- Must visit
USS Midway Museum
Museum aboard the historic aircraft carrier USS Midway with restored aircraft, flight deck exhibits, and audio tours on San Diego Bay.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Austin, TX to San Diego, CA
Showing times and prices for Jun 21
Cheapest price
$125
Average price
$193
Fastest journey
1 d 16 h 20 m
Average duration
1 d 20 h 35 m
Buses per day
3
Distance
1858 km
Cheap tickets
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 $193 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $125.
Fast buses
Of the 3 buses that leave Austin, TX for San Diego, CA on Sun, Jun 21, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sun, Jun 21 the direct buses cover the 1858 km distance in an average of 1 d 20 h 35 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 1 d 16 h 20 m .
On Sun, Jun 21 the slowest buses will take 2 d 1 h 25 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
12:55 PM40h20Austin, TX5:15 AMSan Diego, CA$1251One-way0 transfers- 4:45 AM44h00Austin, TX12:45 AMSan Diego, CA$1891One-way0 transfers
- 3:50 AM49h25Austin, TX5:15 AMSan Diego, CA$2651One-way0 transfers
- 12:55 PM40h20Austin, TX5:15 AMSan Diego, CA$1251One-way0 transfers
- 4:45 AM44h00Austin, TX12:45 AMSan Diego, CA$1891One-way0 transfers
- 3:50 AM49h25Austin, TX5:15 AMSan Diego, CA$2651One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, flight, and train for Austin, TX to San Diego, CA
Omio recommends booking the flight 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 flight with prices starting from $88. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 52m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a flight costs an average of $88, and a train costs an average of $210.
Distance: 1154 miles (1858 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Flight | Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$225 Average price | $181 Average price Cheapest | $321 Average price | $264 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
44h 1m Average total duration 43h 31m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 52m Average total duration Fastest 3h 52m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 40h 15m Average total duration 39h 45m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 18h 54m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Austin, TX to San Diego, CA is a flight with an average price of $181 (€148).
This is compared to other travel options from Austin, TX to San Diego, CA:
A flight is $43 (€35) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Austin, TX to San Diego, CA costing on average $225 (€184).
A flight is $140 (€114) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Austin, TX to San Diego, CA costing on average $321 (€263).
The fastest way to travel from Austin, TX to San Diego, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 52m.
Other travel options to San Diego, CA take longer:
Train takes on average 39h 45m.
Bus takes on average 43h 31m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Austin, TX and San Diego, CA including taking a bus, flight, and train.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Austin, TX to San Diego, CA among Omio's users.
Take the bus. On this route, it's both cheaper and quicker than driving.
You'll arrive about {timeSavings} sooner ({durationInMinutes} by bus vs {drivingDurationInMinutes} by car) and save roughly {savingsAmount} compared to fuel and tolls ({cheapestPrice} vs {drivingPriceInCents}). You also skip the drive itself — no traffic stress, no parking, and you can use the time to work, nap, or catch up on a series with the onboard Wi-Fi.
Direct coaches are operated by {directProviders}.
Driving is still worth considering if you're travelling with bulky luggage, need flexibility on departure times, or plan to stop along the way.
Austin, TX to San Diego, CA Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 12:55AM | Arrival Time 06:45PM | Duration 41h50 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $383 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 02:55AM | Arrival Time 01:20AM | Duration 46h25 | Departure days Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $210 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 03:35AM | Arrival Time 12:10AM | Duration 44h35 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $341 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 03:50AM | Arrival Time 05:15AM | Duration 49h25 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $265 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 03:55AM | Arrival Time 02:20AM | Duration 46h25 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $196 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 04:30AM | Arrival Time 05:15AM | Duration 48h45 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $144 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 04:45AM | Arrival Time 12:10AM | Duration 43h25 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $123 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 09:30AM | Arrival Time 09:40PM | Duration 36h10 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $213 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 12:55PM | Arrival Time 01:20AM | Duration 36h25 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $125 |
Live departures
Austin, TX to San Diego, CA bus times
The table below shows live departures for Austin, TX to San Diego, CA buses for today, Saturday, June 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12:55 PM Austin, TX | 36h25 | 1:20 AM San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Sunday, June 21 | |||||
| 3:50 AM Austin, TX | 49h25 | 5:15 AM San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 4:45 AM Austin, TX | 44h00 | 12:45 AM San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Austin, TX to San Diego, CA by bus, flight, or train
Compare bus, flight, and train 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.
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Journey information
Overview: Bus from Austin, TX to San Diego, CA
USAUSA
Buses from Austin, TX to San Diego, CA run on average 23 times per day, taking around 43h 31m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $123 (€100) but you can travel from only $88 (€72) 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 36h 10m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $88 (€72)
Distance 1154 miles (1858 km) |
Average bus duration 43h 31m |
Cheapest ticket price $123 (€100) |
Buses per day 23 |
Fastest bus 36h 10m |
First bus 3:05 AM |
Last bus 11:45 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $88 (€72)
Complete guide to San Diego
Things to do in San Diego
Discover the best of San Diego — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect San Diego trip today.
- Recommended
San Diego Museum of Art
Balboa Park art museum known for Spanish old masters, South Asian works, and rotating exhibitions in a landmark building.
- Recommended
Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego
Leading contemporary art museum with major postwar and current works, especially strong in Southern California and Pacific Rim artists.
- Must visit
Balboa Park
Vast cultural park with gardens, museums, Spanish Colonial Revival architecture, walking paths, and some of San Diego's best photo spots.
- Must visit
La Jolla Cove
Scenic cove known for sea lions, clear water, coastal cliffs, and highly shareable sunset and ocean-view walks.
- Must visit
Coronado Beach
Wide sandy beach beside the Hotel del Coronado, popular for walking, photography, and classic Southern California scenery.
- Gluten-free
Fish Tacos
Beer-battered or grilled local fish in tortillas, usually topped with cabbage, crema, and salsa. A signature coastal San Diego staple with strong Baja influence.
California Burrito
A San Diego original burrito filled with carne asada, fries, cheese, and salsa. It is one of the city’s most iconic late-night and casual foods.
- Gluten-free
Carne Asada Fries
French fries topped with carne asada, cheese, guacamole, sour cream, and salsa. This indulgent dish is strongly associated with San Diego taco shop culture.
Mitch's Seafood
Popular waterfront seafood restaurant serving fresh local catch, fish tacos, and sandwiches in a relaxed harbor setting near the fishing fleet.
Las Cuatro Milpas
Historic, no-frills Mexican restaurant famous for house-made tortillas, rolled tacos, and comforting traditional plates. A beloved local institution with a classic atmosphere.
Hodad's
Iconic casual spot in Ocean Beach known for oversized burgers, fries, and a lively beach-town vibe. A long-standing San Diego favorite.
United States Dollar
Prices are high by U.S. standards, especially for hotels, dining, and parking near the coast and downtown.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-18 for tacos, fast food, or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- USD 20-40 per person at a standard sit-down restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 75+ per person before drinks and tax.
- Coffee
- USD 4-7 for a latte or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, 20%+ for great service. Tip USD 1-2 per drink at bars, round up taxis, and tip hotel staff and valet.
FAQs: Bus from Austin, TX to San Diego, CA
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.
Cheap bus tickets from Austin, TX to San Diego, CA can start from as little as $123 (€100) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Austin, TX to San Diego, CA is $225 (€184) ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by bus from Austin, TX to San Diego, CA is 36h 10m to travel the 1154 miles (1858 km) long journey. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest bus from Austin, TX to San Diego, CA leaves at 3:05 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Austin, TX to San Diego, CA leaves at 11:45 PM.
A trip to San Diego, CA from Austin, TX is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 36h 10m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Austin, TX to San Diego, CA is February.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Austin, TX and San Diego, CA including taking a bus, flight, and train.
No, the bus from Austin, TX to San Diego, CA has no accessibility options.
No, there are no bathrooms on board the bus from Austin, TX to San Diego, CA.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in San Diego, CA are:
- Balboa Park, a sprawling urban park with museums, gardens, and the San Diego Zoo
- USS Midway Museum, a historic naval aircraft carrier museum offering interactive exhibits and tours
- La Jolla Cove, a picturesque coastal area known for its stunning views and marine life
- Gaslamp Quarter, a lively historic district with Victorian architecture, dining, and entertainment options
- Coronado Beach, a beautiful sandy beach known for its gentle waves and iconic hotel.
The best things to do in San Diego, CA include:
- Explore the vibrant art scene at the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego
- enjoy a harbor cruise for stunning views of the skyline and naval ships
- hike the scenic trails at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve
- visit the Birch Aquarium to learn about marine life and ocean conservation
- experience the thrill of a whale watching tour off the coast.
No, bikes are not allowed on board the bus from Austin, TX to San Diego, CA.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
No, there is no food available to purchase on board the bus from Austin, TX to San Diego, CA.
No, luggage for the bus from Austin, TX to San Diego, CA needs to be booked in addition.
No, there are no additional luggage options for the bus from Austin, TX to San Diego, CA.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Austin, TX to San Diego, CA.
No, there are no USB plugs on board the bus from Austin, TX to San Diego, CA.
No, there is no WiFi on board the bus from Austin, TX to San Diego, CA.
Since neither Austin, TX nor San Diego, CA are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of United States and United States. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Austin, TX to San Diego, CA among Omio's users.
The currency used in the United States is the US Dollar (USD). For travelers, using cards is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially credit and debit cards, while cash is useful for small purchases or places that do not accept cards.
In San Diego, CA, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like beaches, public transportation, and popular tourist spots such as the Gaslamp Quarter and Old Town. Common scams include overpriced parking fees and unauthorized ticket sellers near attractions. Staying aware of surroundings, securing belongings, and using official transportation services help reduce risks. Additionally, travelers should avoid isolated areas at night and be mindful of local traffic laws when using scooters or bikes.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Austin, TX to San Diego, CA
Austin
San Diego
The major bus station for departures in Austin is Austin, Shady Lane (Eastside Bus Plaza). Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Austin, Shady Lane (Eastside Bus Plaza) for your trip from Austin to San Diego.
Austin, Shady Lane (Eastside Bus Plaza)
information
Austin, E 9th St / S I-35 Frontage Rd
information
The major bus station for arrivals in San Diego is San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park). Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park) for your trip to San Diego from Austin.
San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park)
information
San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center
information
San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District)
information
Most popular bus connections from Austin, TX
More options for your journey from Austin, TX to San Diego, CA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from San Diego, CA and Austin, TX
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