Is it better to fly or drive?

Flying is much faster, but driving allows for a scenic California road trip.

How long is the flight?

Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes of air time.

Are there trains to San Diego?

Yes, but it requires a long journey via Amtrak with multiple transfers.

What is the best airport?

San Diego International Airport (SAN) is the most convenient for the city center.

Yes, it is a major interstate, but be cautious of high speeds and truck traffic.

Millbrae

San Diego

Flight Driving

Millbrae to San Diego

Updated: 28 May 2026

The distance between Millbrae and San Diego is approximately 800 kilometers. The most practical mode of transport is a flight from San Francisco International Airport (SFO), which is located just minutes from Millbrae. The flight takes about 90 minutes. Driving via I-5 South is a popular road trip option, taking roughly 8 to 9 hours without stops. Flying is significantly faster for those on a tight schedule.

Total Distance: 800 km driving, 720 km air distance.

Fastest Way

Flight, taking only 1.5 hours in the air.

Cheapest Way

Driving, especially if traveling with multiple passengers.

Compare Millbrae to San Diego Routes

	Flight Direct	Driving Direct
Duration	1 hr 30 mins	8 hrs
Avg Price	$100 - $250	$100 - $150 (fuel)
Operator	United Airlines, Alaska Airlines	N/A
Route	SFO to SAN.	I-5 South.
Tip	Book at least 3 weeks in advance for the best rates.	Stop in the Central Valley for fresh produce.

Travel Tips

Airport Access
Take the BART or a short Uber from Millbrae to SFO.
I-5 Traffic
Avoid driving through Los Angeles during rush hour if you take the I-5 route.
Packing
San Diego is generally warmer; pack light clothing and sunscreen.
Flight Booking
Use flight comparison sites to track price drops for SFO-SAN routes.
Car Rental
If driving, ensure your rental car has unlimited mileage.

Safety Tips

Driving Fatigue
If driving, take breaks every 2-3 hours to stay alert on the long I-5 stretch.
Airport Security
Arrive at SFO at least 2 hours before your flight for security screening.
Sun Safety
San Diego sun is strong; wear SPF even on cloudy days.
Emergency
Keep a spare tire and water in your car for the long drive.