- Must visit
California Academy of Sciences
Renowned science museum with rainforest dome, aquarium, and planetarium. Interactive exhibits make it a standout for all ages.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Boston, MA to San Francisco, CA
Showing times and prices for Aug 26
Cheapest price
$265
Average price
$292
Fastest journey
3 d 3 h 5 m
Average duration
3 d 8 h 33 m
Buses per day
3
Distance
4334 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Boston, MA to San Francisco, CA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Boston, MA to San Francisco, CA will cost around $292 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $265.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Boston, MA to San Francisco, CA without transferring at least 4 times.
· · · 12:30 PM75h05Boston, Bus Terminal South Station12:35 PMSan Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29$2651One-way4 transfers- +
FlixBus+ · 1:30 AM80h40Boston, Bus Terminal South Station7:10 AMSan Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29$2951One-way5 transfers - FlixBus+ · · 8:15 PM85h55Boston, Bus Terminal South Station7:10 AMSan Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29$3161One-way4 transfers
- · · · 12:30 PM75h05Boston, Bus Terminal South Station12:35 PMSan Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29$2651One-way4 transfers
- +FlixBus+ · 1:30 AM80h40Boston, Bus Terminal South Station7:10 AMSan Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29$2951One-way5 transfers
- FlixBus+ · · 8:15 PM85h55Boston, Bus Terminal South Station7:10 AMSan Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29$3161One-way4 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Boston, MA to San Francisco, CA
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Boston, MA to San Francisco, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $147. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 7h 51m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $147, and a flight costs an average of $176.
Distance: 2693 miles (4334 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Flight | Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$473 Average price Cheapest | $627 Average price | $746 Average price (fuel + tolls) | |
71h 18m Average total duration 70h 48m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 10h 51m Average total duration Fastest 7h 51m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 45h 30m Average total duration (door-to-door) | |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Boston, MA to San Francisco, CA is a bus with an average price of $473.
This is compared to other travel options from Boston, MA to San Francisco, CA:
A bus is $155 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Boston, MA to San Francisco, CA costing on average $627.
The fastest way to travel from Boston, MA to San Francisco, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 7h 51m.
Other travel options to San Francisco, CA take longer:
Bus takes on average 70h 48m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Boston, MA and San Francisco, CA including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Boston, MA to San Francisco, 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.
Boston, MA to San Francisco, CA Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 01:30AM | Arrival Time 07:10AM | Duration 80h40 | Departure days Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $268 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 01:50AM | Arrival Time 03:05PM | Duration 85h15 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $262 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 06:00AM | Arrival Time 07:10AM | Duration 76h10 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $257 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 06:30AM | Arrival Time 01:05AM | Duration 90h35 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $443 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 12:30PM | Arrival Time 12:35PM | Duration 75h05 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $189 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 12:55PM | Arrival Time 07:25PM | Duration 78h30 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $206 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 01:15PM | Arrival Time 12:35AM | Duration 83h20 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $529 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 01:55PM | Arrival Time 08:25PM | Duration 78h30 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $394 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 02:15PM | Arrival Time 08:25PM | Duration 78h10 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $301 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 04:30PM | Arrival Time 12:35AM | Duration 80h05 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $454 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 08:15PM | Arrival Time 07:10AM | Duration 85h55 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $290 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 09:15PM | Arrival Time 02:15PM | Duration 89h00 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $434 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 09:50PM | Arrival Time 08:45AM | Duration 85h55 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $532 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 11:35PM | Arrival Time 03:05PM | Duration 87h30 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $397 |
Live departures
Boston, MA to San Francisco, CA bus times
The table below shows live departures for Boston, MA to San Francisco, CA buses for today, Tuesday, August 25. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FlixBus+ · · | 8:15 PM Boston, Bus Terminal South Station | 85h55 | 7:10 AM San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29 | 4 transfers | |
| FlixBus+ · · | 9:50 PM Boston, Bus Terminal South Station | 85h55 | 8:45 AM San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street, CA | 5 transfers | |
| Wednesday, August 26 | |||||
| +FlixBus+ · | 1:30 AM Boston, Bus Terminal South Station | 80h40 | 7:10 AM San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29 | 5 transfers | |
| · · · | 12:30 PM Boston, Bus Terminal South Station | 75h05 | 12:35 PM San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29 | 4 transfers | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Boston, MA to San Francisco, CA by bus, train, or flight
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.
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Aug 26
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Sep 01
Why should you book Boston, MA to San Francisco, CA buses with Omio?
Greyhound as well as FlixBus offer buses services from Boston, MA to San Francisco, CA.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Boston, MA to San Francisco, CA.
Why book with Omio vs Greyhound?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Greyhound, but also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Boston, MA to San Francisco, CA.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Greyhound with all available travel options, which are bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Boston, MA to San Francisco, CA.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Boston, MA to San Francisco, CA.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Boston, MA to San Francisco, CA.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Boston, MA to San Francisco, CA
USAUSA
Buses from Boston, MA to San Francisco, CA run on average 2 times per day, taking around 70h 48m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $147 if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 02:15, the last at 23:25. The fastest bus covers the 2693 miles (4334 km) distance in 69h 45m.
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
Distance 2693 miles (4334 km) |
Average bus duration 70h 48m |
Cheapest ticket price $147 |
Buses per day 2 |
Fastest bus 69h 45m |
First bus 2:15 AM |
Last bus 11:25 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 1 day |
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
Bus providers: Greyhound from Boston, MA to San Francisco, CAYou can travel by bus between Boston, MA to San Francisco, CA with Greyhound for as low as $147. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
Greyhound
About
Greyhound Lines, Inc. is a prominent American intercity bus transportation provider, established in 1914. It operates the largest intercity bus network in the United States, also extending services to Canada and Mexico. Greyhound is known for offering affordable and reliable long-distance travel, connecting major cities and rural communities across North America. The company's buses are equipped with amenities such as free Wi-Fi, power outlets, and extra legroom to enhance passenger comfort. Greyhound is a subsidiary of Flix SE, which also owns FlixBus, and together they offer an extensive network of over 1,600 destinations.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
69h 45m
Cheapest Price
$147
Greyhound frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 25 lbs (11 kg) and one checked bag up to 50 lbs (23 kg).
Additional luggage
$15 per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket for a refund or exchange up to 24 hours before departure, for a cancellation fee applied.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed.
Complete guide to San Francisco, CA
Things to do in San Francisco, CA
Discover the best of San Francisco, CA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect San Francisco, CA trip today.
- Must visit
de Young Museum
Major fine arts museum in Golden Gate Park with American art, textiles, and a panoramic tower. A classic cultural highlight.
- Must visit
San Francisco Museum of Modern Art
Leading modern and contemporary art museum with landmark architecture and strong global collections. Essential for art-focused visitors.
- Must visit
Golden Gate Park
Large urban park with gardens, lakes, museums, and trails. It is a must for relaxing, walking, and seeing several major attractions.
- Must visit
Lombard Street
Steeply curving block lined with flowers and grand homes. This famous street offers classic photos and a quintessential San Francisco scene.
- Must visit
The Embarcadero
Popular waterfront promenade with bay views, piers, and ferries. Great for walking, people-watching, and connecting to nearby sights.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
San Francisco Sourdough
A crusty loaf with a tangy flavor shaped by the city’s historic wild yeast culture. It is one of San Francisco’s most iconic foods.
- Gluten-free
Dungeness Crab
Fresh local Dungeness crab, often cracked and served simply or in cioppino. It is a Bay Area seasonal specialty tied to the fishing waterfront.
Cioppino
A tomato-based seafood stew created by Italian American fishermen in North Beach. It is a classic San Francisco dish built from the day’s catch.
Benu
Celebrated fine dining destination known for inventive tasting menus and polished service in an elegant, intimate setting.
Sotto Mare
Historic North Beach seafood house famous for cioppino, crab, and old-school San Francisco waterfront charm.
La Taqueria
Legendary Mission taqueria known for large Mission-style burritos and a lively, no-frills local atmosphere.
US Dollar ($)
Very high hotel, dining, and transport costs make San Francisco pricier than most US cities and many major tourist destinations.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $12-20 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- $25-45 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $90+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- $4-7 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, 15-20% for taxis, and round up or tip $1 at cafes for good service.
FAQs: Bus from Boston, MA to San Francisco, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Boston, MA to San Francisco, 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 Francisco, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Boston, MA to San Francisco, CA can start from as little as $147 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Boston, MA to San Francisco, CA is $473 ; 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 Boston, MA to San Francisco, CA is 69h 45m to travel the 2693 miles (4334 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 Boston, MA to San Francisco, CA leaves at 2:15 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Boston, MA to San Francisco, CA leaves at 11:25 PM.
There are 2 buses a day from Boston, MA to San Francisco, CA which require at least one change with Greyhound, FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Boston, MA to San Francisco, CA, you can count on Greyhound, FlixBus for the best way to get you to San Francisco, CA. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Boston, MA and San Francisco, CA and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from Boston, MA , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Boston, Bus Terminal South Station, Cambridge, Steel Place, MA, Brookline, Harvard St (Coolidge Corner Opticians), MA . When arriving in San Francisco, CA , you can end your journey in bus stations like San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29, San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street, CA, Oakland, West Oakland BART Station, CA, Hayward BART Station .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Boston, Bus Terminal South Station, which is located around away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29, located 2 away from the city centre.
A trip to San Francisco, CA from Boston, MA is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 69h 45m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Boston, MA to San Francisco, CA is September.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Boston, MA and San Francisco, CA including taking a bus, train, and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Boston, MA to San Francisco, CA:
- Greyhound
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Boston, MA to San Francisco, CA for bus company Greyhound, FlixBus.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in San Francisco, CA are:
- Golden Gate Bridge, an iconic suspension bridge offering panoramic views of the San Francisco Bay
- Alcatraz Island, a historic site featuring the infamous former prison and informative audio tours
- Fisherman's Wharf, a bustling waterfront area known for seafood, shops, and sea lions
- Golden Gate Park, a large urban park with gardens, museums, and recreational activities
- Chinatown, the oldest and one of the largest Chinatowns in North America, offering vibrant culture and cuisine.
The best things to do in San Francisco, CA include:
- Ride a cable car through the steep streets of San Francisco for a classic city experience
- Explore the vibrant murals and street art in the Mission District
- Visit the Exploratorium, an interactive science museum perfect for all ages
- Take a scenic walk along the Embarcadero, offering views of the Bay Bridge and access to the Ferry Building Marketplace
- Enjoy a wine tasting tour in nearby Napa Valley, a short drive from the city.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Boston, MA to San Francisco, CA depends on the bus companies:
- Greyhound
- You can cancel your ticket for a refund or exchange up to 24 hours before departure, for a cancellation fee applied.
- FlixBus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company Greyhound, FlixBus.
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.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Boston, MA to San Francisco, CA.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Boston, MA to San Francisco, CA:
- Greyhound
- One carry-on bag up to 25 lbs (11 kg) and one checked bag up to 50 lbs (23 kg).
- FlixBus
- One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Boston, MA to San Francisco, CA:
- Greyhound
- $15 per additional bag.
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Boston, MA to San Francisco, CA. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Boston, MA to San Francisco, CA with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Boston, MA to San Francisco, CA with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Boston, MA to San Francisco, CA with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Since neither Boston, MA nor San Francisco, 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 Boston, MA to San Francisco, 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 Francisco, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like Fisherman's Wharf and Union Square. Common scams include distraction techniques used by groups to steal wallets and fake charity solicitations. It's advisable to avoid poorly lit or isolated areas at night and be wary of unofficial taxi services to ensure safety.
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 Boston, MA to San Francisco, CA
Most Boston, MA to San Francisco, CA buses use the Boston, Bus Terminal South Station to San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29 station pair, with some services arriving at San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street. Use this guide to compare Boston, MA and San Francisco, CA bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Boston
Arrival bus stations in San Francisco
Which Boston, MA station do buses to San Francisco, CA leave from?
Buses from Boston, MA to San Francisco, CA leave from Boston, Bus Terminal South Station. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Boston, MA city centre at Boston-South Station, 700 Atlantic Ave, Boston, MA 02111, USA.
Boston, Bus Terminal South StationBoston-South Station, 700 Atlantic Ave, Boston, MA 02111, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Boston, Bus Terminal South Station from Boston city centre
SubwayRed Line · 2m · $4 · every ~26 min
Red Line · 4m · $4 · every ~26 min
Boston, Bus Terminal South Station bus station facilities and services
Boston, Bus Terminal South Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Several fast food and cafe options available.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi available throughout the terminal. ATMs are aTMs located inside the terminal.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Boston, Bus Terminal South Station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Boston, Bus Terminal South Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Boston, Bus Terminal South Station: Fully accessible with ramps and elevators.
Which San Francisco, CA station do buses from Boston, MA arrive at?
Buses from Boston, MA to San Francisco, CA most often arrive at San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29. Some services arrive at San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your San Francisco, CA arrival station.
San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29Transit Center Bay 29, San Francisco, CA 94105, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29 from San Francisco city centre
San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29 is 2 km from San Francisco city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus397 · 8m · $2
14, 14R · 13m · $2 · every ~30 min
101, 120 · 14m · $6 · every ~9 min
7 · 21m · $2 · every ~10 min
SubwayYellow-N, Green-N, Red-N, Blue-N · 10m · $2 · every ~27 min
San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29 bus station facilities and services
San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29 has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29. ATMs are available at San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29: Wheelchair accessible areas present.
San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th StreetSan Francisco Bus Station,401 Townsend St,94107
City-centre transport
Getting to San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street from San Francisco city centre
BusEast, West · 20m · every ~4 min
Nbus, Nowl · 24m · $2 · every ~2 min
TramN · 23m · $2 · every ~11 min
More options for your journey from Boston, MA to San Francisco, CA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from San Francisco, CA and Boston, MA
Most popular bus connections to San Francisco, CA
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