Private car transfer from Palm Springs to Los Angeles

Door-to-door
in 1 h 40 min
From €88
per seat
Comfortable
car
One way
One way
Cancel for free 24 hours before departure
Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice 2024
Excellent

Trip Information

Pick-up

Your driver will meet you at your address in Palm Springs.

  • Door-to-door service
  • Help with your luggage

Trip

You’ll travel in comfort for 1 h 40 min.

  • Optional sight-seeing
  • Clean, comfortable car
  • Professional driver
  • Bottled water
  • Child seats
  • Prepared for handicapped
  • Smoke-free
  • Pet friendly

Drop-off

Your driver will drop you off at your address in Los Angeles.

  • Door-to-door service
  • Help with your luggage
In total
172 km1 h 40 min

Overview: car trip from Palm Springs to Los Angeles

Your car trip from Palm Springs to Los Angeles starts in the desert oasis surrounded by the San Jacinto Mountains. Before you hop in a private car to Los Angeles, make sure you have your fill of soaking in the hot springs, playing golf, and feeling like a movie star in the 50s on a break from Hollywood. Then you can start your ride stretching along around 110 miles (177 km), which will take only one and a half to two hours on the road.

But Southern California’s vast desert, wide-open spaces and rugged mountain ranges deserve to be enjoyed thoroughly. So turn your car trip into a little road trip by adding some sightseeing stops. With Daytrip's private car service, it's easy!

Start by starting to explore Hemet Maze Stone. Gaze at the mysterious maze shape carved in a rock which is estimated to be at least 500 years old. For over a century, archaeologists have still been trying to solve its secret. Then continue to a very special and one-of-a-kind museum. Cabot’s Pueblo Museumwas hand-built by Cabot Yerxa himself, who is the founder of the nearby mineral springs. The museum is filled with indigenous artwork and sheds some light on this unique character.

About Los Angeles

Los Angeles is _the _city in Southern California the entertainment capital of the world. Home to Hollywood, it is the birthplace of the American film industry, multiple television studios and countless celebrities. Fun fact: the iconic Hollywood Sign was initially an advertisement for a local real estate development called "Hollywoodland". It was only later that it became an international symbol of the entertainment industry.

Los Angeles is a true melting pot of the United States. The city has a large and diverse immigrant population, including the largest communities of Mexican, Korean, Salvadoran, Guatemalan, and Iranian people outside of their respective countries. It is easy to say that Los Angeles people have an open heart and mind for new things, new people, and new perspectives, which is why it has such a booming cultural scene.

Beyond entertainment and culture, Los Angeles is a major hub for international trade, technology, fashion, and tourism. The Port of Los Angeles, along with the Port of Long Beach, forms one of the most significant trade gateways in the world, handling a significant portion of the maritime cargo that enters the U.S.

Despite its urban sprawl, and being a business center, Los Angeles boasts numerous parks and outdoor spaces. Griffith Park, for instance, is one of the largest municipal parks with urban wilderness areas in the United States, offers hiking trails, the Los Angeles Zoo, and the Griffith Observatory.

From Palm Springs to Los Angeles: travel tips

Traveling from Palm Springs to Los Angeles can be an enjoyable and smooth experience with the right preparation. Take a look at some of our tips to ensure yourself a great trip:

Plan for traffic

Beware of the traffic jams you might experience on the I-10 freeway, the primary route from Palm Springs to Los Angeles, especially during peak travel times. Avoid weekday mornings and late afternoons because of the heavy traffic due to local commuting patterns. Also, weekends can see increased flow due to leisure travel.

To avoid the worst of the traffic, consider traveling during off-peak hours, such as mid-morning or early afternoon. Use real-time traffic apps like Google Maps or Waze to stay informed about any traffic hotspots.

Be prepared for the trip

Southern California can experience quite warm temperatures all year round. So especially if you are traveling during summer months, make sure you have enough water with you to stay hydrated. Bring your sunglasses, hat, and sunscreen so that you won’t be disturbed by the sun while you are exploring the stops along the way. Pack some of your favorite snacks to keep your energy level high.

Make the most of your exploring

The drive to Los Angeles is dotted with interesting stops so apart from our previous recommendations, also consider the Cabazon Dinosaurs for a quirky photo op with giant dinosaur statues. Further along, in Riverside, stop by the Mission Inn Hotel & Spa for a beautiful example of Mission Revival architecture and for a lunch break.

How to get from Palm Springs to Los Angeles

There are several different transportation options to get from Palm Springs to Los Angeles. You can take a private car service, a bus, train, plane, or drive yourself. Take a look at the alternatives to choose which one suits you best:

Palm Springs to Los Angeles by car

A quite flexible and common way to travel between Palm Springs and Los Angeles is by car. The drive takes about one and a half to two hours, depending on traffic, via the I-10 West. With this option, you have the convenience of leaving on your own schedule and the opportunity to explore interesting stops along the way. Keep in mind that you’ll have to deal with LA's infamous traffic and cover the costs associated with driving, such as parking, fuel, and rental costs.

Palm Springs to Los Angeles by bus

Several bus companies operate routes between Palm Springs and Los Angeles. Companies like Greyhound and FlixBus have affordable options available with various departure times throughout the day. The journey by bus can take around two to three hours, depending on the service. However, it’s not the most comfortable option considering how hot it can get on the bus and the lack of sufficient stops.

Palm Springs to Los Angeles by train

With Amtrak, you can combine train and bus service (Amtrak Thruway) connecting Palm Springs to Los Angeles. You’ll need to take a bus from Palm Springs to a nearby train station, where you can then board the Amtrak train to Los Angeles. Thanks to the train part of the trip you’ll have nice views, though it may take longer than traveling by car, approximately three to four hours in total.

Palm Springs to Los Angeles by plane

Although less common due to the short distance, there are flights scheduled from Palm Springs International Airport (PSP) to one of the Los Angeles area airports, mainly Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). The flight option may look shorter but with check-in and security screening times, may not always save time compared to a ride. It is also quite an expensive alternative.

Palm Springs to Los Angeles by private car service

Out of all the options listed above, booking a private car service such as Daytrip stands out as the most convenient and flexible option. You’ll have the comfort of a comfortable car which you won’t need to drive but enjoy being a passenger. It’ll help you to enjoy the vast landscapes of Southern California.

Your driver will help you with the stops you’d like to take, give you insider tips, and make sure you are satisfied with the service. You’ll also have the swiftness of a flight and scenes of a bus ride.

Things to do when you get to Los Angeles

Believe us when we say that it is impossible to get bored in Los Angeles. Getting from the calmer desert views and hot springs of Palm Springs to Los Angeles will be diving right into the heart of life, always busy, always buzzing. Here are only a few of an endless list of things to do in Los Angeles:

Catch a concert at the Walt Disney Concert Hall

Frank Gehry’s Walt Disney Concert Hall is one of the most iconic buildings in LA, especially if you're a fan of modern architecture. Though he doubted he would get to design the concert hall, his bold design won over Disney's widow, Lilian.

And as home to the LA Philharmonic, you can also catch one of the best classical music shows on the planet. Reserve your tickets beforehand here so as not to be disappointed once you get there.

See LA from Griffith Observatory!

A stroll around Griffith Park is another must in LA! The beauty of the walking trails surrounded by the magnificent city view on the one side and mountains on the other cannot be missed.

One of these walks should lead you to the Griffith Observatory, another Los Angeles icon. It’s been the most visited observatory in the world since it opened in 1935. Here you can attend different shows, watch the sky through telescopes, and join monthly events.

Visit the Grove shopping mall

In the Grove, you can immerse yourself in more than just shopping; enjoy the lively vibes embodying the L.A. lifestyle. Arrive early to take your sweet time exploring the upscale shops and boutiques. Don't miss the historic trolley ride and the dancing fountain show. Indulge in a variety of dining options, from gourmet eateries to chill cafes. For even a smoother visit, take advantage of the concierge services and valet parking.

When is the best time to visit Los Angeles

The best time to plan your visit from Palm Springs to Los Angeles is from April to September, depending on how hot you like it.

Los Angeles has a warm Mediterranean climate, which is perfect if you adore the sun and heat, especially from June to September. But it can be too hot to explore the city in the summer when average temperatures peak at 85° F in August, the warmest month. Set beside the Pacific Ocean and shielded by nearby mountains, Los Angeles enjoys a mild climate, protected from colder northern winds. So if you want something a bit less stifling, come in the late spring. Temperatures are in the 70s and the city's parks and green spaces are in full bloom.

Questions & Answers about Traveling from Palm Springs to Los Angeles

How much is Uber from Palm Springs to LAX?
On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $300 for an Uber ride from Palm Springs to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). Instead of ordering Uber, booking a private car service is more convenient since you can plan it beforehand, and will have a local driver who’ll be happy to help you, and explore the stops along the way for more or less the same price.
Is Palm Springs cheaper than LA?
Overall, Palm Springs can be cheaper than Los Angeles in terms of living expenses, such as housing and certain day-to-day costs. But as a popular tourist destination, prices for hotels, dining, and entertainment in Palm Springs are comparable to those in Los Angeles. The cost difference truly comes into play with real estate and rental markets, where Palm Springs often offers more affordability compared to the high costs of living in Los Angeles.
How many tourists visit Los Angeles each year?
Los Angeles attracts millions of tourists annually. In 2019, the city welcomed over 50 million visitors. Most people visit in the summer, so come in the spring or fall to avoid most of the tourists!
How much is a train from Palm Springs to Los Angeles?
On average, prices range from $30 to $60 for Amtrak's combined bus and train service, but the exact price depends on when you book and the class of service. Book early to secure lower fares, and keep in mind that prices may be higher for last-minute travel or during peak travel seasons.
What is Los Angeles famous for?
Los Angeles is best known as the entertainment capital of the world, home to Hollywood, TV, and music industries. But as the second largest city in the US, it's also a cultural melting pot. And it has beaches!
Where is Hollywood?
Hollywood is a neighborhood to the northwest of downtown LA. It's here you'll find the famous Hollywood sign, the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and the many TV and movie studios.

Visit these sights on the way

Cabot's Pueblo Museum

Cabot's Pueblo Museum

Built by the man who discovered Desert Hot Springs’ famous mineral water, this Hopi style building is an amazing museum made from found materials. Finding Hopi 

Desert Hills Premium Outlets

Desert Hills Premium Outlets

Hundreds of luxury and contemporary brands can be found well below retail at this discount oasis. Desert of the Deal 

Hemet Maze Stone

Hemet Maze Stone

No one knows the origin or meaning of this enigmatic maze petroglyph that’s been protected by the government as a historic landmark. Strange Shapes 

Why people love Daytrip

Tripadvisor logo
5,100+ reviews
  • 346 travelers took this route with us
Oct 2, 2025

Great transfer option.

“I used this service for a transfer from Split in Croatia to Perast Montenegro. My experience was exceptional. My driver Bojan was helpful, informative and ensured my journey was comfortable and enjoyable. I highly recommend the service.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Robyn C
Sep 20, 2025

It was a fantastic trip.

“We were extremely satisfied with the quality of service we received from Day Trip. We had two Day Trip rides on August 31 from Athens to Lefkada and September 7 from Lefkada back to Athens. Both trips included stops at scenic sites in Greece. Both drivers were excellent and accommodating. However, we’d especially like to recognize Panos Peppas, who was our driver from Lefkada to Athens. Panos was incredibly nice & pleasant and delivered outstanding customer service, which included handling all of luggage, providing us with cold waters throughout the trip, providing us protein bars, providing us with printed materials on the Corinth Canal (one of scenic stops), looking up and providing us with terminal & gate info for our flight back home and providing us with a recipe for tzatziki.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Daydream20046758137
Sep 15, 2025

Best transport company anywhere

“We absolutely love this company and have used it many times over the years to get from A to B without the hassle of hiring a car ourselves. Excellent drivers every time. Efficient and professional. It’s worth every penny and we can honestly recommend Day Trip to everyone. It’s 5 star rating is well deserved.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Mary L
Aug 20, 2025

Excellent experience in traveling

“We traveled from Nuremberg to Munich in a beautiful Audi. Driver picked us at our hotel at the exact time requested. Got us to Munich in plenty of time for our next tour. Driver made sure we were comfortable”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Steve N
Apr 22, 2025

Reasonably Priced and Safe Transportation

“Gonzalo from daytrip was our driver and he was absolutely amazing. He went over and beyond trying to locate us as our service wasn't so good on our phones. He patiently awaited our arrival to the lobby so he could take us from Tulum Dreams Resort to our other hotel in cancun an hour and a half away near the airport prior to our departure flight home. He was polite, respectful and kind. Made sure we were comfortable during our long ride. Fast and to the point. I recommend this company as finding a one way ride from Tulum to Cancun isn't easy or cheap and this company provides a great service for a great price. I will definitely be using them again whenever I'm in the Cancun/Tulum area. Thank you DayTrip and Gonzola.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler COCO
Apr 2, 2025

Daytrip never disappoints

“We were picked up by Marianna to drive us from Heraklion to Chania. The weather was terrible & due to this Marianna arrived a few minutes late. She contacted me to advise of this. Marianna lives in Chana and she made our trip very interesting by informing us of local things to do and see in Chania. Marianna is a safe driver and we all felt comfortable with the speed she drove at and how good her driving was in heavy rain. She is a lovely person with fluent English. We highly recommend Daytrips and if you are in Heraklion or Chania please make sure you ask for Marianna.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Julie M
Feb 28, 2025

Great driver in Egypt

“Used the service to go from Luxor to Hurghada, Egypt. Ahmed H was our driver and he was perfect. The car was new, clean, he had water and snacks for us, and accommodated our stops. Great service from him and would recommend it.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Maps315861
Feb 20, 2025

Comfortable and Safe Rides in Mexico

“Used Daytrip for two rides in Mexico, which were both great. So comfortable, and we arrived at each of our destinations at a great time. Both were incredible drivers, and we felt so safe. One of our drivers, Miguel, also played the best music! Will definitely use Daytrip on our next trip to Mexico.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Golourdesduarte
Feb 10, 2025

Great way to travel and see some sights on the way

“We did not know what to expect with this trip and booked from Australia. We were initially looking for an easy way to travel from Granada to Malaga. We decided not to waste the opportunity to see something additional on our way. Miguel certainly exceeded our expectations. His English was excellent (unfortunately we speak very little Spanish), and he was very friendly and helpful. We thoroughly enjoyed hearing about the regions as we passed through and also discussing some of the local ways. Miguel took us to Antequera as planned and ensured we were able to easily get our tickets to the attractions without any sense of rushing us. We were picked up and dropped off punctually and really enjoyed our trip. Hopefully we will return to Spain and we can use this service again sometime.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Michelle R
Nov 17, 2022

Friendly and Pleasant

“My driver was helpful and friendly. It was a pleasant scenic drive from LA to Palm Springs. I felt well taken care of.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Relax821759

Good to know

Children

If you’re traveling with children, make sure to let us know in the booking so we can get the appropriate child seats ready!

Pets

Pets are allowed (and loved)! We just need to know beforehand. You can tell us about them in the next phase of the booking.

Tips

Gratuity isn’t included or required, but if you really enjoyed your trip, you can show your driver your appreciation with an optional tip (10% is sufficient).

Luggage

  • Big luggage
  • 29x21x11 inches
  • 74x53x28 cm
  • Small luggage
  • 22x14x9 inches
  • 56x36x23 cm

Each passenger is allowed to have one checked bag and one carry on. If you’re traveling with more bags or oversized luggage, you can adjust this while booking.

Payment methods

Pay by credit card online, or in cash directly to your driver!

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have any questions, here are the answers.

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