- 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
kr1796
Average price
kr2193
Fastest journey
2 d 2 h 40 m
Average duration
2 d 6 h 6 m
Buses per day
9
Distance
2784 km
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Chicago, IL 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 Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA will cost around kr2193 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only kr1796.
It's difficult to get from Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA without transferring at least 2 times.
+
FlixBus+
·
+
FlixBus+
·
· · +
FlixBus
FlixBus+
+
FlixBus
FlixBus+
·
FlixBus+
·
FlixBus+
·
FlixBus+
+
FlixBus
· · +
FlixBus
· · · Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from kr768. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 4h 53m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.8 - 2.5kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of kr768, and a train costs an average of kr1270.
Distance: 1729 miles (2784 km)
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
kr1314 Average price Cheapest | kr2662 Average price | kr1518 Average price | kr2844 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
47h 17m Average total duration 46h 47m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 49h 30m Average total duration 49h 0m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 53m Average total duration Fastest 4h 53m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 30h 9m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
2.8 - 7.0kg CO2 emissions | 0.8 - 2.5kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 8.4 - 16.7kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
![]() 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 |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
This is compared to other travel options from Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA:
A bus is kr204 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA costing on average kr1518.
A bus is kr1348 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA costing on average kr2662.
Other travel options to San Diego, CA take longer:
Bus takes on average 46h 47m.
Train takes on average 49h 0m.
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.
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 12:15AM | Arrival Time 10:25AM | Duration 60h10 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price kr1488 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 04:10AM | Arrival Time 09:10PM | Duration 65h00 | Departure days Wed, Sat | Cheapest price kr2836 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 05:10AM | Arrival Time 06:05PM | Duration 60h55 | Departure days Wed, Sat | Cheapest price kr1732 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 10:15AM | Arrival Time 05:45PM | Duration 57h30 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price kr1325 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 12:25PM | Arrival Time 04:25PM | Duration 54h00 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price kr1161 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 04:00PM | Arrival Time 06:15AM | Duration 62h15 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price kr1962 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 04:20PM | Arrival Time 09:40PM | Duration 53h20 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price kr844 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 05:01PM | Arrival Time 09:10PM | Duration 52h09 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price kr1191 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 05:05PM | Arrival Time 05:45PM | Duration 50h40 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price kr1227 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 05:25PM | Arrival Time 11:25PM | Duration 54h00 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price kr2771 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 06:01PM | Arrival Time 10:10PM | Duration 52h09 | Departure days Tue, Fri | Cheapest price kr2834 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 08:45PM | Arrival Time 06:15AM | Duration 57h30 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price kr3649 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 09:30PM | Arrival Time 01:45AM | Duration 52h15 | Departure days Tue, Fri | Cheapest price kr1113 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 10:15PM | Arrival Time 12:45AM | Duration 50h30 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price kr1643 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 10:50PM | Arrival Time 06:20PM | Duration 69h30 | Departure days Mon, Thu | Cheapest price kr1350 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 11:10PM | Arrival Time 11:45AM | Duration 62h35 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price kr1263 |
The table below shows live departures for Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA buses for today, Saturday, August 22. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
· · · | 10:15 AM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 57h30 | 5:45 PM San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), CA | 3 transfers | |
· · + FlixBus | 10:15 AM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 62h00 | 10:15 PM San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District), CA | 3 transfers | |
· · · | 10:15 AM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 58h05 | 6:20 PM San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center | 3 transfers | |
· · + FlixBus | 12:25 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 55h55 | 6:20 PM San Diego, Rail Ct / E San Ysidro Blvd (McDonald`s), CA | 4 transfers | |
FlixBus+ + FlixBus | 5:05 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 55h10 | 10:15 PM San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District), CA | 2 transfers | |
FlixBus+ · | 5:05 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 50h40 | 5:45 PM San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), CA | 2 transfers | |
FlixBus+ · | 5:05 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 51h15 | 6:20 PM San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center | 2 transfers | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare train, bus, 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 Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA run on average 12 times per day, taking around 46h 47m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at kr768 if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 00:15, the last at 23:10. The fastest bus covers the 1729 miles (2784 km) distance in 50h 55m.
Distance 1729 miles (2784 km) |
Average bus duration 46h 47m |
Cheapest ticket price kr768 |
Buses per day 12 |
Fastest bus 50h 55m |
First bus 12:15 AM |
Last bus 11:10 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 14 days |
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 Chicago, IL 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 Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA buses use the Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak) to San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park) station pair, with some services arriving at San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District). Use this guide to compare Chicago, IL and San Diego, CA bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak) is 3 km from Chicago city centre. Public transport options include:
Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Multiple dining options are available inside the station.
Free Wi-Fi is available in waiting areas. ATMs are aTMs are located near the main entrance.
Ticket office support is available at Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak).
Available at Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak): Station is accessible with elevators and ramps.
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station is 2 km from Chicago city centre. Public transport options include:
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Snack shop and vending machines available
Free Wi-Fi in waiting area. ATMs are located near entrance.
Ticket office support is available at Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station.
Available at Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station: Wheelchair accessible entrances and seating.
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, 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.
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.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need