- 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 Iowa City, IA to San Francisco, CA
Showing times and prices for Jul 15
Cheapest price
$525
Average price
$525
Fastest journey
1 d 20 h
Average duration
1 d 20 h
Buses per day
1
Distance
2662 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Iowa City, IA 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 Iowa City, IA to San Francisco, CA will cost around $525 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $525.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Iowa City, IA to San Francisco, CA without transferring at least 2 times.
4:25 PM44h00Iowa City, IA12:25 PMSan Francisco, CA$5251One-way2 transfers
- 4:25 PM44h00Iowa City, IA12:25 PMSan Francisco, CA$5251One-way2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus for Iowa City, IA to San Francisco, CA
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Iowa City, IA to San Francisco, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $525. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 44h 0m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $525, and a bus costs an average of $525.
Distance: 1654 miles (2662 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Driving |
|---|---|
$525 Average price Cheapest | $383 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
44h 30m Average total duration Fastest 44h 0m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 27h 51m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Iowa City, IA to San Francisco, CA is a bus with an average price of $525 (€433).
The fastest way to travel from Iowa City, IA to San Francisco, CA is by bus with an average journey time of 44h 0m.
Yes, you can take a bus between Iowa City, IA and San Francisco, CA.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Iowa City, IA 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.
Iowa City, IA to San Francisco, CA Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound USA | Departure Time 04:25PM | Arrival Time 12:25PM | Duration 44h00 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $525 |
Live departures
Iowa City, IA to San Francisco, CA bus times
The table below shows live departures for Iowa City, IA to San Francisco, CA buses for today, Tuesday, July 14. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4:25 PM Iowa City, IA | 44h00 | 12:25 PM San Francisco, CA | 2 transfers | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Iowa City, IA to San Francisco, CA by bus
Compare bus 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 Iowa City, IA to San Francisco, CA buses with Omio?
Greyhound operates all buses services from Iowa City, IA to San Francisco, CA.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Iowa City, IA 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.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Iowa City, IA to San Francisco, CA
USAUSA
Buses from Iowa City, IA to San Francisco, CA run on average 2 times per day, taking around 44h 0m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $525 (€433) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 08:20, the last at 22:40. The fastest bus covers the 1654 miles (2662 km) distance in 44h 0m.
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 1654 miles (2662 km) |
Average bus duration 44h 0m |
Cheapest ticket price $525 (€433) |
Buses per day 2 |
Fastest bus 44h 0m |
First bus 8:20 AM |
Last bus 10:40 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
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 Iowa City, IA to San Francisco, CAYou can travel by bus between Iowa City, IA to San Francisco, CA with Greyhound for as low as $525 (€433). 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
44h 0m
Cheapest Price
$525 (€433)
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
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
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 Iowa City, IA to San Francisco, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Iowa City, IA 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 Iowa City, IA to San Francisco, CA can start from as little as $525 (€433) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Iowa City, IA to San Francisco, CA is $525 (€433) ; 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 Iowa City, IA to San Francisco, CA is 44h 0m to travel the 1654 miles (2662 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 Iowa City, IA to San Francisco, CA leaves at 8:20 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Iowa City, IA to San Francisco, CA leaves at 10:40 PM.
There are 2 buses a day from Iowa City, IA 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 Iowa City, IA 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 Iowa City, IA and San Francisco, CA and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to San Francisco, CA from Iowa City, IA is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 44h 0m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Iowa City, IA to San Francisco, CA is September.
Yes, you can take a bus between Iowa City, IA and San Francisco, CA.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Iowa City, IA to San Francisco, CA:
- Greyhound
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Iowa City, IA 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 Iowa City, IA 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 Iowa City, IA to San Francisco, CA.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Iowa City, IA 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 Iowa City, IA to San Francisco, CA:
- Greyhound
- $15 per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Iowa City, IA to San Francisco, CA.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Iowa City, IA to San Francisco, CA with the following bus company: Greyhound
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Iowa City, IA to San Francisco, CA with the following bus company: Greyhound.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Iowa City, IA to San Francisco, CA with the following bus company: Greyhound.
Since neither Iowa City, IA 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 Iowa City, IA 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 Iowa City, IA to San Francisco, CA
Most Iowa City, IA to San Francisco, CA buses use the Iowa City, S Riverside Dr (Kum & Go) 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 Iowa City, IA 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 Iowa City
Arrival bus stations in San Francisco
Iowa City, S Riverside Dr (Kum & Go)
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 Iowa City, IA
More options for your journey from Iowa City, IA 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 Iowa City, IA
Most popular bus connections to San Francisco, CA
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