- 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 Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 01
- Cheapest price on Nov 01
- $509
- Average ticket price on Nov 01
- $519
- Fastest journey on Nov 01
- 2 d 2 h 10 m
- Average journey duration on Nov 01
- 2 d 8 h 32 m
- Buses on Nov 01
- 5
- Distance
- 2983 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Chicago, IL 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 Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA will cost around $519 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $509.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA without transferring at least 2 times.
· · 12:25 PM 50h10 Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station 12:35 PM San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29 $509 1 One-way 2 transfers- · · +
FlixBus12:25 PM 55h30 Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station 5:55 PM San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street, CA $513 1 One-way 3 transfers - · · ·
10:50 PM 59h40 Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station 8:30 AM San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street, CA $519 1 One-way 4 transfers - · · ·
11:10 PM 59h20 Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL 8:30 AM San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street, CA $525 1 One-way 4 transfers - · · ·
11:10 PM 58h00 Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL 7:10 AM San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29 $526 1 One-way 4 transfers
- · ·
12:25 PM 50h10 Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station 12:35 PM San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29 $509 1 One-way 2 transfers - · · +FlixBus
12:25 PM 55h30 Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station 5:55 PM San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street, CA $513 1 One-way 3 transfers - · · ·
11:10 PM 58h00 Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL 7:10 AM San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29 $526 1 One-way 4 transfers - · · ·
11:10 PM 59h20 Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL 8:30 AM San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street, CA $525 1 One-way 4 transfers - · · ·
10:50 PM 59h40 Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station 8:30 AM San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street, CA $519 1 One-way 4 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA
USAUSA
Buses from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA run on average 4 times per day, taking around 53h 26m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $132 (€111) but you can travel from only $76 (€64) by flight.
The earliest bus runs at 00:15, the last at 23:50. The fastest bus covers the 1853 miles (2983 km) distance in 48h 4m.
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 $76 (€64)
Distance 1853 miles (2983 km) |
Average bus duration 53h 26m |
Cheapest ticket price $132 (€111) |
Buses per day 4 |
Fastest bus 48h 4m |
First bus 12:15 AM |
Last bus 11:50 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 28 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 $76 (€64)
Frequently asked questions about your Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA.
Cheap bus tickets from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA can start from as little as $132 (€111) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA is $300 (€251) ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The earliest bus from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA leaves at 12:15 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA leaves at 11:50 PM.
There are 4 buses a day from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA which require at least one change with Greyhound. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 12:15AM | Arrival Time 08:30AM | Duration 59h15 | Departure days Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $289 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 10:15AM | Arrival Time 07:10AM | Duration 71h55 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $538 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 12:25PM | Arrival Time 12:35PM | Duration 50h10 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $251 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 10:50PM | Arrival Time 08:30AM | Duration 59h40 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $249 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 11:10PM | Arrival Time 08:30AM | Duration 59h20 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $245 |
Live departures
Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA bus times
The table below shows live departures for Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA buses for today, Saturday, October 31. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| · · · | 10:15 AM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 71h55 | 7:10 AM San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29 | 3 transfers | |
| · · · | 10:15 AM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 73h15 | 8:30 AM San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street, CA | 4 transfers | |
| · · | 12:25 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 51h10 | 12:35 PM San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29 | 2 transfers | |
| · · +FlixBus | 12:25 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 56h30 | 5:55 PM San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street, CA | 3 transfers | |
| +FlixBus++FlixBus | 11:10 PM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 69h45 | 5:55 PM San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street, CA | 3 transfers | |
| · · · | 11:10 PM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 64h25 | 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
Why should you book Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA buses with Omio?
Greyhound operates all buses services from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, 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 bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA.
Bus providers: Greyhound from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CAYou can travel by bus between Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA with Greyhound for as low as $76 (€64). 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
48h 4m
Cheapest Greyhound Price
$132 (€111)
Greyhound frequency
4 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.
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Chicago, IL and San Francisco, CA
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
When taking a bus from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA, you can count on Greyhound for the best way to get you to San Francisco, CA. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Chicago, IL and San Francisco, CA and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA for bus company Greyhound.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA:
- Greyhound
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Chicago, IL 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.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company {providersWithBike}.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Chicago, IL 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).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA:
- Greyhound
- $15 per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA with the following bus company: Greyhound
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA with the following bus company: Greyhound.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA with the following bus company: Greyhound.
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.
Plan your visit to San Francisco, CA
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in San Francisco, CA.
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.
FAQs: Bus from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chicago, IL 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.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Chicago, IL and San Francisco, CA including taking a bus, train, and flight.
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.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA
Most Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA buses use the Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station to San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street station pair, with some services arriving at San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29. Use this guide to compare Chicago, IL 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 Chicago
Arrival bus stations in San Francisco
Which Chicago, IL station do buses to San Francisco, CA leave from?
Buses from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA leave from Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station. The station is 1 miles (3 km) from Chicago, IL city centre at 630 W Harrison St, Chicago, IL 60607, USA.
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station630 W Harrison St, Chicago, IL 60607, USA
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, Union Station (Amtrak)Chicago Union Station, 225 S Canal St, Chicago, IL 60606, USA
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, Cumberland Blue Line StationCumberland Blue Line Station, Chicago, IL 60631, USA
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 · $3
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.
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 · $3 · every ~2 min
TramN · 23m · $3 · every ~11 min
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 · $3
14, 14R · 13m · $3 · every ~30 min
101, 120 · 14m · $6 · every ~9 min
7 · 21m · $3 · every ~10 min
SubwayYellow-N, Green-N, Red-N, Blue-N · 10m · $3 · 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.
Most popular bus connections from Chicago, IL
More options for your journey from Chicago, IL 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 Chicago, IL
Most popular bus connections to San Francisco, CA
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