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San Diego, CA, USA to Palm Springs, CA, USA from $28: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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from
San Diego, United States of America
to
Palm Springs, United States of America

How to Get from San Diego to Palm Springs: 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.

$28 by busBest price
137.6 kmDistance
2h 13m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from San Diego to Palm Springs 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
Train
Bus
Average Duration
5h  16m
Estimated price
$0-0
Recommended
Company
FlixBus
Bus
Average Duration
7h  43m
Estimated price
$28-92
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 137.6 km
Duration: 2h 13m

See more options

Company
Amtrak
Bus
Average Duration
5h  40m
Estimated price
$0-0
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
2h  13m
Estimated price
$23-35
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Traveling From San Diego to Palm Springs

The journey from San Diego to Palm Springs takes you from coastal breezes and vibrant city life to the serene desert oasis known for its gorgeous landscapes and upscale relaxation.

Best Neighbourhoods in Palm Springs

Palm Springs features diverse neighborhoods, each with its own charm and appeal.

Downtown Palm Springs
• Bustling area filled with shops and restaurants.
• Vibrant nightlife with music and events.
South Palm Springs
• Scenic views of the San Jacinto Mountains.
• Peaceful atmosphere perfect for relaxation.
Historic Tennis Club
• Charming homes with mid-century architecture.
• Close to art galleries and cultural sites.

Best Times To Visit Palm Springs's Attractions

Maximizing your enjoyment in Palm Springs can start with timing your visits to popular attractions.

Joshua Tree National Park
Early mornings on weekdays offer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
Visit during the late afternoon for stunning sunset views and shorter lines.
The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens
Go on weekdays during the off-peak season to fully explore without rush.

Palm Springs Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Palm Springs boasts a warm desert climate, characterized by hot summers and mild winters, making it an attractive year-round destination. Visiting during the spring or fall allows for the most comfortable temperatures, enhancing your outdoor adventures without the intense heat.

Dining Recommendation in Palm Springs

Try the dates stuffed with creamy goat cheese at The Palm Springs Follies, which showcases locally sourced ingredients and a distinct desert flavor. Unlike San Diego’s coastal seafood scene, Palm Springs offers a unique blend of Mediterranean and American influences set against a vibrant atmosphere, perfect for both casual and upscale dining.

San Diego - Palm Springs operators

Explore transport companies operating between San Diego and Palm Springs, 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 Fullerton Amtrak Station

Average Duration
2h 16m
Estimated price
$4-80

Train from Fullerton Amtrak Station to Palm Springs Amtrak Bus Stop

Average Duration
2h
Estimated price
$0-0
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Bus from Santa Fe Depot, CA to Fullerton Amtrak Station

Average Duration
2h 40m
Estimated price
0-0
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
https://www.flixbus.com/

Bus from San Diego to Los Angeles Union Station

Average Duration
2h 30m
Estimated price
$12-55

Bus from Los Angeles Downtown to Palm Springs Downtown

Average Duration
3h
Estimated price
$11-50
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
https://www.greyhound.com/

Bus from San Diego Greyhound Bus Stop to Los Angeles Union Station

Average Duration
2h 45m
Estimated price
$12-50
Contact phone
+52 800 890 6821
Website
https://www.greyhound.com.mx/

Bus from San Diego to Los Angeles Union Station

Average Duration
3h 40m
Estimated price
$16-40

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

Traveling between San Diego and Palm Springs 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 Palm Springs, covering a distance of 127 miles in just over two hours. Enjoy the diverse landscapes as you cruise towards the desert oasis. 💲 Experience budget-friendly travel with car prices ranging from $23 to $35 for the journey from San Diego to Palm Springs. Prepare for a cost-effective adventure filled with excitement and exploration.
Average price
$23 - $35
🚆 Embark on a scenic train journey from San Diego to Palm Springs, covering a distance of 234 miles in approximately 5 hours and 35 minutes with a transfer along the way. The first leg of the trip involves a 2-hour and 56-minute ride on the Train Pacific Surfliner from San Diego to Union Station in Los Angeles, operated by Amtrak. 🌴 Next, board the Train Sunset Limited bound for New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal from Union Station, culminating in a 2-hour and 36-minute ride to reach the vibrant destination of Palm Springs. This final stretch of the journey offers picturesque views and a glimpse of the desert landscape that surrounds the area.
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard Services: Amtrak is the primary operator for train services from San Diego to Palm Springs. They offer a café car with a range of snacks, beverages, and light meals available for purchase. Be sure to check the menu in advance to know what options are available, especially for dietary restrictions.
• Seating Options: Amtrak provides several seating types for this route, including Business Class and Economy. Business Class offers more spacious seating, complimentary beverages, and a quieter environment, making it a good choice if you're looking for comfort. Economy Class is more budget-friendly, with standard seating and amenities.
• Arrival Station Tip: Upon arriving at Palm Springs Station, note that there are no luggage storage facilities, but you can find restrooms available. Make sure to visit them before heading out. For easy navigation and to enjoy the surrounding areas, grab a taxi or check the local bus services immediately outside the station.
🚌Starting from San Diego, travelers can take a bus towards Los Angeles with a transfer at Santa Ana & Santiago en route to Palm Springs USA. This first step of the journey lasts approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes. 🚏The second step involves boarding a bus at Fullerton that heads towards Indio Amtrak Bus Stop, eventually arriving at Palm Springs Airport. This leg of the trip also lasts around 2 hours and 10 minutes. 🕒Overall, the bus trip from San Diego to Palm Springs takes approximately 6 hours and 25 minutes with a total distance of 189 miles covered. Travelers can enjoy the scenic route and plan their journey accordingly with the Greyhound and Amtrak Chartered Motorcoach services.
Departure Point
Santa Fe Depot, CA station
Arrival Point
Palm Springs Amtrak Bus Stop station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Make sure to check the schedules for both Greyhound and Amtrak as the transfers between Santa Fe Depot in San Diego and the Palm Springs Amtrak Bus Stop require careful timing; you can find the schedules at Greyhound Schedule and Amtrak Schedule.
• Consider bringing some snacks and drinks, as the bus trip can take up to 7 hours and amenities may be limited; there are several convenience stores near the Santa Fe Depot where you can stock up before your journey.
• Upon arriving at the Palm Springs Amtrak Bus Stop, be prepared for a smaller station setting; grab a map or ask at the information desk for local public transport options such as SunLine Transit buses that can take you to various destinations around Palm Springs quickly.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from San Diego to Palm Springs.

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The distance between San Diego and Palm Springs is approximately 85 miles. The road distance is slightly longer at 127.1 miles. The typical travel time by train and bus is 5 hours and 16 minutes, while by car, it takes about 2 hours and 13 minutes to reach San Diego from Palm Springs. The longest travel time is by bus, taking approximately 8 hours and 29 minutes to reach Palm Springs from San Diego.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from San Diego to Palm Springs is to drive. It takes approximately 2 hours and 13 minutes and costs around $23-$35 for fuel. Driving allows for flexibility in terms of departure and arrival times, and also offers the convenience of having a car available for transportation within Palm Springs. Other options such as taking a train and then a bus or taking a bus directly may be cheaper, but they involve longer travel times ranging from 5 hours and 16 minutes to 8 hours and 29 minutes.
The prices for a bus ticket between Palm Springs and San Diego can range from $24 to $108, depending on the specific bus service and the time of booking. It is recommended to check different bus companies and compare prices to find the best deal. Additionally, it is possible to find discounts or promotions that may lower the ticket price for this route.
To get from San Diego to Palm Springs without public transportation, you can take a private car or use a ride-sharing service like Uber or Lyft. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 127 miles, and it usually takes around 2 hours and 13 minutes to drive from San Diego to Palm Springs. The cost of transportation by car can vary but typically ranges from $23 to $35.
The most convenient way to travel from San Diego to Palm Springs without a car is by taking a train and then a bus. The journey takes approximately 5 hours and 16 minutes. While the exact cost may vary, it's a cost-effective option compared to other modes of transportation. Additionally, this route allows you to relax and enjoy the scenic views during the journey.
Yes, there is a indirect link between San Diego and Palm Springs. There is no direct bus route, but there is a combination of train and bus that takes approximately 5 hours and 40 minutes including transfers. The journey starts at the San Diego Santa Fe Depot and involves a transfer at Fullerton Amtrak Station before arriving at the Palm Springs Amtrak Bus Stop.
There are 1412+ hotels available in Palm Springs, offering a variety of options to suit different preferences and budgets. Prices for accommodations in the area start at $49 per night. Visitors can choose from luxury resorts, boutique hotels, budget motels, and vacation rentals, ensuring a comfortable stay near Palm Springs.

Trips from San Diego

Trips to Palm Springs