1map logoGo to main page

San Diego, CA, USA to Chico, CA, USA from $31: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from San Diego to Chico: 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.

$31 by trainBest price
890 kmDistance
6h 1m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from San Diego to Chico 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
Train
Average Duration
6h  1m
Estimated price
$86-494
Recommended
Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
19h  42m
Estimated price
$31-294
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 890 km
Duration: 6h 1m

See more options

Company
various
Plane
Train
Average Duration
8h  51m
Estimated price
$65-447
Company
Greyhound, FlixBus
Bus
Average Duration
16h  34m
Estimated price
$65-178
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
16h  45m
Estimated price
$65-178
Company
various
Plane
BART
Train
Average Duration
9h  12m
Estimated price
$82-438
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
9h  52m
Estimated price
$860-861
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From San Diego to Chico

The journey from San Diego, with its sunny beaches and vibrant city life, to Chico, known for its lush parks and laid-back atmosphere, offers travelers a refreshing blend of urban and natural experiences.

Best Neighbourhoods in Chico

Chico offers diverse neighborhoods, each with its own charm and attractions.

Downtown Chico
• Vibrant arts scene with numerous galleries.
• Diverse dining options from cafes to fine dining.
Bidwell Park
• Home to one of California's largest municipal parks.
• Perfect for hiking, picnicking, and enjoying nature.
California State University, Chico
• Bustling with student energy and cultural events.
• Access to beautiful campus gardens and activities.

Best Times To Visit Chico's Attractions

Discovering Chico's attractions is best enjoyed during specific times to enhance your experience.

Bidwell Park
Visit early mornings or weekdays for tranquility and fewer visitors.
Chico Museum
Afternoons on weekdays provide a quieter environment for exploration.
California State University, Chico
Join campus events during the spring for vibrant student life and activity.

Chico Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Chico enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, rainy winters, making spring and fall the ideal seasons for comfortable exploration. Understanding the weather patterns helps in planning your activities, ensuring you enjoy the city in favorable conditions.

Dining Recommendation in Chico

Try the wood-fired pizzas at 5th Street Steakhouse, where local ingredients meet a rustic, cozy atmosphere that stands in contrast to San Diego’s coastal cuisine. The unique flavor profiles here, blended with handcrafted techniques, provide a refreshing dining experience that showcases Chico’s culinary charm.

San Diego - Chico operators

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

Bus
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
https://www.greyhound.com/

Bus from San Diego Greyhound Bus Stop to Sacramento Bus Station

Average Duration
12h 45m
Estimated price
$65-178

Bus from Sacramento Bus Station to Chico Bus Station

Average Duration
1h 40m
Estimated price
$65-178
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
https://www.flixbus.com/

Bus from Sacramento Bus Station to Chico Bus Station

Average Duration
1h 40m
Estimated price
$65-178
Contact phone
+1 408-729-7885
Website
http://xedohoang.com

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

Average Duration
10h 55m
Estimated price
$65-4940

Bus from Sacramento Bus Station to Chico Amtrak

Average Duration
1h 55m
Estimated price
$65-178
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from San Diego to Los Angeles

Average Duration
2h 56m
Estimated price
$31-294

Train from Los Angeles to Chico Amtrak

Average Duration
15h 46m
Estimated price
$653-29470

Train from Sacramento to Chico Amtrak

Average Duration
1h 48m
Estimated price
$4948-4949
Plane
Website
https://www.southwest.com/

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

Average Duration
1h 37m
Estimated price
$866-867
Website
https://www.alaskaair.com/

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

Average Duration
1h 46m
Estimated price
$4942-650
Website
https://www.united.com/

Plane from San Diego (SAN) to San Francisco (SFO)

Average Duration
1h 44m
Estimated price
$868-4945
Website
https://www.spirit.com/

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

Average Duration
1h 40m
Estimated price
$4940-4946

Plane from San Diego (SAN) to Oakland (OAK)

Average Duration
1h 38m
Estimated price
$4947-8620

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

Traveling between San Diego and Chico 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 the sunny shores of San Diego to the charming city of Chico, covering a distance of 592 miles. Enjoy the scenic beauty of California as you drive through diverse landscapes. 💸 Plan your budget for the journey as prices to travel from San Diego to Chico by car range between $100 to $160. Consider factors like gas, tolls, and any pit stops along the way to ensure a smooth and enjoyable ride. 🌲 Explore the vibrant culture and friendly locals of Chico, experiencing the perfect blend of urban amenities and natural beauty. After a drive of approximately 9 hours and 52 minutes, unwind and immerse yourself in all that this Northern California gem has to offer.
Average price
$100 - $160
🚆 Traveling from San Diego to Chico by train involves a journey that includes transfers and lasts approximately 19 hours and 42 minutes. 🚆 The prices for a train ticket between San Diego and Chico can range from $31 to $294, offering travelers a convenient and scenic way to reach their destination in Northern California.
Departure Point
San Diego station
Arrival Point
Chico Amtrak station
🌴✈️ Flying from sunny San Diego to the charming city of Chico, travelers can enjoy a quick direct flight that takes only 1 hour and 30 minutes. Spirit Airlines, Alaska Airlines, Inc., and Southwest Airlines are some of the carriers that offer flights from San Diego Airport to Sacramento Airport. 🚗🍃 Upon landing in Sacramento, travelers can opt for a rental car or take a connecting flight to reach Chico. The scenic drive from Sacramento to Chico takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, allowing visitors to soak in the beauty of Northern California along the way.
Departure Point
San Diego Airport
Arrival Point
Sacramento Airport
🛤️ The route entails transfers at various key points such as Stockton Blvd & 65th St and Sacramento before reaching the final destination of Chico Amtrak, making the total travel time approximately 16 hours and 45 minutes. 💰 The cost of the bus ticket for this journey can range between $65 to $178, offering an affordable and adventurous way to explore the diverse terrain California has to offer.
Departure Point
Lucky Seafood - San Diego, CA station
Arrival Point
Chico Amtrak station

Frequently asked questions

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

Or choose the category:
The cheapest way to travel from San Diego to Chico is by taking an Amtrak train. The cost of a train ticket typically ranges from $30 to $300, depending on the class of service and how far in advance you book. The journey takes approximately 19 hours and 42 minutes, offering a budget-friendly option for travelers looking to save on transportation costs. Be sure to check Amtrak's schedule and prices to find the best deal for your trip.
The fastest way to travel from San Diego to Chico is by combining a flight and a train journey. This route typically takes about 6 hours and 1 minute. The cost of this combined mode of transportation varies between $85 and $500. Flying to a nearby city and then taking a train could help expedite the journey.
The distance between San Diego and Chico is approximately 553 miles. If traveling by road, the distance slightly increases to about 592.4 miles. Whether you choose to drive, take a train, or fly, planning your journey in advance can help you navigate the 553-mile trek effectively. Depending on your preferred mode of transportation, the distance and travel time may vary.
To travel from San Diego to Chico without a car, taking the bus is the most convenient option. The journey by bus typically takes around 16 hours and 34 minutes, with ticket prices ranging from $65 to $180 depending on the type of service and time of booking. Several bus companies operate routes between these two cities, providing a cost-effective and efficient mode of transportation for travelers without a personal vehicle.Booking tickets in advance can help secure better prices and ensure a smoother travel experience on this long-distance journey.
The journey from San Diego to Chico typically takes around 6 hours and 1 minute, which includes any necessary transfers. You can travel by various modes of transportation such as train, bus, or driving. It's important to check the specific schedules and routes for the chosen mode of travel to accurately plan your journey duration. Additionally, factors like traffic or delays may affect the total travel time.
In Chico there are approximately 62 hotels to choose from, offering a variety of accommodations to suit different preferences and budgets. Prices for hotels in the area typically start at around $75 per night, providing affordable options for travelers. From well-known hotel chains to cozy bed and breakfasts, Chico offers a range of lodging choices to make your stay comfortable and enjoyable. It is advisable to book your accommodation in advance to secure the best rates and ensure availability during your visit to Chico.
Yes, you can drive from San Diego to Chico as the driving distance is 592 miles. The journey typically takes around 9 hours and 52 minutes, depending on traffic conditions and the chosen route. Make sure to plan for rest stops and consider splitting the drive over multiple days for a more comfortable trip. Additionally, be mindful of any road closures or construction along the way that could affect your travel time.
No, there is no direct bus between San Diego and Chico. The journey involves transferring buses at various locations, including Lucky Seafood in San Diego & 65th St, and Sacramento, before reaching Chico Amtrak. The total travel time with transfers typically takes around 16 hours and 45 minutes. It's recommended to plan your trip carefully and book tickets in advance to ensure a smooth travel experience between the two cities.
To catch the bus from San Diego to Chico head to the Lucky Seafood station in San Diego, where Xe Do Hoang Transportation operates their services. Lucky Seafood is located at a convenient spot in San Diego to facilitate your travel to Chico. Ensure you arrive at the station in advance to secure your seat on the bus to Chico. Remember to check the bus schedule in advance to plan your journey accordingly.
When traveling by bus from San Diego to Chico the bus service operated by Amtrak arrives at the Chico Amtrak station. This station is conveniently located in the heart of Chico, making it easily accessible for passengers. Upon arrival, passengers can utilize various transportation options such as taxis, rideshares, or local transit to reach their final destination within Chico or continue their journey. The Chico Amtrak station provides a convenient and central arrival point for travelers from San Diego.
Spirit Airlines, Alaska Airlines, Inc., and Southwest Airlines offer flights from San Diego Airport to Sacramento Airport, which is the closest major airport to Chico. Once you arrive in Sacramento, you can take a connecting flight, a bus, or rent a car to reach Chico. It's essential to check the airlines' schedules and availability for the most up-to-date information on flights between these cities. Remember to book your tickets in advance to secure the best deals on flights for your trip.
The fastest way to travel from San Diego to Chico is by taking a flight. The quickest route is a direct flight from San Diego Airport to Sacramento Airport, which takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. Airlines such as Spirit Airlines, Alaska Airlines, Inc., and Southwest Airlines operate flights on this route. Once in Sacramento, you can reach Chico either by car, bus, or train for the remainder of your journey.
The quickest flight from San Diego to Chico involves a layover in Sacramento. The duration of the direct flight from San Diego Airport to Sacramento Airport is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. With the layover included, the total travel time can vary based on the connection and typically takes around 4 to 6 hours. It's essential to check for flight schedules and connections to determine the most efficient and convenient option for your trip.
Trains traveling from San Diego to Chico are operated by Amtrak and arrive at Chico Amtrak station. The Chico Amtrak station is located at 141 West 5th Street in Chico, conveniently situated in the heart of the city. Passengers alighting at Chico Amtrak station will find various transportation options available nearby for onward journeys to their final destinations in Chico. Amtrak provides a convenient and comfortable way to travel between San Diego and Chico with the Chico Amtrak station serving as the final stop for this route.
There is no direct train between San Diego and Chico. Travelers would need to take a train from San Diego to Los Angeles and then transfer to another train bound for Chico. This journey, while not direct, provides an efficient way to reach Chico by train. The total travel time, including transfers, is approximately 19 hours and 42 minutes.
To catch the train from San Diego to Chico, head to the San Diego station, which is where the Amtrak train services depart from. The station is located downtown at 1050 Kettner Boulevard. Be sure to arrive at the station early to allow time for boarding procedures and ticketing. The train journey to Chico typically takes around 19 hours and 42 minutes, so it's advisable to bring along some entertainment or a good book for the trip.
A train ticket from San Diego to Chico can cost between $31 and $294 depending on the type of ticket and accommodation selected. Prices may vary based on factors such as the time of booking, class of service, and demand for the route. It is advisable to book in advance to secure the best deals and lower fares for your journey. Keep in mind that prices are subject to change, so it's recommended to check with the railway company for the most up-to-date information before booking your trip.
The cost of a bus ticket from San Diego to Chico typically ranges from $65 to $178, depending on the bus company, time of booking, and type of seat. Prices may vary based on demand and availability, so it's advisable to check multiple bus operators for the best deals. Booking in advance or being flexible with travel dates can help secure lower fares for the journey. Keep in mind that additional fees for amenities or luggage may apply, so it's recommended to read the terms and conditions before purchasing a ticket.
Driving from San Diego to Chico typically costs between $100 and $160 in total for fuel and toll expenses. However, this cost may fluctuate based on factors such as vehicle fuel efficiency, current gas prices, and any additional costs for food, lodging, or unexpected stops along the way. Additionally, road conditions and potential traffic can impact the overall expense and duration of the trip, so it's advisable to plan accordingly and budget for unforeseen costs to ensure a smooth journey.

Trips from San Diego