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San Diego, CA, USA to Phoenix, AZ, USA from $27: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

How to Get from San Diego to Phoenix: 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 - Train, BusBest price
484.6 kmDistance
2h 35m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from San Diego to Phoenix 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
2h  35m
Estimated price
$41-205
Recommended
Company
various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
13h  30m
Estimated price
$27-265
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 484.6 km
Duration: 2h 35m

See more options

Company
FlixBus
Bus
Average Duration
10h  12m
Estimated price
$39-148
Company
FlixBus
Bus
Average Duration
9h  57m
Estimated price
$43-124
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
5h  48m
Estimated price
$60-95
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Traveling From San Diego to Phoenix

The journey from San Diego to Phoenix presents an exciting transition from sunny coastal vibes to the vibrant desert landscape, offering travelers a chance to explore diverse cultures, climates, and activities.

Best Neighbourhoods in Phoenix

Phoenix boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences for travelers.

Downtown Phoenix
• Hub for dining and nightlife options.
• Home to arts and cultural venues.
Arcadia
• Picturesque views of Camelback Mountain.
• Trendy shops and eateries abound.
Roosevelt Row
• Renowned for its vibrant street art.
• Hosts local galleries and craft breweries.

Best Times To Visit Phoenix's Attractions

Timing your visit to Phoenix's must-see spots can greatly enhance your experience.

Desert Botanical Garden
Early mornings are ideal for cooler temperatures and fewer visitors.
Phoenix Art Museum
Weekdays are best to enjoy art without the weekend crowds.
South Mountain Park
Visit in the late afternoon for stunning sunset views and mild weather.

Phoenix Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Phoenix boasts a desert climate characterized by hot summers and mild winters, making it a year-round destination. The ideal times to visit are spring and fall when temperatures are comfortable and outdoor activities are most enjoyable.

Dining Recommendation in Phoenix

In Phoenix, try the traditional Sonoran hot dog, a bacon-wrapped delight topped with an array of fresh and zesty ingredients, available at popular spots like El Guero Canelo. This distinct culinary experience contrasts with San Diego's seafood-centric offerings, inviting you to savor the bold flavors and vibrant atmosphere found in the heart of Arizona.

San Diego - Phoenix operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
southwest.com

Plane from San Diego Airport (SAN) to Phoenix Airport (PHX)

Average Duration
1h 18m
Estimated price
$100-290
Website
aa.com

Plane from San Diego Airport (SAN) to Phoenix Airport (PHX)

Average Duration
1h 25m
Estimated price
$160-390
Website
flyfrontier.com

Plane from San Diego Airport (SAN) to Phoenix Airport (PHX)

Average Duration
1h 23m
Estimated price
$40-300
Website
delta.com

Plane from San Diego Airport (SAN) to Phoenix Airport (PHX)

Average Duration
3h 17m
Estimated price
$130-450
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from San Diego to Los Angeles

Average Duration
2h 56m
Estimated price
$5-85

Train from Los Angeles to Maricopa

Average Duration
7h 30m
Estimated price
$17-160

Train from Maricopa to Tempe Amtrak Bus Stop

Average Duration
45m
Estimated price
$3-19
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
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
flixbus.com

Bus from Calexico Bus Station to Phoenix Bus Station

Average Duration
4h 20m
Estimated price
$22-80

Bus from San Diego to Riverside

Average Duration
2h 25m
Estimated price
$10-50

Bus from Riverside to Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport/44th Street Station

Average Duration
5h 40m
Estimated price
$28-95

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

Traveling between San Diego and Phoenix 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 San Diego to Phoenix, covering a distance of 356 miles. The journey will take you approximately 5 hours and 48 minutes, passing through scenic desert landscapes. 💰 Traveling from San Diego to Phoenix by car offers flexibility in pricing, with costs ranging from $60 to $95 depending on factors such as gas prices and toll roads. Be sure to plan your budget accordingly for this exciting adventure.
Average price
$60 - $95
Useful tips for train travellers
• On the train route from San Diego to Phoenix, Amtrak Southwest Chief is the primary operator, offering a dining car with full-service meal options, such as breakfast, lunch, and dinner. They also offer snacks and beverages for purchase, but you can bring your own food onboard as well for a personal touch.
• Amtrak provides different seating options on this route, including Coach Class and Business Class. Coach Class is comfortable for budget travelers, while Business Class offers extra legroom and amenities such as complimentary beverages and access to the lounge area. Make sure to consider your comfort preferences when booking your ticket.
• For the San Diego to Phoenix route, Amtrak is the main operator. You can check schedules and book your tickets at amtrak.com Upon your arrival in Phoenix, you’ll be at the Phoenix Union Station. The station does not offer luggage storage but does have restrooms. Be sure to use them before heading out.
🛫 The quickest way to travel from San Diego to Phoenix is by taking a direct flight, which typically lasts about 1 hour and 10 minutes. Several airlines, including Frontier Airlines, Delta, American Airlines, and Southwest Airlines, operate flights between the two cities. 🌵 Flying from San Diego to Phoenix usually takes around 2 hours and 35 minutes, allowing you to swiftly reach your destination in Arizona. Prices for flights between the two cities can range from $41 to $205, offering travelers a variety of options to suit their budget and preferences.
Departure Point
San Diego Airport
Arrival Point
Phoenix Airport
🚌 The bus trip from San Diego to Phoenix takes approximately 9 hours and 57 minutes, offering a convenient and budget-friendly option for travel between these two cities. 🌵 Route 1 involves a 13-hour and 35-minute journey covering a distance of 548 miles with one transfer. The first step includes a 3-hour and 25-minute bus ride from San Diego to Los Angeles via Greyhound. The second step consists of an 8-hour and 50-minute bus journey from Los Angeles to Phoenix via FlixBus. 🎟️ Prices for bus tickets between Phoenix and San Diego range from $43 to $124, providing flexibility for travelers to choose the fare that best suits their budget and preferences. Overall, the bus route offers a scenic way to experience the beauty of the Southwest region while traveling comfortably to your destination.
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Prepare for an extended journey by packing snacks and drinks, as the trip from San Diego to Phoenix involves a transfer at Los Angeles and can take up to 13 hours in total, which is longer than direct services that may be more expensive.
• If you have a long layover in Los Angeles before connecting to your Phoenix bus, take advantage of the time to explore the area around the station or grab a meal at one of the nearby dining options; consider visiting Santa Monica or grabbing food in Downtown LA, which is accessible via public transit.
• Upon arrival at Phoenix Bus Station, be sure to familiarize yourself with the layout of the station and locate the taxi stands, ride-sharing pick-up zones, and public transportation connections such as Valley Metro light rail services for easier navigation to your final destination.

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between San Diego and Phoenix is approximately 301 miles. The road distance is slightly longer at 356.3 miles. If you prefer to travel by train and then bus, it would take approximately 13 hours and 32 minutes to reach Phoenix from San Diego. Flying is the quickest option, with a flight time of 2 hours and 32 minutes. Driving by car takes about 5 hours and 48 minutes, while taking a bus will take approximately 9 hours and 47 minutes to reach Phoenix from San Diego.
The most cost-effective transportation option for traveling from San Diego to Phoenix is by bus, with tickets ranging from $45 to $150. Although it takes longer, at 9 hours and 47 minutes, it is an economical choice for budget travelers. On the other hand, the fastest way to travel is by plane, which takes only 2 hours and 32 minutes. Prices for flights range from $35 to $200, making it a convenient and time-efficient option for those willing to spend a bit more.
The prices of a bus ticket between Phoenix and San Diego can range from $45 to $146, depending on the specific route and the company you choose. It is recommended to compare prices from different bus companies to find the best deal.
To get from San Diego to Phoenix without using public transportation, you can drive your own car. The distance between San Diego and Phoenix is approximately 356 miles, and the drive takes around 5 hours and 48 minutes. The estimated cost for gas and other expenses varies between $60 and $95, depending on the vehicle and fuel prices.
The best way to travel from San Diego to Phoenix without a car is by bus. The journey takes approximately 9 hours and 47 minutes and can cost anywhere from $45 to $150, depending on the bus service chosen. This option allows you to sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic views along the way, while also being a cost-effective mode of transportation.
Yes, there is a link between San Diego and Phoenix but there is no direct bus route between the two cities. However, there are alternative options available. You can take a bus from San Diego to Tijuana, transfer to another bus at Central de Autobuses de Mexicali, and then transfer again at Calexico Bus Station to reach Phoenix. The total travel time for this route is approximately 9 hours and 47 minutes, including transfers. It is recommended to check the schedules and availability of these bus services before planning your trip.
The flight between San Diego and Phoenix typically takes 1 hour and 10 minutes. The cost of a flight between these two cities ranges from $36 to $195, depending on the airline and time of booking. It is advisable to compare prices and book in advance to ensure the best deal.
There are plenty of options for accommodations near Phoenix. With over 2066 hotels to choose from, visitors can find a range of options to suit their preferences and budgets. Prices for hotels in Phoenix start at just $47 per night, making it accessible for a variety of travelers. Whether you're looking for a luxury resort or a budget-friendly motel, Phoenix offers a diverse selection of lodging choices.

Trips from San Diego