Tijuana for day

Question

I'm thinking of a day trip while I visit San Diego. I plan on going Saturday morning and returning early evening. Take the trolley from downtown.

If the border crossing has a long wait, can I pay $10 for bus. Where do I find the bus?

Do I need to get pesos as soon as I cross the border pay for the taxi?

Any must see sights besides city center/Avenida Revolución?

Answer

A day trip to Tijuana from San Diego via the trolley is very doable and can be a fun cultural experience. The trolley will take you to the San Ysidro border crossing, which is the main pedestrian entry into Tijuana. On busy weekends, wait times at the border can vary, sometimes 20–60 minutes, so plan accordingly.

Regarding transportation once you cross:

If the pedestrian border line is long, there is indeed a local bus service that can help you bypass some of the walking. The $10 fee you mentioned may refer to shuttle buses that pick up near the border entrance; you can usually find them just after you exit the U.S. side on the Mexican side. Look for signs indicating “taxis and shuttles” or ask border staff for directions to the buses.
While taxis and buses in Tijuana accept pesos, many will also accept U.S. dollars at a slightly worse exchange rate. For convenience, it’s recommended to get a small amount of pesos (perhaps 200–300 MXN) immediately after crossing for taxi fares, food, or small purchases. There are currency exchange booths and ATMs near the border.

Must-see sights beyond Avenida Revolución:

Centro Cultural Tijuana (CECUT) – A striking cultural center with exhibits, an IMAX theater, and often live performances.
Plaza Santa Cecilia – A lively square with traditional music and street performances.
Mercado Hidalgo – A traditional market for Mexican snacks, souvenirs, and crafts.
Pasaje Rodríguez – A charming alleyway filled with murals, boutique shops, and cafes.
Playas de Tijuana – If you have extra time, a short ride to the beach area offers ocean views and a more relaxed vibe.

Other tips:

Bring your passport and any required documents for re-entry to the U.S.
Wear comfortable shoes; Tijuana is best explored on foot.
Plan your schedule to allow extra time to return across the border, especially on a Saturday evening when lines can be longer.

With these considerations, a half-day or full-day visit to Tijuana can be very enjoyable without needing a car.