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San Diego, CA, USA to Riverside, CA, USA from $12: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from San Diego to Riverside: 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.

$12 by busBest price
159 kmDistance
1h 43m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from San Diego to Riverside 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
Average Duration
3h  55m
Estimated price
$13-101
Recommended
Company
FlixBus 2015
Bus
Average Duration
4h  27m
Estimated price
$12-54
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 159 km
Duration: 1h 43m

See more options

Company
various
Train
Average Duration
4h  6m
Estimated price
$17-60
Company
Personal Vehicle
Drive
Average Duration
1h  43m
Estimated price
$17-26
Company
various
Train
Average Duration
4h  31m
Estimated price
$18-120
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From San Diego to Riverside

Experience the sunny coastal vibes of San Diego followed by the scenic inland charm of Riverside, where urban culture meets natural beauty.

Best Neighbourhoods in Riverside

Riverside boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences for visitors.

Downtown Riverside
• Rich in historic architecture and culture.
• Vibrant dining scene with local eateries.
Mission Grove
• Family-friendly with great parks and schools.
• Shopping options include popular retail chains.
Arlanza
• Diverse community with cultural festivals.
• Affordable dining with authentic flavors.

Best Times To Visit Riverside's Attractions

Understanding the best times to explore Riverside's attractions helps you enjoy a more relaxed experience.

California Citrus State Historic Park
Visit early mornings on weekdays for a quieter, more serene stroll.
Riverside Art Museum
Aim for late afternoons on Thursdays during free admission hours.
Mount Rubidioux
Early mornings or late afternoons provide cooler temperatures and fewer hikers.

Riverside Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Riverside enjoys a warm Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters, making it a desirable destination year-round. The best times to visit are spring and fall when the temperatures are comfortable, enhancing your outdoor adventures and sightseeing.

Dining Recommendation in Riverside

Try the locally sourced tri-tip sandwich at The Salted Pig, where bold flavors and artisanal touches contrast with San Diego's seafood-centric cuisine. The rustic atmosphere, paired with inventive craft beers, offers a unique taste of Riverside’s culinary scene that you won’t find down by the coast.

San Diego - Riverside operators

Explore transport companies operating between San Diego and Riverside, 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 Santa Ana

Average Duration
1h 58m
Estimated price
$133-134

Train from San Diego - Santa Fe Depot to Oceanside Transit Center Platform 3

Average Duration
1h 2m
Estimated price
$124-123
Website
https://metrolinktrains.com

Train from Santa Ana to Riverside-Downtown

Average Duration
57m
Estimated price
$120-137

Train from Oceanside to Riverside-Downtown

Average Duration
2h 4m
Estimated price
$139-130
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
https://www.flixbus.com

Bus from San Diego to Riverside

Average Duration
2h 25m
Estimated price
$131-132

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

Traveling between San Diego and Riverside 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 Riverside, covering a distance of 99 miles. Enjoy the smooth ride as you cruise through the diverse landscapes of Southern California. 💰 Experience affordable travel options, with prices ranging from $17 to $26 for the road trip from San Diego to Riverside. Budget-friendly yet fulfilling, this journey promises both convenience and savings for travelers. 🌄 Arrive in Riverside in just under 2 hours, feeling refreshed and ready to explore the city's unique attractions and vibrant culture. Your road trip adventure from San Diego to Riverside is sure to be a memorable experience filled with excitement and discovery.
Average price
$17 - $26
🚆 When traveling from San Diego to Riverside by train, there is no direct route available. Passengers will need to make a transfer at Santa Ana station, making the journey approximately 3 hours and 55 minutes in duration. 🚆 Prices for the train journey between San Diego and Riverside can vary, with fares ranging from $13 to $101. Despite the need for a transfer, taking the train offers a comfortable and efficient mode of transportation between these two Southern California cities.
Departure Point
San Diego station
Arrival Point
Riverside-Downtown station
Useful tips for train travellers
Onboard Services: If you are traveling with Amtrak, they offer a café car where you can purchase snacks, beverages, and light meals during the journey. It's advisable to check the menu in advance online to plan your meals, especially if you have dietary restrictions.
Seating Options: On the Amtrak Pacific Surfliner, which runs on this route, you can choose between Coach Class and Business Class. Coach Class provides spacious seats that recline, while Business Class offers larger, more comfortable seats with extra legroom and access to complimentary beverages. Make your selection based on your comfort preference and budget.
Arrival Station Tip: Upon arrival at Riverside station, note that there are restroom facilities available. For luggage storage, check ahead as the station may not offer luggage-check services. After your journey, be prepared to navigate through the compact layout of the station, which connects you easily to local transit options.
🚌 Traveling from San Diego to Riverside by bus takes approximately 4 hours and 27 minutes, offering a convenient transportation option for those looking to make this journey. 🚌 The bus prices between Riverside and San Diego can range from $12 to $54, providing a budget-friendly means of transportation for travelers.
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Make sure to check the Greyhound bus schedule in advance, as the San Diego to San Bernardino leg of your journey can vary in frequency; you can find more information at greyhound.com
• Bring snacks and water for the journey, especially since depending on your chosen route, transfers can take time and you may not have access to food during the journey.
• Upon arriving at the Riverside Transit Agency stop (University @ Lemon), be aware that it's a busy area; familiarize yourself with local dining options like The Salted Pig or The Green Room, both within walking distance, to enjoy a meal before heading to your final destination.

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between San Diego and Riverside is 87 miles. By car, it takes approximately 1 hour and 43 minutes to travel from Riverside to San Diego. If you prefer taking the train, the journey from San Diego to Riverside takes around 3 hours and 55 minutes. On the other hand, traveling by bus from San Diego to Riverside can typically take around 4 hours and 56 minutes.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from San Diego to Riverside is by driving. It costs between $17 and $26, and the journey takes approximately 1 hour and 43 minutes. Driving is also the quickest way to reach Riverside from San Diego. Other modes of transportation such as trains and buses may take longer and may not offer the same level of convenience and flexibility as driving.
The prices for traveling from San Diego to Riverside vary depending on the mode of transportation. A train ticket can cost between $13 and $101, while a bus ticket typically ranges from $12 to $51. It's important to check for any promotions or discounts available at the time of booking to get the best fare. Comparing prices and considering the comfort and convenience of each mode of transportation can help you make an informed decision.
To travel from San Diego to Riverside without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of approximately 99 miles, which takes around 1 hour and 43 minutes. The driving route is convenient and saves time compared to other modes of transportation. The approximate cost for this journey by car ranges from $17 to $26, depending on factors such as fuel prices and tolls.
To travel from San Diego to Riverside without a car, the best option is to take a train. The train journey takes approximately 3 hours and 55 minutes and tickets range from $12 to $110. This mode of transportation is not only convenient but also allows for a stress-free and comfortable travel experience.
There is no direct train or bus link between San Diego and Riverside. However, you can take the train from San Diego to Riverside with a transfer at Santa Ana, which takes approximately 3 hours and 55 minutes. Alternatively, you can drive from San Diego to Riverside, which takes around 1 hour and 43 minutes. If you prefer taking the bus, there is a journey available from San Diego to Riverside with transfers, which takes approximately 4 hours and 56 minutes.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near Riverside with 197+ hotels available. Prices start at $69, providing a range of options for different budgets. Some popular hotels in the area include the Mission Inn Hotel & Spa, Marriott Riverside at the Convention Center, and Hyatt Place Riverside/Downtown. These hotels offer comfortable rooms, convenient amenities, and are located close to attractions in Riverside.

Trips from San Diego

Trips to Riverside