- Must visit
USS Midway Museum
A large aircraft carrier museum on the waterfront with restored aircraft, flight deck views, and naval history exhibits. One of the city’s signature attractions.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Carlsbad, CA to San Diego, CA
Showing times and prices for May 26
Cheapest price
$45
Average price
$50
Fastest journey
10 m
Average duration
18 m
Buses per day
4
Distance
52 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Carlsbad, CA 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 Carlsbad, CA to San Diego, CA will cost around $50 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $45.
Fast buses
Of the 4 buses that leave Carlsbad, CA for San Diego, CA on Tue, May 26, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Tue, May 26 the direct buses cover the 52 km distance in an average of 18 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 10 m .
On Tue, May 26 the slowest buses will take 40 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.
7:39 PM0h10Carlsbad, CA7:49 PMSan Diego, CA$451One-way0 transfers- 3:09 AM0h10Carlsbad, CA3:19 AMSan Diego, CA$471One-way0 transfers
- 8:39 PM0h10Carlsbad, CA8:49 PMSan Diego, CA$471One-way0 transfers
- 5:09 AM0h40Carlsbad, CA5:49 AMSan Diego, CA$591One-way0 transfers
- 7:39 PM0h10Carlsbad, CA7:49 PMSan Diego, CA$451One-way0 transfers
- 8:39 PM0h10Carlsbad, CA8:49 PMSan Diego, CA$471One-way0 transfers
- 3:09 AM0h10Carlsbad, CA3:19 AMSan Diego, CA$471One-way0 transfers
- 5:09 AM0h40Carlsbad, CA5:49 AMSan Diego, CA$591One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Carlsbad, CA to San Diego, CA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Carlsbad, CA to San Diego, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $19. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 49m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $19, and a bus costs an average of $13.
Distance: 32 miles (52 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$48 Average price | $19 Average price Cheapest | $8 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
1h 19m Average total duration Fastest 49m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 24m Average total duration 54m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 37m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
 Most popular bus company |  Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Carlsbad, CA to San Diego, CA is a train with an average price of $19 (€16).
This is compared to other travel options from Carlsbad, CA to San Diego, CA:
A train is $29 (€24) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Carlsbad, CA to San Diego, CA costing on average $48 (€39).
The fastest way to travel from Carlsbad, CA to San Diego, CA is by bus with an average journey time of 49m.
Other travel options to San Diego, CA take longer:
Train takes on average 54m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Carlsbad, CA and San Diego, CA including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Carlsbad, CA 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.
Carlsbad, CA to San Diego, CA Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Infobus | Departure Time 01:09AM | Arrival Time 01:19AM | Duration 0h10 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $47 |
Operator Infobus | Departure Time 02:09AM | Arrival Time 02:19AM | Duration 0h10 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $45 |
Operator Infobus | Departure Time 03:09AM | Arrival Time 03:19AM | Duration 0h10 | Departure days Wed, Fri | Cheapest price $47 |
Operator Infobus | Departure Time 04:09AM | Arrival Time 04:19AM | Duration 0h10 | Departure days Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $45 |
Operator Infobus | Departure Time 05:09AM | Arrival Time 05:49AM | Duration 0h40 | Departure days Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $49 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 06:05AM | Arrival Time 06:50AM | Duration 0h45 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $13 |
Operator Infobus | Departure Time 07:24AM | Arrival Time 07:34AM | Duration 0h10 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $48 |
Operator Infobus | Departure Time 09:39AM | Arrival Time 09:49AM | Duration 0h10 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $48 |
Operator Infobus | Departure Time 11:39AM | Arrival Time 12:19PM | Duration 0h40 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $56 |
Operator Infobus | Departure Time 01:39PM | Arrival Time 01:49PM | Duration 0h10 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $48 |
Operator Infobus | Departure Time 03:39PM | Arrival Time 04:19PM | Duration 0h40 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $56 |
Operator Infobus | Departure Time 04:39PM | Arrival Time 04:49PM | Duration 0h10 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $47 |
Operator Infobus | Departure Time 05:39PM | Arrival Time 05:49PM | Duration 0h10 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $52 |
Operator Infobus | Departure Time 06:09PM | Arrival Time 06:19PM | Duration 0h10 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $48 |
Operator Infobus | Departure Time 06:39PM | Arrival Time 06:49PM | Duration 0h10 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $52 |
Operator Infobus | Departure Time 07:39PM | Arrival Time 07:49PM | Duration 0h10 | Departure days Tue, Sat | Cheapest price $45 |
Operator Infobus | Departure Time 08:09PM | Arrival Time 08:49PM | Duration 0h40 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $56 |
Operator Infobus | Departure Time 08:39PM | Arrival Time 08:49PM | Duration 0h10 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $47 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:05PM | Arrival Time 10:10PM | Duration 1h05 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $14 |
Operator Infobus | Departure Time 09:39PM | Arrival Time 10:19PM | Duration 0h40 | Departure days Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $60 |
Operator Infobus | Departure Time 10:09PM | Arrival Time 10:49PM | Duration 0h40 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $56 |
Live departures
Carlsbad, CA to San Diego, CA bus times
The table below shows live departures for Carlsbad, CA to San Diego, CA buses for today, Monday, May 25. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0 | 7:24 AM Carlsbad, CA | 0h10 | 7:34 AM San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 0 | 9:39 AM Carlsbad, CA | 0h10 | 9:49 AM San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 0 | 11:39 AM Carlsbad, CA | 0h40 | 12:19 PM San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 0 | 1:39 PM Carlsbad, CA | 0h10 | 1:49 PM San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 0 | 3:39 PM Carlsbad, CA | 0h40 | 4:19 PM San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 0 | 6:09 PM Carlsbad, CA | 0h10 | 6:19 PM San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 0 | 8:09 PM Carlsbad, CA | 0h40 | 8:49 PM San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Tuesday, May 26 | |||||
| 3:09 AM Carlsbad, CA | 0h10 | 3:19 AM San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Monday, May 25 | |||||
| 0 | 10:09 PM Carlsbad, CA | 0h40 | 10:49 PM San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Tuesday, May 26 | |||||
| 5:09 AM Carlsbad, CA | 0h40 | 5:49 AM San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Carlsbad, CA to San Diego, CA by train or bus
Compare train and bus 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.
Tue
May 26
May 26
Wed
May 27
May 27
Thu
May 28
May 28
Fri
May 29
May 29
Sat
May 30
May 30
Sun
May 31
May 31
Mon
Jun 01
Jun 01
Why should you book Carlsbad, CA to San Diego, CA buses with Omio?
Greyhound as well as FlixBus offer buses services from Carlsbad, CA to San Diego, CA.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Carlsbad, CA to San Diego, 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 Carlsbad, CA to San Diego, 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 train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Carlsbad, CA to San Diego, 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 Carlsbad, CA to San Diego, CA.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Carlsbad, CA to San Diego, CA.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Carlsbad, CA to San Diego, CA
USAUSA
Buses from Carlsbad, CA to San Diego, CA run on average 8 times per day, taking around 49m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $13 (€10) if you book in advance.
There are 8 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:05, the last at 23:05. The fastest bus covers the 32 miles (52 km) distance in 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
Distance 32 miles (52 km) |
Average bus duration 49m |
Cheapest ticket price $13 (€10) |
Buses per day 8 |
Direct buses 8 |
Fastest bus 10m |
First bus 12:05 AM |
Last bus 11:05 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sun |
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, FlixBus from Carlsbad, CA to San Diego, CAYou can travel by bus between Carlsbad, CA to San Diego, CA with Greyhound, FlixBus for as low as $13 (€10). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
FlixBus
About
FlixBus is one of Europe’s leading low-cost bus companies, founded in Germany and now offering long-distance services across Europe and the United States. In addition to its extensive daytime network, FlixBus also operates overnight buses on select European routes. Standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, power outlets to charge devices, extra legroom, luggage space, and onboard toilets, with snacks and drinks available for purchase. FlixBus offers a single Standard ticket type for all routes, which includes one carry-on bag and one checked bag per passenger. Additional fees apply for extra luggage and for reserving specific seats, such as Extra Seats, Table Seats, or Panorama Seats. This combination of affordability, comfort, and wide coverage makes FlixBus a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 5m
Cheapest Price
$14 (€12)
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
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.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed for a fee; must be booked.
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed; guide dogs travel for free.
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
45m
Cheapest Price
$13 (€10)
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 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’s major art museum, known for European old masters, Asian art, and rotating exhibitions in a landmark Spanish Colonial Revival building.
- Recommended
Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego
Contemporary art museum with strong regional and international programming, especially noted for its oceanfront La Jolla location and modern exhibitions.
- Must visit
Balboa Park
San Diego’s flagship urban park, packed with gardens, museums, Spanish Colonial architecture, plazas, and highly photogenic walking paths.
- Must visit
La Jolla Cove
A scenic coastal area known for sea lions, cliffs, turquoise water, and one of the city’s most photographed ocean viewpoints.
- Must visit
Gaslamp Quarter
The city’s best-known historic downtown district, lined with Victorian-era buildings, lively streets, and a strong day-to-night atmosphere.
Fish Tacos
Beer-battered or grilled fish in a tortilla, usually topped with cabbage, crema, and salsa. A signature San Diego favorite shaped by Baja California influence.
California Burrito
A San Diego staple burrito filled with carne asada, fries, cheese, and salsa. It is one of the city’s most iconic late-night and taqueria foods.
Carne Asada Fries
French fries topped with carne asada, cheese, guacamole, sour cream, and salsa. This indulgent border-style dish is strongly associated with San Diego taco shops.
Mitch's Seafood
Established waterfront seafood restaurant in Point Loma known for fresh local catch, fish sandwiches, and harbor views.
Las Cuatro Milpas
Legendary casual spot in Barrio Logan known for traditional Mexican plates, handmade tortillas, and an old-school local atmosphere.
Oscar's Mexican Seafood
Popular casual venue celebrated for fish tacos, smoked fish tacos, and fresh coastal Baja-style seafood in a laid-back setting.
United States Dollar
San Diego is pricey by U.S. standards, especially for hotels and dining, though tacos, casual eats, and happy hours can help keep daily costs lower.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-18 for tacos, fast food, or casual counter service.
- Mid-range
- USD 25-45 per person at a standard sit-down restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 80+ per person before drinks, tax, and tip.
- Coffee
- USD 4-7 for drip coffee or a latte.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants; 20%+ for great service. USD 1-2 per drink at bars, round up or 10-15% for taxis, and USD 2-5 nightly for hotel housekeeping.
FAQs: Bus from Carlsbad, CA to San Diego, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Carlsbad, CA 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 Carlsbad, CA to San Diego, CA can start from as little as $13 (€10) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Carlsbad, CA to San Diego, CA is $48 (€39) ; 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 Carlsbad, CA to San Diego, CA is 10m to travel the 32 miles (52 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 Carlsbad, CA to San Diego, CA leaves at 12:05 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Carlsbad, CA to San Diego, CA leaves at 11:05 PM.
Yes, there are 8 direct buses a day from Carlsbad, CA to San Diego, CA with . Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Carlsbad, CA to San Diego, CA, you can count on Greyhound, FlixBus for the best way to get you to San Diego, CA. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Carlsbad, CA and San Diego, CA and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A day trip to San Diego, CA from Carlsbad, CA is worth doing with a journey time of 10m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Carlsbad, CA to San Diego, CA is September.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Carlsbad, CA and San Diego, CA including taking a train and bus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Carlsbad, CA to San Diego, CA:
- Greyhound
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Carlsbad, CA to San Diego, CA for bus company Greyhound, FlixBus.
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.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Carlsbad, CA to San Diego, 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 Carlsbad, CA to San Diego, CA.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Carlsbad, CA to San Diego, 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 Carlsbad, CA to San Diego, 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 Carlsbad, CA to San Diego, 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 Carlsbad, CA to San Diego, CA with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Carlsbad, CA to San Diego, CA with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Carlsbad, CA to San Diego, CA with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Since neither Carlsbad, CA 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 train as it is the most popular way to get from Carlsbad, CA 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 Carlsbad, CA to San Diego, CA
Carlsbad
San Diego
San Diego
information
San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park)
information
San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center
information
Most popular bus connections from Carlsbad, CA
More options for your journey from Carlsbad, CA 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 Carlsbad, CA
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