- Must visit
San Francisco Museum of Modern Art
Major contemporary art museum with an outstanding modern and contemporary collection, large-scale installations, and strong photography holdings.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA
Showing times and prices for Jun 19
Cheapest price
$135
Average price
$172
Fastest journey
2 d 2 h 10 m
Average duration
2 d 8 h 4 m
Buses per day
8
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 $172 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $135.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA without transferring at least 2 times.
· · 12:25 PM50h10Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station12:35 PMSan Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29$1351One-way2 transfers- · · +
FlixBus12:25 PM55h25Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station5:50 PMSan Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street, CA$1361One-way3 transfers - FlixBus+ · · 5:15 PM63h55Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station7:10 AMSan Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29$1691One-way3 transfers
- FlixBus+ · · 12:15 AM56h55Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station7:10 AMSan Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29$1841One-way3 transfers
- · · · 11:10 PM58h00Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL7:10 AMSan Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29$1861One-way4 transfers
- · · 12:25 PM50h10Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station12:35 PMSan Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29$1351One-way2 transfers
- · · +FlixBus12:25 PM55h25Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station5:50 PMSan Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street, CA$1361One-way3 transfers
- FlixBus+ · · 12:15 AM56h55Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station7:10 AMSan Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29$1841One-way3 transfers
- · · · 11:10 PM58h00Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL7:10 AMSan Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29$1861One-way4 transfers
- FlixBus+ · · 12:15 AM59h50Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station10:05 AMSan Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street, CA$1871One-way4 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the flight with prices starting from $107. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 14h 53m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.9 - 2.7kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a flight costs an average of $107, and a train costs an average of $239.
Distance: 1853 miles (2983 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$446 Average price | $521 Average price | $282 Average price Cheapest | $448 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
54h 11m Average total duration 53h 41m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 54h 27m Average total duration 53h 57m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 17h 53m Average total duration Fastest 14h 53m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 31h 15m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
3.0 - 7.5kg CO2 emissions | 0.9 - 2.7kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 8.9 - 17.9kg 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.
The cheapest way to travel from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA is a flight with an average price of $282 (€230).
This is compared to other travel options from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA:
A flight is $164 (€134) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA costing on average $446 (€364).
A flight is $239 (€196) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA costing on average $521 (€426).
The fastest way to travel from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 14h 53m.
Other travel options to San Francisco, CA take longer:
Bus takes on average 53h 41m.
Train takes on average 53h 57m.
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.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, 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.
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 10:05AM | Duration 59h50 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $147 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 12:25PM | Arrival Time 12:35PM | Duration 50h10 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $135 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 05:15PM | Arrival Time 11:05AM | Duration 67h50 | Departure days Wed, Fri | Cheapest price $169 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 10:50PM | Arrival Time 10:05AM | Duration 61h15 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $188 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 11:10PM | Arrival Time 07:10AM | Duration 58h00 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $146 |
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, Thursday, June 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FlixBus+ · · | 12:15 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 59h50 | 10:05 AM San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street, CA | 4 transfers | |
| · · | 12:25 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 50h10 | 12:35 PM San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29 | 2 transfers | |
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 Francisco, CA by bus, train, or flight
Compare bus, train, 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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Why should you book Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA buses with Omio?
Greyhound as well as FlixBus offer 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?
- 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 Chicago, IL to San Francisco, 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 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 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 Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA.
- 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.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA
USAUSA
Buses from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA run on average 8 times per day, taking around 53h 41m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $174 (€142) but you can travel from only $107 (€88) 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 49h 24m.
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 $107 (€88)
Distance 1853 miles (2983 km) |
Average bus duration 53h 41m |
Cheapest ticket price $174 (€142) |
Buses per day 8 |
Fastest bus 49h 24m |
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 Wed |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 7 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 $107 (€88)
Bus providers: Greyhound, FlixBus from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CAYou can travel by bus between Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA with Greyhound, FlixBus for as low as $107 (€88). 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
58h 45m
Cheapest Price
$157 (€128)
FlixBus frequency
6 a day
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
49h 24m
Cheapest Price
$174 (€142)
Greyhound frequency
5 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 Francisco
Things to do in San Francisco
Discover the best of San Francisco — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect San Francisco trip today.
- Must visit
Exploratorium
Interactive science and art museum on the Embarcadero, especially popular for hands-on exhibits and bayfront setting.
- Recommended
de Young Museum
Fine arts museum in Golden Gate Park known for American art, textiles, rotating exhibitions, and its panoramic observation tower.
- Must visit
Lombard Street
The famously crooked block lined with flowers and city views, one of San Francisco's most photographed streets.
- Must visit
Golden Gate Park
Massive urban park with gardens, lakes, museums, and broad walking space that rewards both short visits and full-day exploration.
- Must visit
Twin Peaks
High viewpoint with sweeping panoramic views over the city and bay, especially popular at sunset and on clear mornings.
- Gluten-free
Cioppino
A tomato-based seafood stew created by Italian fishermen in San Francisco, usually filled with crab, clams, mussels, shrimp, and fish. It is one of the city’s signature dishes.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Sourdough Bread
San Francisco sourdough is famous for its tangy flavor and chewy crust, shaped by the city’s historic baking culture and local wild yeast tradition.
Mission-Style Burrito
A large burrito associated with the Mission District, typically packed with rice, beans, meat, salsa, and extras. It is a defining San Francisco street food.
Sotto Mare
North Beach favorite specializing in cioppino and classic seafood in a lively, casual setting.
La Taqueria
Iconic Mission District taqueria celebrated for Mission-style burritos and tacos with a no-frills local vibe.
The Buena Vista
Classic waterfront cafe famous for Irish Coffee, hearty breakfasts, and historic cable-car-adjacent charm.
United States Dollar
One of the priciest U.S. cities. Hotels, dining, parking, and taxes add up quickly, though transit and casual food can help control costs.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 12-20 for fast casual or food trucks.
- Mid-range
- USD 25-45 per person at a standard restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 90+ per person before drinks and tax.
- Coffee
- USD 4-7 for drip coffee or a latte.
Tipping culture
Restaurants: 18-22% is standard before or after tax depending on the screen shown. Bars: USD 1-2 per drink. Taxis/rideshare: 10-15% or round up. Hotel staff: USD 2-5 for porters, a few USD nightly for housekeeping.
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.
Cheap bus tickets from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA can start from as little as $174 (€142) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA is $446 (€364) ; 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 Francisco, CA is 49h 24m to travel the 1853 miles (2983 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 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 8 buses a day from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA which require at least one change with Greyhound, FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA, you can count on Greyhound, FlixBus 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.
A trip to San Francisco, CA from Chicago, IL is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 49h 24m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA is July.
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.
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.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA for bus company Greyhound, FlixBus.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in San Francisco, CA are:
- Golden Gate Bridge, an iconic suspension bridge offering panoramic views of the San Francisco Bay
- Alcatraz Island, a historic site featuring the infamous former prison and informative audio tours
- Fisherman's Wharf, a bustling waterfront area known for seafood, shops, and sea lions
- Golden Gate Park, a large urban park with gardens, museums, and recreational activities
- Chinatown, the oldest and one of the largest Chinatowns in North America, offering vibrant culture and cuisine.
The best things to do in San Francisco, CA include:
- Ride a cable car through the steep streets of San Francisco for a classic city experience
- Explore the vibrant murals and street art in the Mission District
- Visit the Exploratorium, an interactive science museum perfect for all ages
- Take a scenic walk along the Embarcadero, offering views of the Bay Bridge and access to the Ferry Building Marketplace
- Enjoy a wine tasting tour in nearby Napa Valley, a short drive from the city.
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.
- 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 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).
- 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 Chicago, IL to San Francisco, 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 Chicago, IL to San Francisco, 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 Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Since neither Chicago, IL nor San Francisco, 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 Chicago, IL to San Francisco, 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 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.
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
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
City-centre transport
Getting to Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station from Chicago city centre
Bus7 · 8m · $4 · every ~6 min
Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak)
City-centre transport
Getting to Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak) from Chicago city centre
Bus28, 151 · 7m · $4 · every ~13 min
Chicago, 95th Red Line Station
City-centre transport
Getting to Chicago, 95th Red Line Station from Chicago city centre
BusGreyhound US0100 · 20m · $2
29 · 47m · $4 · every ~11 min
29 · 48m · $4 · every ~11 min
SubwayRed Line · 24m · $6 · every ~23 min
Red Line · 25m · $6 · every ~23 min
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 · $2 · every ~2 min
TramN · 23m · $2 · every ~11 min
San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29
City-centre transport
Getting to San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29 from San Francisco city centre
Bus397 · 8m · $2
14, 14R · 13m · $2 · every ~30 min
101, 120 · 14m · $6 · every ~9 min
7 · 21m · $2 · every ~10 min
SubwayYellow-N, Green-N, Red-N, Blue-N · 10m · $2 · every ~27 min
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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