1map logoGo to main page

Riverside, CA, USA to San Diego, CA, USA from $11: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from Riverside 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.

$11 by busBest price
140 kmDistance
1h 42m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Riverside 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
Average Duration
4h  2m
Estimated price
$12-104
Recommended
Company
FlixBus
Bus
Average Duration
4h  32m
Estimated price
$11-55
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 140 km
Duration: 1h 42m

See more options

Company
various
Train
Average Duration
4h  3m
Estimated price
$16-120
Company
various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
5h  8m
Estimated price
$17-63
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
1h  42m
Estimated price
$17-26
Company
various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
4h  23m
Estimated price
$72-120
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Riverside to San Diego

Journeying from Riverside to San Diego offers you a transition from the laid-back, suburban vibe of Riverside to the vibrant coastal energy of San Diego, where beach life and urban adventures await.

Best Neighbourhoods in San Diego

San Diego's neighborhoods offer diverse experiences for every traveler.

Gaslamp Quarter
• Vibrant nightlife with numerous bars and clubs.
• Historic architecture blending with modern shops.
La Jolla
• Stunning beaches and coastal views.
• Upscale dining and high-end boutiques.
Balboa Park
• Home to world-class museums and gardens.
• Expansive green spaces ideal for picnics.

Best Times To Visit San Diego's Attractions

Navigating San Diego's attractions can be effortless with timing in mind.

San Diego Zoo
Visiting on weekdays in the early morning helps avoid large crowds.
Balboa Park
The best time to stroll is during weekday mornings for a quieter experience.
USS Midway Museum
Late afternoons are ideal for fewer visitors and cooler temperatures.

San Diego Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

San Diego enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate, characterized by warm, sunny summers and temperate winters, making it an attractive destination throughout the year. The best times to visit are spring and fall, as pleasant weather enhances outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Dining Recommendation

While Riverside offers hearty American fare, San Diego invites you to savor its renowned fish tacos at Las Cuatro Milpas, where fresh ingredients create vibrant flavors. The lively atmosphere, along with the coastal influence in the dishes, provides a unique dining experience that captures the essence of Southern California.

Riverside - San Diego operators

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

Train Show train routes
Website
https://metrolinktrains.com

Train from Riverside-Downtown station to Santa Ana station

Average Duration
59m
Estimated price
$12-104

Train from Riverside-Downtown station to Oceanside station

Average Duration
2h 4m
Estimated price
$11-55

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

Average Duration
1h 28m
Estimated price
$11-104
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from Santa Ana to San Diego

Average Duration
2h 3m
Estimated price
$12-104

Train from Oceanside to San Diego

Average Duration
59m
Estimated price
$11-104
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
https://flixbus.com

Bus from Riverside to San Diego

Average Duration
2h 30m
Estimated price
$11-55

Bus from Oceanside Transit Center Stall 8 to UTC Transit Center

Average Duration
1h 53m
Estimated price
$13-44
Plane Show flights
Website
delta.com

Plane from Los Angeles (LAX) to San Diego (SAN)

Average Duration
54m
Estimated price
$123-124
Website
united.com

Plane from Los Angeles (LAX) to San Diego (SAN)

Average Duration
1h
Estimated price
$125-126

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

Traveling between Riverside 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 Riverside to San Diego, spanning 99 miles of scenic California highways. 🌴 Enjoy a smooth and comfortable drive that typically takes around 1 hour and 42 minutes, offering plenty of opportunities to soak in the stunning landscapes along the way. 💰 Depending on factors such as gas prices and toll fees, the cost of the journey from Riverside to San Diego by car can range from $17 to $26. ⛽️ Take advantage of budget-friendly options and plan your trip accordingly to make the most of your travel budget.
Average price
$17 - $26
🚆 The train journey from Riverside to San Diego requires a transfer at Santa Ana. The total travel time, including transfers, is approximately 4 hours and 2 minutes. 🚆 Depending on the class and booking time, ticket prices for the train from Riverside to San Diego range from $12 to $104. The train offers a convenient and comfortable way to travel between these two popular destinations in California.
Departure Point
Riverside-Downtown station
Arrival Point
San Diego station
Useful tips for train travellers
• On your train journey from Riverside to San Diego, consider utilizing Amtrak's Pacific Surfliner service, which offers a café car with a variety of snacks, beverages, and light meals available for purchase. Be sure to check their menu and grab a meal to enjoy while taking in the scenic coastal views.
• Amtrak Pacific Surfliner provides several seating options: Business Class offers more spacious seating, complimentary non-alcoholic beverages, and access to priority boarding, while Economy Class features standard seating at a lower price point. If you prefer a quieter environment and additional amenities, opt for Business Class.
• Upon arriving at San Diego's Santa Fe Depot, you can store your luggage at the Amtrak ticket counter for a fee, allowing you to explore without the hassle of carrying your bags. The station has clean restrooms but does not have showers. To reach the city center quickly, catch the San Diego Trolley's Blue Line, which connects directly to popular downtown areas. The nearest station is just a block away from the depot.
🛫 The quickest way to travel from Riverside to San Diego is by catching a flight from Los Angeles Airport. The direct flight takes approximately 52 minutes, making it a convenient and time-saving option.
Departure Point
Los Angeles Airport
Arrival Point
San Diego Airport
🚌 Traveling from Riverside to San Diego by bus takes approximately 4 hours and 32 minutes, offering a convenient and affordable transportation option for this journey. 🎫 The bus fares between San Diego and Riverside can range from $11 to $55, providing flexibility for travelers with varying budgets to choose suitable ticket options. 🗺️ The route from Riverside to San Diego spans a distance of 169 miles and involves 2 transfers, offering opportunities to explore different cities along the way before arriving at the vibrant destination of San Diego.
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Before your trip, ensure you check the schedules of all bus operators available on your route; both Amtrak Chartered Motorcoach and FlixBus provide options, and you can find details on their websites: Amtrak - amtrak.com and FlixBus - flixbus.com
• Bring snacks and water for the trip, as you may have limited options during your transfers, especially at Montclair Transit Center; consider packing easy-to-eat foods like granola bars or fruits.
• Upon arrival at the San Diego (Downtown/Seaport Village) station, familiarize yourself with the local transit options like the San Diego Trolley, which connects to various popular destinations across the city; check the SANDAG website for transit maps and schedules: sandag.org

Frequently asked questions

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

Or choose the category:
The cheapest way to travel from Riverside to San Diego is by driving. It takes approximately 1 hour and 42 minutes and costs between $17 and $26 in gas expenses, depending on your vehicle's fuel efficiency. Public transportation options, such as buses or trains, may also be available, but they generally take longer and can be more expensive. It is recommended to compare prices and travel times to determine the most cost-effective option for your specific needs.
The fastest way to travel from Riverside to San Diego is to drive. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 42 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Driving also provides the flexibility to choose your own departure time and make convenient stops along the way. Additionally, driving allows you to enjoy the scenic route through Southern California.
The distance from Riverside to San Diego is approximately 87 miles. If you choose to drive, the road distance is about 98 miles. The driving time can vary depending on traffic conditions, but it generally takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours to reach San Diego from Riverside. Keep in mind that factors such as road construction, weather, and the time of day you travel may affect the duration of the journey.
The most convenient and affordable option to travel from Riverside to San Diego without a car is by taking the train. The journey takes approximately 4 hours and 2 minutes and the ticket prices range from $12 to $110, depending on the class of service and whether you purchase in advance. The train ride offers scenic views along the way and eliminates the need to worry about parking or traffic. Simply hop on the train and enjoy a comfortable trip to San Diego.
The journey from Riverside to San Diego takes approximately 4 hours and 2 minutes, including any transfers if needed. The quickest way to travel between the two cities is by car, with an estimated travel time of around 1 hour and 42 minutes. However, the duration can vary depending on traffic conditions and the specific route taken. Other transportation options may take longer, such as taking a bus or train, but these can provide a more relaxing and enjoyable experience for passengers.
There are plenty of accommodation options near San Diego. With over 1163 hotels available, you will have no trouble finding a place to stay. Prices start at $53 per night, depending on the location and amenities you are looking for. It is recommended to book in advance to ensure availability and secure the best rates.
Yes, you can drive from Riverside to San Diego. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 99 miles. The journey typically takes around 1 hour and 42 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. It is advisable to check for any road closures or construction updates before starting your drive.
Yes, there is no direct bus between Riverside and San Diego. However, there are bus services available that require transfers. The journey typically involves taking a bus from Riverside to Fullerton Amtrak Station and then transferring to a bus that goes to San Diego Santa Fe Depot. The total travel time, including transfers, is approximately 4 hours and 25 minutes. It is recommended to check the schedules and routes of the buses beforehand to plan your trip accordingly.
To catch the bus from Riverside to San Diego you will need to go to the Riverside Station. This is where the bus services provided by Amtrak depart from. The Riverside Station is conveniently located in downtown Riverside, making it easily accessible for travelers. Be sure to check the bus schedule in advance and arrive at the station on time to catch your bus to San Diego.
The Riverside to San Diego bus arrives at the San Diego Santa Fe Depot station. This is the main Amtrak station in San Diego and is conveniently located in downtown San Diego. From there, you can easily access various attractions, public transportation, and accommodations in the city. The Santa Fe Depot is a historic landmark and also serves as a transportation hub for trains, buses, and trolleys in the San Diego area.
United Airlines and Delta offer flights between Riverside and San Diego. These flights typically depart from Los Angeles Airport and arrive at San Diego Airport. It is recommended to check with the airlines directly for the most up-to-date flight schedules and availability.
The fastest way to get from Riverside to San Diego by plane is to take a direct flight from Los Angeles Airport to San Diego Airport. The flight duration is approximately 59 minutes. United Airlines and Delta are two airlines that offer flights on this route. It is recommended to check their websites or a travel booking platform to find the best deals and schedules for your trip.
The flight from Riverside to San Diego is relatively short. The quickest flight option is a direct flight from Los Angeles Airport to San Diego Airport, which takes around 59 minutes. However, this time may vary depending on factors such as flight delays or changes in air traffic. It is recommended to check with the airlines for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding the duration of the flight.
Trains from Riverside to San Diego arrive at the San Diego station. This station is conveniently located in downtown San Diego, making it easy to access popular attractions and accommodations in the city. Amtrak operates the train services between Riverside and San Diego, providing a comfortable and scenic journey for travelers.
Yes, there is no direct train between Riverside and San Diego. However, you can take a train from Riverside-Downtown station to San Diego with a transfer at Santa Ana. The journey, including transfers, takes approximately 4 hours and 2 minutes. Please check the train schedule for the most accurate timings and availability.
To catch the train from Riverside to San Diego you will need to go to the Riverside-Downtown station. This station is served by Metrolink Trains, which operate regular train services between the two cities. From there, you can board the train and enjoy a scenic journey to San Diego. Make sure to check the train schedules in advance to plan your trip accordingly.
The cost of a train ticket from Riverside to San Diego can range from $12 to $104, depending on factors such as the type of train and the class of service chosen. Basic economy fares tend to be more affordable, while first-class or premium fares may be more expensive. It is advisable to check the specific prices and options available on the Amtrak website or by contacting customer service for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
The cost of driving from Riverside to San Diego can range from $17 to $26. This estimate takes into account fuel expenses and tolls, if any. It is advisable to check for real-time gas prices and consider the type of vehicle you are driving for a more accurate cost calculation. Additionally, factors like traffic congestion and road conditions may impact travel time and costs.

Trips from Riverside

Trips to San Diego