San Diego, CA, USA to San Mateo, CA, USA from $29: 8 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

How to Get from San Diego to San Mateo: 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.

$29 by trainBest price

719 kmDistance

3h 40m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

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

See more options

Sort by

Browse car rentals Explore flights

Traveling From San Diego to San Mateo

This journey connects the sunny beaches and vibrant culture of San Diego with the serene parks and tech-driven vibe of San Mateo.

Best Neighborhoods in San Mateo

San Mateo features diverse neighborhoods, each offering unique experiences for visitors.

Sugarloaf

• Charming tree-lined streets and historic homes.

• Close proximity to Central Park and downtown.

Beresford Park

• Family-friendly vibe with excellent amenities.

• Well-maintained parks and green spaces.

Foster City

• Beautiful waterfront views and walking paths.

• Popular for dining and shopping options.

Best Times To Visit San Mateo's Attractions

Timing your visits to San Mateo's attractions can elevate your experience.

Central Park

Early mornings on weekdays offer peaceful strolls and fewer crowds.

Coyote Point Recreation Area

Visit on weekdays for a quieter experience and stunning bay views.

San Mateo County History Museum

Afternoons during the week provide a more relaxed atmosphere to explore.

San Mateo Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

San Mateo enjoys a Mediterranean climate, characterized by mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers, making it accessible year-round. Spring and fall are ideal for visiting, as the weather is pleasant, enhancing outdoor activities and exploring the area's attractions.

Dining Recommendation in San Mateo

Try the local favorite, a bowl of rich and savory clam chowder at The Fish Market, which contrasts sharply with the fresh, seafood tacos popular in San Diego. The cozy atmosphere and emphasis on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients create a dining experience that showcases the heart of Northern California's culinary scene.

San Diego - San Mateo operators

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

Plane Show flights

Website

southwest.com

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

Average Duration

1h 43m

Estimated price

$2800-2801

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

Average Duration

1h 26m

Estimated price

$683-6860

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

Average Duration

1h 35m

Estimated price

$2802-2803

Website

alaskaair.com

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

Average Duration

1h 41m

Estimated price

$2804-2805

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

Average Duration

1h 34m

Estimated price

$2804-2805

Plane from San Diego (SAN) to Monterey (MRY)

Average Duration

1h 28m

Estimated price

$2806-6860

Website

united.com

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

Average Duration

1h 44m

Estimated price

$2802-2807

Plane from San Diego (SAN) to Monterey (MRY)

Average Duration

3h 21m

Estimated price

$2808-2809

Train Show train routes

Contact phone

+1 800-872-7245

Website

amtrak.com

Train from San Diego to Los Angeles

Average Duration

2h 56m

Estimated price

$298-683

Train from Los Angeles to San Jose

Average Duration

9h 55m

Estimated price

$2532-25340

Contact phone

+1 800-660-4287

Website

caltrain.com

Train from San Jose Diridon Caltrain Northbound to San Mateo Caltrain Northbound

Average Duration

1h 4m

Estimated price

$296-297

Train from San Francisco Caltrain Southbound to San Mateo Caltrain Southbound

Average Duration

34m

Estimated price

$298-299

Train from Santa Clara Caltrain Northbound to Hillsdale Caltrain Northbound

Average Duration

52m

Estimated price

$294-295

Bus Show bus routes

Contact phone

+1 214-849-8100

Website

greyhound.com

Bus from San Diego Greyhound Bus Stop to San Francisco Bus Station

Average Duration

11h 40m

Estimated price

$687-689

Contact phone

+1 (855) 626-8585

Website

flixbus.com

Bus from San Diego to San Francisco

Average Duration

10h 45m

Estimated price

$290-682

Bus from San Diego to San Francisco

Average Duration

11h 41m

Estimated price

$48-682

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

Traveling between San Diego and San Mateo 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 sunny San Diego to the charming city of San Mateo, spanning a distance of 492 miles. Enjoy the diverse landscapes and changing scenery along the way. 💰 Plan your budget accordingly as the prices for the journey from San Diego to San Mateo by car typically range between $85 to $130. Consider factors such as gas, tolls, and potential food stops to ensure a comfortable and hassle-free travel experience. 🏞️ Allow approximately 8 hours and 12 minutes for the drive from San Diego to San Mateo, giving you ample time to make pit stops, explore attractions along the route, and create unforgettable memories on this California road adventure.

Average price

$85 - $130

🚉 The route includes stops in vibrant cities like Los Angeles and San Jose. With a total travel time of approximately 15 hours and 17 minutes, you'll have the opportunity to relax and take in the picturesque views.

Departure Point

San Diego station

Arrival Point

San Mateo Caltrain Northbound station

🛫 Flying from San Diego to San Mateo involves a quick 1 hour and 30-minute direct flight from San Diego Airport to San Francisco Airport. Several airlines, including Frontier Airlines, United Airlines, Alaska Airlines, Inc., and Southwest Airlines, operate this route. 🌉 Once at San Francisco Airport, the total travel time to reach San Mateo by plane is approximately 3 hours and 40 minutes. This includes the layover time and the connecting flight to San Mateo. 💸 Prices for flights between San Mateo and San Diego can range from $68 to $280, offering travelers flexibility in choosing a suitable option based on their budget and preferences.

Departure Point

San Diego Airport

Arrival Point

San Francisco Airport

🚌 Hop on a bus journey from San Diego to San Mateo, a scenic route that lasts approximately 14 hours and 51 minutes. Enjoy the picturesque views along the way as you travel through different cities and landscapes. 🎟️ Ticket prices for the bus between San Diego and San Mateo range from $57 to $128, offering affordable options for travelers looking to explore the West Coast.

Frequently asked questions

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

Or choose the category:

The distance between San Diego and San Mateo is approximately 447 miles. By car, it takes around 8 hours and 12 minutes to travel between the two cities. Taking a train and then switching to Caltrain, the travel time is approximately 15 hours and 17 minutes. For a faster option, flying from San Diego to San Mateo takes about 3 hours and 26 minutes. Additionally, taking a bus from San Diego to San Mateo typically takes around 14 hours and 41 minutes.

The most cost-effective option for traveling from San Diego to San Mateo is taking a night bus, which costs between $45 and $140 and takes approximately 11 hours and 41 minutes. However, if time efficiency is a priority, flying is the fastest option, taking only 3 hours and 26 minutes at a cost of $55 to $280. Considering both cost and time, the night bus may be the better choice for budget-conscious travelers, while those with more flexibility and a higher budget may prefer the convenience of flying.

The prices of a bus ticket between San Mateo and San Diego can range from $57 to $128. The exact cost will depend on factors such as the bus company, the time of travel, and any discounts or promotions that may be available. It is recommended to check with different bus providers for current prices and deals when planning a trip between these two cities.

To travel from San Diego to San Mateo without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of 492 miles. It takes approximately 8 hours and 12 minutes to complete the journey by car. The cost of driving from San Diego to San Mateo may vary, with prices ranging from $85 to $130 depending on factors such as fuel efficiency and tolls.

To travel from San Diego to San Mateo without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The bus journey takes approximately 14 hours and 41 minutes and costs between $55 and $130. Another option is to fly, which takes around 3 hours and 26 minutes and costs between $55 and $280. Alternatively, you can consider taking a train and then the Caltrain, which takes about 15 hours and 17 minutes and costs between $29 and $260.

There is no direct train link between San Diego and San Mateo. However, you can take a train from San Diego to San Mateo with transfers at Los Angeles and San Jose Diridon Caltrain. The journey takes approximately 15 hours and 17 minutes. Amtrak operates the train services from San Diego, and Caltrain operates the services arriving at San Mateo Caltrain station.

The flight between San Diego and San Mateo typically takes about 1 hour and 25 minutes. The prices for a flight between the two cities can vary from $58 to $280, depending on factors such as the airline, time of booking, and availability. It is recommended to check with different airlines and compare prices to find the best deal for your specific travel dates.

There are plenty of options for accommodation near San Mateo. With over 510 hotels available, travelers have a range of choices to suit their preferences and budgets. Prices start at $58 per night, making it possible to find affordable accommodations in the area. Whether you're looking for a luxury hotel or a budget-friendly option, there are plenty of options to choose from in San Mateo.