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Tampa, FL, USA to San Diego, CA, USA from $306: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from Tampa 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.

$306 by busBest price
3965 kmDistance
6h 44m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Tampa 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
6h  44m
Estimated price
$98-337
Recommended
Company
Flixbus USA, Greyhound USA, Greyhound Mexico
Bus
Average Duration
2h  15m
Estimated price
$306-613
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 3965 km
Duration: 6h 44m

See more options

Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
3h  19m
Estimated price
$153-980
Company
various
Bus
Train
Average Duration
2h  17m
Estimated price
$154-829
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
2h  15m
Estimated price
$306-613
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
58h  10m
Estimated price
$419-642
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
38h  25m
Estimated price
$981-982

Traveling From Tampa to San Diego

Tampa's vibrant culture and lush landscapes collide with San Diego's stunning coastal views and laid-back vibe, offering travelers distinct experiences that reflect their unique charms.

Best Neighbourhoods in San Diego

San Diego boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering its own distinct character and attractions.

La Jolla
• Stunning beaches and tide pools
• Upscale dining and shopping options
Gaslamp Quarter
• Historic architecture and vibrant nightlife
• Art galleries and unique boutiques
Little Italy
• Renowned for its delicious Italian cuisine
• Frequent farmers markets and festivals

Best Times To Visit San Diego's Attractions

Timing your visits can greatly enhance your experience in San Diego's top spots.

Balboa Park
Visit early in the morning on weekdays for fewer crowds and peaceful strolls.
San Diego Zoo
Go during the off-season in January or February for quieter trails.
USS Midway Museum
Head there during the week, especially in the morning, to avoid long lines.

San Diego Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

San Diego enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate, characterized by warm, dry summers and cool, wet winters, making it ideal for outdoor activities year-round. Visiting in the spring or fall offers pleasant temperatures and fewer tourists, enhancing your overall travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in San Diego

For a distinctive twist on flavors, try the fish tacos at The Fish Market, where fresh catch is combined with zesty salsas and local produce, providing a fresh ocean-inspired experience. This contrasts with Tampa's focus on rich Southern cuisine, offering you a vibrant taste of San Diego's coastal culture.

Tampa - San Diego operators

Explore transport companies operating between Tampa 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 Tampa (TPA) to San Diego (SAN)

Average Duration
6h 44m
Estimated price
$98-337
Website
alaskaair.com

Plane from Tampa (TPA) to San Diego (SAN)

Average Duration
5h 10m
Estimated price
$989-3370
Website
united.com

Plane from Tampa (TPA) to San Diego (SAN)

Average Duration
7h 23m
Estimated price
$3373-3374
Website
aa.com

Plane from Tampa (TPA) to San Diego (SAN)

Average Duration
7h 11m
Estimated price
$3371-3372
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
flixbus.com

Bus from Tampa Bus Station to San Diego

Average Duration
58h 10m
Estimated price
$306-642
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
greyhound.com

Bus from Tampa Bus Station to Houston Bus Station

Average Duration
17h 50m
Estimated price
$30650-41980

Bus from Houston Bus Station to Los Angeles Union Station

Average Duration
33h 10m
Estimated price
$41980-306020

Bus from Los Angeles Union Station to San Diego

Average Duration
3h 15m
Estimated price
$4198-3064
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Tampa to Cary

Average Duration
14h 51m
Estimated price
$6423-4193

Train from Cary to Greensboro

Average Duration
1h 19m
Estimated price
$3060-3061

Train from Greensboro to New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal

Average Duration
21h 30m
Estimated price
$6422-41970

Train from New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal to Los Angeles

Average Duration
46h 35m
Estimated price
$3375-3372

Train from Los Angeles to San Diego

Average Duration
2h 54m
Estimated price
$4195-4196

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

Traveling between Tampa 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 an epic road trip from Tampa to San Diego covering a distance of 2464 miles, taking you through diverse landscapes and breathtaking scenery on the way. 💸 The cost of this journey by car ranges from $440 to $650, offering budget-friendly options for travelers looking to explore the West Coast at their own pace. 🌴 Arrive in vibrant San Diego after approximately 38 hours and 25 minutes of driving, ready to soak up the sun, surf on beautiful beaches, and enjoy the laid-back California vibes.
Average price
$440 - $650
🚂 Embark on an epic train journey from Tampa to San Diego! Although there is no direct route, you'll travel through cities like Cary, Greensboro, New Orleans, and Los Angeles on this 3-day, 19-hour adventure. 💰 Ticket prices for the Tampa to San Diego train range from $153 to $1206, offering options for different budgets. Sit back, relax, and let the rhythmic chug of the train carry you towards your West Coast destination.
Departure Point
Tampa station
Arrival Point
San Diego station
🛫 Traveling from Tampa to San Diego by plane is a convenient journey that typically takes around 4 hours and 40 minutes on a direct flight. Airlines such as Alaska Airlines, Inc., American Airlines, United Airlines, and Southwest Airlines offer options for this route. 🌴 Once you arrive in San Diego, you can expect a total travel time of approximately 6 hours and 44 minutes from Tampa. The city of San Diego offers a vibrant mix of culture, stunning beaches, and a bustling food scene awaiting your exploration. 💰 Depending on the airline and time of booking, the prices for a flight between San Diego and Tampa can range from $98 to $337.
Departure Point
Tampa Airport
Arrival Point
San Diego Airport
Although there's no direct route, you can enjoy the scenic journey with transfers at Orlando, Houston, and Los Angeles Union Station. The total travel time is approximately 2 days and 15 hours. 🌴 With distances spanning 2,858 miles, embark on a multi-step adventure with various transfers along the way. Options include routes via Titusville, Atlanta, Memphis, Oklahoma City, Phoenix, and finally arriving in San Diego. Enjoy the diverse landscapes and experiences each stop brings.
Departure Point
Tampa Bus Station
Arrival Point
San Diego station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between Tampa and San Diego is approximately 2098 miles or 2464 miles by car. Traveling by train to San Diego from Tampa or vice versa is not provided in the information given. It takes approximately 9 hours and 44 minutes to reach San Diego from Tampa by taking a train to Orlando and then flying to San Diego. Alternatively, it takes about 7 hours and 18 minutes to fly directly from Tampa to San Diego. If driving, it would take approximately 38 hours and 25 minutes to travel from San Diego to Tampa by car. The travel time by bus is not provided in the given information.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Tampa to San Diego is to fly. With flight times of approximately 7 hours and 18 minutes, it is the quickest way to reach San Diego. The cost of flying ranges from $90 to $360, making it the cheapest option available.
The train ticket prices for traveling from Tampa to San Diego vary from $153 to $1206. On the other hand, the bus ticket prices for traveling from San Diego to Tampa vary from $292 to $589. The prices for both modes of transportation are subject to change based on factors such as availability, time of travel, and seat selection. It is recommended to check with the respective transportation providers for the most up-to-date and accurate pricing information.
To get from Tampa to San Diego without using public transportation, you can opt for a road trip. The distance between the two cities is approximately 2464 miles, which takes about 38 hours and 25 minutes of driving time. Depending on factors such as gas prices and vehicle efficiency, the cost of the trip by car can vary between $440 and $650. Make sure to plan your trip ahead, including rest stops and accommodations along the way, to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable journey.
The best way to travel from Tampa to San Diego without a car is by taking a bus and train via San Antonio. This option takes approximately 2 days and 9 hours and costs between $440 and $950. Another option is to fly, which takes 7 hours and 18 minutes and costs between $90 and $360. If you have more time, you could also consider taking a train, which takes 3 days and 19 hours and costs between $150 and $1300.
No, there is no direct link between Tampa and San Diego via train or bus. However, there are alternative routes available with transfers. The train journey from Tampa to San Diego takes approximately 3 days and 19 hours, with transfers at various stations along the way. The bus journey, with transfers at Tallahassee, Houston, and Los Angeles, takes approximately 2 days and 13 hours.
The flight duration between Tampa and San Diego typically ranges from around 5 hours and 12 minutes for a direct flight. However, flight prices can fluctuate depending on the time of booking and availability. Generally, the cost of a flight between San Diego and Tampa can vary from $92 to $357, with factors such as airline, class, and time of travel influencing the price. It is recommended to compare prices and book in advance for the best deals.
There are numerous options for accommodation near San Diego. With over 1163 hotels available, travelers can find a variety of choices to suit their preferences and budget. Prices for hotels in San Diego start at $53 per night, providing affordable options for visitors. From luxury resorts to budget-friendly motels, there is something for everyone in the vibrant city of San Diego.

Trips to San Diego