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San Diego, CA, USA to Los Angeles, CA, USA from $5: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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from
San Diego, United States of America
to
Los Angeles, United States of America

How to Get from San Diego to Los Angeles: 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.

$5 by trainBest price
112 kmDistance
2h 3m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from San Diego to Los Angeles 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
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
2h  56m
Estimated price
$5-85
Recommended
Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
2h  56m
Estimated price
$5-85
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 112 km
Duration: 2h 3m

See more options

Company
Greyhound Mexico
Bus
Average Duration
4h  5m
Estimated price
$13-55
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
2h  3m
Estimated price
$22-35
Company
United Airlines, Delta
Plane
Average Duration
3h  36m
Estimated price
$61-315
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From San Diego to Los Angeles

The journey from San Diego to Los Angeles showcases a blend of tranquil coastal vibes and bustling urban energy, offering you a variety of experiences to explore along the way.

Best Neighbourhoods in Los Angeles

Los Angeles boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering something special for visitors.

Santa Monica
• Iconic pier with stunning ocean views.
• Vibrant shopping and dining options nearby.
Silver Lake
• Known for its eclectic arts scene.
• Trendy cafes and boutique shops abound.
Hollywood
• Famous for the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
• Close to major film studios and attractions.

Best Times To Visit Los Angeles's Attractions

Planning your visit to Los Angeles? Timing can make all the difference.

Griffith Observatory
Mornings or late afternoons provide stunning views with fewer crowds.
The Getty Center
Visit on weekdays for a quieter experience and beautiful architecture.
Universal Studios Hollywood
Arrive early on weekdays to enjoy shorter lines and less congestion.

Los Angeles Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Los Angeles boasts a Mediterranean climate characterized by mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers, making it an inviting destination year-round. To truly enjoy outdoor activities and attractions, aim to visit in the spring or fall, when temperatures are comfortable and crowds are lighter.

Dining Recommendation

For an unforgettable experience, try the Korean BBQ at Park’s BBQ, where the lively atmosphere and expertly grilled meats showcase a culinary style distinct from San Diego’s fresh seafood focus. This vibrant dining spot allows you to savor bold flavors and interactive cooking, making it a refreshing change that captures Los Angeles' diverse food scene.

San Diego - Los Angeles operators

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

Train Show train routes
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
$5-85
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+52 800 890 6821
Website
https://greyhound.com.mx

Bus from San Diego to Los Angeles Union Station

Average Duration
4h 5m
Estimated price
$19-45
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
https://flixbus.com

Bus from San Diego to Los Angeles Downtown

Average Duration
2h 55m
Estimated price
$13-55
Plane Show flights
Website
https://united.com

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

Average Duration
1h 4m
Estimated price
$180-380
Website
https://delta.com

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

Average Duration
1h 4m
Estimated price
$190-320

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

Traveling between San Diego and Los Angeles 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 journey from San Diego to Los Angeles, covering a distance of 121 miles in around 2 hours and 3 minutes by car. 💸 Enjoy budget-friendly travel options with prices ranging from $22 to $35 for a road trip to the vibrant city of Los Angeles from the coastal beauty of San Diego.
Average price
$22 - $35
Useful tips for car travellers
• Fuel up before you hit the road, as gas prices fluctuate; expect to pay around $1.20 to $1.40 per liter along Interstate 5, the main route from San Diego to Los Angeles.
• Be aware of carpool lanes on I-5, which require a minimum of two passengers during peak hours; it's a great way to skip traffic but ensure you understand the rules before entering these lanes.
• Upon arriving in Los Angeles, look for parking in downtown areas, which can range from $20 to $50 per day; consider parking further away and using public transport to avoid hefty fees and restricted zones.
🚆 Embark on a scenic journey from San Diego to Los Angeles by train, with services departing every two hours and operating daily. The comfortable ride takes approximately 2 hours and 56 minutes, offering a convenient and relaxing travel option. 🌴 Enjoy the coastal views as you cover the 127-mile distance between the two vibrant California cities. Step aboard the Amtrak Pacific Surfliner departing from San Diego station and arriving at Los Angeles station, providing a seamless and efficient transit experience. 🎟️ Ticket prices for the San Diego to Los Angeles train route can range from $5 to $85, catering to various budgets. Whether you choose Route 1 towards San Luis Obispo, Route 2 towards Goleta Amtrak, or Route 3 heading directly to Los Angeles services ensure a pleasant journey for travelers.
Departure Point
San Diego station
Arrival Point
Los Angeles station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services on the Amtrak Pacific Surfliner include a café car that offers a variety of snacks, meals, and beverages, including local wines. Be sure to check their menu online before your trip to plan what you might want to enjoy.
• The Pacific Surfliner offers different seating options: Business Class, which provides more spacious seats and complimentary non-alcoholic drinks, and Economy Class, which is comfortable but more budget-friendly. If you prefer a quieter atmosphere, Business Class may be the better choice for your journey.
• The two primary operators for this route are Amtrak (amtrak.com) and Metrolink (metrolinktrains.com). Make sure to check their websites for ticket prices and schedules to choose the best option for your trip.
🛫 Flying from San Diego to Los Angeles is a convenient and quick way to travel between the two cities. The direct flight only takes around 1 hour and 2 minutes, saving you time for more sightseeing or relaxation. ✈️ Both United Airlines and Delta provide flights from San Diego Airport to Los Angeles Airport, giving travelers flexibility in choosing their preferred airline and flight schedule. With a total flight duration of 3 hours and 36 minutes, you can easily reach the bustling city of Los Angeles from sunny San Diego. 💸 Flight prices for the route between Los Angeles and San Diego typically range from $61 to $315, allowing travelers to find a flight within their budget. Whether you're planning a quick weekend getaway or a business trip, flying between these two iconic California cities offers convenience and efficiency.
Departure Point
San Diego Airport
Arrival Point
Los Angeles Airport
🌆 The approximately 4-hour journey offers a chance to relax and enjoy the scenery as you make your way from San Diego to the vibrant city of Los Angeles. Greyhound Mexico operates the bus service between these destinations, ensuring a comfortable and reliable travel experience. 💰 Ticket prices for the San Diego to Los Angeles bus route range from $13 to $55, making it an affordable transportation option for those looking to explore both cities without the hassle of driving. Whether you're traveling for business, leisure, or to visit friends and family, the bus trip allows you to sit back, relax, and leave the driving to the professionals.
Departure Point
San Diego station
Arrival Point
Los Angeles Union Station
Useful tips for bus travellers
Check Greyhound and FlixBus schedules ahead of time, as buses depart every four hours, and be aware that ticket prices can range significantly from $13 to $55 depending on the time and availability. You can find schedules at greyhound.com and flixbus.com
Bring snacks or drinks for your trip since the ride to Los Angeles takes approximately 4 hours and services along the route are limited; local eateries near the San Diego station are good for picking up refreshments.
Upon arriving at Los Angeles Union Station, take note of the various modes of transportation available like the Metro, as well as local bus options; be sure to download the LA Metro app for real-time updates and map features at metro.net

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from San Diego to Los Angeles.

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The distance between San Diego and Los Angeles is approximately 112 miles by road. Traveling by car, it takes about 2 hours and 3 minutes to reach San Diego from Los Angeles. Additionally, you can take a train, which typically takes 2 hours and 56 minutes, or a bus, which usually takes 2 hours and 55 minutes. However, if you choose to fly from San Diego to Los Angeles and then take a tram, the typical travel time is around 3 hours and 30 minutes.
For a cost-effective option, taking the train is the best choice, with prices ranging from $5 to $85 and a travel time of 2 hours and 56 minutes. This option allows you to relax and enjoy the scenic route while avoiding traffic. However, if time is of the essence, driving is the quickest option, taking approximately 2 hours and 3 minutes. Keep in mind that driving may also incur additional costs such as gas and parking fees.
When traveling from San Diego to Los Angeles, the prices for a train ticket range between $5 and $85. The bus ticket prices for the same route can vary from $15 to $40. It is advisable to check for available discounts or promotions to get the best price. Additionally, prices may vary depending on the time of year or day of travel.
To travel from San Diego to Los Angeles without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of 121 miles, which takes around 2 hours and 3 minutes. The driving route offers flexibility and convenience, allowing you to explore various attractions along the way. Rental car prices typically range from $22 to $35, depending on the car type and rental company chosen.
The best way to travel from San Diego to Los Angeles without a car is by bus. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 55 minutes and can cost between $15 and $40. Taking a bus allows you to sit back and relax while enjoying scenic views and not having to worry about driving or parking in the busy city.
Yes, there is a direct link between San Diego and Los Angeles. You can take a train operated by Amtrak which departs every two hours and takes approximately 2 hours and 56 minutes. There is also a direct bus operated by Flixbus USA that departs every four hours and takes approximately 2 hours and 55 minutes. Both options offer convenient transportation between the two cities.
The flight from San Diego to Los Angeles typically takes around 1 hour and 3 minutes. This is the quickest option for traveling between the two cities. As for the cost, it can vary depending on factors like the airline and time of booking, but on average, a one-way ticket can cost between $50 to $150. It's always recommended to check with different airlines and compare prices to get the best deal for your trip.
There are many accommodation options available near Los Angeles. with a wide range of hotels to choose from. Prices for hotels start at $87 per night. Some popular areas to stay in Los Angeles include Downtown LA, Hollywood, Beverly Hills, and Santa Monica. From luxury resorts to budget-friendly options, there is something for every traveler's preference and budget.

Trips from San Diego

Trips to Los Angeles