What is the exact distance from San Diego to Tijuana?

The driving distance from San Diego to Tijuana is 31 kilometers (19 miles). The straight-line distance is 25 km.

How long does it take to drive from San Diego to Tijuana?

The estimated driving time from San Diego to Tijuana is 0.6 hours under normal traffic conditions. This can vary based on traffic, road conditions, and your driving speed.

What is the fastest route from San Diego to Tijuana?

The fastest route is typically 31km and takes about 0.6 hours. This route is optimized for time and usually uses major highways and roads.

Are there alternative routes from San Diego to Tijuana?

Yes, we provide up to 2 different route options including the fastest route, shortest distance route, and alternative paths that may offer different scenery or avoid certain road types.

Does the route from San Diego to Tijuana include tolls?

The routes from San Diego to Tijuana generally do not include major toll roads, but this can vary based on the specific path taken.

Can I get turn-by-turn directions from San Diego to Tijuana?

While we provide the route overview and key information, for detailed turn-by-turn directions, we recommend using the route data with your preferred GPS navigation app or mapping service.

San Diego to Tijuana Distance

19 miles•31 km•0.6 hours

Driving distance and route information from San Diego, United Statesto Tijuana, Mexico. Compare multiple routes and get detailed travel information.

⭐

FASTEST ROUTE

18.96 mi

(30.51 km)

⏱️33m

Via C Street, Route 5

C Street → Route 5

🛣️ 30% Highway

📏

SHORTEST ROUTE

20.32 mi

(32.7 km)

⏱️35m

Via C Street, San Diego Freeway; Route 5

C Street → San Diego Freeway; Route 5

🛣️ 30% Highway

📏 Straight-line distance: 16 miles (25 km)

See crow flies distance →

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Complete Driving Guide: San Diego to Tijuana

Essential Route Information

TOTAL DISTANCE

19 mi

31 kilometers

DRIVING TIME

0.6 hours

36 minutes

FUEL ESTIMATE

3 L

$4 cost

📍 Route Overview

Starting PointSan Diego, California

DestinationTijuana, Baja California

Route Options2 available routes

Countries Crossed2+ countries

Time Zone ChangesCheck local times

🚗 Driving Details

Average Speed52 km/h

Straight-line Distance25 km

Route Efficiency82%

Toll RoadsNo tolls expected

Ferry CrossingsNo ferries

Compare All Routes from San Diego to Tijuana

Route Type	Distance	Drive Time	Avg Speed	Tolls
⭐ Fastest Route	19 mi (31 km)	0.6 hours	55 km/h	❌ No
Alternative 1	20 mi (33 km)	0.6 hours	57 km/h	❌ No

Complete Journey Overview: San Diego to Tijuana

The road journey from San Diego to Tijuana spans approximately 19 miles (31 kilometers), making it a short drive that typically requires 0.6 hours of continuous driving under normal traffic conditions.

This route connects California, United States with Baja California, Mexico, traversing across international borders between United States and Mexico. The journey offers 2 distinct routing options, each with unique advantages in terms of distance, time, or scenic value.

The most efficient route from San Diego to Tijuana follows major highways and arterial roads, maintaining an average speed of approximately 52 km/h. This route has been optimized for both speed and cost-efficiency, avoiding toll roads where possible.

🗺️ Travel Planning Essentials

✓

Fuel Planning: Expect to use approximately 1 gallons (3 liters) of fuel for this 19 mile journey. Plan fuel stops every 250-300 miles.

✓

Rest Stops: For safety, plan a 15-minute break every 2 hours of driving. Total journey with breaks: 0.7 hours.

✓

Best Travel Times: Avoid peak traffic hours (7-9 AM and 5-7 PM) in major cities along your route for optimal travel time.

✓

Weather Check: Monitor weather conditions along the entire route, especially during winter months or rainy seasons.

💰 Cost Estimation Guide

Fuel Cost (approximate)$3

Toll Costs$0

Vehicle Wear (per mile)$5

Total Trip Cost$8

* Costs are estimates based on average fuel prices and vehicle maintenance. Actual costs may vary.

Alternative Transportation Options

🚗

By Car

0.6 hours

19 miles

✈️

By Plane

0 hours flight

25 km direct

🚌

By Bus

0.8 hours

Multiple stops

🚂

By Train

Check availability

Scenic route