- 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 Chico, CA to San Francisco, CA
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 01
Cheapest price on Sep 01
$47
Average ticket price on Sep 01
$56
Fastest journey on Sep 01
4 h 30 m
Average journey duration on Sep 01
5 h 1 m
Buses on Sep 01
4
Distance
223 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Chico, CA 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 Chico, CA to San Francisco, CA will cost around $56 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $47.
Fast buses
On Tue, Sep 01, we found 4 buses from Chico, CA to San Francisco, CA, including 4 direct services.
On Tue, Sep 01 the direct buses cover the 223 km distance in an average of 5 h 1 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 4 h 30 m .
On Tue, Sep 01 the slowest buses will take 6 h and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
9:00 PM5h05Chico, CA2:05 AMSan Francisco, CA$471One-way0 transfers
10:45 PM4h30Chico, CA3:15 AMSan Francisco, CA$561One-way0 transfers- 9:45 PM4h30Chico, CA2:15 AMSan Francisco, CA$571One-way0 transfers
- 1:25 PM6h00Chico, CA7:25 PMSan Francisco, CA$661One-way0 transfers
- 10:45 PM4h30Chico, CA3:15 AMSan Francisco, CA$561One-way0 transfers
- 9:45 PM4h30Chico, CA2:15 AMSan Francisco, CA$571One-way0 transfers
- 9:00 PM5h05Chico, CA2:05 AMSan Francisco, CA$471One-way0 transfers
- 1:25 PM6h00Chico, CA7:25 PMSan Francisco, CA$661One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Chico, CA to San Francisco, CA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Chico, CA to San Francisco, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of $48 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 4h 41m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $48, while a bus costs an average of $75.
Distance: 138 miles (223 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$75 Average price | $48 Average price Cheapest | $41 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 50m Average total duration 4h 20m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 41m Average total duration Fastest 4h 11m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 1m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular bus company | Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Chico, CA to San Francisco, CA is a train with an average price of $48.
This is compared to other travel options from Chico, CA to San Francisco, CA:
A train is $27 less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Chico, CA to San Francisco, CA costing on average $75.
The fastest way to travel from Chico, CA to San Francisco, CA is by train with an average journey time of 4h 11m.
Other travel options to San Francisco, CA take longer:
Bus takes on average 4h 20m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Chico, CA and San Francisco, CA including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Chico, CA 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.
Chico, CA to San Francisco, CA Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 06:10AM | Arrival Time 12:35PM | Duration 6h25 | Departure days Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $49 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 08:25AM | Arrival Time 01:05PM | Duration 4h40 | Departure days Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $60 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 11:55AM | Arrival Time 04:35PM | Duration 4h40 | Departure days Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $60 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 01:25PM | Arrival Time 07:25PM | Duration 6h00 | Departure days Tue, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $54 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 02:45PM | Arrival Time 07:15PM | Duration 4h30 | Departure days Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $60 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 03:25PM | Arrival Time 08:05PM | Duration 28h40 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $57 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 03:35PM | Arrival Time 11:20PM | Duration 7h45 | Departure days Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $60 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 08:00PM | Arrival Time 01:05AM | Duration 5h05 | Departure days Mon, Wed | Cheapest price $46 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 09:00PM | Arrival Time 02:05AM | Duration 5h05 | Departure days Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $47 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 09:45PM | Arrival Time 02:15AM | Duration 4h30 | Departure days Mon, Tue | Cheapest price $57 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 10:45PM | Arrival Time 03:15AM | Duration 4h30 | Departure days Mon, Tue | Cheapest price $56 |
Live departures
Chico, CA to San Francisco, CA bus times
The table below shows live departures for Chico, CA to San Francisco, CA buses for today, Monday, August 31. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:00 PM Chico, CA | 5h05 | 1:05 AM San Francisco, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:45 PM Chico, CA | 4h30 | 2:15 AM San Francisco, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 10:45 PM Chico, CA | 4h30 | 3:15 AM San Francisco, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Tuesday, September 1 | |||||
| 1:25 PM Chico, CA | 6h00 | 7:25 PM San Francisco, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Chico, CA to San Francisco, CA by bus or train
Compare bus and train 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.
Tue
Sep 01
Sep 01
Wed
Sep 02
Sep 02
Thu
Sep 03
Sep 03
Fri
Sep 04
Sep 04
Sat
Sep 05
Sep 05
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Sep 06
Mon
Sep 07
Sep 07
Why should you book Chico, CA to San Francisco, CA buses with Omio?
Greyhound as well as FlixBus offer buses services from Chico, CA to San Francisco, CA.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Chico, CA 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 Chico, CA 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 and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Chico, CA 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 Chico, CA to San Francisco, CA.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Chico, CA to San Francisco, CA.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Chico, CA to San Francisco, CA
USAUSA
Buses from Chico, CA to San Francisco, CA run on average 2 times per day, taking around 4h 20m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $41 but you can travel from only $36 by train.
The earliest bus runs at 04:12, the last at 20:50. The fastest bus covers the 138 miles (223 km) distance in 3h 50m.
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
Train from $36
Distance 138 miles (223 km) |
Average bus duration 4h 20m |
Cheapest ticket price $41 |
Buses per day 2 |
Fastest bus 3h 50m |
First bus 4:12 AM |
Last bus 8:50 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 56 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
Train from $36
Bus providers: Greyhound from Chico, CA to San Francisco, CAYou can travel by bus between Chico, CA to San Francisco, CA with Greyhound for as low as $41. 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
3h 50m
Cheapest Greyhound Price
$41
Greyhound frequency
2 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, 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.
FAQs: Bus from Chico, CA to San Francisco, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chico, CA 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 Chico, CA to San Francisco, CA can start from as little as $41 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Chico, CA to San Francisco, CA is $75 ; 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 Chico, CA to San Francisco, CA is 3h 50m to travel the 138 miles (223 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 Chico, CA to San Francisco, CA leaves at 4:12 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Chico, CA to San Francisco, CA leaves at 8:50 PM.
There are 2 buses a day from Chico, CA 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 Chico, CA 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 Chico, CA and San Francisco, CA and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from Chico, CA , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Chico, Orange St (Bus Station), CA . When arriving in San Francisco, CA , you can end your journey in bus stations like San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29, San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street, CA, Oakland, West Oakland BART Station, CA .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Chico, Orange St (Bus Station), CA, which is located around away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29, located 2 away from the city centre.
A trip to San Francisco, CA from Chico, CA is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 3h 50m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Chico, CA to San Francisco, CA is January.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Chico, CA and San Francisco, CA including taking a bus and train.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Chico, CA to San Francisco, CA for bus company Greyhound, FlixBus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Chico, CA to San Francisco, CA:
- Greyhound
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
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 Chico, CA 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 Chico, CA to San Francisco, CA.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Chico, CA 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 Chico, CA 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 Chico, CA 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 Chico, CA to San Francisco, CA with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Chico, CA to San Francisco, CA with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Chico, CA to San Francisco, CA with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Since neither Chico, CA 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 Chico, CA 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 Chico, CA to San Francisco, CA
Most Chico, CA to San Francisco, CA buses use the Chico, Orange St (Bus Station) to San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29 station pair, with some services arriving at San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street. Use this guide to compare Chico, CA 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 Chico
Arrival bus stations in San Francisco
Which Chico, CA station do buses to San Francisco, CA leave from?
Buses from Chico, CA to San Francisco, CA leave from Chico, Orange St (Bus Station). The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Chico, CA city centre at Chico Bus Station, Chico, CA 95928, USA.
Chico, Orange St (Bus Station)Chico Bus Station, Chico, CA 95928, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Chico, Orange St (Bus Station) from Chico city centre
TRUE
Chico, Orange St (Bus Station) bus station facilities and services
Chico, Orange St (Bus 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 Chico, Orange St (Bus Station). ATMs are available at Chico, Orange St (Bus Station).
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Chico, Orange St (Bus Station).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Chico, Orange St (Bus Station): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Chico, Orange St (Bus Station): Basic accessibility features present.
Which San Francisco, CA station do buses from Chico, CA arrive at?
Buses from Chico, CA to San Francisco, CA most often arrive at San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29. Some services arrive at San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your San Francisco, CA arrival station.
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 · $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
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.
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
Most popular bus connections from Chico, CA
More options for your journey from Chico, CA 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 Chico, CA
Most popular bus connections to San Francisco, CA
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