- Must visit
The Getty Center
Major hilltop art museum with European paintings, decorative arts, architecture, and city views; one of Los Angeles’s signature cultural sites.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from La Mesa, CA to Los Angeles, CA
Showing times and prices for Jun 22
Cheapest price
$28
Average price
$28
Fastest journey
3 h 20 m
Average duration
3 h 20 m
Buses per day
1
Distance
182 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from La Mesa, CA to Los Angeles, CA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from La Mesa, CA to Los Angeles, CA will cost around $28 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $28.
Fast buses
Of the 1 buses that leave La Mesa, CA for Los Angeles, CA on Mon, Jun 22, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Mon, Jun 22 the direct buses cover the 182 km distance in an average of 3 h 20 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 3 h 20 m .
On Mon, Jun 22 the slowest buses will take 3 h 20 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.
9:35 PM3h20La Mesa, CA12:55 AMLos Angeles, CA$281One-way0 transfers
- 9:35 PM3h20La Mesa, CA12:55 AMLos Angeles, CA$281One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, flight, and train for La Mesa, CA to Los Angeles, CA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from La Mesa, CA to Los Angeles, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $24. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 49m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $24, and a flight costs an average of $186.
Distance: 113 miles (182 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$33 Average price Cheapest | $39 Average price | $293 Average price | $33 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 0m Average total duration 3h 30m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 19m Average total duration Fastest 2h 49m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 12h 8m Average total duration 9h 8m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 2h 15m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from La Mesa, CA to Los Angeles, CA is a bus with an average price of $33 (€27).
This is compared to other travel options from La Mesa, CA to Los Angeles, CA:
A bus is $6 (€5) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from La Mesa, CA to Los Angeles, CA costing on average $39 (€32).
A bus is $260 (€213) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from La Mesa, CA to Los Angeles, CA costing on average $293 (€240).
The fastest way to travel from La Mesa, CA to Los Angeles, CA is by train with an average journey time of 2h 49m.
Other travel options to Los Angeles, CA take longer:
Bus takes on average 3h 30m.
Flight takes on average 9h 8m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between La Mesa, CA and Los Angeles, CA including taking a bus, flight, and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from La Mesa, CA to Los Angeles, 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.
La Mesa, CA to Los Angeles, CA Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 12:20AM | Arrival Time 05:20AM | Duration 5h00 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $30 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 02:35AM | Arrival Time 05:20AM | Duration 2h45 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $39 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 01:30PM | Arrival Time 04:57PM | Duration 3h27 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $40 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 02:45PM | Arrival Time 06:40PM | Duration 3h55 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $32 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:35PM | Arrival Time 11:55PM | Duration 3h20 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $26 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:35PM | Arrival Time 12:55AM | Duration 3h20 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $24 |
Live departures
La Mesa, CA to Los Angeles, CA bus times
The table below shows live departures for La Mesa, CA to Los Angeles, CA buses for today, Sunday, June 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 1:30 PM La Mesa, CA | 3h27 | 4:57 PM Los Angeles, 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 Mesa, CA to Los Angeles, CA by bus, flight, or train
Compare bus, flight, 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.
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Journey information
Overview: Bus from La Mesa, CA to Los Angeles, CA
USAUSA
Buses from La Mesa, CA to Los Angeles, CA run on average 34 times per day, taking around 3h 30m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $24 (€19) if you book in advance.
There are 32 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:05, the last at 23:30. The fastest bus covers the 113 miles (182 km) distance in 2h 45m.
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 113 miles (182 km) |
Average bus duration 3h 30m |
Cheapest ticket price $24 (€19) |
Buses per day 34 |
Direct buses 32 |
Fastest bus 2h 45m |
First bus 12:05 AM |
Last bus 11:30 PM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Mon |
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
Complete guide to Los Angeles
Things to do in Los Angeles
Discover the best of Los Angeles — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Los Angeles trip today.
- Must visit
Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)
The largest art museum in the western United States, known for broad global collections and the iconic Urban Light installation.
- Must visit
The Broad
Popular contemporary art museum in Downtown Los Angeles with works by Kusama, Warhol, and other major postwar artists.
- Must visit
Griffith Park
Vast urban park with trails, scenic overlooks, and access to major attractions; a classic Los Angeles outdoor destination.
- Must visit
Santa Monica Pier
Iconic oceanfront boardwalk area with classic California views and broad appeal for first-time visitors.
- Must visit
Venice Beach Boardwalk
Famous beachfront promenade known for street culture, skate scenes, murals, and constant people-watching.
French Dip Sandwich
A Los Angeles classic of thinly sliced roast beef on a roll, served with rich jus for dipping. It is one of the city’s most iconic old-school sandwiches.
- Gluten-free
L.A.-Style Tacos
Street tacos are central to Los Angeles food culture, especially carne asada, al pastor, and grilled fish tacos served on corn tortillas with salsa, onion, and cilantro.
Korean Barbecue
A signature Los Angeles meal shaped by Koreatown, featuring grilled marinated meats, banchan, and shared dining. The city is especially known for its strong Korean barbecue scene.
Providence
Acclaimed fine dining restaurant known for refined seafood tasting menus and elegant service. One of Los Angeles’s top special-occasion destinations.
Philippe The Original
Historic downtown institution famous for the French dip sandwich. Casual, old-school atmosphere and one of Los Angeles’s most iconic food stops.
Guelaguetza
Well-known Oaxacan restaurant celebrated for complex moles, tlayudas, and mezcal. Lively atmosphere and a landmark for regional Mexican cuisine in Los Angeles.
United States Dollar
Los Angeles is expensive for visitors. Hotels, parking, and dining add up quickly, though casual food and some neighborhoods offer better value.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-18 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- USD 25-45 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 80+ per person before drinks and tip.
- Coffee
- USD 4-7 for a regular coffee or latte.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants; 20%+ for great service. Bars: USD 1-2 per drink. Taxis/rideshares: 10-15%. Hotel staff: USD 2-5. Not expected at fast-food spots.
FAQs: Bus from La Mesa, CA to Los Angeles, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from La Mesa, CA to Los Angeles, 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 Los Angeles, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from La Mesa, CA to Los Angeles, CA can start from as little as $24 (€19) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for La Mesa, CA to Los Angeles, CA is $33 (€27) ; 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 Mesa, CA to Los Angeles, CA is 2h 45m to travel the 113 miles (182 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 Mesa, CA to Los Angeles, CA leaves at 12:05 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from La Mesa, CA to Los Angeles, CA leaves at 11:30 PM.
A trip to Los Angeles, CA from La Mesa, CA is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 2h 45m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from La Mesa, CA to Los Angeles, CA is November.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between La Mesa, CA and Los Angeles, CA including taking a bus, flight, and train.
No, the bus from La Mesa, CA to Los Angeles, CA has no accessibility options.
No, there are no bathrooms on board the bus from La Mesa, CA to Los Angeles, CA.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Los Angeles, CA are:
- Griffith Observatory, an iconic facility offering stunning views of Los Angeles and exhibits on astronomy
- The Getty Center, a renowned art museum with impressive architecture and beautiful gardens
- Santa Monica Pier, a historic landmark featuring an amusement park, aquarium, and scenic ocean views
- Hollywood Walk of Fame, a famous sidewalk celebrating entertainment industry icons with star plaques
- Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), the largest art museum in the western United States with diverse collections.
The best things to do in Los Angeles, CA include:
- Explore the vibrant Venice Beach Boardwalk, known for its eclectic shops, street performers, and skate park
- Visit the historic El Capitan Theatre for a classic movie experience
- Take a scenic hike in Runyon Canyon Park, offering panoramic views of the city
- Enjoy a live performance at the Walt Disney Concert Hall, known for its stunning architecture and acoustics
- Discover the unique exhibits at the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County.
No, bikes are not allowed on board the bus from La Mesa, CA to Los Angeles, 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 La Mesa, CA to Los Angeles, CA.
No, luggage for the bus from La Mesa, CA to Los Angeles, CA needs to be booked in addition.
No, there are no additional luggage options for the bus from La Mesa, CA to Los Angeles, CA.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from La Mesa, CA to Los Angeles, CA.
No, there are no USB plugs on board the bus from La Mesa, CA to Los Angeles, CA.
No, there is no WiFi on board the bus from La Mesa, CA to Los Angeles, CA.
Since neither La Mesa, CA nor Los Angeles, 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 La Mesa, CA to Los Angeles, 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 Los Angeles, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and vehicle break-ins, especially in crowded or tourist-heavy areas like Hollywood and Venice Beach. Common scams include fake ticket vendors near popular attractions and overcharging by unlicensed ride services. It's important to use official transportation options, stay aware of surroundings, and avoid sharing personal information with strangers to stay safe.
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 Mesa, CA to Los Angeles, CA
Most La Mesa, CA to Los Angeles, CA buses use the San Diego to Hantington Park station pair, with some services arriving at Los Angeles, Patsaouras Transit Plaza (Union Station). Use this guide to compare La Mesa, CA and Los Angeles, CA bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in La Mesa
Arrival bus stations in Los Angeles
Los Angeles, Patsaouras Transit Plaza (Union Station)
City-centre transport
Getting to Los Angeles, Patsaouras Transit Plaza (Union Station) from Los Angeles city centre
Bus4X · 8m · $2
SubwayMetro B Line, Metro D Line · 12m · $2 · every ~24 min
Los Angeles, Cesar E Chavez / Vignes
City-centre transport
Getting to Los Angeles, Cesar E Chavez / Vignes from Los Angeles city centre
Bus40, 74 · 3m · $2 · every ~15 min
33 · 4m · $2 · every ~9 min
D · 11m · $5 · every ~12 min
490, 495, 499, 699, 493, 498, 707 · 13m · $7 · every ~9 min
TramMetro A Line · 10m · $2 · every ~12 min
SubwayMetro B Line, Metro D Line · 10m · $2 · every ~24 min
Los Angles, S Hope St. USC Parking
City-centre transport
Getting to Los Angles, S Hope St. USC Parking from Los Angeles city centre
Bus92 · 1m · $2 · every ~6 min
D · 2m · $5 · every ~12 min
More options for your journey from La Mesa, CA to Los Angeles, CA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Los Angeles, CA and La Mesa, CA
Most popular bus connections to Los Angeles, CA
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