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

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Palo Alto, United States of America
to
San Diego, United States of America

How to Get from Palo Alto 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
698 kmDistance
3h 23m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Palo Alto 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
Train
Plane
Average Duration
3h  36m
Estimated price
$47-294
Recommended
Company
various
Train
Average Duration
16h  16m
Estimated price
$27-251
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 698 km
Duration: 3h 23m

See more options

Company
various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
5h  18m
Estimated price
$64-470
Company
various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
3h  39m
Estimated price
$78-291
Company
various
Drive
Plane
Average Duration
3h  23m
Estimated price
$136-377
Company
Greyhound USA
Bus
Average Duration
12h  58m
Estimated price
$471-472
Company
Tufesa
Bus
Average Duration
13h  9m
Estimated price
$473-474
Company
FlixBus
Bus
Average Duration
11h  45m
Estimated price
$475-476
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
8h  2m
Estimated price
$477-478

Traveling From Palo Alto to San Diego

The journey from Palo Alto, with its tech-driven landscape and serene nature, to San Diego, known for vibrant beaches and a lively city atmosphere, promises an array of contrasting experiences that captivate every traveler.

Best Neighbourhoods in San Diego

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

Gaslamp Quarter
• Historic architecture with vibrant nightlife.
• Home to trendy restaurants and shops.
La Jolla
• Stunning coastal views and sandy beaches.
• Excellent dining and art galleries nearby.
North Park
• Known for craft breweries and local shops.
• A hub for arts and music festivals.

Best Times To Visit San Diego's Attractions

Timing your visits can enhance your experience at San Diego's popular spots.

Balboa Park
Visit early on weekday mornings for fewer crowds and cooler temperatures.
San Diego Zoo
Aim for midweek visits in spring or fall to enjoy shorter lines.
USS Midway Museum
Late afternoons are quieter, allowing for a more relaxed exploration.

San Diego Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

San Diego enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate, characterized by warm summers and cool winters, making it ideal for year-round visits. The pleasant weather allows outdoor activities almost any time, though spring and fall often offer the most comfortable temperatures.

Dining Recommendation in San Diego

For a true taste of San Diego, try the fish tacos at The Fish Market, where fresh local seafood meets zesty flavors in a casual waterfront setting. This dining experience stands in stark contrast to Palo Alto's more upscale culinary scene, bringing a laid-back vibe that highlights the region's coastal bounty.

Palo Alto - San Diego operators

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

Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-660-4287
Website
http://www.caltrain.com

Train from California Avenue Caltrain Southbound to Santa Clara Caltrain Southbound

Average Duration
28m
Estimated price
$275-276

Train from Palo Alto Caltrain Northbound to Millbrae Caltrain Northbound

Average Duration
35m
Estimated price
$279-2510
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from Santa Clara Amtrak to Oakland Coliseum/Airport Amtrak

Average Duration
50m
Estimated price
$2511-2765

Train from San Jose to Los Angeles

Average Duration
10h 45m
Estimated price
$25117-251160

Train from Los Angeles to San Diego

Average Duration
2h 54m
Estimated price
$279-477
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
https://www.greyhound.com/

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

Average Duration
10h 20m
Estimated price
$2942-2944
Contact phone
+1 833 766 3553
Website
https://tufesainternacional.com/

Bus from Santa Clara / S 24th St - San Jose to San Ysidro

Average Duration
9h 50m
Estimated price
$25120-2944
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
https://flixbus.com

Bus from San Jose Downtown to San Diego

Average Duration
9h 50m
Estimated price
$2785-478
Plane Show flights
Website
https://www.alaskaair.com

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

Average Duration
1h 25m
Estimated price
$2949-270

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

Average Duration
1h 35m
Estimated price
$2949-270

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

Average Duration
1h 22m
Estimated price
$271-2945
Website
https://southwest.com

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

Average Duration
1h 20m
Estimated price
$477-2945

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

Average Duration
1h 28m
Estimated price
$2946-2947

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

Average Duration
1h 28m
Estimated price
$2944-2948
Website
https://spirit.com

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

Average Duration
1h 22m
Estimated price
$479-272

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

Average Duration
1h 31m
Estimated price
$273-274
Website
https://flyfrontier.com

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

Average Duration
1h 33m
Estimated price
$273-270

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

Traveling between Palo Alto 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 Palo Alto to San Diego, covering a distance of 478 miles. Take in the stunning scenery along the way as you drive south through California. 💰 Enjoy the flexibility of pricing options ranging from $85 to $130 for the journey by car from Palo Alto to San Diego. Plan your budget accordingly and take advantage of any available discounts or deals for a cost-effective trip. 🌴 Arrive in San Diego after approximately 8 hours and 2 minutes of driving, ready to explore the vibrant city by the sea. From beautiful beaches to world-class attractions, San Diego offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure for your memorable getaway.
Average price
$85 - $130
🚆 Traveling from Palo Alto to San Diego by train offers a scenic journey with multiple transfers. The total travel time, including transfers, is approximately 16 hours and 16 minutes.
Departure Point
San Jose station
Arrival Point
San Diego station
🛫 Flying from Palo Alto to San Diego is a convenient option with a flight time of around 1 hour and 15 minutes on a direct flight from San Jose Airport. Airlines like Spirit, Alaska, and Southwest provide this route. 🌴 Once you land in San Diego, you'll have covered the 3-hour and 36-minute journey from Palo Alto. This quick flight allows you to enjoy the beautiful beaches and attractions of sunny San Diego in no time. 💸 Flight prices between Palo Alto and San Diego range from $47 to $294, offering travelers a variety of options to suit their budget and schedule. Consider booking early for the best deals on this popular route.
Departure Point
San Jose Airport
Arrival Point
San Diego Airport
🚌 With a travel time of 12 hours and 58 minutes, taking a bus from Palo Alto to San Diego offers a convenient and budget-friendly transportation option.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Palo Alto to San Diego.

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The cheapest way to travel from Palo Alto to San Diego is by taking a night bus. The bus journey takes approximately 11 hours and 40 minutes, and the ticket prices range from $40 to $140. This option allows you to save money while still reaching your destination comfortably. Remember to check the bus schedule and book your ticket in advance for the best deals.
The fastest way to travel from Palo Alto to San Diego is by taking the Caltrain to the nearest airport and then flying to San Diego. This option typically takes around 3 hours and 34 minutes, depending on flight schedules. The cost can vary between $45 and $270, depending on the airline and time of booking. This option allows you to reach your destination quickly and efficiently.
The distance from Palo Alto to San Diego is approximately 434 miles. If you were to travel by road, the distance would be slightly longer at 478.5 miles. This road trip would take around 7-8 hours, depending on traffic and route taken. Alternatively, there are also options for flying or taking a train from Palo Alto to San Diego, which would significantly reduce travel time.
The best way to travel from Palo Alto to San Diego without a car is by taking a bus. The journey takes approximately 12 hours and 22 minutes and costs between $55 and $85. There are several bus operators that offer this route, including Lucky Seafood. It is recommended to book your tickets in advance to ensure availability and secure the best fares.
The travel time from Palo Alto to San Diego is approximately 3 hours and 34 minutes. This includes any necessary transfers during the journey. It is important to note that the travel time may vary depending on the mode of transportation chosen and any factors like traffic or weather conditions. Planning your trip in advance and allowing for extra time can help ensure a smoother journey.
There are 1163+ hotels available in San Diego. The prices for accommodation start at $53 per night. Some popular hotel options in San Diego include the Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina, the Omni San Diego Hotel, and the Hilton San Diego Bayfront. These hotels offer a range of amenities and are located conveniently near popular attractions and the downtown area of San Diego. It is advisable to book your accommodation in advance to secure the best rates and availability.
Yes, you can drive from Palo Alto to San Diego. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 478 miles. It takes about 8 hours and 2 minutes to drive from Palo Alto to San Diego, depending on traffic and your driving speed. Remember to plan for rest stops and consider the cost of gas and tolls when calculating your travel expenses.
Yes, there is a bus service available from Palo Alto to San Diego but there is no direct bus. The journey requires transfers in San José and Miramar College Transit Station. The total duration of the trip is approximately 12 hours and 22 minutes. The buses depart from the El Camino & Churchill stop in Palo Alto and arrive at Broadway & 5th Av in San Diego.
To catch the bus from Palo Alto to San Diego you will need to go to the San José station. This is where the bus services, operated by Xe Do Hoang Transportation, depart from. It is recommended to arrive at the station early to ensure you don't miss the bus departure.
The bus from Palo Alto to San Diego arrives at Lucky Seafood - San Diego station. This is the designated drop-off point for Xe Do Hoang Transportation. Lucky Seafood is conveniently located in San Diego, making it easy for travelers to access their destination or transfer to other modes of transportation in the city. Passengers can disembark at this station and proceed to their desired location in San Diego.
Spirit Airlines, Alaska Airlines, Inc., and Southwest Airlines are the airlines that provide flights between Palo Alto and San Diego. These airlines offer multiple flights daily, giving travelers flexibility in choosing their departure and arrival times. It is recommended to check the airlines' websites or use flight comparison websites to compare prices and availability for the travel dates.
The fastest way to get from Palo Alto to San Diego is by taking a direct flight from San Jose Airport to San Diego Airport. This flight takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. Airlines such as Spirit Airlines, Alaska Airlines, Inc., and Southwest Airlines offer flights between these two cities. The flight duration from Palo Alto to San Diego is around 3 hours and 34 minutes. Ticket prices for this route range from $47 to $264.
The flight from Palo Alto to San Diego typically takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes. However, it is important to note that flight times can vary depending on factors such as weather conditions, air traffic, and the specific airline and route chosen. It is recommended to check with airlines for the most up-to-date and accurate flight times before planning your trip.
Trains from Palo Alto to San Diego arrive at the San Diego station. This station serves as a major transportation hub and is conveniently located in downtown San Diego. It is operated by Amtrak, which provides reliable and comfortable train services for travelers. Upon arrival at the San Diego station, travelers can easily access various modes of transportation to reach their final destination within the city.
Yes, there is no direct train between Palo Alto and San Diego. However, there are train services available with transfers. The journey starts from California Avenue Caltrain station in Palo Alto, then transfers at San Jose and Los Angeles before reaching San Diego. The total travel time is approximately 16 hours and 12 minutes. Please plan your trip accordingly considering the transfer times.
To catch the train from Palo Alto to San Diego you will need to go to the San Jose station. Amtrak operates train services between these two cities, and the San Jose station is where the trains depart from. It is advisable to check the Amtrak website or app for specific train schedules and ticket availability before heading to the station.
The cost of a flight from Palo Alto to San Diego can vary between $47 and $264. The price range depends on factors such as the airline, the date of travel, and the time of booking. It is recommended to compare prices on different airlines or travel websites to find the best deal. Additionally, booking your flight in advance or being flexible with your travel dates can sometimes help you secure a lower fare.
The cost of a train ticket from Palo Alto to San Diego varies depending on the type of ticket and the class you choose. On average, prices range from $27 to $251. Factors such as the travel date, time, and availability can also influence the ticket price. It's recommended to check with the specific train service provider for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.
The prices of a bus from Palo Alto to San Diego can range from $53 to $123. The cost may vary depending on the bus operator, travel dates, and availability. It is recommended to check with different bus providers to compare prices and find the most affordable option for your journey. Additional fees or discounts may also apply, so it's always a good idea to research and book in advance to secure the best deal.
The cost to drive from Palo Alto to San Diego can vary depending on factors such as fuel prices and vehicle efficiency. On average, the cost would be around $85 to $130 for a one-way trip. However, this estimate does not include expenses such as tolls, parking, and any additional stops along the way. It is important to consider these additional costs when planning your budget for the trip.

Trips to San Diego