- Must visit
The Tech Interactive
Interactive science center with hands-on exhibits, an IMAX dome theater, and family-friendly displays in the heart of downtown.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Irvine, CA to San Jose, CA
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20
Cheapest price on Sep 20
$92
Average ticket price on Sep 20
$145
Fastest journey on Sep 20
11 h 13 m
Average journey duration on Sep 20
11 h 38 m
Buses on Sep 20
6
Distance
550 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Irvine, CA to San Jose, CA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Irvine, CA to San Jose, CA will cost around $145 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $92.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Irvine, CA to San Jose, CA without transferring at least 2 times.
5811 · 711 · 391111:55 PM11h50Irvine Transportation Center, Irvine, CA11:45 AMSan José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA$921One-way2 transfers- 769 · 5719 · 719 · 41199:52 AM12h13Irvine Transportation Center, Irvine, CA10:05 PMSan José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA$1011One-way3 transfers
- 5811 · 6238 · 53811:55 PM15h02Irvine Transportation Center, Irvine, CA2:57 PMSanta Clara Station, Santa Clara, CA$1491One-way2 transfers
- 761 · 4861 · 1561 · 47615:49 AM11h26Irvine Transportation Center, Irvine, CA5:15 PMSan José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA$1761One-way3 transfers
- 785 · 4885 · 1585 · 47855:52 PM11h13Irvine Transportation Center, Irvine, CA5:05 AMSan José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA$1761One-way3 transfers
- 785 · 4885 · 1585 · 47855:52 PM11h13Irvine Transportation Center, Irvine, CA5:05 AMSan José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA$1761One-way3 transfers
- 761 · 4861 · 1561 · 47615:49 AM11h26Irvine Transportation Center, Irvine, CA5:15 PMSan José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA$1761One-way3 transfers
- 769 · 4869 · 1569 · 47699:52 AM11h28Irvine Transportation Center, Irvine, CA9:20 PMSan José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA$1761One-way3 transfers
- 5811 · 711 · 391111:55 PM11h50Irvine Transportation Center, Irvine, CA11:45 AMSan José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA$921One-way2 transfers
- 769 · 5719 · 719 · 41199:52 AM12h13Irvine Transportation Center, Irvine, CA10:05 PMSan José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA$1011One-way3 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Irvine, CA to San Jose, CA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Irvine, CA to San Jose, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $132 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 7h 48m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.2 - 0.5kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $132, while a flight costs an average of $866.
Distance: 341 miles (550 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$132 Average price Cheapest | $233 Average price | $866 Average price | $79 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
8h 56m Average total duration 8h 26m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 11h 41m Average total duration 11h 11m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 48m Average total duration Fastest 5h 48m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 6h 5m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.5 - 1.4kg CO2 emissions | 0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 1.6 - 3.3kg 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 Irvine, CA to San Jose, CA is a bus with an average price of $132.
This is compared to other travel options from Irvine, CA to San Jose, CA:
A bus is $102 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Irvine, CA to San Jose, CA costing on average $233.
A bus is $734 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Irvine, CA to San Jose, CA costing on average $866.
The fastest way to travel from Irvine, CA to San Jose, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 5h 48m.
Other travel options to San Jose, CA take longer:
Bus takes on average 8h 26m.
Train takes on average 11h 11m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Irvine, CA and San Jose, CA including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Irvine, CA to San Jose, CA among Omio's users.
Take the bus. It's the cheapest way to make this trip, and the price gap is usually bigger than people expect.
Tickets start at around $132 compared to roughly $79 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-52.93. The journey takes 8h 26m versus 6h 5m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can use the time productively rather than spending it behind the wheel. No parking to sort, no fuel stops, and most coaches have Wi-Fi and power outlets.
Driving is worth considering if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), or want the flexibility to stop along the way.
Irvine, CA to San Jose, CA Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 05:49AM | Arrival Time 05:15PM | Duration 11h26 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $176 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 06:55AM | Arrival Time 06:45PM | Duration 11h50 | Departure days Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $88 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 07:40AM | Arrival Time 06:25PM | Duration 10h45 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $89 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 07:55AM | Arrival Time 07:45PM | Duration 11h50 | Departure days Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $90 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 09:52AM | Arrival Time 10:05PM | Duration 12h13 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $101 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 04:52PM | Arrival Time 05:05AM | Duration 12h13 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $101 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 05:52PM | Arrival Time 05:05AM | Duration 11h13 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $176 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 09:25PM | Arrival Time 05:35AM | Duration 8h10 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $102 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 11:55PM | Arrival Time 11:45AM | Duration 11h50 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $92 |
Live departures
Irvine, CA to San Jose, CA bus times
The table below shows live departures for Irvine, CA to San Jose, CA buses for today, Saturday, September 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 769 · 5719 · 719 · 4119 | 9:52 AM Irvine Transportation Center, Irvine, CA | 12h13 | 10:05 PM San José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA | 3 transfers | |
| 769 · 4869 · 1569 · 4769 | 9:52 AM Irvine Transportation Center, Irvine, CA | 11h28 | 9:20 PM San José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA | 3 transfers | |
| 785 · 4885 · 1585 · 4785 | 5:52 PM Irvine Transportation Center, Irvine, CA | 11h13 | 5:05 AM San José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA | 3 transfers | |
| 5811 · 711 · 3911 | 11:55 PM Irvine Transportation Center, Irvine, CA | 11h50 | 11:45 AM San José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA | 2 transfers | |
| Sunday, September 20 | |||||
| 761 · 4861 · 1561 · 4761 | 5:49 AM Irvine Transportation Center, Irvine, CA | 11h26 | 5:15 PM San José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA | 3 transfers | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Irvine, CA to San Jose, CA by train, bus, or flight
Compare train, 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.
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Journey information
Overview: Bus from Irvine, CA to San Jose, CA
USAUSA
Buses from Irvine, CA to San Jose, CA run on average 1 times per day, taking around 8h 26m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $57 if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 00:15, the last at 23:55. The fastest bus covers the 341 miles (550 km) distance in 8h 20m.
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 341 miles (550 km) |
Average bus duration 8h 26m |
Cheapest ticket price $57 |
Buses per day 1 |
Fastest bus 8h 20m |
First bus 12:15 AM |
Last bus 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Wed |
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
Bus providers: Greyhound, FlixBus from Irvine, CA to San Jose, CAYou can travel by bus between Irvine, CA to San Jose, CA with Greyhound, FlixBus for as low as $57. 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 FlixBus Duration
8h 40m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
$57
FlixBus frequency
1 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 Greyhound Duration
8h 20m
Cheapest Greyhound Price
$101
Greyhound frequency
1 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 Jose, CA
Things to do in San Jose, CA
Discover the best of San Jose, CA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect San Jose, CA trip today.
- Must visit
San Jose Museum of Art
Large art museum known for modern and contemporary works, strong West Coast focus, and thoughtful rotating exhibitions.
- Must visit
Computer History Museum
A vast collection of restored computer history, from early machines to supercomputers, popular with tech enthusiasts.
- Must visit
Plaza de César Chávez
Signature downtown plaza for festivals, concerts, and civic life, surrounded by museums, hotels, and historic buildings.
- Must visit
Japantown
A vibrant historic district with Japanese shops, temples, murals, and a strong sense of local community and heritage.
- Must visit
SoFA District
Lively arts district centered on galleries, murals, and monthly South First Fridays, ideal for an evening walk downtown.
Pho
A Vietnamese noodle soup with beef or chicken in a fragrant broth. San Jose's large Vietnamese community makes it a defining local comfort food.
Banh Mi
A Vietnamese sandwich on a crisp baguette, often filled with grilled pork, pickled vegetables, herbs, and pate. A staple tied to San Jose's Little Saigon.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Dosa
A South Indian rice and lentil crepe served with chutney and sambar. It is a local favorite thanks to San Jose's strong South Asian community.
Le Papillon
Refined fine dining destination offering modern French cuisine, polished service, and an elegant special-occasion atmosphere.
Henry's Hi-Life
Beloved San Jose institution serving smoked meats, ribs, and classic sides in a casual, old-school barbecue setting.
Pupuseria Los Dubon
Casual neighborhood favorite for handcrafted pupusas and Salvadoran comfort food with a warm, family-run feel.
US Dollar ($)
San Jose is pricier than many US cities. Hotels, dining, and parking add up fast, though public transit and casual food can help control daily costs.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $12-18 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- $25-45 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $80+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- $4-6 for a coffee drink.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, 15-20% for taxis or rideshares, and $1-2 at cafes for good service. Tax is usually added separately.
FAQs: Bus from Irvine, CA to San Jose, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Irvine, CA to San Jose, 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 Jose, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Irvine, CA to San Jose, CA can start from as little as $57 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Irvine, CA to San Jose, CA is $132 ; 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 Irvine, CA to San Jose, CA is 8h 20m to travel the 341 miles (550 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 Irvine, CA to San Jose, CA leaves at 12:15 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Irvine, CA to San Jose, CA leaves at 11:55 PM.
There are 1 buses a day from Irvine, CA to San Jose, CA which require at least one change with OCTA. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Irvine, CA to San Jose, CA, you can count on OCTA for the best way to get you to San Jose, CA. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Irvine, CA and San Jose, CA and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from Irvine, CA , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Santa Ana, E Santa Ana Blvd (Train Station), Anaheim, Regional Transportation Intermodal Center (ARTIC) . When arriving in San Jose, CA , you can end your journey in bus stations like San José, Cahill Street (Diridon Station) .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Santa Ana, E Santa Ana Blvd (Train Station), which is located around 0 miles (1 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at San José, Cahill Street (Diridon Station), located 1 away from the city centre.
A trip to San Jose, CA from Irvine, CA is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 8h 20m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Irvine, CA to San Jose, CA is January.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Irvine, CA and San Jose, CA including taking a train, bus, and flight.
No, the bus from Irvine, CA to San Jose, CA has no accessibility options.
No, there are no bathrooms on board the bus from Irvine, CA to San Jose, CA.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in San Jose, CA are:
- Winchester Mystery House, an architectural curiosity with a maze-like design and historical significance
- The Tech Interactive, an engaging science and technology center with hands-on exhibits
- San Jose Museum of Art, a contemporary art museum featuring works from the 20th and 21st centuries
- Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum, a museum dedicated to ancient Egyptian artifacts and culture
- Municipal Rose Garden, a beautiful and serene garden featuring over 3,500 rose bushes.
The best things to do in San Jose, CA include:
- Explore the Japanese Friendship Garden, a tranquil space inspired by Japanese landscape design
- Visit the Children's Discovery Museum, offering interactive exhibits for families and children
- Enjoy a performance at the San Jose Center for the Performing Arts, hosting a variety of shows and events
- Discover the history of Silicon Valley at the Computer History Museum
- Take a scenic hike in Alum Rock Park, offering trails and natural beauty.
No, bikes are not allowed on board the bus from Irvine, CA to San Jose, CA.
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.
No, there is no food available to purchase on board the bus from Irvine, CA to San Jose, CA.
No, luggage for the bus from Irvine, CA to San Jose, CA needs to be booked in addition.
No, there are no additional luggage options for the bus from Irvine, CA to San Jose, CA.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Irvine, CA to San Jose, CA.
No, there are no USB plugs on board the bus from Irvine, CA to San Jose, CA.
No, there is no WiFi on board the bus from Irvine, CA to San Jose, CA.
Since neither Irvine, CA nor San Jose, 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 Irvine, CA to San Jose, 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 Jose, CA, travelers should be aware of pickpocketing and vehicle break-ins, especially in crowded areas and parking lots. Common scams include fake charity requests and overcharging by unauthorized taxi or ride-share drivers. Staying alert in busy districts and using official transportation services helps 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 Irvine, CA to San Jose, CA
Most Irvine, CA to San Jose, CA buses use the Anaheim, Regional Transportation Intermodal Center (ARTIC) to San José, Cahill Street (Diridon Station) station pair. Use this guide to compare Irvine, CA and San Jose, CA bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Irvine
Arrival bus stations in San Jose
Which San Jose, CA station do buses from Irvine, CA arrive at?
Buses from Irvine, CA to San Jose, CA arrive at San José, Cahill Street (Diridon Station). San José, Cahill Street (Diridon Station) is 0 miles (1 km) from San Jose, CA city centre.
San José, Cahill Street (Diridon Station)San Jose Diridon Station, 65 Cahill St, San Jose, CA 95110, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to San José, Cahill Street (Diridon Station) from San Jose city centre
San José, Cahill Street (Diridon Station) is 1 km from San Jose city centre. Public transport options include:
BusRapid 500, Rapid 568, 64A, 64B, 68, 202 · 7m · $6 · every ~26 min
TramGreen Line · 17m · $4 · every ~7 min
San José, Cahill Street (Diridon Station) bus station facilities and services
San José, Cahill Street (Diridon 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: Various food options available inside the station.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at San José, Cahill Street (Diridon Station). ATMs are aTMs located near the entrance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at San José, Cahill Street (Diridon Station).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at San José, Cahill Street (Diridon Station): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at San José, Cahill Street (Diridon Station): Wheelchair accessible with ramps and elevators.
Most popular bus connections from Irvine, CA
More options for your journey from Irvine, CA to San Jose, CA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from San Jose, CA and Irvine, CA
Most popular bus connections to San Jose, CA
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