Expert: Ernest Tufft - 2/22/2007

Question
hello!
we'll be driving from solvang to san diego. how long do you think it would take us? how bad is the traffic crossing L.A?  Also, we'll be staying before that in san fransisco, in nobb hill, on pine st. i heard parking is a problem there. are there recommneded places to park?
thanks!!!

Answer
Mapquest reports that the 252 miles between Solvang and San Diego should take 4 hours 15 minutes, but in reality it could be much longer if you run into congestion within the LA basin.  I recommend traveling either on the weekend or at night to avoid this waste of traveler's time.  As for parking in SF, check with the hotel to determine where to park.  Parking on the street is all but impossible given the shortage of spaces, so you will likely pay a substantial sum for a parking garage.  I recommend parking and leaving the car during your stay in San Francisco as the public transportation is excellent there.  Two cable car routes traverse Nob Hill.  The trip from SF to Solvang will take about 5 hours if Hwy 101 is used.  There are a number of quaint old missions to visit along the way.  However, many travelers prefer the more scenic, if longer in time, Hwy 1, which hugs the spectacular California coastline.  Have fun.