1map logoGo to main page

San Francisco, CA, USA to San Diego, CA, USA from $40: 9 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from San Francisco to San Diego: 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.

$40 by busBest price
741 kmDistance
3h 22m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from San Francisco to San Diego 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
3h  22m
Estimated price
$74-285
Recommended
Company
various
Train
Train
Average Duration
17h  20m
Estimated price
$32-257
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 741 km
Duration: 3h 22m

See more options

Company
FlixBus
Bus
Average Duration
10h  55m
Estimated price
$40-140
Company
various
BART
Plane
Average Duration
4h  30m
Estimated price
$49-297
Company
Greyhound USA
Bus
Average Duration
12h  46m
Estimated price
$57-121
Company
various
BART
Plane
Average Duration
3h  25m
Estimated price
$61-296
Company
various
BART
Bus
Average Duration
12h  20m
Estimated price
$64-95
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
8h  23m
Estimated price
$90-140
Company
various
Bus
Plane
Average Duration
5h  57m
Estimated price
$115-427
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From San Francisco to San Diego

The journey from San Francisco to San Diego takes you from the iconic foggy hills and cultural vibrancy of the Bay Area to the sun-soaked beaches and laid-back lifestyle of Southern California.

Best Neighborhoods in San Diego

San Diego's neighborhoods offer diverse experiences and vibrant cultures.

Gaslamp Quarter
• Bustling nightlife and entertainment options.
• Historic Victorian architecture mixed with modern venues.
La Jolla
• Stunning coastal views and upscale shopping.
• Renowned for its beautiful beaches and sea caves.
Little Italy
• Rich Italian heritage with fantastic dining options.
• Vibrant art scene and weekly farmers market.

Best Times To Visit San Diego's Attractions

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

Balboa Park
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon on weekdays for fewer crowds.
San Diego Zoo
Aim for mid-week visits during the off-peak season for a more relaxed experience.
USS Midway Museum
Arrive right when it opens on weekends to enjoy a quieter tour.

San Diego Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

San Diego enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate, making it a delightful destination year-round, with best conditions typically found from late spring to early fall. While sunny days abound, occasional coastal fog and cooler evenings can impact your plans, so packing layers is wise.

Dining Recommendation

In San Diego, savor the fish tacos from Las Cuatro Milpas, where the fresh, local seafood and homemade tortillas reflect the area’s Mexican influence, starkly contrasting San Francisco’s focus on diverse fusion cuisine. The lively, casual atmosphere, often accompanied by outdoor seating, enhances the experience, inviting you to enjoy the flavors while soaking in the sunny coastal vibes.

San Francisco - San Diego operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
southwest.com

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

Average Duration
1h 28m
Estimated price
$90-420
Website
alaskaair.com

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

Average Duration
1h 35m
Estimated price
$95-460
Website
united.com

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

Average Duration
1h 42m
Estimated price
$110-470
Website
flyfrontier.com

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

Average Duration
1h 33m
Estimated price
$60-460
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-660-4287
Website
caltrain.com

Train from San Francisco Caltrain Southbound to San Diego via San Jose and Los Angeles

Average Duration
17h 20m
Estimated price
$32-257
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from San Jose to Los Angeles to Los Angeles to San Diego

Average Duration
13h 39m
Estimated price
$5-85
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
greyhound.com

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

Average Duration
12h 35m
Estimated price
$55-120
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
flixbus.com

Bus from San Francisco to San Diego

Average Duration
10h 55m
Estimated price
$40-140
Contact phone
+1 408-729-7885
Website
xedohoang.com

Bus from San José, CA to Lucky Seafood - San Diego, CA

Average Duration
8h 30m
Estimated price
$55-75

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

Traveling between San Francisco and San Diego 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.

🚗 Dive into a scenic road trip from San Francisco to San Diego, covering 504 miles of picturesque California coastline. The journey offers a mix of urban sprawls and breathtaking ocean views, perfect for any travel enthusiast. 💰 Enjoy flexibility with prices ranging from $90 to $140 for the road trip, allowing for budget-friendly options as well as opportunities to splurge on luxurious pit stops along the way. Indulge in delicious local cuisine and explore charming towns during your drive down south. 🏖️ Arrive in sunny San Diego after approximately 8 hours and 23 minutes of driving, ready to bask in the warm Southern California sunshine and explore the city's vibrant neighborhoods, stunning beaches, and diverse cultural attractions. Embrace the laid-back vibe of San Diego as the perfect ending to your epic road adventure.
Average price
$90 - $140
🚆 Embark on a scenic train journey from San Francisco to San Diego, with transfers in San Jose and Los Angeles. The total travel time is approximately 17 hours and 20 minutes. 🛤️ The route covers a distance of 598 miles, with 2 transfers along the way. Enjoy the picturesque views as you travel from Caltrain to Amtrak, passing through iconic cities like San Jose and Los Angeles. 💰 Ticket prices for this train adventure range from $32 to $257, offering a convenient and comfortable way to explore the beautiful landscapes of California from San Francisco to San Diego.
Departure Point
San Francisco Caltrain Southbound station
Arrival Point
San Diego station
Useful tips for train travellers
• The primary operator for the train journey from San Francisco to San Diego is Amtrak, which provides excellent onboard services including a dining car and café. The café offers a variety of snacks, beverages, and light meals, and you can also order meals through the Amtrak app for your convenience.
• Amtrak provides different seating options including First Class, Business Class, and Economy. First Class offers spacious seating with more legroom and the best service, while Business Class includes more comfortable seating and increased service options. Economy is the most economical choice but still provides a comfortable ride. Make your selection based on your comfort and budget preferences.
• Upon arrival at San Diego's Santa Fe Depot, you can expect a historic station with good navigation signage. There are baggage services available, allowing you to leave your luggage at the station for a few hours. The station has restrooms but does not feature shower facilities. For the fastest route to the city center, take the MTS Trolley Blue Line from the depot—just a short walk away—toward UTC/La Jolla, and get off at the '5th Avenue Station', which is right in the heart of downtown.
🛫 Flying from San Francisco to San Diego is a convenient and quick travel option, with a direct flight taking only 1 hour and 25 minutes. 💸 The cost of a flight between San Diego and San Francisco can range from $74 to $285, making it a relatively affordable trip for those looking to explore the beautiful southern California city.
Departure Point
San Francisco Airport
Arrival Point
San Diego Airport
🚌 The overnight bus from San Francisco to San Diego, operated by Flixbus USA, is a convenient option with daily service, taking approximately 10 hours and 55 minutes. 🚌 Prices for the bus between San Francisco and San Diego range from $57 to $121, offering budget-friendly transportation for those looking to explore the scenic route along the California coast.
Departure Point
San Francisco station
Arrival Point
San Diego station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• To ensure a smooth journey, consider pre-booking your ticket with Flixbus USA for the overnight trip from San Francisco to San Diego; you can find schedules and fare details at Flixbus.
• Bring along snacks and entertainment for the long overnight ride, as dining options on the bus can be limited; check out local favorites like San Francisco's Tartine Bakery for takeout before departure.
• Upon arriving at the San Diego station, navigate outside to the ground transportation area where you can find ride-share options and public transit; for transit schedules, visit San Diego Transit.

Frequently asked questions

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

Or choose the category:
The cheapest way to travel from San Francisco to San Diego is by night bus. The bus journey takes approximately 10 hours and 55 minutes and can cost anywhere from $40 to $140. This is a budget-friendly option for those looking to save money on transportation expenses.
The fastest way to travel from San Francisco to San Diego is by flying. There are several airlines that offer direct flights between the two cities, with a travel time of approximately 3 hours and 22 minutes. The cost of the flight can range from $60 to $290, depending on the airline and the time of booking. It is important to check for any additional fees or restrictions before making a reservation.
The distance between San Francisco and San Diego is approximately 461 miles. The road distance is slightly longer at 504.2 miles. By car, the journey takes around 8-9 hours, depending on traffic and the route taken. Alternatively, there are also several transportation options available such as flying, which takes about 1.5 hours, or taking a train, which takes around 12-13 hours.
The best way to travel from San Francisco to San Diego without a car is to take the BART train from San Francisco to the Coliseum Station in Oakland. From there, you can transfer to the Amtrak bus, which will take you directly to San Diego. The journey takes approximately 12 hours and 23 minutes and costs between $60 and $95. This option allows you to avoid driving and enjoy the scenic route by train and bus.
The travel time from San Francisco to San Diego is approximately 3 hours and 22 minutes. This includes any necessary transfers during the journey. The exact duration may vary depending on factors such as traffic and the mode of transportation chosen. It is advisable to plan ahead and check for any potential delays or disruptions before embarking on the journey.
The quickest and most convenient way to travel from San Francisco to San Diego is by flying, with a flight duration of around 3 hours and 22 minutes. Prices for flights range from $60 to $290. Alternatively, you can opt for the bus, which takes approximately 12 hours and 46 minutes and costs between $55 and $130. Another option is to take the Caltrain and train combination, which takes around 17 hours and 19 minutes and costs between $30 and $260.
There are multiple accommodation options available near San Diego. As of now, there are around 1163 hotels to choose from in the area. Prices for these hotels start at $53 per night, depending on the location, amenities, and season. It is recommended to explore popular booking websites or contact a local travel agency for the best hotel deals and to find the one that suits your preferences and budget.
Yes, you can drive from San Francisco to San Diego. The total driving distance is approximately 504 miles. It will take you approximately 8 hours and 23 minutes to drive from San Francisco to San Diego, depending on traffic conditions. It is important to plan your route and consider stops for rest and refueling along the way.
Yes, there is a direct bus route between San Francisco and San Diego. The bus departs from San Francisco and arrives in San Diego, and it operates daily. The journey takes approximately 10 hours and 55 minutes. This overnight bus option is convenient for travelers seeking a direct and hassle-free transportation option between the two cities.
To catch the bus from San Francisco to San Diego you will need to go to the San Francisco station. This is where Flixbus USA operates their services. Make sure to arrive at the station in advance to ensure a smooth departure. Double check the bus schedule and platform information before your trip to avoid any confusion.
The bus from San Francisco to San Diego arrives at the San Diego station. This station is located in the heart of downtown San Diego, making it convenient for travelers to access other parts of the city. The station is well-equipped with amenities and facilities to ensure a comfortable stop for passengers.
To get to San Diego from the airport, you can take a taxi, a shuttle service, or rent a car. Taxis provide a convenient and direct option for transportation, but they can be more expensive. Shuttle services are more affordable and can be booked in advance, offering shared transportation with other passengers. Renting a car gives you flexibility and the convenience to explore San Diego at your own pace. It is advisable to compare prices and services to choose the option that best suits your needs.
Southwest Airlines, Alaska Airlines, Inc., and United Airlines are the major airlines that offer flights between San Francisco and San Diego. These airlines provide multiple daily flights, allowing travelers to choose the most convenient departure and arrival times. It is recommended to compare prices and check for any promotions or deals offered by these airlines to find the best option for your travel needs.
The fastest way to travel from San Francisco to San Diego is by plane. Direct flights between San Francisco Airport and San Diego Airport take approximately 1 hour and 25 minutes. Airlines such as Southwest Airlines, Alaska Airlines, Inc., and United Airlines offer flights on this route. The duration of the entire journey, including check-in and security procedures, is around 3 hours and 22 minutes. Flight prices between these two cities can range from $64 to $285.
The flight from San Francisco to San Diego typically takes about 1 hour and 25 minutes. This duration is for a direct flight from San Francisco Airport to San Diego Airport. However, it's important to note that flight times may vary due to factors such as weather conditions and air traffic. It's always recommended to check with the airline for the most accurate and up-to-date flight schedules.
Trains from San Francisco to San Diego arrive at the San Diego station. This is the final destination for the Amtrak train service that operates between the two cities. The San Diego station is conveniently located in downtown San Diego, making it easy for travelers to access various attractions and accommodations in the area. The station is also well-connected to other transportation options, such as buses and taxis.
Yes, there is no direct train between San Francisco and San Diego. However, you can take a train from San Francisco Caltrain to San Jose, then transfer to another train to Los Angeles, and finally, take a train from Los Angeles to San Diego. The total journey time, including transfers, takes approximately 17 hours and 19 minutes.
To catch the train from San Francisco to San Diego you should go to the San Francisco Caltrain station. This is where the train services, operated by Caltrain, depart from. Make sure to check the train schedule and plan your arrival time accordingly. The station is easily accessible and has facilities such as ticket counters and waiting areas for passengers.
The cost of a flight from San Francisco to San Diego can range from $64 to $285, depending on factors such as the airline, travel dates, and availability. It is recommended to book in advance and compare prices from different airlines to find the best deals. Additionally, consider flying during off-peak times or on weekdays to potentially secure lower fares.
The cost of a train ticket from San Francisco to San Diego can range from $32 to $257. The price varies depending on factors such as the date and time of travel, the type of ticket, and whether or not a reservation is included. It is recommended to book in advance and compare prices to ensure the best deal for your journey.
The cost of a bus ticket from San Francisco to San Diego ranges from $57 to $121. This price variation is usually due to factors such as the bus company, departure time, and level of service. It is advisable to book in advance to secure the best fares and to check with the specific bus operator for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.
The cost of driving from San Francisco to San Diego can range from $90 to $140. This estimate takes into account factors such as fuel costs, tolls, and possible overnight accommodations. It's important to note that this is just an estimate and actual costs may vary depending on the specific vehicle used and current fuel prices.

Trips from San Francisco

Trips to San Diego