Only 16 miles stand between you and a two-nation vacation when visiting San Diego. Tijuana, the biggest city in Baja California, Mexico, is so close that more than 100,000 people pop over the border daily to work, attend school, go to a doctor’s appointment, shop, grab a meal, or catch a soccer match, making it one of the busiest land-border crossings in the world.
In general, U.S. citizens have a relatively easy time getting into Mexico but often experience long wait times at customs on the return trip. Usually, the fastest and easiest ways to enter Tijuana are via automobile or pedestrian bridges.Smart Border Coalition tracks real-time wait times at all ports of entry for both options and provides answers to many frequently asked questions.
| How to Get From San Diego to Tijuana | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Time | Cost | Best For | |
| Car | 30 minutes | 16.8 miles (27 km) | Itinerary flexibility |
| Trolley & Pedestrian Bridge | 50 minutes | $2.50 one-way | Budget-conscious, eco-conscious |
| Bus | 1 hour, 10 minutes | $2.50 one-way | Budget-minded people and those who can’t walk across bridges easily |
| Flight | 14 hours, 25 minutes | $400+ | No purpose, really |
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What Is the Cheapest Way to Get From San Diego to Tijuana?
On foot. We’re not kidding. There are three pedestrian points where visitors can cross the border from San Diego County into the main Tijuana metro area: PedEast (closer to the San Ysidro Trolley stop), Otay Mesa, and the Cross Border Express (more on the latter in the flying section).PedWest, another pedestrian crossing point, closed in October of 2021 and will remain closed.
There are lots of ways to arrive at the bridges. Drive and park your car in one of the many commercial lots surrounding the ports of entry on the U.S. side. They can fill up at peak times. Rideshares and taxis can also drop you off near the entrances. (Uber drivers can shuttle passengers across the border into Mexico but cannot bring them back into the U.S.)
Many people opt for public transit. TheSan Diego Trolley, a light rail system, follows the Blue Line from downtown through the Southern communities of National City, Chula Vista, Imperial Beach and terminates near the San Ysidro crossing. You can pick it up at several downtown stops, including by Petco Park and in Barrio Logan. There are some free public lots next to trolley stations from 8thStreet to Beyer Boulevard. Trains are frequent from early morning to the late evening, seven days a week. One-way fare is $2.50 unless you qualify for the senior/disabled/Medicare rate of $1.25. One-day passes for adults start at $6.
Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) buses ferry people from different parts of the city to the border crossing at Otay Mesa (South Bay Rapid Bus 225 from the Santa Fe Depot in downtown and Bus 950 from the Iris Avenue Blue Line Trolley station).
What Is the Fastest Way to Get From San Diego to Tijuana?
Depending on the day and time, the answer to this question varies. On some days, taking the trolley might be the most efficient way to cross the border. Or, parking as close as possible to the border and crossing by footbridge might be the fastest. However, if traffic is light on the I5, I805, I905, or SR125 freeways, one can usually zip across the border in a car in a matter of minutes. The return trip where everyone must go through customs/border patrol is the real time suck, especially if you come back on a Sunday or Monday. Being a member of a Trusted Traveler Program like Global Entry or NEXUS can significantly reduce your wait time as it makes you eligible to use the expeditedReady Lanes.
The two vehicle-crossing points are El Chaparral (San Ysidro), the main port of entry, and Otay Mesa, which connects Otay Mesa,a San Diego suburb, with the Otay Centenario borough of Tijuana. Companies likeYTS Transportoffer chauffeured car shuttle services between both countries. Ensure any hired driver has the correct permits to take you across the border or to the airport.
Mexican law requires motorists to have "proof of financial responsibility" in an accident, regardless of fault. Either carry sufficient cash to cover accident damages or purchase a temporary auto policy from a Mexican insurance company. U.S. policies do not satisfy the legal requirement. Purchase in advance online or in-person just before crossing the border. Cutting corners here can lead to serious penalties. If you're willing to take this extra step, having your own car comes in handy to get out to the beach or parts of town outside the main tourism sector.
How Long Is the Flight?
Flying to Tijuana from San Diego is an option, but it's not realistic or cost-effective, as there are no direct flights from San Diego International Airport (SAN). Getting to Tijuana International Airport (TIJ) almost always includes flying far out of the way to cities like Las Vegas, Atlanta, and Guadalajara, and at least two connections. This results in a travel day almost three times as long as the time it would take you to walk from downtown to downtown. We're talking 14 or 15 hours on Aeromexico, Volaris, Frontier, Delta, or likely some combination of those airlines.
Cross Border Xpress(CBX) is a 390-foot pedestrian bridge that connects TIJ with a service terminal on the American side in Otay Mesa. Travelers can rent cars, catch the shuttle, exchange currency, and eat in the food truck area at the service terminal. Only TIJ-ticketed passengers can access CBX to move between countries. Round-trip crossings start at $32.
Is There a Bus That Goes From San Diego to Tijuana?
Greyhoundoffers regular bus services from theSan Diego Bus Stationdowntown (1313 National Ave.) to Tijuana Central Bus Station. The route typically takes a little more than an hour, requires a border stop, and usually costs between $13 and $25. The price depends on the day of the week, time of the day, the season, and whether you chose an economy, economy extra, or flexible class ticket.Tufesa Internacional, which is geared more to Spanish-speaking travelers, has a route from San Ysidro to Tijuana as well, but at that point, you’re basically already there,
When Is the Best Time to Travel to Tijuana?
Tijuana experiences the same mostly mild Mediterranean weather as San Diego, so any time of year is ripe for a visit. It’s warmer from spring through fall, and summer is the best time to take in the beaches between Tijuana, Rosarito Beach, and Ensenada. Spring and summer also hold more cultural and food events, including a jazz and blues festival, Expo Artesanal, Baja Beach Fest, and the Guadalupe Valley Festival. It’s also much less likely to rain.
The Best Time to Visit Tijuana
Do I Need a Visa to Travel to Tijuana?
All U.S. citizens must present a valid passport to go back and forth from Tijuana but do not need to secure a visa. (Permanent residents of Canada, the United Kingdom, Japan, Australia, or any country that is a member of the Schengen Area or the Pacific Alliance also don’t need entry visas unless they plan to stay longer than 180 days.) However, visitors must fill out the free Forma Migratoria Múltiple (FMM) even if it’s only a day trip. Get it at the point of entry from the Mexican border authorities. If you plan to stay in Mexico longer than seven days, you will have to purchase the 180-day FMM permit for approximately $30. If you plan to conduct business while in Tijuana, you will have to apply for a business visitor visa and comply with various other rules set by the Mexican government.
What Is There to Do in Tijuana?
Tijuana is a large, modern, cosmopolitan city with museums, fine dining, and cultural offerings that has been undergoing quite a renaissance over the last decade. Spend the day wandering down alleys, tasting tacos from street carts, sipping beers from the bustling craft scene, or shopping for piñatas, silver jewelry, brightly colored arts and crafts, or cheap medicine. Avenida Revolución (Revolution Avenue), known to locals as La Revu, is the city’s main drag and is within walking distance of the pedestrian border bridges. You can buy souvenirs and pay to have your picture taken with a Zonkey, a spectacle where they paint a donkey with zebra stripes. The street has also been developed to include art galleries, shops with luxury items (like expensive denim lines and home design goods), boutique hotels, and some hip hangs likeCine Tonalá. Mercado Hidalgo, a traditional open market, is a popular stop to buy Mexican ingredients and handmade tortillas. Stop at Plaza Santa Cecilia, one of the oldest squares in town, to see the iconic arch and possibly hear live music. Explore theCentro Cultural Tijuana, housed in an architecturally-memorable spherical building and the adjacentMuseo de las Californias. Sports fans can get tickets to a Xolos soccer game or a lucha libre match. You can also eat a Caesar salad where it wasinvented(yep, Tijuana in 1924) or sample dishes like ramen and sausages at the trendyTelefónica Gastro Park. If you prefer the guidance and structure of a group tour, check out options withTurista LibraorFive Star Tours.
9 Top Things to Do in Tijuana
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to cross the border from San Diego to Tijuana?
(Video) Cross from San Diego, California directly to the Tijuana International Airport through CBX.The best time to cross the border would be early mornings or late evenings, as the afternoon seems to be peak crossing time. Try to avoid crossing on a Sunday or Monday, as those days tend to be more overcrowded. Visit the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website for real-time wait estimates.
What do I need to cross the border?
All U.S. citizens must present a valid passport to go back and forth from Tijuana.
Do I need a COVID test to get into Tijuana?
See Alsoاقوى 10 مواقع تسوق صينية رخيصة وآمنة 2021Top Tips: Obtaining and Using FeedbackProfil zaufany (довірений профіль) – що це таке, та як його створити?RA 9275 – The Philippine Clean Water Act(Video) How to Cross into the U.S. from Tijuana Mexico Using The San Ysidro Border Crossing 2019A negative COVID test is not required to cross the border. Upon arrival, you will be asked to complete a health declaration form. All U.S. residents returning to the country must have a negative COVID test, except when traveling on land.
How long does it take to cross the border?
Crossing time is dependent on several different factors — the method of crossing, the day and time of crossing, and more. It could take as quickly as 45 minutes or take more than a few hours. Being a member of a Trusted Traveler Program like Global Entry or NEXUS can significantly reduce your wait time as it makes you eligible to use the expeditedReady Lanes.
(Video) Drive to Tijuana from San Diego
9 Top Things to Do in Tijuana
FAQs
What do I need to cross the border from San Diego to Tijuana? ›
- U.S. citizens must present a valid U.S. passport book or card, in addition to an entry permit (Forma Migratoria Multiple or FMM) issued by Instituto Nacional de Migración (INM).
- Travelers should be sure to enter Mexico with valid proof of automobile registration, even if remaining in the border zone.
Pedestrians crossing into Tijuana at the San Ysidro crossing need to complete a Mexico Visitor's Permit (FMM ‒ FREE if the trip is 7 days or less and you cross by land) and present a passport. This form will be provided by the airline or at the port of entry. You can also complete this form online here.
What is the fastest way to cross the Tijuana border? ›The Fast Pass Lane, offcially called FastLane, is a designated lane for tourists (vacationers, business people and medical tourism) who have visited certain establishments in Baja. The Fast Pass Lane is open at the Tijuana/San Ysidro border crossing. It differs from the SENTRI Lane.
How do you get to Tijuana from San Diego? ›You need to take the UC San Diego Blue Line, which starts at the American Plaza Transit Centre, near Fifth Avenue in San Diego's Gaslamp District, a popular tourist area. The blue line will take you directly to San Ysidro from Gaslamp and says Tijuana on the front.
Can you go to TJ without a passport? ›To travel back and forth from Tijuana, all U.S. residents must have a valid passport but are not required to obtain a visa. Even if it is a day trip, travelers must fill out the free Forma Migratoria Multiple (FMM).
Can I use Real ID to cross Mexico border? ›Q: Can I use my REAL ID card to cross the border into Canada and Mexico and for international travel? No. REAL ID cards cannot be used for border crossings into Canada, Mexico or other international travel.
What's the best time to cross the border at Tijuana? ›The best time to cross from Tijuana to San Diego is the early morning 4:am to 6:am. If you're the early bird, you'll get the worm, or the tacos in this case. Try to get to San Ysidro at 4 a.m. to begin the process. The other times to avoid, if possible, would be weekends and holidays.
How long does it take to cross the Tijuana border walking? ›How long does it take to walk across the border to Tijuana? The wait to enter Mexico is usually 10-15 minutes During rush hour, it may take up to 25 minutes.
Is it safe to cross the border in Tijuana? ›Yes, visitors from Tijuana are typically safe as long as they stick to well-patrolled touristy areas and avoid trouble. If you practice good safety, you should have a great time in the city. What is this? However, Tijuana is still risky, and it's up to you to decide how much risk you want to tolerate in a destination.
How easy is it to drive from San Diego to Tijuana? ›Don't Drive: Driving to Tijuana from San Diego is possibly the absolute worst way to go there. In theory, it's easy. Just drive south on Interstate Highway 5, and you'll be at the border crossing. You can find parking lots on the U. S. side of the border from Tijuana.
How do I get a fast pass to cross the border? ›
- Step 1: Pay Border Crossing services fee by clicking on the Pay Now button.
- Step 2: Click on the Print application button and fill out one application per applicant.
- Step 3: Send the form via e-mail to: info@border-crossing.com or fax: (305) 675-0780.
The FAST pass provides expedited US Mexico Border Crossing for commercial drivers who are predetermined low-risk Canadian and US citizens with commercial driving licenses. If you are a trucker who wants to cross the US Canada border, download our FAST Card application for Canada.
Can you take a day trip to Tijuana from San Diego? ›You can take the trolley to the border from downtown San Diego (35-40 minutes), walk across into Mexico (about 7-10 minutes), then I would taxi it ($5 US + $1 US tip) to Avenida Revolucion, the main street in Tijuana.
Can I cross the border with just an ID? ›You will also need to bring along proof of your identity. You can prove your identity with a previous US passport, a naturalization certificate, or a current (valid) US driver's license, government ID (city/state/federal) or military ID (military/dependents).
Can you take a day trip to Tijuana? ›Explore Tijuana, Mexico, without getting lost on this day trip from San Diego, a great choice for first-time visitors. Visit cultural attractions, sample authentic Mexican street food at a sidewalk taco stand, and do some shopping and sightseeing.
Can a US citizen be denied entry back into the USA? ›U.S. citizens cannot be denied entry to the United States for refusing to provide passwords or unlocking devices. Refusal to do so might lead to delay, additional questioning, and/or officers seizing your device for further inspection.
Can you go to Tijuana with a birth certificate? ›If you are an adult traveling with children, everyone in the vehicle must have their own passport. If the children do not have passports, they must have birth certificates or other proof of citizenship and a letter of permission from the non-accompanying parent or legal guardian.
Can I go to Tijuana with a real ID? ›The use of a passport is recommended to go to Tijuana. However, if you do not have a passport and have to travel urgently to the city, customs admit secondary documentation: Valid identification.
Can I cross the U.S. border without a passport? ›In the past, American and Canadian citizens were exempt from the requirement of presenting passports to enter the United States. Effective June 1, 2009, both American and Canadian citizens are required to present a WHTI-compliant document for entry into the United States.
What forms do I need to enter Mexico? ›- A valid passport or travel document. ...
- A properly completed Multiple Migratory Form (FMM). ...
- Mexican immigration officers at the port of entry may request additional documents depending on the purpose/activity of your trip.
Can you cross the Mexican border with a birth certificate? ›
You are a U.S. minor citizen:
U.S. citizen children under the age of 16 (or under 19, if traveling with a school, religious, or other youth group) must present a valid passport, birth certificate or other proof of citizenship. The birth certificate can be original, a photocopy, or a certified copy.
Ready Lane-eligible cards contain Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology, and include the following: U.S. Passport Cards, Enhanced Driver's Licenses, Enhanced Tribal Cards, Enhanced Border Crossing Cards, Enhanced Permanent Resident Cards, and Trusted Traveler Program (NEXUS, SENTRI, Global Entry or FAST) ...
How much is a SENTRI pass? ›At $122.25, SENTRI membership is the most expensive of the Trusted Traveler Programs. But more than expedited land crossings, U.S. citizens and U.S. lawful permanent residents approved for SENTRI can automatically get TSA PreCheck and use Global Entry kiosks with their passport or resident card.
Is the border between San Diego and Tijuana open? ›COVID-19: Updates On Crossing the Border. Border restrictions have been lifted. Fully vaccinated Canadian and Mexican tourists are now able to enter the US. US citizens and legal permanent residents do not need to present proof of vaccination.
Can you uber from Tijuana to San Diego? ›At this time, Uber drivers are not able to drive you across the border. Probably for legal and insurance reasons. If you wish to take an Uber from downtown San Diego to downtown Tijuana, you'll have to request a ride to the border, walk across the border on foot, then request another ride in Tijuana after you cross.
Where do you park to cross into Tijuana? ›For the best and safest place to park your car, go to Border Station Parking #(1) on the map at 4570 Camino de la Plaza (619-428-9477). To get there take the last exit before crossing the border from the freeway. The signs are clearly marked on the freeway announcing U.S. Last Exit Parking.
What is the Tijuana border crossing called? ›The El Chaparral Port of Entry (Puerto Fronterizo El Chaparral) is the main vehicle crossing point into Tijuana, replacing the former entry point known as Puerta México.
What do I need to know before going to Tijuana? ›- Tijuana is safe.
- You are mispronouncing the city's name.
- TJ has its own airport.
- You can walk across the border from the US.
- TJ has beaches and a boardwalk.
- Medical tourism is a thing here.
- There are some amazing places to eat and drink. ...
- Tijuana has museums and culture.
It's safe enough to wander around and explore almost anywhere in the city. The main tourist areas of Zona Centro, Zona Norte, Zona Rio, and Playas de Tijuana are particularly safe because they are heavily policed. If you're concerned about getting robbed, you should stick to these neighborhoods.
Is it safe to go to Tijuana 2022? ›Baja California state – Reconsider Travel
Violent crime and gang activity are common. Travelers should remain on main highways and avoid remote locations. Of particular concern is the high number of homicides in the non-tourist areas of Tijuana.
Is it safe to drive your car into Tijuana? ›
Also, while it is overall safe to drive to Tijuana, it's better not to drive at night. Try to schedule flights to arrive during the day. Is Tijuana red light district safe? It is best to avoid the red light district and anywhere that prostitution or drug use is happening.
Do you need a permit to drive in Tijuana? ›There is no permit requirement for visiting the entire peninsula of Baja. There is a permit requirement to travel into mainland Mexico or if you will take the ferry from Baja to the mainland. Visit our vehicle permit page for more information on how to obtain a Mexican vehicle permit.
Do you need car insurance to drive to Tijuana? ›Whether you're driving your own vehicle or renting a car, you'll need to purchase a Mexico tourist auto insurance policy for your trip. If you plan on driving your own vehicle, contact your insurance agent about purchasing a Mexico tourist auto insurance policy.
What does border patrol look for when crossing? ›Border Patrol may stop vehicles at certain checkpoints to: (1) ask a few, limited questions to verify citizenship of the vehicles' occupants and (2) visually inspect the exterior of a vehicle. Agents may send any vehicle to a secondary inspection area for the same purpose: brief questioning and visual inspection.
How long does it take to cross the border from Tijuana to San Diego? ›| How to Get From San Diego to Tijuana | ||
|---|---|---|
| Time | Cost | |
| Car | 30 minutes | 16.8 miles (27 km) |
| Trolley & Pedestrian Bridge | 50 minutes | $2.50 one-way |
| Bus | 1 hour, 10 minutes | $2.50 one-way |
It is generally recommended that travelers give themselves at least forty-five minutes to get through the border no matter what their crossing method. Outside of the busiest times of the year at the busiest crossings, this should give most an ample amount of leeway for their travel plans.
How do I get a SENTRI card? ›- Create a Trusted Traveler Program (TTP) System account. ...
- Log in to your TTP account and complete the application. ...
- After accepting your completed application and fee, CBP will review your application.
As of January 2021, Tijuana's San Ysidro border crossing has a new entrance for the medical & business fast pass lane. The lane is now accessed at the north end of Paseo de los Héroes (MAP) in the far left lane.
What is a SENTRI pass? ›The Secure Electronic Network for Travelers Rapid Inspection (SENTRI) is a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) program that allows expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travelers upon arrival in the United States.
Do you need a passport to go to Rosarito 2022? ›Yes, you need a passport to travel to Rosarito in Mexico in Baja California, regardless of how close to the border you may be. It's international travel, and you must have a valid US passport that gives proof of your US citizenship.
Can I cross the border with my ID and birth certificate? ›
U.S. citizen children under the age of 16 (or under 19, if traveling with a school, religious, or other youth group) must present a valid passport, birth certificate or other proof of citizenship. The birth certificate can be original, a photocopy, or a certified copy.
Can I cross the US border without a passport? ›In the past, American and Canadian citizens were exempt from the requirement of presenting passports to enter the United States. Effective June 1, 2009, both American and Canadian citizens are required to present a WHTI-compliant document for entry into the United States.
Can you drive into Tijuana? ›Though there are quite a few points of entry along the southern border, the most heavily trafficked and popular route is driving to Tijuana from San Diego. This point of entry is also known as the San Ysidro area and on average sees more than 600,000 people cross each week.
What part of Mexico can I go to without a passport? ›Using just your driver's license or birth certificate, Americans can cross the border and spend a day buying trinkets and even a bottle of tequila to take home from one of Mexico's dozens of bordertowns, scattered between Tijuana and Matamoros.
What is the best time to cross the border from Tijuana to San Diego? ›The best time to cross from Tijuana to San Diego is the early morning 4:am to 6:am. If you're the early bird, you'll get the worm, or the tacos in this case. Try to get to San Ysidro at 4 a.m. to begin the process. The other times to avoid, if possible, would be weekends and holidays.
What is the safest route to drive through Mexico? ›Cuota Roads Vs Libre Roads
I always recommend taking the cuota roads, but especially if you need to drive after dark. In general, these are considered the safest option when traveling around the country and often there is no other option to get to your destination.
At this time drivers licenses from California, Arizona, Texas and the rest of the U.S. states are not enhanced. You may use a driver's license and birth certificate to cross back into the U.S., however we have heard this may create delays at U.S. secondary inspection.
Can a U.S. citizen be denied entry? ›U.S. citizens cannot be denied entry to the United States for refusing to provide passwords or unlocking devices. Refusal to do so might lead to delay, additional questioning, and/or officers seizing your device for further inspection.
Can I go to Mexico and back with a birth certificate? ›Traveling with Children
When U.S. citizen children under the age of 16 arrive by land or sea from Canada or Mexico they may present an original or copy of their birth certificate, a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, or a Naturalization Certificate.
- A valid passport or travel document. ...
- A properly completed Multiple Migratory Form (FMM). ...
- Mexican immigration officers at the port of entry may request additional documents depending on the purpose/activity of your trip.
Where can a U.S. citizen travel without a passport? ›
- Puerto Rico.
- United States Virgin Islands.
- The Northern Mariana Islands.
- Guam.
- American Samoa.
- Canada (By Land Or Closed Loop Cruise)
- Mexico (By Land Or Closed Loop Cruise)
To enter Mexico, you must present a valid passport and a duly completed tourist card (Multiple Immigration Form). Carry documents to prove the purpose of trip, such as hotel or tour booking confirmations, as immigration officers may request them.
What do I need to know before going to Tijuana? ›- Tijuana is safe.
- You are mispronouncing the city's name.
- TJ has its own airport.
- You can walk across the border from the US.
- TJ has beaches and a boardwalk.
- Medical tourism is a thing here.
- There are some amazing places to eat and drink. ...
- Tijuana has museums and culture.
It is safe to walk across the border to Tijuana. Pedestrian crossings are a common way to travel between San Diego and Tijuana. There are three places where you can travel on foot from San Diego County into Tijuana: PedWest (Near the Outlets at the Border)
Is travel to Tijuana safe right now? ›Violent crime and gang activity are common. Travelers should remain on main highways and avoid remote locations. Of particular concern is the high number of homicides in the non-tourist areas of Tijuana.