Riverside, CA, USA to Tucson, AZ, USA from $26: 8 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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How to Get from Riverside to Tucson: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$26 by trainBest price

636 kmDistance

4h 37m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Riverside to Tucson 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.

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Traveling From Riverside to Tucson

Traveling from Riverside to Tucson offers you a blend of California's lush landscapes and vibrant city life with Arizona's stunning desert scenery and rich cultural experiences.

Best Neighborhoods in Tucson

Tucson's neighborhoods each offer distinct character and attractions for visitors.

Downtown Tucson

• Home to vibrant art and music scenes.

• Features historic buildings and trendy eateries.

Sam Hughes

• Charming residential area with a bohemian vibe.

• Close to the University of Arizona campus.

Old Fort Lowell

• Known for its beautiful adobe architecture.

• Offers serene parks and walking trails.

Best Times To Visit Tucson's Attractions

Timing your visit can significantly enhance your experience at Tucson's attractions.

Saguaro National Park

Early morning or late afternoon visits provide cooler weather and fewer crowds.

Tucson Botanical Gardens

Weekdays during spring bloom showcase vibrant colors with less foot traffic.

Mission San Xavier del Bac

Visiting during weekdays allows for quieter exploration of this stunning mission.

Tucson Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Tucson enjoys a desert climate with hot summers and mild winters, making it ideal for outdoor activities year-round. The best times to visit are spring and fall, when temperatures are pleasant, ensuring a more enjoyable travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in Tucson

A must-try dish in Tucson is the Sonoran-style hot dog, a deliciously grilled frank wrapped in bacon and topped with pinto beans, onions, and fresh salsa, which showcases the region's bold flavors and local ingredients. This dining experience contrasts with Riverside's culinary offerings by immersing you in Tucson's vibrant atmosphere and highlighting its unique Southwest heritage.

Riverside - Tucson operators

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

Train Show train routes

Contact phone

(800) 371-LINK (5465)

Website

https://metrolinktrains.com

Train from Riverside-Downtown station to L. A. Union Station station

Average Duration

1h 28m

Estimated price

$1860-907

Train from Riverside-Downtown station to Tustin station

Average Duration

1h 6m

Estimated price

$1865-1866

Train from Riverside-Downtown station to Santa Ana station

Average Duration

59m

Estimated price

$1865-3050

Train from Riverside-Downtown station to Downtown Pomona station

Average Duration

36m

Estimated price

$1869-3051

Contact phone

+1 800-872-7245

Website

https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from Pomona Amtrak to Tucson Amtrak Station

Average Duration

8h 47m

Estimated price

$267-906

Bus Show bus routes

Contact phone

+1 (855) 626-8585

Website

https://flixbus.com

Bus from Riverside to Tucson

Average Duration

8h 15m

Estimated price

$901-906

Contact phone

+52 644 410 2444

Website

https://tufesa.com.mx

Bus from Colton to Tucson

Average Duration

7h 50m

Estimated price

$907-18640

Plane Show flights

Website

aa.com

Plane from Los Angeles (LAX) to Tucson (TUS)

Average Duration

1h 28m

Estimated price

$4953-4952

Plane from Santa Ana (SNA) to Tucson (TUS)

Average Duration

1h 42m

Estimated price

$4959-266

Website

southwest.com

Plane from Ontario/San Bernardino (ONT) to Tucson (TUS)

Average Duration

1h 20m

Estimated price

$267-9030

Website

delta.com

Plane from Ontario/San Bernardino (ONT) to Tucson (TUS)

Average Duration

4h 48m

Estimated price

$268-265

Website

united.com

Plane from Ontario/San Bernardino (ONT) to Tucson (TUS)

Average Duration

Estimated price

$269-9080

Riverside to Tucson: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Riverside and Tucson 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 Riverside to Tucson covering a distance of 439 miles. The journey offers stunning desert landscapes and unique roadside attractions along the way. 💵 Experience affordable travel with car rental prices ranging from $75 to $120 for the Riverside to Tucson route. Enjoy the freedom of the open road while exploring diverse terrains and charming towns during the scenic drive. 🌵 Arrive in Tucson after approximately 6 hours and 55 minutes of driving, ready to immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture, delicious Southwestern cuisine, and the breathtaking beauty of the Arizona desert. Create unforgettable memories on this unforgettable journey through the American Southwest.

Average price

$75 - $120

🚆 Embark on a scenic train journey from Riverside to Tucson! While there is no direct route, you can travel through Pomona Amtrak for a total travel time of approximately 10 hours and 23 minutes. 💸 Prices for a train ticket between Riverside and Tucson range from $26 to $186, offering a budget-friendly and comfortable way to explore these two vibrant cities in the Southwest.

Departure Point

Riverside-Downtown station

Arrival Point

Tucson Amtrak Station

🛫 Flying from Riverside to Tucson by plane offers a convenient travel option with a flight duration of around 1 hour and 20 minutes from Los Angeles Airport to Tucson Airport with direct flights available from Delta, Southwest Airlines, and American Airlines. 🌵 The total journey time from Riverside to Tucson by plane is approximately 6 hours and 48 minutes, providing a quick and efficient mode of transportation between the two cities for travelers looking to explore the desert landscapes and vibrant culture of Tucson. 💸 Flight prices between Tucson and Riverside can range from $142 to $693, offering a range of options for budget-conscious travelers or those looking for premium amenities during their flight experience. With multiple airlines servicing this route, passengers can choose the option that best fits their needs and preferences.

Departure Point

Los Angeles Airport

Arrival Point

Tucson Airport

🚌 Traveling by bus from Riverside to Tucson may require a transfer, usually at a station in Riverside. The journey, including transfers, typically takes around 10 hours and 5 minutes to reach Tucson. 💰 Ticket prices can range from $35 to $122 for a one-way trip between Tucson and Riverside, offering travelers an affordable and convenient option to explore these two vibrant cities in the southwestern United States.

Departure Point

Riverside station

Arrival Point

Tucson station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Riverside to Tucson.

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The distance between Riverside and Tucson is approximately 395 miles or 439 miles by road. The typical travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. It takes around 10 hours and 23 minutes to reach Tucson from Riverside by train, approximately 5 hours and 54 minutes to reach Tucson by taking a train to Los Angeles and then flying, 6 hours and 55 minutes to drive from Tucson to Riverside, and about 9 hours and 35 minutes to travel by bus from Riverside to Tucson.

The most cost-effective way to travel from Riverside to Tucson is by taking a bus. It typically costs between $35 and $80 and takes approximately 12 hours and 6 minutes. However, if you're looking for a quicker option, the most time-efficient way is to take a train to Los Angeles and then fly to Tucson. This option typically costs between $120 and $600 and takes around 5 hours and 54 minutes.

When traveling from Riverside to Tucson the prices for a train ticket range from $26 to $186. Alternatively, taking a bus between Tucson and Riverside can cost anywhere from $36 to $122. These prices may vary depending on factors such as peak travel season, time of booking, and the specific train or bus service chosen. It is advisable to check with different transportation providers and booking platforms to compare prices and find the best option for your trip.

To travel from Riverside to Tucson without using public transportation, you can drive. The distance between the two cities is 439 miles and it takes approximately 6 hours and 55 minutes to drive. The cost of the trip by car can range from $75 to $120, depending on factors such as gas prices and vehicle efficiency.

To travel from Riverside to Tucson without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The journey takes approximately 9 hours and 35 minutes and fares range from $35 to $130. The bus provides a convenient and affordable mode of transportation for this route.

Yes, there are transportation options available between Riverside and Tucson. However, there is no direct train or bus service. The train journey takes approximately 10 hours and 23 minutes, with transfers at Pomona Amtrak. The bus journey takes around 9 hours and 35 minutes, with transfers at San Bernardino Downtown Transit Center. Alternatively, for a quicker option, travelers can take a train from Riverside to Los Angeles and then catch a flight to Tucson, which takes approximately 5 hours and 54 minutes.

The flight time between Riverside and Tucson typically takes around 1 hour and 20 minutes on a direct flight from Los Angeles Airport to Tucson Airport. However, please note that this time may vary depending on factors such as weather conditions and air traffic. As for the cost, ticket prices for this flight route can vary depending on factors such as the date of travel, booking class, and availability. It is recommended to check with airlines or online travel agencies for current prices and promotions.

There are numerous options for accommodation near Tucson. With over 579 hotels to choose from, you are sure to find something to suit your preferences and budget. Prices start at $47 per night, offering a range of affordable options. Whether you are looking for a luxury resort, a budget-friendly motel, or a cozy bed and breakfast, there is a wide variety of options available near Tucson.