If you’re planning a trip to San Diego, it’s worth having a look at available transportation from San Diego Airport to downtown to find the best option for you and your travel party. San Diego Airport is only 3.5 mi (5.5 km) northwest of the city and you have three main options to get from San Diego Airport to downtown San Diego; a taxi, a private transfer, or the bus.
A San Diego Airport taxi is one of the most convenient options along with a San Diego Airport transfer. They are both available around the clock and provide direct trasnportation from the airport at the door of your hotel or apartment in the city.
For budget-conscious travelers, the bus is a better value-for-money option; direct urban routes connect San Diego Airport to downtown and depending on your exact destination you may find a bus stop withing walking distance from your accommodation.
3 options to go from San Diego Airport to city center
You will have 60 minutes of complimentary waiting time after your scheduled pickup time to go through passport control and baggage claim without rushing to the exit.
If you plan to move around San Diego by bus during your trip, it's worth purchasing a PRONTO card, which is convenient for multiple uses; you will pay a single fare and can ride MTS buses for the next 2 hours without paying again.
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How to get from San Diego Airport to downtown by taxi
A San Diego Airport taxi is one of the most convenient ways to leave the airport and head to downtown San Diego. Airport taxis offer on-demand services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and they’re ideal if you don’t want to deal with crowded public transport. The distance from San Diego Airport to downtown San Diego is short and in light traffic, you can reach your accommodation in less than 15 minutes.
How much is the taxi fare from San Diego Airport to downtown?
Local taxis in San Diego calculate the fare using a taximeter so distance to destination and traffic conditions play the biggest part in determining the total cost. After the flag drop, there is a per-mile rate to which an airport surcharge of $2.98 (€3.69) is added.
In short, the average taxi fare between downtown San Diego and the airport is approximately $24 (€22) for a sedan taxi that accommodates up to 4 passengers.
Where do I get a taxi from?
Official taxi stands can be found both at Terminals 1 and 2 at San Diego Airport. After baggage claim, follow the signs leading to the Transportation Plazas, cross the street and you will find multiple taxis lined up. A Customer Service Representative will place you with the first available taxi unless you specify a particular taxicab company.
Convenience
A taxi from San Diego Airport to downtown can be a really good option if you want a last-minute solution to leave the airport. However, keep in mind that if your flight arrives during peak hours when passenger traffic is increased, you may need to wait a while for an available taxi.
Useful Tips
There are no nighttime or weekend surcharges; the fare should be the same throughout the day.
Most regular airport taxis at SAN can accommodate up to 4 passengers.
Wheelchair-accessible taxis aren't readily available at the taxi rank so you need to pre-book a ride with a specialized operator.
If you don't carry any cash, ask the driver if they accept card payments before getting in the taxi as not all taxis accept card payments.
Tipping 15% to 20% of the total fare is customary in San Diego.
How to get from San Diego Airport to downtown by bus
MTS bus route 992 is a great budget option to get from San Diego Airport to downtown San Diego. It’s a direct route that makes several stops in downtown San Diego, including Santa Fe Railway Station and Broadway Avenue.
Depending on your end destination, you can continue on foot, switch to another MTS route, or use the light rail.
How much is the ticket for the bus from San Diego Airport to downtown?
A single bus ticket from San Diego Airport to downtown costs $2.50 (€2.30). Up to two children aged 5 and under may ride MTS buses free of charge when accompanied by a paying adult.
You can purchase your ticket on the bus in cash, but only if you have the exact fare; the driver can’t provide any change. Alternatively, you can purchase a PRONTO card from the ticket vending machine at the airport or via the PRONTO mobile app. There is a $2 (€1.85) fee for the card purchase and you can top it up with the amount you prefer.
Cost
$2.50
Trip Duration
13 Min.
Bus route 992 operates every 15 minutes on weekdays and every 30 minutes on weekends and holidays.
Convenience
Safety
Value for Money
Route 992 runs daily from 05:05 to 00:13.
Where do I take the bus from?
Bus route 992 makes three stops at San Diego Airport, at Terminal 1, Terminal 2 East, and Terminal 2 West. The bus stops are right in front of the terminal and there is clear signage on the sidewalk and markings on the road so you can’t miss them.
Convenience
MTS bus service offers convenient San Diego Airport transportation to downtown if you’re traveling on a tight budget. However, you should check the bus route before deciding to take the bus; if there isn’t a bus stop near your hotel or apartment you may end up dragging your luggage around or you may need to look for additional transportation to reach your end destination.
Timetables
MTS route 992
Schedule and map
Useful Tips
Luggage space is limited on the bus so it's not the best option if you're traveling with multiple or large luggage.
MTS buses are wheelchair accessible and there is a designated space for wheelchairs onboard.
If you have a PRONTO card, don't forget to tap it or scan it when you board the bus.
When your stop is approaching, pull the yellow cord to signal the driver to stop.
How to get from San Diego Airport to downtown by private transfer
The best transportation from San Diego Αirport to the city is a San Diego Airport transfer. Welcome Pickups’ tailored services ensure an elevated, personalized experience, allowing you to enjoy peace of mind through meet and greets, trained professional drivers, flight monitoring, and much more.
In a matter of minutes, you can book your San Diego Airport to downtown transfer and leave nothing to chance on the day of your arrival. Also, with a flexible cancelation policy and 24/7 customer support, you’re covered even if your plans change at the last minute.
What's the cost of a San Diego Airport to downtown transfer?
One of the main benefits of pre-booking your private transfer from San Diego Airport to downtown San Diego is that it comes with a fixed fare. Unlike regular on-demand taxis, you’ll know exactly how much your ride will cost and pay securely online in advance. That way, you won’t have any unpleasant surprises after reaching your destination.
The booking process is straightforward and will guide you to select the best vehicle type for you and your travel party. A sedan private transfer from San Diego Αirport to downtown costs $72 (€66) and it can accommodate up to 4 passengers. For larger groups, you can book a minivan or a minibus that costs $92 (€85), $164 (€152), or $184 (€170) depending on the number of passengers and luggage.
Cost
$72
Trip Duration
10 Min.
Pre-booking a private transfer saves you from long waiting times and ensures a seamless experience.
Convenience
Safety
Value for Money
You can book a private transfer from San Diego Airport (SAN) 24/7.
Where do I get a transfer from?
Your driver will have the flight information you submit during the booking and will monitor your arrival. That way, they’ll know at which terminal your flight arrives and they’ll wait in the Arrivals Hall. You’ll recognize your driver easily; look for them holding a sign with your name. You can also check the Welcome Traveler App for the exact meeting point or to contact your driver.
Following a friendly meet and greet, your driver will help with your luggage, and lead you to your pre-selected vehicle in the parking lot. You can then relax and enjoy a comfortable transfer from San Diego Αirport to downtown.
Convenience
If you want a seamless travel experience after landing at San Diego Airport, a private transfer is by far the best choice. Although it comes with a higher cost, you’ll enjoy a fast and reliable door-to-door service for you and your travel party with a trained driver in a modern vehicle. It’s the ideal solution if you’re traveling with young children or you’re on a business trip and prefer to avoid crowded public transportation or waiting at the taxi rank for a ride.
Useful Tips
Before your arrival, you will receive an email including your driver's name, contact information, photo, and vehicle information.
Flight monitoring guarantees your pickup time will be adjusted accordingly in case there is an unexpected flight delay.
You can safely store a foldable wheelchair in any type of vehicle but make sure to add it in the notes during the booking to ensure enough room for all your luggage too.
You can fit your own baby/child seat on all vehicles or request one during the booking and your driver will provide one for you.
You can contact your driver via WhatsApp or the Welcome Traveler App.
Frequently asked questions
How much is a taxi from San Diego Airport to downtown?
Taxis in San Diego are metered so the main factors affecting the total cost are distance to destination and traffic conditions. The average San Diego Airport to downtown taxi fare is around $24 (€22) for a sedan taxi.
How do I get from the airport to downtown San Diego?
The most convenient option to get from San Diego Airport to downtown San Diego is a taxi or private transfer. The cost for a sedan is from $24 (€22) to $72 (€66) and they offer 24/7 door-to-door service. The cheapest option is the MTS route 992, which takes you to downtown San Diego for only $2.50 (€2.30).
How far is San Diego Airport from the city?
The distance from San Diego Airport to downtown San Diego is 3.5 mi (5.5 km) southeast. Depending on traffic conditions, driving there takes 10-20 minutes. The taxi fare from downtown San Diego to the airport and from San Diego Airport to Downtown is around $24 (€22) for a sedan taxi and provides door-to-door service.
A San Diego Airport taxi is one of the most convenient ways to leave the airport and head to downtown San Diego. Airport taxis offer on-demand services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and they’re ideal if you don’t want to deal with crowded public transport. The distance from San Diego Airport to downtown San Diego is short and in light traffic, you can reach your accommodation in less than 15 minutes.
How much is the taxi fare from San Diego Airport to downtown?
Local taxis in San Diego calculate the fare using a taximeter so distance to destination and traffic conditions play the biggest part in determining the total cost. After the flag drop, there is a per-mile rate to which an airport surcharge of $2.98 (€3.69) is added.
In short, the average taxi fare between downtown San Diego and the airport is approximately $24 (€22) for a sedan taxi that accommodates up to 4 passengers.
Where do I get a taxi from?
Official taxi stands can be found both at Terminals 1 and 2 at San Diego Airport. After baggage claim, follow the signs leading to the Transportation Plazas, cross the street and you will find multiple taxis lined up. A Customer Service Representative will place you with the first available taxi unless you specify a particular taxicab company.
Convenience
A taxi from San Diego Airport to downtown can be a really good option if you want a last-minute solution to leave the airport. However, keep in mind that if your flight arrives during peak hours when passenger traffic is increased, you may need to wait a while for an available taxi.
Useful Tips
Book a trusted, English-speaking driver to pick you up at the same price as a regular taxi
Learn moreMTS bus route 992 is a great budget option to get from San Diego Airport to downtown San Diego. It’s a direct route that makes several stops in downtown San Diego, including Santa Fe Railway Station and Broadway Avenue.
Depending on your end destination, you can continue on foot, switch to another MTS route, or use the light rail.
How much is the ticket for the bus from San Diego Airport to downtown?
A single bus ticket from San Diego Airport to downtown costs $2.50 (€2.30). Up to two children aged 5 and under may ride MTS buses free of charge when accompanied by a paying adult.
You can purchase your ticket on the bus in cash, but only if you have the exact fare; the driver can’t provide any change. Alternatively, you can purchase a PRONTO card from the ticket vending machine at the airport or via the PRONTO mobile app. There is a $2 (€1.85) fee for the card purchase and you can top it up with the amount you prefer.
Route 992 runs daily from 05:05 to 00:13.
Where do I take the bus from?
Bus route 992 makes three stops at San Diego Airport, at Terminal 1, Terminal 2 East, and Terminal 2 West. The bus stops are right in front of the terminal and there is clear signage on the sidewalk and markings on the road so you can’t miss them.
Convenience
MTS bus service offers convenient San Diego Airport transportation to downtown if you’re traveling on a tight budget. However, you should check the bus route before deciding to take the bus; if there isn’t a bus stop near your hotel or apartment you may end up dragging your luggage around or you may need to look for additional transportation to reach your end destination.
Timetables
MTS route 992
Schedule and map
Useful Tips
The best transportation from San Diego Αirport to the city is a San Diego Airport transfer. Welcome Pickups’ tailored services ensure an elevated, personalized experience, allowing you to enjoy peace of mind through meet and greets, trained professional drivers, flight monitoring, and much more.
In a matter of minutes, you can book your San Diego Airport to downtown transfer and leave nothing to chance on the day of your arrival. Also, with a flexible cancelation policy and 24/7 customer support, you’re covered even if your plans change at the last minute.
What's the cost of a San Diego Airport to downtown transfer?
One of the main benefits of pre-booking your private transfer from San Diego Airport to downtown San Diego is that it comes with a fixed fare. Unlike regular on-demand taxis, you’ll know exactly how much your ride will cost and pay securely online in advance. That way, you won’t have any unpleasant surprises after reaching your destination.
The booking process is straightforward and will guide you to select the best vehicle type for you and your travel party. A sedan private transfer from San Diego Αirport to downtown costs $72 (€66) and it can accommodate up to 4 passengers. For larger groups, you can book a minivan or a minibus that costs $92 (€85), $164 (€152), or $184 (€170) depending on the number of passengers and luggage.
You can book a private transfer from San Diego Airport (SAN) 24/7.
Where do I get a transfer from?
Your driver will have the flight information you submit during the booking and will monitor your arrival. That way, they’ll know at which terminal your flight arrives and they’ll wait in the Arrivals Hall. You’ll recognize your driver easily; look for them holding a sign with your name. You can also check the Welcome Traveler App for the exact meeting point or to contact your driver.
Following a friendly meet and greet, your driver will help with your luggage, and lead you to your pre-selected vehicle in the parking lot. You can then relax and enjoy a comfortable transfer from San Diego Αirport to downtown.
Convenience
If you want a seamless travel experience after landing at San Diego Airport, a private transfer is by far the best choice. Although it comes with a higher cost, you’ll enjoy a fast and reliable door-to-door service for you and your travel party with a trained driver in a modern vehicle. It’s the ideal solution if you’re traveling with young children or you’re on a business trip and prefer to avoid crowded public transportation or waiting at the taxi rank for a ride.
Useful Tips
Frequently asked questions
How much is a taxi from San Diego Airport to downtown?
Taxis in San Diego are metered so the main factors affecting the total cost are distance to destination and traffic conditions. The average San Diego Airport to downtown taxi fare is around $24 (€22) for a sedan taxi.
How do I get from the airport to downtown San Diego?
The most convenient option to get from San Diego Airport to downtown San Diego is a taxi or private transfer. The cost for a sedan is from $24 (€22) to $72 (€66) and they offer 24/7 door-to-door service. The cheapest option is the MTS route 992, which takes you to downtown San Diego for only $2.50 (€2.30).
How far is San Diego Airport from the city?
The distance from San Diego Airport to downtown San Diego is 3.5 mi (5.5 km) southeast. Depending on traffic conditions, driving there takes 10-20 minutes. The taxi fare from downtown San Diego to the airport and from San Diego Airport to Downtown is around $24 (€22) for a sedan taxi and provides door-to-door service.
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