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Sacramento, CA, USA to San Diego, CA, USA from $831: 9 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

How to Get from Sacramento 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.

$831 by busBest price
764 kmDistance
3h 8m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Sacramento 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
3h  8m
Estimated price
$83-428
Recommended
Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
18h  17m
Estimated price
$28-272
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 764 km
Duration: 3h 8m

See more options

Company
various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
12h  37m
Estimated price
$0-0
Company
various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
6h  1m
Estimated price
$48-830
Company
various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
5h  5m
Estimated price
$62-348
Company
various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
5h  38m
Estimated price
$69-360
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
12h  13m
Estimated price
$831-832
Company
Greyhound USA
Bus
Average Duration
13h  16m
Estimated price
$833-834
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
8h  23m
Estimated price
$835-836
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Sacramento to San Diego

The journey from Sacramento to San Diego offers a shift from the lush, historic charm of California’s capital to the vibrant, sun-soaked beaches of the southern coast.

Best Neighbourhoods in San Diego

San Diego boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences.

Gaslamp Quarter
• Historic district with vibrant nightlife
• Eclectic eateries and boutique shops
La Jolla
• Stunning coastal views and upscale dining
• Popular spot for outdoor activities like kayaking
Balboa Park
• Home to renowned museums and gardens
• Great for leisurely strolls and picnics

Best Times To Visit San Diego's Attractions

Timing your visits can transform your San Diego experience.

San Diego Zoo
Visit on weekdays early in the morning for fewer crowds and cooler temperatures.
Balboa Park
Explore in spring or fall to enjoy pleasant weather and blooming gardens.
USS Midway Museum
Go during late afternoons for shorter lines and a more relaxed atmosphere.

San Diego Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

San Diego boasts a mild Mediterranean climate with warm, sunny summers and cool winters, making it an inviting destination year-round. Comfortable temperatures and low humidity mean your travel plans can often go off without a hitch, but visiting in spring or fall can offer the best combination of pleasant weather and fewer tourists.

San Diego Dining Recommendation

Try the fish tacos at Point Loma Seafoods, where fresh local catch meets vibrant coastal flavors, offering a delightful contrast to the farm-fresh plates you'll find in Sacramento. The casual, seaside atmosphere and emphasis on fresh, local seafood create a unique dining experience that embodies the laid-back vibe of San Diego.

Sacramento - San Diego operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
southwest.com

Plane from Sacramento Airport (SMF) to San Diego Airport (SAN)

Average Duration
1h 30m
Estimated price
$839-8330
Website
alaskaair.com

Plane from Sacramento Airport (SMF) to San Diego Airport (SAN)

Average Duration
1h 36m
Estimated price
$839-4284
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Sacramento to Los Angeles

Average Duration
14h 23m
Estimated price
$284-27200

Train from Sacramento to Bakersfield

Average Duration
5h 31m
Estimated price
$620-2870

Train from Los Angeles to San Diego

Average Duration
2h 54m
Estimated price
$621-4283
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 408-729-7885
Website
xedohoang.com

Bus from Sacramento, CA to Lucky Seafood - San Diego, CA

Average Duration
9h 30m
Estimated price
$833-837

Bus from Sacramento Bus Station to San Diego Greyhound Bus Stop

Average Duration
13h 5m
Estimated price
$6215-2870
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
greyhound.com

Bus from Sacramento Bus Station to San Diego Greyhound Bus Stop

Average Duration
13h 16m
Estimated price
$833-834

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

Traveling between Sacramento 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 Sacramento to San Diego, covering a distance of 508 miles. Enjoy the scenic drive through California's diverse landscapes, from the capital city to the vibrant coastal destination. 💸 Explore the range of prices for the journey, with car travel costs typically falling between $90 to $140. Plan your budget accordingly for gas, tolls, snacks, and any spontaneous detours along the way. 🌴 Arrive in sunny San Diego after approximately 8 hours and 23 minutes on the road. Take in the picturesque views, relax on the beaches, and immerse yourself in the laid-back vibes of this Southern California gem.
Average price
$90 - $140
🚆 Traveling from Sacramento to San Diego by train involves a journey with transfers through Los Angeles. It takes approximately 18 hours and 17 minutes to reach your destination. 🛤️ The route covers a distance of 681 miles, with options for different transfer routes and train services. The train services are operated by Amtrak, offering a comfortable and scenic way to travel between the two cities. 💰 Ticket prices for the train journey from Sacramento to San Diego can range from $28 to $272, providing travelers with flexible options based on their budget and travel preferences. Enjoy the unique experience of train travel while exploring the beautiful landscapes of California.
Departure Point
Sacramento station
Arrival Point
San Diego station
Useful tips for train travellers
• On your train trip from Sacramento to San Diego, you’ll typically be traveling with Amtrak. The onboard services include a café car where you can purchase snacks, beverages, and light meals. Be sure to check the menu ahead of time, as some offers might only be available during specific hours.
• Amtrak offers different seating options: Coach Class provides standard seating with plenty of legroom, while Business Class offers wider seats with added amenities. There is also First Class seating on some routes, featuring more spacious accommodations and complimentary meals. For the best views along the coastline, try to secure a seat on the ocean-facing side of the train.
• When you arrive in San Diego at the Santa Fe Depot, you can leave luggage at the station's luggage check service. The station has clean restrooms available, and while there are no showers, you can freshen up at nearby facilities. To reach downtown, the fastest option is to hop on the San Diego Trolley (Green Line). The trolley stop is conveniently located right outside the station. It’s just a 10-15 minute journey to the heart of the city.
🛫 Flying from Sacramento Airport to San Diego Airport is a quick and convenient option, with a direct flight taking just 1 hour and 25 minutes on airlines like Alaska Airlines, Inc. and Southwest Airlines. 🏝 The flight distance between Sacramento and San Diego is covered in approximately 3 hours and 8 minutes, allowing travelers to reach their sunny destination in Southern California in a relatively short time. 💸 Prices for flights from Sacramento to San Diego can range from $83 to $428, offering a range of options to suit different budgets for those looking to explore the beautiful coastal city of San Diego.
Departure Point
Sacramento Airport
Arrival Point
San Diego Airport
🚌 Embark on a scenic bus journey from Sacramento to San Diego, although there isn't a direct route available. The trip will include transfers and last approximately 12 hours and 13 minutes with Xe Do Hoang Transportation. 🗺️ Explore different options for the Sacramento to San Diego bus route, such as traveling via Los Angeles Union Station with Greyhound and FlixBus. Choose from various transfer points and enjoy the 546-mile adventure through California. 💰 The cost of a bus ticket between San Diego and Sacramento can range from $60 to $125, offering flexibility for budget-conscious travelers seeking a convenient way to traverse the 550-mile distance. Contact Greyhound at 1-800-231-2222 for booking details.
Departure Point
Sacramento, CA station
Arrival Point
Lucky Seafood - San Diego, CA station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Make sure to check the transfer times and platforms at Los Angeles Union Station; depending on your arrival time, you might have limited time to switch from the Greyhound bus to the FlixBus, so plan your trip accordingly.
• Pack snacks and drinks to keep you energized during the long journey; while there may be stopovers, having your own provisions will save time and ensure you have exactly what you want along the way.
• Upon arriving at Lucky Seafood in San Diego, look for the nearby bus stops and trolley stations; planning your next leg of the journey ahead of time can help you quickly navigate to your final destination, whether it's a local hotel or another attraction. More info can be found at the San Diego Transit website: sdmts.com

Frequently asked questions

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

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The cheapest way to travel from Sacramento to San Diego is by taking a bus. The Lucky Seafood bus service offers trips between the two cities for $60 to $90. The journey takes approximately 12 hours and 13 minutes. This option allows travelers to save money while still reaching their destination comfortably.
The fastest way to travel from Sacramento to San Diego is by taking a flight. The journey takes approximately 3 hours and 8 minutes. Prices for flights range from $80 to $430, depending on the airline and time of booking. Flying allows you to reach your destination quickly and efficiently, making it the ideal choice for those seeking a speedy travel option.
Sacramento and San Diego are approximately 475 miles apart. The road distance is slightly longer at 507.6 miles. The driving time can vary depending on traffic and route, but it typically takes around 7-8 hours to drive from Sacramento to San Diego. Please keep in mind that these times are approximate and may be longer or shorter depending on the exact location of departure and arrival.
The cheapest way to travel from Sacramento to San Diego without a car is by taking a bus via Lucky Seafood - San Diego. The journey takes approximately 12 hours and 13 minutes and tickets usually cost between $60 and $90. The bus provides a convenient and cost-effective option for travelers who do not have access to a vehicle.
The journey from Sacramento to San Diego takes approximately 3 hours and 8 minutes, including transfers. The duration may vary depending on the mode of transportation chosen. If you choose to fly, the flight time can be as short as 1 hour 20 minutes. If you prefer to drive, the estimated travel time is around 7-8 hours, depending on traffic conditions. It is important to take into account any potential delays or detours that may affect the overall travel time.
The cheapest way to travel from Sacramento to San Diego is by bus via Lucky Seafood - San Diego which takes approximately 12 hours and 13 minutes and costs $60-$90. If you prefer a faster option, flying is the best choice, with a travel time of around 3 hours and 8 minutes and a cost ranging from $80-$430. Another alternative is taking the train, which takes approximately 18 hours and 17 minutes and costs between $28 and $280.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near San Diego. There are over 1163 hotels available, ranging from budget-friendly options to luxury resorts. Prices start at $53 per night, depending on the location, amenities, and time of year you plan to visit. Whether you prefer to stay in the bustling downtown area or closer to the beach, you will find a variety of options to suit your needs and budget.
Yes, you can drive from Sacramento to San Diego. The distance between the two cities is about 508 miles, and it usually takes around 8 hours and 23 minutes to drive, depending on traffic and weather conditions. It is important to plan your route beforehand and take breaks along the way to ensure a safe and comfortable journey.
Yes, there is no direct bus from Sacramento to San Diego. However, there are services available that involve transfers. The journey begins at the 7th St & H St bus station in Sacramento and has a transfer at Sacramento before reaching the final destination at Broadway & 5th Av in San Diego. The total travel time, including transfers, is approximately 12 hours and 13 minutes.
You can catch the bus from Sacramento to San Diego at the Sacramento station. The bus services are operated by Xe Do Hoang Transportation. They have regular departures from this station for the journey to San Diego.
The Sacramento to San Diego bus arrives at the Lucky Seafood - San Diego station. This is the final stop for the bus journey. Lucky Seafood is a well-known and easily recognizable location in San Diego. From there, travelers can easily access other parts of San Diego using public transportation or taxi services.
To get to San Diego from Sacramento Airport, you have a few options. The quickest and most convenient option is to take a flight from Sacramento International Airport to San Diego International Airport, which takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes. Another option is to take the Greyhound bus, which takes about 11 hours and 45 minutes. If you prefer to drive, the distance between Sacramento and San Diego is approximately 500 miles, and the journey by car typically takes around 7-8 hours, depending on traffic conditions.
Alaska Airlines, Inc. and Southwest Airlines are the two airlines that offer flights between Sacramento Airport and San Diego Airport. Both airlines provide multiple daily flights, giving travelers flexibility in choosing their preferred departure and arrival times. It is recommended to check the airlines' websites or use a flight aggregator website to compare prices and find the best deals for your travel dates.
The fastest way to travel from Sacramento to San Diego is by plane. There are direct flights available from Sacramento Airport to San Diego Airport, with a flight duration of approximately 1 hour and 25 minutes. Both Alaska Airlines, Inc. and Southwest Airlines operate flights on this route. The total travel time by plane is around 3 hours and 8 minutes. The prices for flights between Sacramento and San Diego can range from $83 to $428.
The flight from Sacramento to San Diego typically takes approximately 1 hour and 25 minutes. This time is for a direct flight from Sacramento Airport to San Diego Airport. However, it is important to note that flight durations can vary depending on factors such as air traffic and weather conditions. It is always advisable to check with the airline for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding flight times.
Trains from Sacramento to San Diego arrive at the San Diego station. This is the final destination for the Amtrak train service. The San Diego station is conveniently located in downtown San Diego, making it easily accessible for travelers. From there, you can explore the city or continue your journey to other destinations in the San Diego area.
No, there is no direct train between Sacramento and San Diego. However, there are train services that depart from Sacramento and arrive in San Diego via Los Angeles. The journey, including transfers, takes approximately 18 hours and 17 minutes. It is recommended to check the train schedules and plan accordingly for a smooth journey.
To catch the train from Sacramento to San Diego you will need to go to the Sacramento station. This is where the Amtrak train services for this route depart from. From Sacramento station, you can board the train that will take you all the way to San Diego. It's important to check the train schedule and ticket availability in advance to plan your trip accordingly.
The cost of a flight from Sacramento to San Diego can vary depending on factors such as the airline, time of booking, and availability. On average, prices for a one-way flight range from $83 to $428. It is recommended to compare prices from different airlines and book in advance to secure the best deal. Additionally, consider checking for any ongoing promotions or discounts that may further reduce the cost of the flight.
The cost of a train ticket from Sacramento to San Diego can range from $28 to $272, depending on the class and type of ticket you choose. There are different options available, including economy class, business class, and sleeper options, which offer varying levels of comfort and amenities. It's advisable to book your tickets in advance, as prices can vary and increase closer to the travel date.
The cost of a bus ticket from Sacramento to San Diego ranges from $60 to $125. Prices may vary depending on the bus company, time of travel, and availability of discounts or promotions. It is recommended to book your ticket in advance to secure the best deal.
The cost of driving from Sacramento to San Diego can vary depending on factors such as fuel prices and vehicle efficiency. On average, you can expect to spend around $90 to $140 on fuel for the round trip. This estimation includes the cost of gasoline for a standard car and does not account for other expenses such as tolls or parking fees. It is important to keep in mind that these prices are subject to change and may increase or decrease based on current fuel costs.

Trips from Sacramento

Trips to San Diego