When is the Cheapest Time to Fly to San Diego?
The cheapest flights to San Diego can be found in February, March, September and October. The city rarely experiences extreme highs or lows in temperatures, but this time of year sees fewer tourists. Cheap flights to San Diego can also be found in November, but avoid travelling during Thanksgiving 2024 / 2025 as San Diego flight prices will rise significantly.
When is the Best Time to Book your Flight to San Diego?
Book your San Diego flights at least three months in advance in order to get the best deals on flights. You may be able to find deals on last-minute flight, particularly during the less busy months, but this is not always possible. To get cheap flights to San Diego, make sure you are flexible with your travel dates.
Flying to San Diego International Airport (SAN)
San Diego International Airport (SAN) lies about five kilometres from San Diego. It used to be known as Lindbergh Field, after Charles Lindbergh, who made the world’s first solo trans-Atlantic flight. He collected and flew the plane from San Diego to St. Louis before flying to Long Island, New York where he left for Paris.
British Airways, American Airlines and Finnair provide direct flights to San Diego from the United Kingdom (UK) that depart from London Heathrow. However, if you want to fly from other UK airports, such as London Gatwick, Manchester or Glasgow, you will need to choose a flight that includes a stopover. San Diego return flights will include a stop in other American cities, such as Atlanta, Washington and New York, or in Frankfurt, Germany or Brussels, Belgium. Airlines that provide an indirect route include Virgin Atlantic, Lufthansa, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines and Brussels Airlines. Some indirect flights may require you to change airlines.
On Arrival and Getting Around the Airport
There are two terminals at SAN with all international flights arriving in the east part of Terminal 2. The airport has a number of facilities for passengers. You will find a number of ATMs throughout the terminals, while there is also a currency exchange centre in Terminal 2’s baggage claim area near the arrivals gates. There is free Wi-Fi throughout the terminals. Three nursing rooms are available. Business lounges and spas can also be found at the airport. Public art is on display as well. A number of food and drink shops are available as well as duty-free stores.
Getting to the City from San Diego International Airport (SAN)
It has never been easier to get to San Diego from the airport. A free shuttle bus runs all day from the terminal building to the car hire centre, where a number of companies are located. Bus 992 connects the airport with downtown San Diego; it runs between 5am and 11pm every day with buses departing every 15 minutes on weekdays and 30 minutes on weekends and holidays. The bus line connects with other public transport in the city, such as the tram service and train stations. Additionally, a number of taxi companies serve the airport. The journey will take about ten minutes. There is also a bicycle and pedestrian shared walkway that connects the airport with downtown San Diego.
Why Visit San Diego?
Once you have experienced the lifestyle of San Diego – laid-back, urban hip and beachside living – you will understand why so many people flock to this city near the Pacific Ocean. With excellent weather year-round and a coastline that attracts surfers in droves, it is a perfect city to relax and enjoy a more relaxed lifestyle. Whether you are on an adults-only trip or are bringing the family, there’s plenty to do that will satisfy everyone.
The city’s world-famous zoo is a perfect day trip. You can also explore Balboa Park with its 15 museums, which range from covering space to natural history, its beautiful gardens and performing arts centres. Top-notch restaurants are found aplenty in San Diego, from fine dining in La Jolla to independent cafes in Hillcrest, the city’s LGBT neighbourhood. If you’ve explored all that, there’s more than 60 beaches to visit; test your surfing skills, go kayaking or just watch the world go by as you soak up the sun.
Don't Forget Before you Fly
British travellers need prior approval to enter the United States (US), either through a visa, the Visa Waiver Programme (VWP) or a Permanent Resident Card. Most British passport holders with an ePassport will be able to receive an Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) through the VWP. This must be applied for online at least 72 hours before departure and will grant you entry to the USA for 90 days. If you do not qualify for travel under the VWP you will need to apply for a visa at your nearest US Embassy or Consulate before you travel. The currency in the US is the US dollar.
