1map logoGo to main page

San Diego, CA, USA to Madison, WI, USA from $138: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from San Diego to Madison: 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.

$138 - Train, BusBest price
2694 kmDistance
7h 17m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from San Diego to Madison 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
7h  17m
Estimated price
$213-457
Recommended
Company
Various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
53h  21m
Estimated price
$138-874
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 2694 km
Duration: 7h 17m

See more options

Company
Various
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
9h  23m
Estimated price
$152-570
Company
Various
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
8h  15m
Estimated price
$160-510
Company
Various
Bus
Average Duration
54h  6m
Estimated price
$370-2130
Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
31h  46m
Estimated price
$370-2130
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From San Diego to Madison

Traveling from the sunny beaches and vibrant culture of San Diego to the charming Midwest vibes and lush parks of Madison offers you a remarkable contrast in city experiences.

Best Neighborhoods in Madison

Madison boasts vibrant neighborhoods, each offering its own distinct character.

Downtown Madison
• Bustling with shops, cafes, and nightlife.
• Home to the Wisconsin State Capitol building.
University of Wisconsin Campus
• Vibrant atmosphere filled with students and events.
• Features beautiful lakes and parks for leisure.
Hilldale
• Offers upscale shopping and dining options.
• A visually appealing mix of modern and classic architecture.

Best Times To Visit Madison's Attractions

Timing your visits can elevate your experience at Madison’s top spots.

Wisconsin State Capitol
Visit early in the morning on weekdays for fewer crowds.
Olbrich Botanical Gardens
Plan a visit during weekdays in spring for blooming flowers and tranquility.
Henry Vilas Zoo
Go on weekday mornings during summer to enjoy a quieter atmosphere.

Madison Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Madison experiences a humid continental climate, featuring warm summers and cold winters, which means your travel plans can vary greatly depending on the season. Visiting during spring and fall can enhance your experience, as the weather is typically mild and the scenery is captivating.

Dining Recommendation in Madison

Try the famous cheese curds at The Old Fashioned, a quintessential Madison eatery that showcases Wisconsin's rich dairy heritage. This experience, complete with a cozy, rustic atmosphere and hearty local flavors, offers a delightful contrast to the fresh, seafood-centric dishes found in San Diego.

San Diego - Madison operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
united.com

Plane from San Diego (SAN) to Madison (MSN)

Average Duration
7h 17m
Estimated price
$213-457

Plane from San Diego (SAN) to Chicago O'Hare (ORD)

Average Duration
4h 1m
Estimated price
$2137-2138

Plane from San Diego (SAN) to Milwaukee (MKE)

Average Duration
5h 37m
Estimated price
$2133-2134
Website
aa.com

Plane from San Diego (SAN) to Madison (MSN)

Average Duration
9h 8m
Estimated price
$4575-4576

Plane from San Diego (SAN) to Milwaukee (MKE)

Average Duration
6h 7m
Estimated price
$4570-2136
Website
delta.com

Plane from San Diego (SAN) to Madison (MSN)

Average Duration
7h 34m
Estimated price
$2139-4570
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
greyhound.com

Bus from Santa Ana Bus Stop to Las Vegas S Strip Transit Terminal

Average Duration
5h 45m
Estimated price
$1602-1603

Bus from Las Vegas S Strip Transit Terminal to St Louis Bus Station

Average Duration
33h 15m
Estimated price
$2139-2135

Bus from St Louis Bus Station to Chicago Bus Station

Average Duration
6h 39m
Estimated price
$1385-4579
Contact phone
+1 608-752-5407
Website
https://www.coachusa.com/van-galder-bus-company

Bus from O'Hare Multi-Modal Facility to Madison, WI-Lake St.

Average Duration
2h 50m
Estimated price
$1384-1600

Bus from Chicago Union Station to Madison, WI-Lake St.

Average Duration
3h 40m
Estimated price
$1601-1600
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from San Diego to Los Angeles

Average Duration
2h 56m
Estimated price
$1384-1385

Train from Los Angeles to Chicago Union Station

Average Duration
2h 13m
Estimated price
$1387-8740

Train from Santa Fe Depot, CA to Santa Ana Amtrak Station

Average Duration
2h 5m
Estimated price
$0-0

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

Traveling between San Diego and Madison 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 an epic road trip from sunny San Diego to the charming city of Madison, covering a distance of 2048 miles. The journey promises scenic landscapes and diverse sights along the way. 💸 The cost of driving from San Diego to Madison ranges between $370 to $550, offering flexibility for various budget preferences. Start planning your trip now to find the best deals and optimize your travel expenses. 🛣️ Set aside approximately 31 hours and 46 minutes for this cross-country drive, allowing for stops to stretch your legs and explore interesting pit stops. Get ready for an adventure-filled journey filled with unforgettable memories from California to Wisconsin.
Average price
$370 - $550
🛫 Traveling from San Diego to Madison by plane involves taking a flight with one stopover, making the journey approximately 5 hours and 36 minutes in duration. 💸 The cost of flights between San Diego and Madison can range from $213 to $457, providing passengers with flexibility in choosing a suitable fare for their trip.
Departure Point
San Diego Airport
Arrival Point
Madison Airport. The quickest flight takes 5h 36m and has one stopover
🛤️ The journey involves transfers at various stations including Santa Ana, Las Vegas, St Louis, and Chicago, adding up to a total travel time of approximately 2 days and 6 hours.
Departure Point
Santa Fe Depot, CA station
Arrival Point
Madison station

Frequently asked questions

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

Or choose the category:
The cheapest way to get from San Diego to Madison is by flying. There are several airlines that operate direct flights between the two cities, with ticket prices ranging from $190 to $410. The flight duration is around 7 hours and 46 minutes. Be sure to compare prices and book in advance to secure the best deal.
The fastest way to travel from San Diego to Madison is by taking a flight. The flight duration is approximately 7 hours and 46 minutes. The cost of a flight ticket ranges from $190 to $410, depending on the airline and time of booking. Flying allows you to reach your destination quickly and efficiently while minimizing travel time.
The distance from San Diego to Madison is approximately 1674 miles. If you prefer driving, the distance is about 2048 miles. However, please note that driving times may vary depending on traffic conditions and personal preferences for breaks.
The best way to travel from San Diego to Madison without a car is by taking a bus. There are several bus companies that operate this route, with a travel time of approximately 2 days and 7 hours. The ticket prices can range from $270 to $600, depending on the specific bus company and the time of booking. It is advisable to book your ticket in advance to secure the best fares.
The average travel time from San Diego to Madison is about 7 hours and 46 minutes, including any necessary transfers. This duration may vary depending on the specific flights and connections chosen. It is recommended to check the schedules and availability of flights to find the most convenient option for your travel needs.
There are numerous options for accommodation near Madison. With over 97 hotels, visitors have a wide range of choices. Hotel prices start at $55 per night, making it possible to find lodging that suits various budgets. It is recommended to book in advance to secure the desired hotel and ensure availability during your stay in Madison.
Yes, you can drive from San Diego to Madison. The driving distance is approximately 2048 miles, which would take around 31 hours and 46 minutes to complete. It is important to plan for rest stops and overnight stays along the way, as this would be a long journey. Additionally, consider weather conditions and any necessary road closures before embarking on your road trip.
No, there is no direct bus between San Diego and Madison. However, there are bus services available with transfers. The journey usually involves departing from San Diego and arriving at Madison via Los Angeles Union Station, St Louis Bus Station, and Chicago Union Station. The travel time for this route is approximately 2 days and 7 hours, including transfers.
You can catch the San Diego to Madison bus from the San Diego station. The bus service is operated by Flixbus USA. From the San Diego station, you can board the bus that will take you to Madison. Be sure to check the bus schedule and book your ticket in advance to secure your seat.
The San Diego to Madison bus services, operated by Amtrak, arrive at Madison station. The Madison station is located at 800 Langdon St, Madison 53706. It is conveniently situated near the University of Wisconsin-Madison campus and downtown Madison. From the station, travelers can easily access various attractions, hotels, and restaurants in the city.
To get from San Diego Airport to Madison you can take a direct flight from San Diego International Airport to Dane County Regional Airport. The flight duration is around 3-4 hours. Once you arrive at Dane County Regional Airport, you can easily take a taxi or use rideshare services to reach your destination in Madison.
United Airlines, American Airlines, and Delta offer flights between San Diego and Madison. These airlines provide multiple daily flights, allowing travelers flexibility in choosing their preferred departure and arrival times. It is recommended to compare prices and check for any discounts or promotions before making a booking.
The fastest way to get from San Diego to Madison by plane is to take a flight with one stopover. There is no direct flight from San Diego Airport to Madison Airport. The quickest flight with one stopover takes approximately 5 hours and 42 minutes. Airlines such as United Airlines, American Airlines, and Delta offer flights between San Diego and Madison. However, the total travel time from San Diego to Madison by plane is around 7 hours and 46 minutes. The prices for flights between Madison and San Diego range from $193 to $407.
The flight duration from San Diego to Madison varies depending on the number of stopovers. However, the quickest flight with one stopover takes approximately 5 hours and 42 minutes. It is important to note that there are no direct flights available from San Diego Airport to Madison Airport, which may result in longer travel times with additional layovers.
The cost of a flight from San Diego to Madison can vary depending on the airline, time of booking, and availability. Generally, prices range from $193 to $407 for a round trip ticket. It is recommended to book in advance and be flexible with your travel dates to secure the best deals. Additionally, considering alternative nearby airports or using flight comparison tools can help find the cheapest option for your journey.
The cost of a bus ticket from San Diego to Madison varies depending on the bus service and the time of travel. On average, a bus ticket can range from $270 to $556. However, prices may fluctuate based on factors such as the number of stops, duration of the journey, and promotional offers. It is recommended to check with different bus companies to compare prices and find the best deal for your trip.
The cost to drive from San Diego to Madison depends on various factors such as the vehicle's fuel efficiency and current gas prices. On average, you can expect to spend around $370 to $550 for a one-way trip. This estimate includes the cost of gas, tolls, and potential overnight accommodations. It's important to note that these prices are subject to change and may vary depending on your specific route and travel preferences.

Trips from San Diego

Trips to Madison