Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA bus with Greyhound

Wed, Oct 07
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 07

Cheapest price on Oct 07

$318

Average ticket price on Oct 07

$402

Fastest journey on Oct 07

2 d 1 h 5 m

Average journey duration on Oct 07

2 d 4 h 14 m

Buses on Oct 07

16

Distance

2784 km

Cheap tickets

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 $402 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $318.

Fast buses

It's difficult to get from Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA without transferring at least 3 times.

  • Greyhound · · +FlixBusFlixBus
    11:10 PM73h05
    Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL
    10:15 PMSan Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District), CA
    $3181One-way
    3 transfers
  • Greyhound · · +FlixBusFlixBus
    12:25 PM55h55
    Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
    6:20 PMSan Diego, Rail Ct / E San Ysidro Blvd (McDonald`s), CA
    $3361One-way
    4 transfers
  • Greyhound · · ·
    10:15 AM58h05
    Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL
    6:20 PMSan Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center
    $3601One-way
    3 transfers
  • Greyhound · · ·
    2:45 PM53h35
    Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
    6:20 PMSan Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center
    $3621One-way
    3 transfers
  • Greyhound · · +FlixBusFlixBus
    12:25 PM49h35
    Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
    12:00 PMSan Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center
    $3771One-way
    3 transfers

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA

USAUSA
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Buses from Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA run on average 13 times per day, taking around 51h 48m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $124 (€103) but you can travel from only $81 (€68) by flight.

The earliest bus runs at 00:15, the last at 23:10. The fastest bus covers the 1729 miles (2784 km) distance in 44h 14m.

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 $81 (€68)
Distance
1729 miles (2784 km)
Average bus duration
51h 48m
Cheapest ticket price
$124 (€103)
Buses per day
13
Fastest bus
44h 14m
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
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 $81 (€68)

Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA Bus Timetables

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
12:15AM
Arrival Time
05:10PM
Duration
66h55
Departure days
Thu, Fri, Sun
Cheapest price
$158
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
04:10AM
Arrival Time
05:15AM
Duration
73h05
Departure days
Tue
Cheapest price
$357
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
05:10AM
Arrival Time
06:15AM
Duration
73h05
Departure days
Tue
Cheapest price
$348
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
07:10AM
Arrival Time
11:30AM
Duration
78h20
Departure days
Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun
Cheapest price
$171
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
10:15AM
Arrival Time
10:15PM
Duration
62h00
Departure days
Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$166
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
12:25PM
Arrival Time
12:30PM
Duration
50h05
Departure days
Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$153
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
02:45PM
Arrival Time
06:20PM
Duration
53h35
Departure days
Tue, Wed
Cheapest price
$196
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
05:05PM
Arrival Time
10:15PM
Duration
55h10
Departure days
Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$182
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
06:00PM
Arrival Time
05:10PM
Duration
73h10
Departure days
Wed
Cheapest price
$421
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
09:30PM
Arrival Time
01:10AM
Duration
51h40
Departure days
Mon
Cheapest price
$139
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
10:15PM
Arrival Time
05:15AM
Duration
55h00
Departure days
Mon
Cheapest price
$189
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
10:50PM
Arrival Time
05:10PM
Duration
68h20
Departure days
Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$202
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
11:10PM
Arrival Time
10:15PM
Duration
73h05
Departure days
Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$181

Live departures

Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA bus times

The table below shows live departures for Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA buses for today, Tuesday, October 6. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Greyhound · · +FlixBusFlixBus10:15 AM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL
62h00
10:15 PM San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District), CA3 transfers
Greyhound · · +FlixBusFlixBus10:15 AM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL
75h20
11:35 AM San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), CA3 transfers
Greyhound · · · 10:15 AM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL
57h30
5:45 PM San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), CA3 transfers
Greyhound · · · 10:15 AM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL
58h05
6:20 PM San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center3 transfers
Greyhound · · +FlixBusFlixBus12:25 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
50h05
12:30 PM San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center3 transfers
Greyhound · · +FlixBusFlixBus12:25 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
55h55
6:20 PM San Diego, Rail Ct / E San Ysidro Blvd (McDonald`s), CA4 transfers
Greyhound · · +FlixBusFlixBus12:25 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
49h10
11:35 AM San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), CA3 transfers
Greyhound · · +FlixBusFlixBus12:25 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
49h30
11:55 AM San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District), CA3 transfers
Greyhound · · · 2:45 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
53h35
6:20 PM San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center3 transfers
Greyhound · · · 2:45 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
53h00
5:45 PM San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), CA3 transfers

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA buses with Omio?

Greyhound operates all buses services from Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA.

Why book with Omio vs Greyhound?

  • 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, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu?

  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA.

Bus providers: Greyhound from Chicago, IL to San Diego, CAYou can travel by bus between Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA with Greyhound for as low as $81 (€68). 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 Greyhound Duration
44h 14m
Cheapest Greyhound Price
$124 (€103)
Greyhound frequency
14 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 Diego, CA

Things to do in San Diego, CA

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.

  • 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.

  • Must visit

Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego

Acclaimed contemporary art museum in La Jolla featuring oceanfront settings, modern works, and rotating global exhibitions.

  • Must visit

USS Midway Museum

Museum aboard a historic aircraft carrier with restored aircraft, naval exhibits, and immersive views of life at sea.

US Dollar ($)

San Diego is pricey for US travel, with higher hotel rates, dining, and parking than many cities, though casual food and buses stay manageable.

Average meal costs

Budget
$10-18 for fast food or casual takeout.
Mid-range
$25-45 per person for a mid-range meal.
Fine dining
$75+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
$4-6 for coffee or cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Tip 18-20% at restaurants, 15-20% for taxis or rideshares, and $1-2 for coffee drinks or small cafe orders.

FAQs: Bus from Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA

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.

FAQs
Cheap bus tickets from Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA can start from as little as $124 (€103) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA is $295 (€247) ; 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 Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA is 44h 14m to travel the 1729 miles (2784 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 Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA leaves at 12:15 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA leaves at 11:10 PM.
There are 13 buses a day from Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA which require at least one change with Greyhound. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA, you can count on Greyhound for the best way to get you to San Diego, CA. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Chicago, IL and San Diego, CA and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from Chicago, IL , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL, Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station, Chicago, Cumberland Blue Line Station, IL . When arriving in San Diego, CA , you can end your journey in bus stations like San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), CA, San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District), CA, San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center, San Diego, Rail Ct / E San Ysidro Blvd (McDonald`s), CA .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL, which is located around 1 miles (3 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), CA, located 5 away from the city centre.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Chicago, IL and San Diego, CA including taking a train, bus, and flight.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA for bus company Greyhound.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA:
  • Greyhound
    • Assistance
    • Priority seating
    • Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Chicago, IL 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.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company Greyhound.
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 Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Chicago, IL 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).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA:
  • Greyhound
    • $15 per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA with the following bus company: Greyhound
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA with the following bus company: Greyhound.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA with the following bus company: Greyhound.
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 Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA

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.

Departure bus stations in Chicago
Arrival bus stations in San Diego

Which Chicago, IL station do buses to San Diego, CA leave from?

Buses from Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA leave from Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak). The station is 1 miles (3 km) from Chicago, IL city centre at Chicago Union Station, 225 S Canal St, Chicago, IL 60606, USA.
Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak)Chicago Union Station, 225 S Canal St, Chicago, IL 60606, USAWifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak) from Chicago city centre

Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak) is 3 km from Chicago city centre. Public transport options include:

Bus28, 151 · 7m · $4 · every ~13 min

Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak) bus station facilities and services

Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.

Food and drink

Food options include: Multiple dining options are available inside the station.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free Wi-Fi is available in waiting areas. ATMs are aTMs are located near the main entrance.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak).

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak): Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak): Station is accessible with elevators and ramps.

Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station630 W Harrison St, Chicago, IL 60607, USAWifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station from Chicago city centre

Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station is 2 km from Chicago city centre. Public transport options include:

Bus7 · 8m · $4 · every ~6 min

Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station bus station facilities and services

Chicago, Greyhound Bus 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: Snack shop and vending machines available

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free Wi-Fi in waiting area. ATMs are located near entrance.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station: Wheelchair accessible entrances and seating.

Chicago, Cumberland Blue Line StationCumberland Blue Line Station, Chicago, IL 60631, USAWifiParkingATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to Chicago, Cumberland Blue Line Station from Chicago city centre

Chicago, Cumberland Blue Line Station is 21 km from Chicago city centre. Public transport options include:

BusGreyhound US0150S · 30m · $2
SubwayBlue Line · 39m · $6 · every ~23 min

Chicago, Cumberland Blue Line Station bus station facilities and services

Chicago, Cumberland Blue Line Station 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 Chicago, Cumberland Blue Line Station. ATMs are available at Chicago, Cumberland Blue Line Station.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Chicago, Cumberland Blue Line Station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Chicago, Cumberland Blue Line Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Chicago, Cumberland Blue Line Station: Wheelchair accessible with elevator service.

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