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Chicago, IL, USA to San Diego, CA, USA from $244: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from Chicago 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.

$244 by busBest price
3361 kmDistance
6h 19m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Chicago 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  19m
Estimated price
$78-610
Recommended
route map
Distance: 3361 km
Duration: 6h 19m

See more options

Company
Various
Plane
Average Duration
6h  39m
Estimated price
$78-480
Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
49h  21m
Estimated price
$119-792
Company
Greyhound USA, Flixbus USA
Bus
Average Duration
49h  3m
Estimated price
$244-523
Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
32h  19m
Estimated price
$370-550
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Chicago to San Diego

Embark on a journey from the bustling cityscape of Chicago, known for its deep-dish pizza and towering skyline, to the sunny shores of San Diego, where vibrant beaches and a laid-back atmosphere await.

Best Neighbourhoods in San Diego

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

Gaslamp Quarter
• Lively nightlife with countless bars and clubs.
• Historic architecture mixed with modern amenities.
La Jolla
• Stunning coastal views and upscale dining options.
• Renowned for beautiful beaches and tide pools.
Little Italy
• Vibrant food scene featuring Italian cuisine.
• Hosts weekly farmers' market with local produce.

Best Times To Visit San Diego's Attractions

Plan your visits to San Diego's attractions for an enjoyable experience.

Balboa Park
Visit early mornings on weekdays to enjoy peaceful strolls and fewer visitors.
San Diego Zoo
Late afternoon visits on weekdays often result in shorter lines and cooler weather.
USS Midway Museum
Go on a weekday morning for a less crowded exploration of naval history.

San Diego Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

San Diego enjoys a mild, Mediterranean climate with sunny days and comfortable temperatures throughout the year, making it an appealing destination anytime. However, the best times to visit are during the spring and fall, when you can avoid peak tourist crowds while still enjoying pleasant weather.

Dining Recommendation in San Diego

Try the fish tacos at Oscar's Mexican Seafood, where fresh ingredients and bold flavors reflect San Diego's coastal vibe, contrasting sharply with Chicago's hearty comfort food. The casual, vibrant atmosphere and emphasis on locally-sourced seafood create a dining experience that celebrates the city's unique culinary landscape.

Chicago - San Diego operators

Explore transport companies operating between Chicago 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 Chicago Midway (MDW) to San Diego (SAN)

Average Duration
6h 19m
Estimated price
$78-610

Plane from Chicago Midway (MDW) to San Diego (SAN)

Average Duration
4h 23m
Estimated price
$785-786
Website
united.com

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

Average Duration
4h 38m
Estimated price
$788-784
Website
aa.com

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

Average Duration
4h 27m
Estimated price
$788-789
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
greyhound.com

Bus from Chicago Bus Station to San Diego

Average Duration
48h 3m
Estimated price
$244-523
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Chicago Union Station to Los Angeles

Average Duration
48h 17m
Estimated price
$783-7800

Train from Los Angeles to San Diego

Average Duration
2h 54m
Estimated price
$6109-4800

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

Traveling between Chicago 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 spanning 2089 miles from bustling Chicago to the sun-kissed shores of San Diego. The journey promises 32 hours of adventure through changing landscapes and vibrant cities. 🏖️ Indulge in the ultimate California dream as you arrive in San Diego, with prices for the car trip ranging from $370 to $550. Whether you seek sandy beaches, cultural experiences, or culinary delights, your Chicago to San Diego road trip is bound to be an unforgettable escapade.
Average price
$370 - $550
🚆 Embark on a scenic train journey from Chicago to San Diego, with a transfer in Los Angeles. The total travel time is approximately 2 days and 21 hours, offering a unique way to experience the diverse American landscape. 🛤️ The route covers a distance of 3,015 miles, with 3 transfers along the way. From Chicago Union Station, board the Metra Metropolitan Rail to Naperville, then transfer to the Amtrak California Zephyr towards Emeryville. Finally, hop on the Amtrak Coast Starlight to Union Station in Los Angeles before reaching San Diego on the Pacific Surfliner. 💸 Ticket prices for the Chicago to San Diego train journey range from $119 to $792, providing different accommodation options to suit your preferences. Enjoy the leisurely pace of train travel and take in the changing scenery as you make your way from the Midwest to the sunny shores of Southern California.
Departure Point
Chicago Union Station
Arrival Point
San Diego station
Useful tips for train travellers
• On your train trip from Chicago to San Diego, consider Amtrak as your primary operator. They offer onboard catering services with the 'Amtrak Café,' where you can purchase snacks, light meals, and beverages. In addition, if you're traveling in the sleeping car, you may enjoy complimentary meals in the dining car, prepared fresh for you.
• Amtrak provides several seating options for this journey: Coach (Economy) seating with comfortable reclining seats, Business Class which offers more spacious seating and quieter atmosphere, and First Class which includes a private room with a bed and bathroom facilities. Depending on your preference for comfort and privacy, you can choose the most suitable option for your trip.
• There are multiple operators for the Chicago to San Diego route, but the primary one is Amtrak (amtrak.com). Other options include Greyhound (greyhound.com) for bus travel, which is a different mode but worth considering for scheduling. Always check routes and times that suit your travel needs.
🛫 Embark on a convenient and efficient journey from Chicago to San Diego with a direct flight operated by Southwest Airlines, taking just 4 hours and 20 minutes to reach your destination. 🌴 Enjoy a smooth and comfortable flight experience as you travel across the country, covering a distance of 6 hours and 19 minutes from the vibrant city of Chicago to the sunny shores of San Diego. 💸 Explore the diverse range of ticket prices, ranging from $78 to $610, for flights connecting Chicago and San Diego, allowing you to choose the option that best suits your budget and travel preferences.
Departure Point
Chicago Midway Airport
Arrival Point
San Diego Airport
🚌 Embark on a scenic journey from Chicago to San Diego by bus, with multiple transfers along the way. The total travel time, including transfers, is approximately 2 days and 3 hours. 💰 Ticket prices for this bus trip can range from $244 to $523, providing an affordable and leisurely way to travel from the vibrant city of Chicago to the coastal beauty of San Diego.
Departure Point
Chicago Bus Station
Arrival Point
San Diego station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between Chicago and San Diego is approximately 1742 miles or 2088.7 miles by road. Traveling by train takes around 45 hours and 40 minutes, including a transfer to a bus. Alternatively, flying directly from Chicago to San Diego takes about 6 hours and 8 minutes. Driving by car from San Diego to Chicago takes about 32 hours and 19 minutes. These travel times may vary depending on traffic conditions and other factors.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Chicago to San Diego is by flying. The flight takes approximately 6 hours and 8 minutes and costs between $70 to $460. While other modes of transportation such as train or bus may offer cheaper options, they are significantly slower, with travel times ranging from around 32 hours to over 45 hours. Therefore, flying is both the fastest and most cost-effective choice for this journey.
The prices for a train ticket between Chicago and San Diego vary depending on the class and amenities chosen, ranging from $119 to $792. It is recommended to check with the specific train service provider for the most accurate and up-to-date prices. Additionally, prices for other modes of transportation such as flights and bus tickets can also vary greatly, depending on factors such as time and availability. It is advisable to check comparison websites or contact airlines and bus companies directly for the best prices.
To get from Chicago to San Diego without using public transportation, you can drive. The road distance is 2089 miles, and it takes approximately 32 hours and 19 minutes to drive from Chicago to San Diego. The cost of the trip can vary from $370 to $550, depending on factors such as gas prices and tolls.
You can travel from Chicago to San Diego without a car by taking a combination of train and bus. The journey usually takes about 45 hours and 40 minutes and can cost anywhere between $150 and $650. This is the best option for those who do not have access to a car or prefer not to drive.
No, there is no direct train link between Chicago and San Diego. However, there are train services available that depart from Chicago Union Station and arrive at San Diego via Los Angeles, with a journey time of approximately 2 days 21 hours. These services are operated by Amtrak.
The flight between Chicago and San Diego typically takes around 4 hours and 10 minutes. However, the duration may vary depending on the specific flight route and any potential layovers. As for the cost, prices for a flight between San Diego and Chicago can range from $74 to $460, depending on factors such as the airline, time of booking, and availability of discounts or promotions. It is recommended to check with different airlines and booking platforms to find the best deal for your desired travel dates.
There are a wide variety of accommodation options available near San Diego. With over 1163 hotels to choose from, you can find something to fit your budget and preferences. Prices start at $53 per night, ensuring there are options for every traveler. From luxury resorts to budget-friendly motels, you can easily find a place to stay that suits your needs.

Trips from Chicago

Trips to San Diego