San Diego, CA, USA to Mexicali from $23: 3 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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How to Get from San Diego to Mexicali: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$23 by carBest price

206 kmDistance

2h 11m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from San Diego to Mexicali 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 San Diego to Mexicali

The journey from San Diego to Mexicali showcases a vibrant transition from the laid-back coastal city life to a lively Mexican border town, where you can savor street tacos and immerse yourself in rich local culture.

Best Neighbourhoods in Mexicali

Mexicali features diverse neighborhoods, each with its own charm and attractions.

Centro Histórico

• Home to historic buildings and vibrant culture.

• Great restaurants and cafes for local dining.

Lomas de Chapultepec

• Known for its spacious parks and green areas.

• A family-friendly atmosphere with local shops.

Gonzalez Ortega

• Bustling market scene and lively street food.

• Close to the cultural events and festivals.

Best Times To Visit Mexicali's Attractions

Timing your visits can elevate your experience in Mexicali's highlights.

Centro Histórico

Visit on weekdays early in the morning for fewer crowds and a more intimate atmosphere.

Mexicali Zoo

Afternoons during weekdays provide a calm experience with fewer families.

Plaza Cívica

Evenings on weekends offer lively events and a chance to mingle with locals.

Mexicali Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Mexicali features a desert climate, with hot summers and mild winters, making it essential to consider the season when planning your visit. The best times to explore are in the spring and fall, allowing you to enjoy outdoor activities comfortably while staying hydrated.

Dining in Mexicali: A Taste to Remember

Savor the flavors of Mexicali by indulging in a dish of carne asada fries at a local taqueria, where crispy fries are loaded with tender grilled beef, cheese, and salsa—a delightful contrast to San Diego's fish tacos. The vibrant atmosphere, often filled with the sounds of live mariachi music and the aroma of fresh tortillas, enhances your dining experience, setting it apart from the coastal culinary scene.

San Diego - Mexicali operators

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

Bus Show bus routes

Contact phone

+52 664 104 7400

Website

abc.com.mx

Bus from Tijuana to Mexicali

Average Duration

2h 25m

Estimated price

$19-40

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

Traveling between San Diego and Mexicali 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 scenic road trip from San Diego to Mexicali, covering a distance of 128 miles. Enjoy the changing landscapes as you drive for approximately 2 hours and 11 minutes. 💸 Discover budget-friendly options to reach Mexicali from San Diego by car, with prices ranging from $23 to $35. Plan your expenses accordingly and make the most of your journey.

Average price

$23 - $35

🚆 Embark on a scenic train journey from San Diego to Mexicali spanning a distance of 122 miles and taking approximately 6 hours and 33 minutes with a transfer along the way. 🚌 The first leg involves a 2-hour ride on a bus bound for Tijuana Central Bus Terminal. This part of the journey offers a glimpse of the vibrant locales as you make your way through the bustling streets. 🛤️ Transition to the next step with a 2-hour and 15-minute bus ride from Tijuana to Mexicali, soaking in the beauty of the landscape as you head towards your final destination. Travel hassle-free with the Tufesa Primera Clase agency for a smooth and enjoyable experience.

🚌 The trip from San Diego to Mexicali by bus involves a transfer in Tijuana. The journey, including transfers, takes approximately 3 hours and 38 minutes. 🌉 Route 1: The total travel time from San Diego to Mexicali is 6 hours and 33 minutes, covering a distance of 122 miles. The first step involves taking a bus from San Diego to Tijuana Central Bus Terminal, operated by Greyhound, which takes about 2 hours and 10 minutes. 🌵 Subsequently, the second step is a bus journey from Tijuana to Mexicali operated by Tufesa Primera Clase, taking approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes. The prices of a bus ticket between Mexicali and San Diego may vary from $23 to $70.

Departure Point

Tijuana station

Arrival Point

Mexicali station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between San Diego and Mexicali is approximately 100 miles or 128 miles by road. The typical travel time by car is around 2 hours and 11 minutes. If traveling by bus, it usually takes around 3 hours and 44 minutes to reach Mexicali from San Diego.

The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from San Diego to Mexicali is to drive. It takes approximately 2 hours and 11 minutes to reach Mexicali from San Diego by car, making it the quickest way as well. The cost of driving ranges from $23 to $35. Taking a bus is an alternative option, but it takes longer, with a travel time of 3 hours and 44 minutes.

The prices of a bus ticket between Mexicali and San Diego can vary depending on the bus company and the type of ticket purchased. On average, prices range from $22 to $65. It is recommended to check with different bus companies for the most up-to-date and accurate pricing information. Other factors such as the time of travel and the availability of discounts or promotions may also influence the ticket prices.

To travel from San Diego to Mexicali without public transportation, you can drive the distance of 128 miles. It typically takes around 2 hours and 11 minutes to reach Mexicali from San Diego by car. The cost of this journey can vary from $23 to $35 depending on factors such as gas prices and tolls.

To travel from San Diego to Mexicali without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The bus journey takes approximately 3 hours and 44 minutes, depending on traffic and border crossing times. The cost of the bus ticket ranges from $22 to $65. It is recommended to check with bus companies for the most accurate and up-to-date schedule and ticket prices.

Yes, there is a direct link between San Diego and Mexicali but it involves a transfer in Tijuana. There is no direct bus from San Diego to Mexicali, but there are services that depart from San Diego and arrive at Mexicali via Tijuana. The journey, including transfers, takes approximately 3 hours and 44 minutes. The bus services are operated by ABC and depart from the Tijuana station before arriving at the Mexicali station.

There are over 80 hotels available in Mexicali offering a range of options for accommodation. Prices for hotels in Mexicali start at $46 per night. Some popular hotel choices in Mexicali include the Hotel Lucerna Mexicali and Fiesta Inn Mexicali. With a variety of choices and price ranges, visitors to Mexicali can find a suitable option based on their preferences and budget.