- Must visit
San Francisco Museum of Modern Art
Major modern and contemporary art museum with an internationally important collection and frequent blockbuster exhibitions.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest buses from Columbus, OH to San Francisco, CA
Showing times and prices for Jul 12
Cheapest price
$275
Average price
$388
Fastest journey
2 d 15 h 55 m
Average duration
2 d 18 h 45 m
Buses per day
2
Distance
3394 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Columbus, OH 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 Columbus, OH to San Francisco, CA will cost around $388 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $275.
Fast buses
Of the 2 buses that leave Columbus, OH for San Francisco, CA on Sun, Jul 12, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sun, Jul 12 the direct buses cover the 3394 km distance in an average of 2 d 18 h 45 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 2 d 15 h 55 m .
On Sun, Jul 12 the slowest buses will take 2 d 21 h 35 m 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.
3:30 AM63h55Columbus, OH7:25 PMSan Francisco, CA$2751One-way0 transfers- 4:30 AM69h35Columbus, OH2:05 AMSan Francisco, CA$5011One-way0 transfers
- 3:30 AM63h55Columbus, OH7:25 PMSan Francisco, CA$2751One-way0 transfers
- 4:30 AM69h35Columbus, OH2:05 AMSan Francisco, CA$5011One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and flight for Columbus, OH to San Francisco, CA
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Columbus, OH to San Francisco, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the flight with prices starting from $204. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 8h 55m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a flight costs an average of $204, and a bus costs an average of $178.
Distance: 2108 miles (3394 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$389 Average price | $377 Average price Cheapest | $487 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
57h 20m Average total duration 56h 50m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 11h 55m Average total duration Fastest 8h 55m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 35h 40m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Columbus, OH to San Francisco, CA is a flight with an average price of $377 (€309).
This is compared to other travel options from Columbus, OH to San Francisco, CA:
A flight is $12 (€10) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Columbus, OH to San Francisco, CA costing on average $389 (€319).
The fastest way to travel from Columbus, OH to San Francisco, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 8h 55m.
Other travel options to San Francisco, CA take longer:
Bus takes on average 56h 50m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Columbus, OH and San Francisco, CA including taking a bus and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Columbus, OH 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.
Columbus, OH to San Francisco, CA Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 03:30AM | Arrival Time 07:25PM | Duration 63h55 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $275 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 03:50AM | Arrival Time 02:15PM | Duration 58h25 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $599 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 04:30AM | Arrival Time 02:05AM | Duration 69h35 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $501 |
Operator Greyhound USA | Departure Time 04:50AM | Arrival Time 12:25PM | Duration 55h35 | Departure days Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $520 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 04:55AM | Arrival Time 12:35PM | Duration 58h40 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $180 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 11:00AM | Arrival Time 07:10AM | Duration 71h10 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $247 |
Operator Greyhound USA | Departure Time 02:30PM | Arrival Time 07:15AM | Duration 64h45 | Departure days Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $496 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 05:20PM | Arrival Time 12:35PM | Duration 70h15 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $187 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 11:50PM | Arrival Time 07:10AM | Duration 58h20 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $217 |
Live departures
Columbus, OH to San Francisco, CA bus times
The table below shows live departures for Columbus, OH to San Francisco, CA buses for tomorrow, Saturday, July 11. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3:30 AM Columbus, OH | 63h55 | 7:25 PM San Francisco, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 4:30 AM Columbus, OH | 69h35 | 2:05 AM 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 Columbus, OH to San Francisco, CA by bus or flight
Compare 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.
Sat
Jul 11
Jul 11
Sun
Jul 12
Jul 12
Mon
Jul 13
Jul 13
Tue
Jul 14
Jul 14
Wed
Jul 15
Jul 15
Thu
Jul 16
Jul 16
Fri
Jul 17
Jul 17
Why should you book Columbus, OH to San Francisco, CA buses with Omio?
Greyhound operates all buses services from Columbus, OH to San Francisco, CA.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Columbus, OH 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 and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Columbus, OH to San Francisco, CA.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Columbus, OH to San Francisco, CA.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Columbus, OH to San Francisco, CA
USAUSA
Buses from Columbus, OH to San Francisco, CA run on average 7 times per day, taking around 56h 50m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $178 (€146) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 04:50, the last at 23:50. The fastest bus covers the 2108 miles (3394 km) distance in 58h 25m.
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
Distance 2108 miles (3394 km) |
Average bus duration 56h 50m |
Cheapest ticket price $178 (€146) |
Buses per day 7 |
Fastest bus 58h 25m |
First bus 4:50 AM |
Last bus 11:50 PM |
Cheapest Month Apr |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
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
Bus providers: Greyhound from Columbus, OH to San Francisco, CAYou can travel by bus between Columbus, OH to San Francisco, CA with Greyhound for as low as $178 (€146). 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
58h 25m
Cheapest Price
$178 (€146)
Greyhound frequency
7 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
Hands-on science and art museum on the Embarcadero, especially popular for interactive exhibits and bay views.
- Recommended
de Young Museum
Leading fine arts museum in Golden Gate Park, known for American art, textiles, and its observation tower.
- Must visit
Fisherman's Wharf
Busy waterfront district known for classic San Francisco atmosphere, bay views, piers, and easy access to major sights.
- Must visit
Lombard Street
Famous crooked block with steep curves, manicured gardens, and one of the city's most photographed street scenes.
- Must visit
Golden Gate Park
Huge urban park with gardens, lakes, museums, and broad walking and cycling routes across the western city.
- Gluten-free
Cioppino
A tomato-based seafood stew created by Italian American fishermen in San Francisco, typically filled with crab, clams, mussels, shrimp, and fish.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Sourdough Bread
San Francisco’s famous tangy sourdough loaf, shaped by the city’s historic wild yeast culture and long baking tradition.
Mission-Style Burrito
A large foil-wrapped burrito associated with the Mission District, usually packed with rice, beans, meat, salsa, and extras.
House of Prime Rib
Classic San Francisco institution serving carved prime rib with old-fashioned hospitality and a lively, upscale supper-club feel.
La Taqueria
Iconic Mission District taqueria celebrated for Mission-style burritos and tacos with a simple, always-busy casual atmosphere.
Swan Oyster Depot
Historic seafood counter famous for ultra-fresh oysters, crab, and cioppino ingredients in a classic old-school San Francisco setting.
United States Dollar
Prices are high for hotels, dining, parking, and taxes. Budget options exist, but overall costs rank among the highest in the US.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 12-20 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- USD 25-45 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 90+ per person before drinks and tip.
- Coffee
- USD 4-7 for a regular coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% in restaurants; 20%+ for great service. Bars: USD 1-2 per drink. Taxis/rideshares: 10-15% or round up. Hotels: USD 2-5 for porters, USD 3-5 daily for housekeeping.
FAQs: Bus from Columbus, OH to San Francisco, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Columbus, OH 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 Columbus, OH to San Francisco, CA can start from as little as $178 (€146) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Columbus, OH to San Francisco, CA is $389 (€319) ; 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 Columbus, OH to San Francisco, CA is 58h 25m to travel the 2108 miles (3394 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 Columbus, OH to San Francisco, CA leaves at 4:50 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Columbus, OH to San Francisco, CA leaves at 11:50 PM.
There are 7 buses a day from Columbus, OH to San Francisco, CA which require at least one change with Greyhound. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Columbus, OH 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 Columbus, OH and San Francisco, CA and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to San Francisco, CA from Columbus, OH is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 58h 25m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Columbus, OH to San Francisco, CA is April.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Columbus, OH and San Francisco, CA including taking a bus and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Columbus, OH to San Francisco, CA:
- Greyhound
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Columbus, OH to San Francisco, CA for bus company Greyhound.
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 Columbus, OH 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 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 Columbus, OH to San Francisco, CA.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Columbus, OH 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 Columbus, OH to San Francisco, CA:
- Greyhound
- $15 per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Columbus, OH to San Francisco, CA.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Columbus, OH to San Francisco, CA with the following bus company: Greyhound
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Columbus, OH to San Francisco, CA with the following bus company: Greyhound.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Columbus, OH to San Francisco, CA with the following bus company: Greyhound.
Since neither Columbus, OH 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 bus as it is the most popular way to get from Columbus, OH 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 Columbus, OH to San Francisco, CA
Most Columbus, OH to San Francisco, CA buses use the Columbus, E Town 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 Columbus, OH 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 Columbus
Arrival bus stations in San Francisco
Columbus, E Town St (Bus Station)
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
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 Columbus, OH
More options for your journey from Columbus, OH 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 Columbus, OH
Most popular bus connections to San Francisco, CA
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
