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Philadelphia, PA, USA to San Diego, CA, USA from $105: 9 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from Philadelphia 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.

$105 - PlaneBest price
3833 kmDistance
8h Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Philadelphia 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
8h 
Estimated price
$117-462
Recommended
Company
various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
8h  28m
Estimated price
$105-788
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 3833 km
Duration: 8h

See more options

Company
various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
9h  28m
Estimated price
$133-957
Company
various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
8h  44m
Estimated price
$134-809
Company
various
Train
Subway
Plane
Average Duration
9h  48m
Estimated price
$201-1170
Company
Greyhound USA, Flixbus USA
Bus
Average Duration
47h 
Estimated price
$1171-1172
Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
81h 
Estimated price
$1173-1174
Company
various
Bus
Train
Bus
Average Duration
81h 
Estimated price
$1175-1176
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
43h  32m
Estimated price
$1177-1178

Traveling From Philadelphia to San Diego

Your journey from Philadelphia to San Diego opens doors to diverse experiences, contrasting the rich historical tapestry of the East Coast with the laid-back, sun-soaked vibe of the West.

Best Neighbourhoods in San Diego

San Diego boasts vibrant neighborhoods, each with its own charm and appeal.

Gaslamp Quarter
• Historic architecture with a vibrant nightlife.
• Home to trendy restaurants and art galleries.
La Jolla
• Stunning coastal views and beautiful beaches.
• Upscale shops and exquisite dining options.
North Park
• Known for its craft breweries and unique boutiques.
• A hub for art and music festivals.

Best Times To Visit San Diego's Attractions

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

Balboa Park
Weekdays in the early morning offer quieter trails and galleries.
San Diego Zoo
Visit during the off-peak season, like September, for smaller crowds.
USS Midway Museum
Late afternoons see fewer visitors and allow for a relaxed tour.

San Diego Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

San Diego boasts a mild, Mediterranean climate with plenty of sunshine, making it ideal for outdoor activities year-round. The best times to visit are during spring and fall when temperatures are comfortable and crowds are lighter, impacting your overall travel experience positively.

San Diego Dining: A Taste of the West

Try the fish tacos at The Fish Market, where fresh, locally-sourced seafood introduces a lighter, vibrant flavor profile that stands in contrast to Philadelphia's hearty cheesesteaks. The coastal atmosphere and casual setting enhance the experience, providing a refreshing change from the bustling dining scene back East.

Philadelphia - San Diego operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
aa.com

Plane from Philadelphia (PHL) to San Diego (SAN)

Average Duration
6h 5m
Estimated price
$1054-1055
Website
southwest.com

Plane from Philadelphia (PHL) to San Diego (SAN)

Average Duration
8h 23m
Estimated price
$4625-4626
Website
united.com

Plane from Philadelphia (PHL) to San Diego (SAN)

Average Duration
8h 6m
Estimated price
$1051-1052
Website
spirit.com

Plane from Philadelphia (PHL) to San Diego (SAN)

Average Duration
8h 4m
Estimated price
$7881-1178
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from 30th Street Station to BWI Thurgood Marshall

Average Duration
1h 19m
Estimated price
$1340-1347

Train from 30th Street Station to Newark Liberty International Airport

Average Duration
1h 2m
Estimated price
$1334-7887

Train from 30th Street Station to Washington Union Station

Average Duration
1h 59m
Estimated price
$1345-4629

Train from 30th Street Station to New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal

Average Duration
30h 7m
Estimated price
$78860-133470
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
greyhound.com

Bus from Philadelphia to St Louis Bus Station

Average Duration
20h 40m
Estimated price
$8091-1050
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
flixbus.com

Bus from Santa Ana Bus Stop to San Diego

Average Duration
1h 40m
Estimated price
$9577-13405
all-pages.other Show other routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Other from Los Angeles to San Diego

Average Duration
3h
Estimated price
$0-0

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

Traveling between Philadelphia 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 thrilling cross-country road trip from Philadelphia to San Diego, spanning 2,747 miles of diverse American landscapes. 🌄 Enjoy the freedom of the open road as you journey through multiple states, witnessing the changing scenery along the way. 💰 Experience a range of price options for your Philadelphia to San Diego road adventure, with costs varying between $490 to $750. 🛣️ Whether you opt for budget-friendly accommodations or luxurious pit stops, customize your trip to suit your preferences and travel style. 🏖️ Arrive in sun-soaked San Diego after approximately 43 hours and 32 minutes of driving, feeling the Pacific breeze and the warmth of the California sun welcoming you to this vibrant coastal city. 🌴 Explore sandy beaches, lively neighborhoods, and a myriad of attractions in America's Finest City, creating unforgettable memories of your epic road trip.
Average price
$490 - $750
🚆 Embark on an epic train journey from Philadelphia to San Diego! While there is no direct route, enjoy the scenic route with services departing from 30th Street Station and making transfers in New Orleans and Los Angeles. 🌆 Traveling by train from Philadelphia to San Diego offers a unique experience spanning approximately 3 days and 9 hours. Operated by Amtrak, the journey allows you to witness diverse landscapes and relax on board during the cross-country adventure. 💰 Prices for a train ticket between Philadelphia and San Diego may range from $139 to $998, depending on factors such as travel class and availability.
Departure Point
30th Street Station
Arrival Point
San Diego station
🛫 Flying from Philadelphia to San Diego is a convenient way to travel the long distance across the country. With a quick direct flight lasting around 6 hours and 2 minutes, travelers can reach the West Coast efficiently. 🌴 Multiple airlines such as Spirit Airlines, Frontier Airlines, and United Airlines provide options for flights from Philadelphia Airport to San Diego Airport. The varied choices offer flexibility in terms of schedules and pricing, with fares ranging from $117 to $462 for the journey. ✈️ While the flight duration may take approximately 8 hours, the trip is well worth it to experience the sunny beaches, vibrant culture, and picturesque landscapes that San Diego has to offer.
Departure Point
Philadelphia Airport
Arrival Point
San Diego Airport
🚌 Embark on an adventurous journey from Philadelphia to San Diego by bus with multiple transfers along the way. The route includes stops at St Louis Bus Station, Las Vegas S Strip Transit Terminal, and Santa Ana Bus Stop, totaling approximately 2 days and 17 hours of travel time. 🛤️ Covering a distance of 2,991 miles, this scenic bus trip involves 2 transfers. First, board a Greyhound bus from Philadelphia to El Monte, then switch to a LACMTA Metro J Line heading towards Union Station Patsaouras Bus Plaza. Finally, hop on a FlixBus bound for San Diego Old Town, offering a comprehensive and diverse travel experience. 💰 Prices for this exciting journey can range from $309 to $632, providing affordable options for exploring the vast distances between the East Coast and the West Coast of the United States. Despite the extended travel duration, the varied scenery and unique stops make this bus adventure a memorable way to reach sunny San Diego from bustling Philadelphia.
Departure Point
Philadelphia station
Arrival Point
San Diego station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between Philadelphia and San Diego is approximately 2382 miles by air and 2747 miles by road. The typical travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation chosen. By plane, it takes around 7h 45m to fly from Philadelphia to San Diego. By train and plane, the travel time is about 8h 29m, while by car, it takes approximately 43h 32m. The travel time by bus is not specified.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Philadelphia to San Diego is to fly. Flying takes approximately 7 hours and 45 minutes, which is the quickest way to reach San Diego. The cost of flying ranges from $110 to $390, making it an affordable choice for most travelers.
The prices for a train journey from Philadelphia to San Diego range from $139 to $998, depending on the class of service and time of booking. For bus travel from San Diego to Philadelphia, the prices vary between $314 and $630. It's important to note that these prices are subject to change and may differ based on factors such as demand and availability.
To travel from Philadelphia to San Diego without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of approximately 2747 miles. This typically takes around 43 hours and 32 minutes, depending on the traffic and breaks. The cost of the trip by car can vary between $490 and $750, considering factors like fuel expenses and accommodations.
To travel from Philadelphia to San Diego without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The bus journey takes around 2 days and 18 hours and costs between $310 and $650. Another option is to fly, which takes approximately 7 hours and 45 minutes and costs between $110 and $390. Additionally, you could take a train via New Orleans, which takes around 3 days and 9 hours and costs between $130 and $1000.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train link between Philadelphia and San Diego. However, you can take a train from Philadelphia to San Diego with transfers at New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal and Los Angeles. This journey usually takes around 3 days and 9 hours. Amtrak operates the train services from Philadelphia to San Diego, and the train arrives at the San Diego station.
The flight duration between Philadelphia and San Diego is typically around 5 hours and 47 minutes on a direct flight. However, this can vary depending on factors such as weather and air traffic. The cost of a flight between San Diego and Philadelphia can range from $117 to $382, depending on the airlines, the class of service, and the time of booking. It is important to note that these prices are subject to change and may vary based on availability and seasonal demand.
There are numerous options for accommodation near San Diego. With over 1163+ hotels to choose from, there is something to suit every budget and preference. Prices for hotels in the area start at $53 per night, offering a range of amenities and locations. Whether you prefer luxury accommodation, budget-friendly options, or something in between, you are sure to find a suitable place to stay in San Diego.

Trips from Philadelphia

Trips to San Diego