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San Diego, CA, USA to Austin, TX, USA from $73: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from San Diego to Austin: 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.

$73 - Bus, TrainBest price
1870 kmDistance
4h 36m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from San Diego to Austin 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
Plane
Average Duration
4h  36m
Estimated price
$76-347
Recommended
Company
Various
Bus
Train
Average Duration
37h  15m
Estimated price
$73-450
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 1870 km
Duration: 4h 36m

See more options

Company
Various
Bus
Average Duration
36h  26m
Estimated price
$0-0
Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
20h  34m
Estimated price
$240-360
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From San Diego to Austin

Traveling from San Diego to Austin offers a fascinating shift from sunny coastal vibes to a vibrant music scene and hearty Texan culture.

Best Neighborhoods in Austin

Austin's neighborhoods showcase diverse cultures and experiences for every traveler.

South Congress (SoCo)
• Iconic for its trendy shops and boutiques.
• Offers abundant food trucks with local flavors.
Downtown Austin
• Bustling nightlife with live music venues.
• Home to great restaurants and local breweries.
East Austin
• Known for its artistic vibe and murals.
• Features innovative eateries and craft cocktail bars.

Best Times To Visit Austin's Attractions

Timing your visit can elevate your experience at Austin’s attractions significantly.

Zilker Park
Visit early morning on weekdays for serene paths and fewer crowds.
Texas State Capitol
Midweek mornings offer a quieter atmosphere for exploring this historic site.
South Congress Avenue
Late afternoon on weekdays provides a relaxed vibe and great sunset views.

Austin Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Austin enjoys a warm, humid subtropical climate, with hot summers and mild winters, making spring and fall the ideal times to visit. Be aware that heavy rain can occur in spring, which might impact outdoor plans.

Dining in Austin: A Culinary Adventure

You can’t leave Austin without trying the legendary barbecue at Franklin Barbecue, where the rich, smoky flavors of slow-cooked meats provide a stark contrast to San Diego’s fresh seafood focus. The lively atmosphere, often featuring long lines and communal seating, adds a unique element to the dining experience, showcasing Austin's deep-rooted culinary traditions.

San Diego - Austin operators

Explore transport companies operating between San Diego and Austin, 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 Austin (AUS)

Average Duration
2h 40m
Estimated price
$280-760
Website
alaskaair.com

Plane from San Diego (SAN) to Austin (AUS)

Average Duration
2h 59m
Estimated price
$761-762

Plane from San Diego (SAN) to Austin (AUS) via Phoenix

Average Duration
4h 55m
Estimated price
$763-764
Website
aa.com

Plane from San Diego (SAN) to Austin (AUS)

Average Duration
2h 59m
Estimated price
$761-762

Plane from San Diego (SAN) to Austin (AUS) via Phoenix

Average Duration
4h 55m
Estimated price
$763-764
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Bus from Santa Fe Depot, CA to Austin Eastside Bus Plaza

Average Duration
36h 26m
Estimated price
$3472-280
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
greyhound.com

Bus from Santa Fe Depot, CA to Austin Eastside Bus Plaza

Average Duration
36h 26m
Estimated price
$3472-280
Contact phone
+52 664 104 7400
Website
abc.com.mx

Bus from Tijuana to Mexicali

Average Duration
2h 25m
Estimated price
$3479-3476

Bus from Mexicali to San Luis Río Colorado

Average Duration
1h 30m
Estimated price
$730-731
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Yuma Amtrak to Austin

Average Duration
28h 36m
Estimated price
$765-360
Drive

Drive from San Diego to Austin

Average Duration
20h 34m
Estimated price
$240-360

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

Traveling between San Diego and Austin 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 vibrant Austin, covering a distance of 1351 miles and embracing the beauty of diverse landscapes along the way. 💰 Plan your budget accordingly as the cost of driving to Austin from San Diego ranges from $240 to $360, ensuring a flexible and affordable travel experience. ⏱️ Set aside around 20 hours and 34 minutes for this journey, allowing ample time for rest stops, sightseeing, and creating unforgettable memories on this exciting adventure to the heart of Texas.
Average price
$240 - $360
🚆 Embark on a thrilling train journey from San Diego to Austin! This scenic route spans 1,623 miles and takes approximately 1 day and 14 hours, with two transfers along the way. 🌵 Enjoy the first leg of the trip as you board the Pacific Surfliner towards Los Angeles, a 3-hour scenic ride from Santa Fe to Union Station. Then, hop on the Sunset Limited train bound for New Orleans, a 1-day, 5-hour journey from Union Station to San Antonio, before transferring to the Texas Eagle train towards Chicago, concluding your adventure in vibrant Austin. 🌆 Alternatively, opt for a slightly different route with a single transfer. Begin with the Pacific Surfliner towards Los Angeles before switching to the Texas Eagle train towards Chicago, reaching the lively city of Austin after a 1-day and 9-hour voyage. Prepare to be captivated by the changing landscapes and rich cultural experiences on this remarkable train journey across the Southwestern United States.
🛫 Flying from San Diego to Austin is a convenient option with a direct flight that takes just 2 hours and 40 minutes. 🏝️ The flight prices between Austin and San Diego can range from $76 to $347, offering travelers a range of options to fit their budget and preferences.
Departure Point
San Diego Airport
Arrival Point
Austin Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Consider flying with Southwest Airlines for more flexibility in changing your flight without fees, which can be particularly useful if your plans are uncertain.
• Upon arriving at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, follow the clear signage to the baggage claim area and rental car services, as the airport is relatively compact, making navigation straightforward.
• Taxi fares from Austin-Bergstrom International Airport to downtown Austin typically range from $25 to $35, but rideshares like Uber and Lyft can be a convenient and slightly cheaper alternative.
⏱️ Overall, the bus trip from San Diego to Austin takes approximately 36 hours and 26 minutes, accounting for the transfers and different bus stations along the route.
Departure Point
Santa Fe Depot, CA station
Arrival Point
Austin Eastside Bus Plaza station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between San Diego and Austin is approximately 1162 miles by road and 1351 miles to drive. By bus and train, it takes about 36 hours and 57 minutes to travel from San Diego to Austin. By plane, the travel time is about 4 hours and 33 minutes. On the return journey, driving from Austin to San Diego takes around 20 hours and 34 minutes, while taking the bus takes approximately 36 hours and 27 minutes.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from San Diego to Austin is to fly. It takes approximately 4 hours and 33 minutes to reach Austin by plane, and tickets can be relatively affordable, ranging from $65 to $350. This is the quickest way to travel between the two cities and allows you to save both time and money.
The prices for a bus ticket between San Diego and Austin can vary, with prices ranging from $174 to $370 depending on the bus company and the time of travel. It is worth noting that these prices are subject to change and may vary based on factors such as the season and availability. It is advisable to check with specific bus companies for the most up-to-date fares and any special deals or promotions that may be available.
To travel from San Diego to Austin without using public transportation, you can opt to drive. The distance between the two cities is 1351 miles, and it takes approximately 20 hours and 34 minutes to drive. The prices for renting a car for this journey can range from $240 to $360.
The best way to travel from San Diego to Austin without a car is by bus. The journey takes approximately 36 hours and 27 minutes and the price can range from $170 to $370. You can find several bus companies that offer this route, providing a comfortable and affordable transportation option for your trip.
The flight between San Diego and Austin typically takes around 2 hours and 40 minutes. However, flight duration can vary depending on factors such as wind speed and weather conditions. Generally, the cost of a flight between Austin and San Diego can range from $66 to $347, depending on the airline, time of booking, and other factors. It is recommended to check with different airlines and compare prices to get the best deal for your travel.
There are 1079 hotels available in Austin offering a range of options to suit different budgets and preferences. Prices for these hotels start at $40 per night, making it relatively affordable for travelers. Some popular hotel chains in Austin include Hilton, Marriott, and Holiday Inn, offering a variety of amenities and services for guests to enjoy during their stay. It is recommended to book your accommodation in advance to secure the best rates and availability.

Trips from San Diego