- Must visit
Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
One of the world’s most visited natural history museums, known for dinosaur fossils, the Hope Diamond, and broad family-friendly exhibits.










Cheapest price
$494
Average price
$632
Fastest journey
5h 0m
Average duration
12h 31m
Flights per day
23
Distance
518 km
Flights from San Diego, CA to Washington, DC depart on average 67 times per day, taking around 5h 58m. Cheap flight tickets for this journey start at $108 (€89) if you book in advance.
There are 5 flights per day. The earliest flight runs at 05:00, the last at 23:00. The fastest flight covers the 2269 miles (3653 km) distance in 4h 59m. January is the cheapest month to fly.
Distance 2269 miles (3653 km) |
Average flight duration 5h 58m |
Cheapest ticket price $108 (€89) |
Flights per day 67 |
Direct flights 5 |
Fastest flight 4h 59m |
First flight 5:00 AM |
Last flight 11:00 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 28 days |
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from San Diego, CA to Washington, DC among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the flight with prices starting from $108. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 5h 58m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a flight costs an average of $108, and a train costs an average of $291.
Distance: 2269 miles (3653 km)
Most popular Flight | Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$270 Average price Cheapest | $740 Average price | $336 Average price | $542 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
8h 58m Average total duration Fastest 5h 58m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 62h 52m Average total duration 62h 22m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 65h 56m Average total duration 65h 26m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 38h 43m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
![]() Most popular airline | ![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
This is compared to other travel options from San Diego, CA to Washington, DC:
A flight is $66 (€54) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from San Diego, CA to Washington, DC costing on average $336 (€276).
A flight is $470 (€386) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from San Diego, CA to Washington, DC costing on average $740 (€607).
Other travel options to Washington, DC take longer:
Train takes on average 62h 22m.
Bus takes on average 65h 26m.
The table below shows live departures for San Diego, CA to Washington, DC flights for today, Thursday, July 9. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated flight journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
AS417 · AS4 | 5:35 PM San Diego International Airport | 19h41 | 4:16 PM Ronald Reagan National Airport | 1 transfer | |
AS417 · AS781 | 5:35 PM San Diego International Airport | 9h06 | 5:41 AM Baltimore/Washington International Airport | 1 transfer | |
AS417 · AS367 | 5:35 PM San Diego International Airport | 10h04 | 6:39 AM Dulles International Airport | 1 transfer | |
AS1392 · AS374 | 5:58 PM San Diego International Airport | 18h18 | 3:16 PM Baltimore/Washington International Airport | 1 transfer | |
AS1392 · AS10 | 5:58 PM San Diego International Airport | 19h02 | 4:00 PM Ronald Reagan National Airport | 1 transfer | |
AS1431 · AS367 | 6:35 PM San Diego International Airport | 9h04 | 6:39 AM Dulles International Airport | 1 transfer | |
AS1431 · AS378 | 6:35 PM San Diego International Airport | 19h29 | 5:04 PM Baltimore/Washington International Airport | 1 transfer | |
AS1431 · AS737 | 6:35 PM San Diego International Airport | 19h36 | 5:11 PM Dulles International Airport | 1 transfer | |
AS1431 · AS4 | 6:35 PM San Diego International Airport | 18h41 | 4:16 PM Ronald Reagan National Airport | 1 transfer | |
UA519 · UA1924 | 6:55 PM San Diego International Airport | 7h32 | 5:27 AM Dulles International Airport | 1 transfer | |
UA2278 · UA1340 | 7:41 PM San Diego International Airport | 8h29 | 7:10 AM Baltimore/Washington International Airport | 1 transfer | |
UA5636 · UA1605 | 8:32 PM San Diego International Airport | 7h42 | 7:14 AM Baltimore/Washington International Airport | 1 transfer | |
AS1362 · AS378 | 8:35 PM San Diego International Airport | 17h29 | 5:04 PM Baltimore/Washington International Airport | 1 transfer | |
AS1362 · AS737 | 8:35 PM San Diego International Airport | 17h36 | 5:11 PM Dulles International Airport | 1 transfer | |
AS1362 · AS4 | 8:35 PM San Diego International Airport | 16h41 | 4:16 PM Ronald Reagan National Airport | 1 transfer | |
B62120 · B62255 | 8:40 PM San Diego International Airport | 8h09 | 7:49 AM Ronald Reagan National Airport | 1 transfer | |
UA327 · UA4437 | 9:05 PM San Diego International Airport | 7h41 | 7:46 AM Ronald Reagan National Airport | 1 transfer | |
AS291 · AS8 | 9:27 PM San Diego International Airport | 17h32 | 5:59 PM Ronald Reagan National Airport | 1 transfer | |
UA2129 | 9:59 PM San Diego International Airport | 5h00 | 5:59 AM Dulles International Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
AA2468 · AA1635 | 10:28 PM San Diego International Airport | 7h58 | 9:26 AM Baltimore/Washington International Airport | 1 transfer | |
AA2468+ AA5219 | 10:28 PM San Diego International Airport | 7h21 | 8:49 AM Dulles International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| Friday, July 10 | |||||
![]() | 5:40 AM San Diego, CA | 9h31 | 3:11 PM Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Thursday, July 9 | |||||
AA1543+ AA4339 | 10:45 PM San Diego International Airport | 7h30 | 9:15 AM Ronald Reagan National Airport | 1 transfer | |
AA1543+ AA3446 | 10:45 PM San Diego International Airport | 8h13 | 9:58 AM Baltimore/Washington International Airport | 1 transfer | |
| Friday, July 10 | |||||
![]() | 3:10 PM San Diego, CA | 8h08 | 11:18 PM Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 3:15 PM San Diego, CA | 7h12 | 10:27 PM Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 7:09 PM San Diego, CA | 8h49 | 3:58 AM Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 7:45 PM San Diego, CA | 7h14 | 2:59 AM Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 8:09 PM San Diego, CA | 8h49 | 4:58 AM Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 8:34 PM San Diego, CA | 6h59 | 3:33 AM Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 8:36 PM San Diego, CA | 7h23 | 3:59 AM Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last flight of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare train, bus, and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Discover the best of Washington — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Washington trip today.
One of the world’s most visited natural history museums, known for dinosaur fossils, the Hope Diamond, and broad family-friendly exhibits.
Flagship Smithsonian museum covering aviation and spaceflight, with iconic aircraft, spacecraft, and major interactive exhibits.
Premier art museum with strong collections from the Middle Ages to modern art, plus sculpture garden and rotating exhibitions.
The city’s grand ceremonial park lined with Smithsonian museums, memorials, and iconic government buildings.
Historic neighborhood of cobblestone streets, waterfront walks, rowhouses, and some of Washington’s most photogenic corners.
Scenic waterside loop famous for cherry blossoms and views of major memorials, especially popular for sunrise and spring visits.
Washington’s signature sausage, usually smoky and spicy, served on a bun with chili, mustard, and onions. It is one of the city’s most iconic street foods.
A sweet-tangy sauce closely associated with Washington carryout culture, often paired with fried chicken wings and fries. It is a local comfort-food staple.
Steamed or picked blue crab from the nearby Chesapeake region is deeply tied to local food traditions. It is especially popular in warmer months.
Celebrated upscale restaurant with creative small plates and a warm, energetic atmosphere. It is one of Washington’s best-known modern dining destinations.
A classic, long-running Washington institution known for oysters, crab cakes, and traditional American fare in an elegant historic atmosphere.
Bustling brasserie known for polished French classics, strong brunch, and a stylish dining room that is popular with both locals and visitors.
Prices are high for hotels and dining, especially downtown. Free museums help balance daily costs.
Tip 18-20% at restaurants. USD 1-2 per drink at bars, round up taxis, and tip hotel staff USD 2-5.
Official public transport app
Dulles International Airport, Washington -> Metro Center, Washington
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from San Diego, CA to Washington, DC by flight. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest flight, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Washington, DC, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most San Diego, CA to Washington, DC flights use the San Diego International Airport to Ronald Reagan National Airport airport pair, with some services landing at Dulles International Airport. Use this guide to compare San Diego, CA and Washington, DC airports on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like airport facilities and services.
San Diego International Airport is 4 km from San Diego city centre. Public transport options include:
San Diego International Airport has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Shower, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, and Car Rental.
Food options include: Restaurants in terminals 1 and 2, including fast food and sit-down options like The Counter and Phil's BBQ
Free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport. ATMs are located in all terminals.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at San Diego International Airport: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at San Diego International Airport: Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at San Diego International Airport: Elevators, ramps.
Nearby hotels include Hotels nearby, Sheraton San Diego Hotel & Mari within walking distance..
McClellan-Palomar Airport has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.
Accessibility facilities are available at McClellan-Palomar Airport: The place has an entrance that is wheelchair-accessible.
Ronald Reagan National Airport is 4 km from Washington city centre. Public transport options include:
Ronald Reagan National Airport has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Shower, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, and Car Rental.
Food options include: Restaurants are located in all terminals, offering American, Italian, and fast food options; top choices include Legal Sea Foods and Five Guys.
Free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport. ATMs are located throughout the airport, near ticketingas and baggage claim.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Ronald Reagan National Airport: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Ronald Reagan National Airport: Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Ronald Reagan National Airport: Elevators, ramps, assistance.
Nearby hotels include Hotels within walking distance, including the Crystal Gateway Marriott..
Dulles International Airport is 3 km from Washington city centre. Public transport options include:
Dulles International Airport has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Shower, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, and Car Rental.
Food options include: Restaurants located in all concourses; options include fast food, cafes, and sit-down dining like Five Guys and Chipotle.
Free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport. ATMs are located throughout the airport in all terminals.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Dulles International Airport: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Dulles International Airport: Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Dulles International Airport: Elevators, ramps, assistance.
Nearby hotels include Hotels nearby include Washington Dulles Airport Marriott within walking distance..
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need