San Diego, CA, USA to McAllen, TX, USA from $83: 8 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

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$83 - Train, busBest price

1978 kmDistance

6h 23m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

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

Your journey from San Diego to McAllen showcases a stunning contrast: San Diego offers sunny beaches and vibrant coastal life, while McAllen invites you into its rich culture and warm, welcoming atmosphere.

Best Neighbourhoods in McAllen

McAllen features diverse neighborhoods, each with its own charm and character.

Downtown McAllen

• Vibrant arts scene and local galleries.

• Delicious dining options along 17th Street.

North McAllen

• Offers upscale shopping at La Plaza Mall.

• Family-friendly parks and recreational facilities.

South McAllen

• Known for excellent Mexican cuisine options.

• Close proximity to local attractions and events.

Best Times To Visit McAllen's Attractions

Timing your visit can greatly enhance your experience in McAllen's attractions.

McAllen Nature Center

Visit early mornings for peaceful bird watching and fewer crowds.

International Museum of Art & Science

Weekdays are ideal for quieter exploration of exhibits.

Quinta Mazatlán

Visit during spring for blooming gardens and pleasant weather.

McAllen Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

McAllen boasts a warm, humid subtropical climate, with summer temperatures often soaring above 90°F, while winters remain mild at around 60°F. Planning your visit for spring or fall can provide a comfortable experience, allowing you to enjoy outdoor attractions without the intense summer heat.

Dining Recommendation in McAllen

Try the authentic Texas-style barbecue at Rudy’s Country Store and Bar-B-Q, where the smoky flavors and tender meats stand in stark contrast to California's fresh seafood. The casual, friendly atmosphere combined with bold spices and local ingredients provides a distinctly Texan dining experience that highlights the regional culture.

San Diego - McAllen operators

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

Plane

Website

aa.com

Plane from San Diego (SAN) to McAllen (MFE)

Average Duration

6h 14m

Estimated price

$7622-2069

Plane from San Diego (SAN) to Harlingen (HRL)

Average Duration

6h 23m

Estimated price

$7620-7623

Plane from San Diego (SAN) to Brownsville (BRO)

Average Duration

6h 19m

Estimated price

$7620-7623

Website

united.com

Plane from San Diego (SAN) to McAllen (MFE)

Average Duration

5h 52m

Estimated price

$2068-7624

Plane from San Diego (SAN) to Harlingen (HRL)

Average Duration

6h 16m

Estimated price

$7620-7623

Plane from San Diego (SAN) to Brownsville (BRO)

Average Duration

5h 55m

Estimated price

$7620-7623

Website

vivaaerobus.com

Plane from Tijuana (TIJ) to Reynosa (REX)

Average Duration

6h 51m

Estimated price

$7625-7626

Plane from Tijuana (TIJ) to Reynosa (REX)

Average Duration

10h 25m

Estimated price

$7627-7628

Plane from Tijuana (TIJ) to Reynosa (REX)

Average Duration

10h 35m

Estimated price

$2066-7628

Train

Contact phone

+1 800-872-7245

Website

amtrak.com

Train from San Diego to Los Angeles

Average Duration

2h 56m

Estimated price

$833-7625

Train from Los Angeles to San Antonio Amtrak Station

Average Duration

28h 50m

Estimated price

$8335-2065

Bus

Contact phone

+1 (855) 626-8585

Website

flixbus.com

Bus from San Diego to Los Angeles Downtown

Average Duration

2h 55m

Estimated price

$5616-8335

Bus from San Antonio Bus Station to Mcallen Bus Station

Average Duration

Estimated price

$838-5617

Contact phone

+1 214-849-8100

Website

greyhound.com

Bus from Los Angeles Union Station to San Antonio Bus Station

Average Duration

28h 55m

Estimated price

$8370-7626

all-pages.other Show other routes

Contact phone

+1 956-601-7794

Other from Harlingen to McAllen

Average Duration

43m

Estimated price

$831-5618

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between San Diego and McAllen is approximately 1229 miles. By train and bus, it typically takes around 38 hours and 15 minutes to travel from San Diego to McAllen. If you prefer flying, the typical travel time is 4 hours and 47 minutes. By car, it takes around 23 hours and 52 minutes to drive from McAllen to San Diego, while the bus journey takes approximately 37 hours and 50 minutes.

The most cost-effective option for traveling from San Diego to McAllen is by train and bus, with costs ranging from $90 to $550. This route takes approximately 38 hours and 15 minutes. However, if time is of the essence, the fastest option is to fly, which takes about 4 hours and 47 minutes and costs between $150 and $650.

The prices of a bus ticket between McAllen and San Diego can vary between $192 and $371. It is important to check with different bus companies or travel agencies to find the best deal. Additionally, it is recommended to book tickets in advance to secure the desired departure time and potentially get better prices.

To get from San Diego to McAllen without using public transportation, you can drive. The road distance between the two cities is 1522 miles, and it takes approximately 23 hours and 52 minutes to drive. The cost of the trip by car can vary from $270 to $400, depending on the current gas prices and any tolls along the way.

The best option to travel from San Diego to McAllen without a car is by taking a bus. The journey takes approximately 37 hours and 50 minutes, and the ticket prices range from $190 to $380. This is a convenient and cost-effective mode of transportation for those who do not have access to a car.

Yes, there is a link between San Diego and McAllen but there is no direct bus route. To travel by bus, you would need to take a bus from San Diego to Los Angeles Union Station, then transfer to another bus that goes to San Antonio Bus Station, and finally transfer to a third bus that will take you to McAllen Bus Station. This journey, including transfers, takes approximately 37 hours and 50 minutes.

The flight between San Diego and McAllen typically takes around 2 hours and 50 minutes. However, it is important to note that this is a direct flight from Tijuana Airport to Reynosa Airport. The prices for a flight between McAllen and San Diego can vary, with prices ranging from $154 to $620.

There are numerous hotels available in McAllen with a variety of options to choose from. Prices for accommodations start at $62 and go up depending on the features and amenities offered. Some popular hotel options in McAllen include La Quinta Inn & Suites, Embassy Suites by Hilton, Hampton Inn & Suites, and Holiday Inn Express. It is recommended to book in advance to ensure availability and to explore different options based on your preferences and budget.

San Diego, CA, USA to McAllen, TX, USA from $83: 8 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

See more options

Traveling From San Diego to McAllen

Best Neighbourhoods in McAllen

Best Times To Visit McAllen's Attractions

McAllen Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Dining Recommendation in McAllen

San Diego - McAllen operators

Frequently asked questions

Trips from San Diego

Trips to McAllen

Popular routes