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The cheapest and fastest buses from Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA
Showing times and prices for Feb 23
Cheapest price
$365
Average price
$464
Fastest journey
2 d 3 h 40 m
Average duration
2 d 7 h 19 m
Buses per day
11
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 $464 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $365.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA without transferring at least 2 times.
undefined · undefined · undefined+
FlixBus11:10PM73h05
Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL10:15PMSan Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District), CA
$3651One-way
3 transfers
undefined · undefined · undefined · undefined11:10PM65h00
Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL02:10PMSan Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), CA
$3661One-way
5 transfers
undefined · undefined · undefined · undefined11:10PM62h35
Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL11:45AMSan Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), CA
$3681One-way
5 transfers
undefined · undefined · undefined · undefined11:10PM63h10
Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL12:20PMSan Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center
$4001One-way
5 transfers
undefined · undefined · undefined+FlixBus10:00AM62h15
Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL10:15PMSan Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District), CA
$4871One-way
3 transfers
FlixBus++FlixBus · FlixBus04:30PM51h40
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station06:10PMSan Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), CA
$5071One-way
3 transfers
FlixBus++FlixBus · FlixBus04:30PM52h15
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station06:45PMSan Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center
$5451One-way
3 transfers
FlixBus++FlixBus04:30PM55h45
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station10:15PMSan Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District), CA
$5001One-way
2 transfers
undefined · undefined · undefined+FlixBus10:00AM58h10
Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL06:10PMSan Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), CA
$5141One-way
4 transfers
undefined · undefined · undefined+FlixBus10:00AM58h45
Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL06:45PMSan Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center
$5621One-way
4 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA
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 flight with prices starting from €59. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 4h 54m. 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 flight costs an average of €59, and a train costs an average of €161.
Distance: 1729 miles (2784 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight |
|---|---|---|
€259 Average price | €434 Average price | €241 Average price Cheapest |
48h 18m Average total duration 47h 48m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 50h 19m Average total duration 49h 49m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 54m Average total duration Fastest 4h 54m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
2.8 - 7.0kg CO2 emissions | 0.8 - 2.5kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 8.4 - 16.7kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular bus company |  Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 12:15AM | Arrival Time 10:05AM | Duration 59h50 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $446 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 10:00AM | Arrival Time 10:15PM | Duration 62h15 | Departure days Mon, Sun | Cheapest price $464 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 12:01PM | Arrival Time 05:50PM | Duration 55h49 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $417 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 04:30PM | Arrival Time 10:15PM | Duration 55h45 | Departure days Mon, Sun | Cheapest price $362 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 11:10PM | Arrival Time 10:15PM | Duration 73h05 | Departure days Mon, Sun | Cheapest price $352 |
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, Sunday, February 22. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at 6:12 AM
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FlixBus+undefined · undefined · undefined | 6:15 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 59h50 | 6:05 PM San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District), CA | 4 transfers | ||
| undefined · undefined · undefined+FlixBus | 4:00 PM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 62h15 | 6:15 AM San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District), CA | 3 transfers | ||
| undefined · undefined · undefined · undefined | 4:00 PM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 58h20 | 2:20 AM San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center | 3 transfers | ||
| undefined · undefined · undefined · undefined | 4:00 PM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 57h45 | 1:45 AM San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), CA | 3 transfers | ||
| undefined · undefined · undefined+FlixBus | 4:00 PM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 58h10 | 2:10 AM San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), CA | 4 transfers | ||
| undefined · undefined · undefined+FlixBus | 6:01 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 55h49 | 1:50 AM San Diego, Rail Ct / E San Ysidro Blvd (McDonald`s), CA | 4 transfers | ||
| FlixBus+undefined · undefined | 10:30 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 51h50 | 2:20 AM San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center | 2 transfers | ||
| FlixBus++FlixBus | 10:30 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 55h45 | 6:15 AM San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District), CA | 2 transfers | ||
| FlixBus+undefined · undefined | 10:30 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 51h15 | 1:45 AM San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), CA | 2 transfers | ||
| FlixBus++FlixBus · FlixBus | 10:30 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 51h40 | 2:10 AM San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), CA | 3 transfers | ||
| undefined · undefined · undefined · undefined | 5:10 AM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 63h10 | 8:20 PM San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center | 5 transfers | ||
| undefined · undefined · undefined+FlixBus | 5:10 AM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 73h05 | 6:15 AM San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District), CA | 3 transfers | ||
| undefined · undefined · undefined · undefined | 5:10 AM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 62h35 | 7:45 PM San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), CA | 5 transfers | ||
| 5:10 AM Chicago, IL | 73h05 | 6:15 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 Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA by train, bus, or flight
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.
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Mar 01
Mar 01
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.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA
USAUSA
Buses from Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA run on average 15 times per day, taking around 47h 48m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $110 (€88) but you can travel from only $74 (€59) 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 51h 15m.
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 $74 (€59)
Distance 1729 miles (2784 km) |
Average bus duration 47h 48m |
Cheapest ticket price $110 (€88) |
Buses per day 15 |
Fastest bus 51h 15m |
First bus 00:15 |
Last bus 23:10 |
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 $74 (€59)
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 $74 (€59). 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
51h 15m
Cheapest Price
$110 (€88)
Greyhound frequency
16 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.
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.
Cheap bus tickets from Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA can start from as little as $110 (€88) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA is $325 (€259) ; 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 51h 15m 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 15 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.
A trip to San Diego, CA from Chicago, IL is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 51h 15m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA is January.
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, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA:
- Greyhound
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA for bus company Greyhound.
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 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.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA
Chicago
San Diego
The major bus station for departures in Chicago is Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak). Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak) for your trip from Chicago to San Diego.
Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak)
information
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
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 Chicago.
San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park)
information
San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District)
information
San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center
information
Most popular bus connections from Chicago, IL
More options for your journey from Chicago, IL 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 Chicago, IL
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