San Diego, CA, USA to Modesto, CA, USA from $24: 13 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

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$24 - Train, BusBest price

699 kmDistance

4h 6m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

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

The journey from San Diego to Modesto showcases the vibrant coastal life of Southern California contrasted with the charm of the San Joaquin Valley's agricultural heartland.

Best Neighbourhoods in Modesto

Modesto's neighborhoods offer diverse experiences for every traveler.

Downtown Modesto

• Vibrant arts scene with galleries and theaters.

• Great dining options, from casual to upscale.

McHenry Village

• Charming shopping district with boutique stores.

• Beautiful landscaping and outdoor spaces for relaxation.

Bretton Woods

• Family-friendly atmosphere with parks and schools nearby.

• Quiet streets ideal for leisurely walks and cycling.

Best Times To Visit Modesto's Attractions

Timing your visits to Modesto's attractions can enhance your experience.

Gallo Center for the Arts

Consider weekday matinees for less crowded shows and great seats.

Modesto Arch

Early mornings or late afternoons provide stunning light for photos.

McHenry Mansion

Weekdays are best for a more intimate tour experience.

Modesto Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Modesto experiences a Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot summers and mild winters, making spring and fall ideal for comfortable outdoor activities. Being aware of seasonal patterns helps tailor your travel plans to enjoy the best of what the city has to offer.

Dining Recommendation in Modesto

For a truly unique taste of Modesto, try the savory, locally-sourced tri-tip sandwich at a local barbecue joint like The Doghouse, where bold, smoky flavors prevail. This dining experience stands in contrast to the fresh seafood and taco scene of San Diego, as it embraces traditional Central Valley flavors that reflect the region's agricultural roots.

San Diego - Modesto operators

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

Bus Show bus routes

Contact phone

+1 214-849-8100

Website

https://www.greyhound.com/

Bus from San Diego Greyhound Bus Stop to Modesto Bus Stop

Average Duration

10h 45m

Estimated price

$3913-536

Bus from Los Angeles Union Station to Bakersfield Train Station

Average Duration

2h 10m

Estimated price

$3910-3913

Bus from Hayward Bus Station to Modesto Bus Stop

Average Duration

1h 34m

Estimated price

$1438-934

Bus from San Ysidro Bus Terminal to Modesto

Average Duration

10h

Estimated price

$530-248

Website

https://crossborderxpress.com

Bus from San Ysidro Bus Terminal to Modesto

Average Duration

10h

Estimated price

$530-248

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

$1430-538

Train from Bakersfield to Modesto

Average Duration

3h 49m

Estimated price

$1435-536

Train from Sacramento to Modesto

Average Duration

1h 28m

Estimated price

$938-248

Train from San Diego to Los Angeles

Average Duration

2h 56m

Estimated price

$1430-538

Train from San Diego to Los Angeles

Average Duration

10h 11m

Estimated price

$242-243

Contact phone

+1-510-464-6000

Website

bart.gov

Train from Daly City to Dublin / Pleasanton

Average Duration

1h 3m

Estimated price

$936-937

Plane Show flights

Website

southwest.com

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

Average Duration

1h 35m

Estimated price

$536-537

Plane from San Diego (SAN) to San Jose (SJC)

Average Duration

1h 26m

Estimated price

$538-539

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

Average Duration

1h 43m

Estimated price

$3340-3341

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

Average Duration

1h 37m

Estimated price

$249-3342

Taxi

Contact phone

+1-209-877-0000

Website

http://www.a-1taxicabofmerced.com

Taxi from Merced to Modesto

Average Duration

44m

Estimated price

$249-14340

all-pages.other Show other routes

Contact phone

+1 833 766 3553

Website

https://tufesainternacional.com

Other from Los Angeles - Pacoima to Modesto

Average Duration

4h 20m

Estimated price

$530-248

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

Traveling between San Diego and Modesto 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 Modesto, covering a distance of 435 miles through the diverse landscapes of California in approximately 7 hours and 13 minutes. 💰 Experience cost-effective travel options with car rental prices ranging from $75 to $120 for the journey from San Diego to Modesto, offering flexibility and convenience for your trip.

Average price

$75 - $120

🛫 Flying from San Diego to Modesto involves taking a quick direct flight from San Diego Airport to Oakland Airport, which has a duration of 1 hour and 25 minutes.

Departure Point

San Diego Airport

Arrival Point

Oakland Airport

Useful tips for plane travellers

• Book a direct flight with Southwest Airlines, as they typically offer the best on-time performance from San Diego (SAN) to Oakland (OAK) and include free checked bags, which can save you time and hassle.

• Upon arrival at Oakland International Airport (OAK), be prepared for a 30-40 minute drive to Modesto. Consider using rideshare services like Uber or Lyft, which usually cost around $45-$55 to get to the city center.

• Check out the Modesto Area Express (MAX) bus schedule ahead of your trip at Modesto's transit website to plan your next steps; buses connect you to key locations in Modesto from your arrival point.

🚌 Traveling from San Diego to Modesto by bus requires transferring buses during the journey, taking approximately 12 hours and 15 minutes in total. There is no direct route available between these two cities. 🚌 The buses operated by Greyhound USA depart from San Diego Greyhound Bus Stop and arrive at Modesto Bus Stop. The trip involves one transfer at San Diego International Terminal 1. 🚌 The bus ticket prices for the trip from Modesto to San Diego range between $51 and $78, with a total travel time of about 11 hours and 43 minutes. Plan your schedule accordingly for a smooth bus journey between these locations.

Departure Point

San Diego Greyhound Bus Stop station

Arrival Point

Modesto Bus Stop station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between San Diego and Modesto is approximately 406 miles. By flying from San Diego to Oakland and then taking a bus, it typically takes around 5 hours and 37 minutes to reach Modesto. Driving by car usually takes about 7 hours and 13 minutes, while taking a bus directly from San Diego to Modesto can take as long as 11 hours and 43 minutes.

The most cost-effective option for traveling from San Diego to Modesto is by bus, with prices ranging from $50 to $80. However, this option does have a longer travel time of 11 hours and 43 minutes. If time is of the essence, the quickest option is to fly to Oakland and then take a bus, with a travel time of 6 hours and 6 minutes, but the cost can range from $85 to $420. Both options have their advantages depending on budget and time constraints. Other options like driving are also available, but they may not be as cost-effective or time-efficient.

The prices for a bus ticket from Modesto to San Diego range from $51 to $78. It is important to note that these prices are subject to change depending on factors such as time of travel and availability. It is recommended to check with specific bus companies to get the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information for your desired travel dates.

To get from San Diego to Modesto without using public transportation, you can drive. The road distance between the two cities is approximately 435 miles, and it takes around 7 hours and 13 minutes to complete the journey by car. The cost of a car trip from San Diego to Modesto can range between $75 and $120, depending on factors such as gas prices and vehicle efficiency.

To travel from San Diego to Modesto without a car, the best option is to take a combination of train and bus. The journey takes approximately 9 hours and 27 minutes and fares range from $45 to $160. You can catch a train from San Diego to a nearby station, such as Stockton, and then transfer to a bus that will take you to Modesto. This route allows you to relax and enjoy the scenery while avoiding the stress of driving.

The flight between San Diego and Modesto typically takes about 1 hour and 25 minutes. The quickest option is a direct flight from San Diego Airport to Oakland Airport. As for the cost, it can vary depending on the airline and the time of booking, but typically, you can expect to pay around $100 to $200 for a one-way ticket. It's always a good idea to check with different airlines and compare prices to get the best deal.

There are many options for accommodation near Modesto. With over 56 hotels to choose from, travelers can find something that suits their needs and budget. Prices for hotels in Modesto start at $63 and go up from there. Popular hotel chains in the area include Marriott, Hilton, and Holiday Inn, offering a variety of amenities and services for guests.

San Diego, CA, USA to Modesto, CA, USA from $24: 13 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

See more options

Traveling From San Diego to Modesto

Best Neighbourhoods in Modesto

Best Times To Visit Modesto's Attractions

Modesto Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Dining Recommendation in Modesto

San Diego - Modesto operators

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

Useful tips for plane travellers

Frequently asked questions

Trips from San Diego

Trips to Modesto

Popular routes