- Must visit
San Francisco Museum of Modern Art
Major modern and contemporary art museum with an internationally important collection and frequent blockbuster exhibitions.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from La Jolla, CA to San Francisco, CA
Showing times and prices for Jul 12
Cheapest price
$151
Average price
$159
Fastest journey
11 h 15 m
Average duration
13 h 50 m
Buses per day
2
Distance
720 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from La Jolla, 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 La Jolla, CA to San Francisco, CA will cost around $159 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $151.
Fast buses
Of the 2 buses that leave La Jolla, CA for San Francisco, CA on Sun, Jul 12, 1 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 720 km distance in an average of 13 h 50 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 11 h 15 m .
On Sun, Jul 12 the slowest buses will take 16 h 25 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.
· 5:40 AM16h25San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), CA10:05 PMSan Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29$1511One-way1 transfer- 7:55 PM11h15San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), CA7:10 AMSan Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29$1671One-way0 transfers
- 7:55 PM11h15San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), CA7:10 AMSan Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29$1671One-way0 transfers
- · 5:40 AM16h25San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), CA10:05 PMSan Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29$1511One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for La Jolla, CA to San Francisco, CA
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from La Jolla, CA to San Francisco, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $82. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 6h 6m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.2 - 0.6kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $82, and a flight costs an average of $251.
Distance: 447 miles (720 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Flight | Train |
|---|---|---|
$197 Average price | $251 Average price | $82 Average price Cheapest |
10h 45m Average total duration 10h 15m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 6m Average total duration Fastest 6h 6m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 14h 20m Average total duration 13h 50m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.7 - 1.8kg CO2 emissions | 2.2 - 4.3kg CO2 emissions | 0.2 - 0.6kg CO2 emissions Lowest |
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 La Jolla, CA to San Francisco, CA is a train with an average price of $82 (€68).
This is compared to other travel options from La Jolla, CA to San Francisco, CA:
A train is $115 (€95) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from La Jolla, CA to San Francisco, CA costing on average $197 (€162).
A train is $169 (€139) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from La Jolla, CA to San Francisco, CA costing on average $251 (€207).
The fastest way to travel from La Jolla, CA to San Francisco, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 6h 6m.
Other travel options to San Francisco, CA take longer:
Bus takes on average 10h 15m.
Train takes on average 13h 50m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between La Jolla, CA and San Francisco, CA including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from La Jolla, CA to San Francisco, CA among Omio's users.
La Jolla, CA to San Francisco, CA Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 05:40AM | Arrival Time 10:05PM | Duration 16h25 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $151 |
Operator San Diego Metro Transit | Departure Time 06:51PM | Arrival Time 07:15AM | Duration 12h24 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $151 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 07:55PM | Arrival Time 07:10AM | Duration 11h15 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $167 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 11:15PM | Arrival Time 02:15PM | Duration 15h00 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $197 |
Live departures
La Jolla, CA to San Francisco, CA bus times
The table below shows live departures for La Jolla, CA to San Francisco, CA buses for today, 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 11:15 PM La Jolla, CA | 15h00 | 2:15 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 La Jolla, CA 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 La Jolla, CA to San Francisco, CA buses with Omio?
FlixBus as well as San Diego Metro Transit offer buses services from La Jolla, CA to San Francisco, CA.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from La Jolla, CA to San Francisco, CA.
Why book with Omio vs FlixBus?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for FlixBus, but also compare tickets for the likes of San Diego Metro Transit to find the best option for your trip from La Jolla, 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 FlixBus with all available travel options, which are bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from La Jolla, CA to San Francisco, CA.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from La Jolla, CA to San Francisco, CA.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from La Jolla, CA to San Francisco, CA
USAUSA
Buses from La Jolla, CA to San Francisco, CA run on average 13 times per day, taking around 10h 15m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $197 (€162) but you can travel from only $82 (€68) by train.
The earliest bus runs at 04:10, the last at 23:25. The fastest bus covers the 447 miles (720 km) distance in 15h 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from $82 (€68)
Distance 447 miles (720 km) |
Average bus duration 10h 15m |
Cheapest ticket price $197 (€162) |
Buses per day 13 |
Fastest bus 15h 0m |
First bus 4:10 AM |
Last bus 11:25 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
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 $82 (€68)
Bus providers: FlixBus, San Diego Metro Transit from La Jolla, CA to San Francisco, CAYou can travel by bus between La Jolla, CA to San Francisco, CA with FlixBus, San Diego Metro Transit for as low as $82 (€68). 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
FlixBus frequency
2 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.
San Diego Metro Transit
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
12h 24m
Cheapest Price
$151 (€124)
San Diego Metro Transit frequency
1 a day
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 La Jolla, CA to San Francisco, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from La Jolla, 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 La Jolla, CA to San Francisco, CA can start from as little as $197 (€162) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for La Jolla, CA to San Francisco, CA is $197 (€162) ; 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 La Jolla, CA to San Francisco, CA is 15h 0m to travel the 447 miles (720 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 La Jolla, CA to San Francisco, CA leaves at 4:10 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from La Jolla, CA to San Francisco, CA leaves at 11:25 PM.
There are 13 buses a day from La Jolla, CA to San Francisco, CA which require at least one change with FlixBus, San Diego Metro Transit. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from La Jolla, CA to San Francisco, CA, you can count on FlixBus, San Diego Metro Transit for the best way to get you to San Francisco, CA. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between La Jolla, CA and San Francisco, CA and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to San Francisco, CA from La Jolla, CA is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 15h 0m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from La Jolla, CA to San Francisco, CA is May.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between La Jolla, CA and San Francisco, CA including taking a bus, train, and flight.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from La Jolla, CA to San Francisco, CA for bus company FlixBus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from La Jolla, CA to San Francisco, CA:
- 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 La Jolla, CA to San Francisco, CA depends on the bus companies:
- 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 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 La Jolla, CA to San Francisco, CA.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from La Jolla, CA to San Francisco, CA:
- 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 La Jolla, CA to San Francisco, CA:
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from La Jolla, 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 La Jolla, CA to San Francisco, CA with the following bus company: FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from La Jolla, CA to San Francisco, CA with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from La Jolla, CA to San Francisco, CA with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Since neither La Jolla, 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 bus as it is the most popular way to get from La Jolla, 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 La Jolla, CA to San Francisco, CA
Most La Jolla, CA to San Francisco, CA buses use the La Jolla, UCSD Health La Jolla 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 La Jolla, 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 La Jolla
Arrival bus stations in San Francisco
La Jolla, UCSD Health La Jolla Station
City-centre transport
Getting to La Jolla, UCSD Health La Jolla Station from La Jolla city centre
Bus30 · 40m · $6 · every ~7 min
30 · 43m · $6 · every ~7 min
30 · 43m · every ~7 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
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 La Jolla, CA
More options for your journey from La Jolla, 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 La Jolla, CA
Most popular bus connections to San Francisco, CA
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