buy food and drinks.
• Seating Options: For your journey from Palm Springs to San Diego, Amtrak offers Business Class and Economy seating on their Pacific Surfliner route. Business Class features more spacious and comfortable seating with extra legroom, while Economy seats are standard but still provide a comfortable travel experience. Be sure to arrive early to secure your preferred seating choice, especially during busy travel seasons.
• Arrival Station Tip: Upon arriving at San Diego's Santa Fe Depot, you'll find facilities including restrooms, and while there are no shower services available, you can find nearby public showers at local gyms. The station allows for luggage storage at a reasonable fee, so you can explore the city without carrying your bags. To reach the city center quickly, take the Trolley’s 'Blue Line' (towards UTC), exiting at 'America Plaza' station, which is downtown.
🛫 Embark on a quick and convenient journey from Palm Springs to San Diego by catching a flight from Los Angeles Airport. The direct flight typically takes just 52 minutes, offering a stress-free way to travel between the two vibrant California cities.
Departure Point
Los Angeles Airport
Arrival Point
San Diego Airport
🚌 Taking a bus from Palm Springs to San Diego involves a transfer in Los Angeles Downtown. The journey, operated by Flixbus USA, lasts approximately 5 hours and 35 minutes. 🚌 While the journey may take around 6 hours, the affordable prices and scenic views along the way make traveling by bus a convenient and enjoyable option for reaching San Diego from Palm Springs.
Departure Point
Palm Springs Downtown station
Arrival Point
San Diego station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Make sure to check the FlixBus schedule for the latest updates on your departure, as routes can vary; you can find the timetable at flixbus.com
• Since your journey involves transfers, be prepared for a brief wait at each station; always allow for additional time for connections, especially at popular transfer points like San Bernardino Greyhound Station, which can be busy—visit greyhound.com for info.
• Upon arrival at San Diego's Greyhound Station, head to the nearby Santa Fe Depot if you plan to use local transit; it's a major hub for buses and the trolley, making it easy to navigate around the city—more details can be found at sandiatrolley.com

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Palm Springs to San Diego.

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The distance between Palm Springs and San Diego is 85 miles. The road distance is slightly longer at 123.6 miles. The typical travel time by car is 2 hours and 11 minutes, while taking a bus can take around 6 hours and 43 minutes. If one prefers a combination of bus and train, the travel time increases to 5 hours and 38 minutes.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Palm Springs to San Diego is to drive. It takes approximately 2 hours and 11 minutes to drive the 123.6-mile distance between the two cities. This option is also the quickest way to reach San Diego from Palm Springs. Driving allows for convenience and flexibility, as there are no fixed schedules to adhere to. The cost for driving is estimated to be around $22 to $35, which is relatively affordable compared to other transportation modes.
The prices for a bus ticket between San Diego and Palm Springs can range from $25 to $107, depending on the time of travel, type of bus, and any discounts or promotions available. It is recommended to check with different bus companies or online travel websites for the most updated prices and options. Other modes of transportation such as driving or taking a train may have different costs, so it is important to consider all available options when planning your trip.
To get from Palm Springs to San Diego without using public transportation, you can drive. The distance between the two cities is approximately 124 miles, and it typically takes around 2 hours and 11 minutes. The cost of driving from Palm Springs to San Diego can vary between $22 and $35, depending on factors such as vehicle fuel efficiency and current gas prices. Overall, driving yourself can provide flexibility and convenience for your trip.
If you're looking to travel from Palm Springs to San Diego without a car, the best option is to take a bus and train combination. This journey typically takes around 5 hours and 38 minutes. The cost of this transportation option may vary, so it's advisable to check the current prices before making your travel plans. By choosing this mode of transportation, you can enjoy a comfortable and convenient journey from Palm Springs to San Diego without the need to drive.
Yes, there is a direct link between Palm Springs and San Diego although it requires a transfer at Fullerton Amtrak Station. The bus service operated by Amtrak departs from Palm Springs Amtrak Bus Stop and arrives at San Diego Santa Fe Depot, with a total journey time of approximately 5 hours and 40 minutes including transfers. This is the most convenient option for traveling between the two cities by bus.
There are 1163+ hotels available in San Diego offering a range of options for accommodations. Prices for these hotels start at $53. Visitors to San Diego can choose from a variety of hotels, including luxury resorts, budget-friendly motels, and boutique accommodations. With numerous options available, travelers can easily find a suitable place to stay that fits their budget and preferences.

Trips from Palm Springs

Trips to San Diego