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Denver, CO, USA to San Diego, CA, USA from $122: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

How to Get from Denver 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.

$122 by busBest price
1746 kmDistance
4h 34m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Denver 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
4h  34m
Estimated price
$39-296
Recommended
Company
Greyhound USA, Flixbus USA
Bus
Average Duration
24h  40m
Estimated price
$122-284
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 1746 km
Duration: 4h 34m

See more options

Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
48h  2m
Estimated price
$81-632
Company
Greyhound USA
Bus
Average Duration
30h  33m
Estimated price
$135-243
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
16h  49m
Estimated price
$190-390
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Traveling From Denver to San Diego

Traveling from Denver to San Diego offers a fascinating contrast between the majestic Rocky Mountains and the stunning Pacific coastline, providing you with a variety of scenery and experiences.

Best Neighbourhoods in San Diego

San Diego's neighborhoods offer diverse atmospheres and vibrant local cultures.

Gaslamp Quarter
• Historic district with Victorian buildings
• Bustling nightlife and dining options
La Jolla
• Stunning coastal views and beaches
• Upscale shops and art galleries
Little Italy
• Rich culinary scene and charming cafes
• Vibrant farmers market every Saturday

Best Times To Visit San Diego's Attractions

Timing your visits can greatly enhance your San Diego experience.

San Diego Zoo
Visit on weekdays during the school year for fewer crowds.
Balboa Park
Early morning visits on weekdays provide a peaceful atmosphere.
USS Midway Museum
Late afternoons offer shorter lines and a quieter experience.

San Diego Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

San Diego enjoys a mild, Mediterranean climate with sunny days and cool breezes year-round, making any time a good time to visit. Expect pleasant weather during spring and early fall, which enhances outdoor activities and beach outings.

Dining Recommendation

In San Diego, indulge in fish tacos from the local favorite, Las Cuatro Milpas, where fresh catch and vibrant salsas create an explosion of flavor that contrasts sharply with Denver's hearty, meat-centric dishes. The beachside atmosphere and emphasis on fresh, local ingredients elevate the dining experience, making it a refreshing change from the mountainous culinary scene.

Denver - San Diego operators

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

Plane
Website
southwest.com

Plane from Denver (DEN) to San Diego (SAN)

Average Duration
2h 26m
Estimated price
$396-397
Website
united.com

Plane from Denver (DEN) to San Diego (SAN)

Average Duration
2h 30m
Estimated price
$396-398
Website
flyfrontier.com

Plane from Denver (DEN) to San Diego (SAN)

Average Duration
2h 37m
Estimated price
$391-399
Bus
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
greyhound.com

Bus from Denver Union Station to Las Vegas S Strip Transit Terminal

Average Duration
15h 30m
Estimated price
$394-12280

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

Average Duration
5h 30m
Estimated price
$2845-2962

Bus from 1100 S Main St. to San Ysidro Bus Terminal

Average Duration
12h 15m
Estimated price
$2847-1222

Bus from Santa Ana Bus Stop to San Diego

Average Duration
1h 40m
Estimated price
$2846-2847
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Denver to Sacramento

Average Duration
31h 8m
Estimated price
$2960-397

Train from Sacramento to Los Angeles

Average Duration
14h 23m
Estimated price
$1220-190

Train from Los Angeles to San Diego

Average Duration
2h 54m
Estimated price
$1225-1226

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

Traveling between Denver 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.

🚗 Embark on a scenic road trip from Denver to San Diego covering a distance of 1085 miles. 🏞️ Enjoy the diverse landscapes as you make your way through the Southwest. 💰 Prices for the journey range from $190 to $290, offering flexibility for different budgets. 🛣️ Take advantage of the affordability and freedom that comes with traveling by car. 🌴 Arrive in sunny San Diego after approximately 16 hours and 49 minutes of driving. 🌅 Explore the beaches, vibrant neighborhoods, and delicious food that await you in this coastal city.
Average price
$190 - $290
🌟 The adventure lasts approximately 2 days and 2 hours, with transfers between trains operated by Amtrak. Enjoy the convenience of train travel as you make your way from the Mile High City to the sunny shores of San Diego. 💰 Ticket prices range from $81 to $632 for this memorable train ride. Sit back, relax, and soak in the views as you traverse from the heart of Colorado to the vibrant coastal city of San Diego.
Departure Point
Denver station
Arrival Point
San Diego station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard Services: Depending on your chosen operator, Amtrak offers a variety of catering services. On the Amtrak Southwest Chief route, for example, there are dining cars where you can sit down for meals. However, the Amtrak Pacific Surfliner, which runs along the coast to San Diego, provides café service, offering light snacks, beverages, and pre-packaged meals. It's advisable to bring your own snacks for the journey, as the selection on board may be limited and only available during specific hours.
• Seating Options: For this trip, you have several seating choices available with Amtrak. You can travel in Coach (Economy), which is comfortable for long journeys but can get crowded. Business Class is also available, offering wider seats and extra legroom. If you prefer luxury, First Class on other routes provides additional perks such as complimentary meals and access to exclusive lounges. Check Amtrak's website for availability on your specific travel date: amtrak.com
• Arrival Station Tip: When you arrive at San Diego's Santa Fe Depot, be prepared for a busy but manageable station. Luggage storage is available through Amtrak's checked baggage service, but make sure to check the timings as it may be limited. The station has restrooms but does not offer showers. After arriving, follow the signs to the light rail (Trolley) station just outside the depot for easy access to the city.
🛫 Flying from Denver to San Diego is a convenient and quick journey with a direct flight time of 2 hours and 20 minutes. This allows travelers to reach their sunny destination in a relatively short amount of time. 💸 Depending on the airline and timing of booking, the prices for flights between San Diego and Denver can range from $39 to $296.
Departure Point
Denver Airport
Arrival Point
San Diego Airport
🚌 Starting from Denver Union Station, travelers can embark on a scenic bus journey to San Diego with transfers in Las Vegas and Santa Ana. The total trip duration, including transfers, is approximately 24 hours and 40 minutes. 🌆 Covering a distance of 1,162 miles, the route from Denver to San Diego by bus involves two main steps. The first leg consists of a Greyhound bus from Denver to Los Angeles, lasting about 22 hours and 45 minutes. The second step entails a shorter 2-hour and 40-minute ride from Los Angeles to San Diego, also operated by Greyhound. 💰 Ticket prices for the Denver to San Diego bus route can vary between $122 to $284. Travelers can expect a comfortable and convenient journey through picturesque landscapes before arriving in sunny San Diego after a full day of travel.
Departure Point
Denver Union Station
Arrival Point
San Diego station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The cheapest way to travel from Denver to San Diego is by flying. There are several airlines that offer affordable flights between the two cities, with prices ranging from $30 to $230. The flight duration is approximately 4 hours and 29 minutes. It is recommended to compare prices and book in advance to secure the best deal.
The fastest way to travel from Denver to San Diego is by flying. The flight duration is approximately 4 hours and 29 minutes. There are several airlines that operate on this route, offering competitive prices ranging from $30 to $230. Flying allows you to reach your destination quickly and efficiently, saving time and effort compared to other modes of transportation.
The distance from Denver to San Diego is approximately 838 miles. The road distance is slightly longer at 1,085 miles. It would take about 15-17 hours to drive non-stop, depending on traffic and route taken. Alternatively, there are also direct flights available which would take around 2-3 hours.
The most convenient and cost-effective way to travel from Denver to San Diego without a car is by taking a bus. There are several bus companies that operate on this route, offering comfortable and affordable options. The journey takes approximately 26 hours and 18 minutes, with prices ranging from $120 to $280. It is recommended to book your tickets in advance to secure your preferred schedule and seating arrangement.
The fastest way to travel from Denver to San Diego is by flying, with a flight duration of approximately 4 hours and 29 minutes. It is important to note that this time may vary depending on factors such as flight routes and layovers. Alternatively, driving is also an option, and the estimated driving time is approximately 15 to 17 hours, depending on the specific route taken and the traffic conditions. Another option is taking a train, but the duration can be quite long, ranging from around 20 to 30 hours.
The cheapest way to travel from Denver to San Diego is by flying. Airlines such as Southwest, American, and United offer flights with prices ranging from $30 to $230. The flight duration is approximately 4 hours and 29 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a bus, which takes approximately 26 hours and 18 minutes and costs between $120 and $280. Additionally, there is a train option available, but it is more time-consuming, taking approximately 2 days and 2 hours, with prices ranging from $80 to $650.
There are numerous accommodation options available near San Diego. With a variety of hotels, bed and breakfasts, and vacation rentals to choose from, travelers can find a place to stay that suits their preferences and budget. Prices for accommodation in San Diego start at $53 per night, and options range from budget-friendly hotels to luxury resorts. It is advisable to book in advance to secure the best deals and availability.
Yes, you can drive from Denver to San Diego. The driving distance is approximately 1085 miles, and it takes approximately 16 hours and 49 minutes to drive without stops or traffic delays. However, it is important to note that driving times may vary depending on road conditions, traffic, and the route taken. It is advisable to plan for rest stops and consider the availability of accommodations along the way for a comfortable and safe trip.
To get from the Denver airport to San Diego you have several options. The most convenient and quickest way is to take a flight from Denver International Airport to San Diego International Airport, which takes around 4 hours and 29 minutes and costs between $30 and $230. Another option is to take a bus or drive, which takes approximately 15 hours and 30 minutes, but can be more cost-effective for those on a budget. Train travel is another option, but it is not a direct route and can take longer than flying or driving.
United Airlines, Frontier Airlines, and Southwest Airlines are the major airlines that operate flights between Denver and San Diego. These airlines offer multiple daily flights from Denver Airport to San Diego Airport. Passengers can choose from a range of flight options and schedules provided by these airlines to find the most convenient and suitable option for their travel needs.
The fastest way to travel from Denver to San Diego is by taking a direct flight. The quickest flight duration is approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes. United Airlines, Frontier Airlines, and Southwest Airlines are some of the airlines that offer direct flights from Denver Airport to San Diego Airport. The flight from Denver to San Diego takes a total of 4 hours and 29 minutes. The prices for flights between these two cities range from $34 to $226.
The flight from Denver to San Diego typically takes around 2 hours and 15 minutes for a direct flight. However, the total travel time may vary depending on factors such as the airline, flight route, and any layovers. It is always recommended to check with the airline for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding flight duration.
Trains from Denver to San Diego arrive at the San Diego station. Amtrak operates train services on this route, offering a convenient and comfortable journey. The San Diego station is centrally located in downtown San Diego, making it easily accessible to various attractions and accommodations in the city.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train between Denver and San Diego. The journey by train involves transfers in Sacramento and Los Angeles, making the total travel time approximately 2 days and 2 hours. If you prefer a quicker option, flying from Denver to San Diego would be the best choice, with a flight duration of around 4 hours and 29 minutes.
To catch the train from Denver to San Diego you will need to go to the Denver station. The train service is operated by Amtrak, and they have regular departures from Denver to San Diego. It's recommended to check the train schedule and book your tickets in advance to secure your seat on the desired departure.
The cost of a flight from Denver to San Diego can vary depending on factors such as the airline, time of booking, and travel dates. On average, flights can range from $34 to $226. It's important to keep in mind that prices can fluctuate, so it's best to check multiple airlines and booking platforms for the best deals. Additionally, booking your flight in advance or being flexible with travel dates can often result in finding cheaper flight options.
The cost of a train from Denver to San Diego ranges from $81 to $632. The price may vary depending on factors such as the class of service, time of booking, and availability. It is recommended to check with the train operator or online platforms for specific prices and discounts.
The cost of a bus ticket from Denver to San Diego typically ranges from $127 to $272. However, prices may vary based on factors such as the bus company, time of year, and booking in advance. It is always recommended to check with different bus companies and compare prices to find the best deal for your travel.
The estimated cost of driving from Denver to San Diego ranges from $190 to $290. This cost includes fuel expenses and tolls, but may vary depending on the type of vehicle, current gas prices, and any additional costs along the route. It's important to consider the duration of the trip, which usually takes around 15 to 16 hours depending on traffic and breaks. It is advised to plan and budget accordingly for potential accommodation, food, and rest stops along the way.

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