- Must visit
San Diego Museum of Art
Major Balboa Park museum with works from Spanish old masters to modern art, plus strong regional and international exhibitions.
Cheapest price on Sep 19
$149
Average ticket price on Sep 19
$184
Fastest journey on Sep 19
1 d 11 h 30 m
Average journey duration on Sep 19
1 d 13 h 58 m
Buses on Sep 19
31
Distance
1858 km
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Austin, TX to San Diego, CA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Austin, TX to San Diego, CA will cost around $184 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $149.
It's difficult to get from Austin, TX to San Diego, CA without transferring at least 2 times.
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FlixBusOmio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Austin, TX to San Diego, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $240 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 7h 9m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $240, while a flight costs an average of $419.
Distance: 1154 miles (1858 km)
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$240 Average price Cheapest | $300 Average price | $419 Average price | $267 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
36h 35m Average total duration 36h 5m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 39h 33m Average total duration 39h 3m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 9m Average total duration Fastest 5h 9m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 18h 54m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
![]() Most popular bus company | ![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
This is compared to other travel options from Austin, TX to San Diego, CA:
A bus is $60 (€49) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Austin, TX to San Diego, CA costing on average $300 (€246).
A bus is $179 (€147) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Austin, TX to San Diego, CA costing on average $419 (€343).
Other travel options to San Diego, CA take longer:
Bus takes on average 36h 5m.
Train takes on average 39h 3m.
Tickets start at around $240 (€196) compared to roughly $267 (€219) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $28 (€23). The journey takes 36h 5m versus 18h 54m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can use the time productively rather than spending it behind the wheel. No parking to sort, no fuel stops, and most coaches have Wi-Fi and power outlets.
Driving is worth considering if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), or want the flexibility to stop along the way.
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 03:40AM | Arrival Time 04:25PM | Duration 38h45 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $140 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 06:10AM | Arrival Time 10:15PM | Duration 42h05 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $169 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 08:15AM | Arrival Time 06:20PM | Duration 36h05 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $142 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 08:20AM | Arrival Time 11:45AM | Duration 53h25 | Departure days Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $157 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 12:10PM | Arrival Time 11:35AM | Duration 49h25 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Sat | Cheapest price $153 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 12:40PM | Arrival Time 11:45AM | Duration 49h05 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $176 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 02:05PM | Arrival Time 11:35AM | Duration 47h30 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $149 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 07:55PM | Arrival Time 11:35AM | Duration 41h40 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $151 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 09:25PM | Arrival Time 11:35AM | Duration 64h10 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $149 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 09:40PM | Arrival Time 06:20PM | Duration 46h40 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $149 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 10:35PM | Arrival Time 04:25PM | Duration 43h50 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $142 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 10:50PM | Arrival Time 04:25PM | Duration 43h35 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $142 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 11:30PM | Arrival Time 10:15PM | Duration 48h45 | Departure days Mon, Tue | Cheapest price $187 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 11:45PM | Arrival Time 05:10PM | Duration 43h25 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $140 |
The table below shows live departures for Austin, TX to San Diego, CA buses for today, Friday, September 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
FlixBus · FlixBus+ · | 2:05 PM Austin, E 9th St / S I-35 Frontage Rd, TX | 46h00 | 10:05 AM San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), CA | 4 transfers | |
FlixBus · FlixBus+ · | 2:05 PM Austin, E 9th St / S I-35 Frontage Rd, TX | 46h20 | 10:25 AM San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District), CA | 4 transfers | |
FlixBus · FlixBus+ · | 2:05 PM Austin, E 9th St / S I-35 Frontage Rd, TX | 48h15 | 12:20 PM San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center | 3 transfers | |
FlixBus · FlixBus+ · | 2:05 PM Austin, E 9th St / S I-35 Frontage Rd, TX | 47h40 | 11:45 AM San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), CA | 3 transfers | |
· + FlixBus+![]() | 7:55 PM Austin, Shady Lane (Eastside Bus Plaza), TX | 40h30 | 10:25 AM San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District), CA | 3 transfers | |
· +![]() | 7:55 PM Austin, Shady Lane (Eastside Bus Plaza), TX | 41h50 | 11:45 AM San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), CA | 2 transfers | |
· + FlixBus+![]() | 7:55 PM Austin, Shady Lane (Eastside Bus Plaza), TX | 40h10 | 10:05 AM San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), CA | 3 transfers | |
· +![]() | 7:55 PM Austin, Shady Lane (Eastside Bus Plaza), TX | 42h25 | 12:20 PM San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center | 2 transfers | |
FlixBus+ · · | 10:35 PM Austin, E 9th St / S I-35 Frontage Rd, TX | 44h35 | 5:10 PM San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center | 4 transfers | |
FlixBus+ · · | 10:35 PM Austin, E 9th St / S I-35 Frontage Rd, TX | 49h40 | 10:15 PM San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District), CA | 4 transfers | |
FlixBus+ · · | 10:35 PM Austin, E 9th St / S I-35 Frontage Rd, TX | 43h50 | 4:25 PM San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), CA | 4 transfers | |
FlixBus+ · · | 10:35 PM Austin, E 9th St / S I-35 Frontage Rd, TX | 45h10 | 5:45 PM San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), CA | 4 transfers | |
FlixBus+ · · | 10:35 PM Austin, E 9th St / S I-35 Frontage Rd, TX | 45h45 | 6:20 PM San Diego, Rail Ct / E San Ysidro Blvd (McDonald`s), CA | 5 transfers | |
FlixBus+ · · | 10:50 PM Austin, South Congress Transit Center, TX | 44h20 | 5:10 PM San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center | 4 transfers | |
FlixBus+ · · | 10:50 PM Austin, South Congress Transit Center, TX | 44h55 | 5:45 PM San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), CA | 4 transfers | |
FlixBus+ · · | 10:50 PM Austin, South Congress Transit Center, TX | 43h35 | 4:25 PM San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), CA | 4 transfers | |
FlixBus+ · · | 10:50 PM Austin, South Congress Transit Center, TX | 49h25 | 10:15 PM San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District), CA | 4 transfers | |
FlixBus+ · · | 10:50 PM Austin, South Congress Transit Center, TX | 45h30 | 6:20 PM San Diego, Rail Ct / E San Ysidro Blvd (McDonald`s), CA | 5 transfers | |
· · · | 11:45 PM Austin, Shady Lane (Eastside Bus Plaza), TX | 44h00 | 5:45 PM San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), CA | 4 transfers | |
· · · | 11:45 PM Austin, Shady Lane (Eastside Bus Plaza), TX | 43h25 | 5:10 PM San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center | 4 transfers | |
· · · | 11:45 PM Austin, Shady Lane (Eastside Bus Plaza), TX | 48h30 | 10:15 PM San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District), CA | 4 transfers | |
· · · | 11:45 PM Austin, Shady Lane (Eastside Bus Plaza), TX | 42h40 | 4:25 PM San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), CA | 4 transfers | |
| Saturday, September 19 | |||||
· · · | 3:40 AM Austin, Shady Lane (Eastside Bus Plaza), TX | 39h30 | 5:10 PM San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center | 4 transfers | |
· · · | 3:40 AM Austin, Shady Lane (Eastside Bus Plaza), TX | 38h45 | 4:25 PM San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), CA | 4 transfers | |
· + FlixBus | 8:15 AM Austin, Shady Lane (Eastside Bus Plaza), TX | 40h00 | 10:15 PM San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District), CA | 2 transfers | |
· · | 8:15 AM Austin, Shady Lane (Eastside Bus Plaza), TX | 36h05 | 6:20 PM San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center | 2 transfers | |
· · | 8:15 AM Austin, Shady Lane (Eastside Bus Plaza), TX | 35h30 | 5:45 PM San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), CA | 2 transfers | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare bus, train, 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.
Buses from Austin, TX to San Diego, CA run on average 25 times per day, taking around 36h 5m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $132 (€108) but you can travel from only $116 (€95) by flight.
The earliest bus runs at 03:05, the last at 23:45. The fastest bus covers the 1154 miles (1858 km) distance in 30h 30m.
Distance 1154 miles (1858 km) |
Average bus duration 36h 5m |
Cheapest ticket price $132 (€108) |
Buses per day 25 |
Fastest bus 30h 30m |
First bus 3:05 AM |
Last bus 11:45 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Discover the best of San Diego, CA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect San Diego, CA trip today.
Major Balboa Park museum with works from Spanish old masters to modern art, plus strong regional and international exhibitions.
Acclaimed contemporary art museum in La Jolla featuring oceanfront settings, modern works, and rotating global exhibitions.
Museum aboard a historic aircraft carrier with restored aircraft, naval exhibits, and immersive views of life at sea.
Balboa Park is San Diego's grand cultural park, packed with gardens, architecture, museums, and walkable plazas worth lingering in.
Historic Gaslamp Quarter offers Victorian-era streets, nightlife energy, and preserved downtown architecture for an atmospheric walk.
Dramatic seaside cliffs and walking paths in La Jolla, famous for waves, sea lions, and sweeping Pacific views.
A San Diego staple: grilled fish in a soft tortilla with cabbage, crema, and salsa. Popularized by Baja influence and coastal seafood culture.
French fries, carne asada, cheese, guacamole, and crema wrapped in a flour tortilla. A late-night local favorite born in San Diego taquerias.
Fresh local sea urchin served raw, prized for its rich, buttery taste. It reflects San Diego's access to Pacific seafood and sushi culture.
Celebrated sushi restaurant specializing in omakase and pristine seafood, including uni. Intimate, polished, and highly respected by locals.
Iconic casual seafood counter known for fish tacos, smoked fish, and harbor views. A classic stop for San Diego's Baja-inspired seafood style.
Refined fine-dining restaurant showcasing local seafood and seasonal California ingredients. Elegant room with one of the city's strongest reputations.
San Diego is pricey for US travel, with higher hotel rates, dining, and parking than many cities, though casual food and buses stay manageable.
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, 15-20% for taxis or rideshares, and $1-2 for coffee drinks or small cafe orders.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Austin, TX to San Diego, CA by bus. 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 bus, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at San Diego, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most Austin, TX to San Diego, CA buses use the Austin, Shady Lane (Eastside Bus Plaza) to San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park) station pair, with some services arriving at San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center. Use this guide to compare Austin, TX and San Diego, CA bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Austin, Shady Lane (Eastside Bus Plaza) is 4 km from Austin city centre. Public transport options include:
Austin, Shady Lane (Eastside Bus Plaza) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi is available at Austin, Shady Lane (Eastside Bus Plaza). ATMs are available at Austin, Shady Lane (Eastside Bus Plaza).
Ticket office support is available at Austin, Shady Lane (Eastside Bus Plaza).
Available at Austin, Shady Lane (Eastside Bus Plaza): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Austin, Shady Lane (Eastside Bus Plaza): Ramps available for wheelchair access.
Austin, E 9th St / S I-35 Frontage Rd has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi is available at Austin, E 9th St / S I-35 Frontage Rd. ATMs are available at Austin, E 9th St / S I-35 Frontage Rd.
Ticket office support is available at Austin, E 9th St / S I-35 Frontage Rd.
Available at Austin, E 9th St / S I-35 Frontage Rd: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Austin, E 9th St / S I-35 Frontage Rd: Bus stop accessible from the road.
Austin, South Congress Transit Center is 5 km from Austin city centre. Public transport options include:
Austin, South Congress Transit Center has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi is available at Austin, South Congress Transit Center. ATMs are available at Austin, South Congress Transit Center.
Ticket office support is available at Austin, South Congress Transit Center.
Available at Austin, South Congress Transit Center: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Austin, South Congress Transit Center: The station is accessible for passengers with reduced mobility.
San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park) is 5 km from San Diego city centre. Public transport options include:
San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Several dining options nearby.
Wi-Fi is available at San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park). ATMs are available at San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park).
Ticket office support is available at San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park).
Available at San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park): Wheelchair accessible routes available.
San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center is 22 km from San Diego city centre. Public transport options include:
San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Several fast food eateries located nearby.
Wi-Fi is available at San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center. ATMs are available near the entrance.
Ticket office support is available at San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center.
Available at San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center: Wheelchair accessible with ramps.
San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District) is 1 km from San Diego city centre. Public transport options include:
San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Several dining options are in the area.
Wi-Fi is available at San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District). ATMs are available at San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District).
Ticket office support is available at San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District).
Available at San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District): Accessible for persons with disabilities.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need