1map logoGo to main page

San Marcos, CA, USA to San Diego, CA, USA from $3: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from San Marcos 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.

$3 by busBest price
57 kmDistance
37m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from San Marcos 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
San Diego Metro Transit
Bus
Average Duration
1h  34m
Estimated price
$3-10
Recommended
Company
San Diego Metro Transit
Bus
Average Duration
1h  34m
Estimated price
$3-11
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 57 km
Duration: 37m

See more options

Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
37m
Estimated price
$6-10
Company
various
Taxi
Average Duration
37m
Estimated price
$120-150
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From San Marcos to San Diego

Your journey from San Marcos to San Diego offers an intriguing contrast between the tranquil, suburban charm of San Marcos and the vibrant, bustling energy of San Diego's beaches and urban attractions.

Best Neighbourhoods in San Diego

San Diego's neighborhoods offer diverse experiences for every traveler.

Balboa Park
• Home to world-class museums and gardens.
• Ideal for a leisurely stroll or picnic.
La Jolla
• Stunning coastline with picturesque views.
• Upscale dining and shopping options available.
Gaslamp Quarter
• Vibrant nightlife and historic architecture.
• A hub for dining, shopping, and entertainment.

Best Times To Visit San Diego's Attractions

Timing your visits can greatly enhance your San Diego experience.

San Diego Zoo
Weekdays, especially in the morning, offer fewer crowds and cooler temperatures.
Balboa Park
Visit on weekday afternoons to enjoy quieter strolls through gardens and museums.
USS Midway Museum
Early mornings or late afternoons help avoid peak visitor times for better exploration.

San Diego Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

San Diego boasts a mild, Mediterranean climate with warm summers and cool winters, making it a pleasant destination year-round. The best times to visit are usually spring and fall, as the weather significantly enhances outdoor activities and beach experiences.

Dining Recommendation in San Diego

For a true taste of San Diego, try the fish tacos at Oscar's Mexican Seafood, where fresh local ingredients and bold flavors highlight the city's coastal vibe. This lively spot contrasts with the more laid-back dining scene in San Marcos, offering a bustling atmosphere that reflects the vibrant culinary culture of the area.

San Marcos - San Diego operators

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

Bus
Contact phone
+1 619-233-3004
Website
https://www.sdmts.com

Bus from Escondido Transit Center to Broadway & Park Bl

Average Duration
1h 8m
Estimated price
$1-5
Taxi
Contact phone
+1 760-444-4444
Website
https://driveu.com

Taxi from San Marcos to San Diego

Average Duration
37m
Estimated price
$120-150
Contact phone
+1 760-722-2227
Website
https://craigscabs.com

Taxi from San Marcos to San Diego

Average Duration
37m
Estimated price
$120-150
Contact phone
+1 760-722-7472

Taxi from San Marcos to San Diego

Average Duration
37m
Estimated price
$120-150

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

Traveling between San Marcos 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.

🚗 Begin your scenic road trip from San Marcos to San Diego covering a distance of 35 miles in just under 37 minutes, offering a quick and convenient journey through Southern California's beautiful landscape. 💸 With car travel costs ranging between $6 to $10, enjoy a budget-friendly adventure as you make your way from San Marcos to the vibrant city of San Diego, famous for its beaches, parks, and diverse cultural attractions.
Average price
$6 - $10
🚆 Embark on a scenic train journey from San Marcos to San Diego. The route covers a distance of 1,592 miles and involves a transfer along the way. 🚆 Step one of the trip includes a train ride towards Los Angeles that lasts approximately 1 day and 12 hours. The Texas Eagle departs from San Marcos and arrives at Union Station in Los Angeles, operated by Amtrak. 🚆 The second step of the adventure entails a train journey towards San Diego lasting around 2 hours and 54 minutes. The Pacific Surfliner departs from Union Station and arrives at Santa Fe, offering a convenient way to reach your final destination in San Diego.
🚌 Traveling by bus from San Marcos to San Diego takes approximately 1 hour and 34 minutes, offering a convenient and affordable transportation option with prices ranging from $3 to $10. 🌴 Route 1 spans 1,669 miles and involves 4 transfers, taking around 1 day and 12 hours to reach San Diego from San Marcos journey includes stops in Harlingen, Amarillo, Phoenix, Los Angeles Union Station, and finally, San Diego via FlixBus. 🌞 Route 2 covers a distance of 1,689 miles with 4 transfers, taking about 1 day and 13 hours to arrive in San Diego from San Marcos will travel through Harlingen, Amarillo, Phoenix, Los Angeles, and eventually reach San Diego via Tijuana Central Bus Terminal.

Frequently asked questions

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

Or choose the category:
The cheapest way to travel from San Marcos to San Diego is by bus. The bus fare typically ranges from $3 to $11, depending on the specific route and any applicable discounts. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 34 minutes, allowing you to enjoy the scenic views along the way. It is recommended to check the bus schedule and plan your trip accordingly.
The fastest way to travel from San Marcos to San Diego is by taking a taxi, which takes approximately 37 minutes. However, I would recommend considering traffic conditions and potential delays. Another option is to drive yourself, which may also be quick depending on the traffic, but make sure to factor in parking costs. Public transportation, such as the train or bus, can also be efficient and convenient for traveling between the two cities.
The distance between San Marcos and San Diego is approximately 30 miles. The road distance is slightly longer, around 36 miles. It usually takes about 30 minutes to travel by car, depending on the traffic conditions. There are also public transportation options available, such as buses and trains, which may take a bit longer but can be a convenient and cost-effective choice for travelers.
The best way to travel from San Marcos to San Diego without a car is by taking a bus. The bus journey takes approximately 1 hour and 34 minutes, and fares range from $3 to $11, depending on the bus company and time of travel. The bus service is a convenient and affordable option for those who do not have access to a car or prefer not to drive.
The journey from San Marcos to San Diego takes approximately 1 hour and 34 minutes, including any transfers that may be required. This travel time may vary depending on traffic and other factors. It is advisable to allow some extra time for unexpected delays.
There are several accommodation options available near San Diego. With over 1163 hotels to choose from, travelers have a wide range of choices. Prices for hotels in San Diego start at $53 per night, depending on the specific location, amenities, and type of accommodation preferred. It is recommended to book in advance to secure the best deal that suits your budget and preferences.
Yes, you can definitely drive from San Marcos to San Diego. The driving distance is approximately 35 miles, and it takes about 37 minutes to reach your destination. You can take the I-15 S freeway, which is the most direct route. Keep in mind that travel times may vary depending on traffic conditions.
The cost of a bus ticket from San Marcos to San Diego can range from $3 to $10, depending on the type of bus and the specific route. The cheapest option is typically the local public transportation, such as the North County Transit District buses. These buses offer affordable fares starting at $3, making them a budget-friendly choice for travel between the two cities. Other bus services, like Greyhound or FlixBus, may have slightly higher fares but still offer reasonably priced options for transportation. It's recommended to check the websites or contact the bus companies for the most up-to-date pricing information.
The cost to drive from San Marcos to San Diego is typically around $6 to $10, depending on factors such as gas prices and tolls. This estimate is based on a one-way trip without factoring in any additional expenses such as parking fees. Keep in mind that these prices may vary, so it's a good idea to check current gas prices and plan for potential toll roads along the route to get a more accurate cost estimate.
Yes, it is possible to ride a bicycle from San Marcos to San Diego. However, it is a long journey of approximately 2657 km and would take about 135 hours and 29 minutes to complete. It is important to be well-prepared with proper equipment, including a reliable bicycle, safety gear, and enough supplies for the journey. Additionally, it is advisable to plan your route carefully, considering factors such as traffic, road conditions, and available rest stops along the way.

Trips to Los Angeles