- 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 Madison, WI to San Francisco, CA
Showing times and prices for Jul 31
Cheapest price
$271
Average price
$271
Fastest journey
2 d 15 h 5 m
Average duration
2 d 15 h 5 m
Buses per day
1
Distance
2837 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Madison, WI 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 Madison, WI to San Francisco, CA will cost around $271 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $271.
Fast buses
Of the 1 buses that leave Madison, WI for San Francisco, CA on Fri, Jul 31, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, Jul 31 the direct buses cover the 2837 km distance in an average of 2 d 15 h 5 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 2 d 15 h 5 m .
On Fri, Jul 31 the slowest buses will take 2 d 15 h 5 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.
11:10 PM63h05Madison, WI2:15 PMSan Francisco, CA$2711One-way0 transfers
- 11:10 PM63h05Madison, WI2:15 PMSan Francisco, CA$2711One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Madison, WI to San Francisco, CA
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Madison, WI to San Francisco, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $240. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 7h 36m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $240, and a train costs an average of $466.
Distance: 1762 miles (2837 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Flight | Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$292 Average price Cheapest | $494 Average price | $1298 Average price | $417 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
62h 30m Average total duration 62h 0m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 10h 36m Average total duration Fastest 7h 36m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 60h 15m Average total duration 59h 45m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 30h 36m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Madison, WI to San Francisco, CA is a bus with an average price of $292.
This is compared to other travel options from Madison, WI to San Francisco, CA:
A bus is $202 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Madison, WI to San Francisco, CA costing on average $494.
A bus is $1007 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Madison, WI to San Francisco, CA costing on average $1298.
The fastest way to travel from Madison, WI to San Francisco, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 7h 36m.
Other travel options to San Francisco, CA take longer:
Train takes on average 59h 45m.
Bus takes on average 62h 0m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Madison, WI and San Francisco, CA including taking a bus, train, and flight.
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.
Madison, WI to San Francisco, CA Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Vangalder Bus | Departure Time 07:00AM | Arrival Time 12:25PM | Duration 53h25 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat | Cheapest price $626 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 01:00PM | Arrival Time 08:25PM | Duration 55h25 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $240 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 11:10PM | Arrival Time 02:15PM | Duration 63h05 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $271 |
Compare prices and tickets Madison, WI 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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Journey information
Overview: Bus from Madison, WI to San Francisco, CA
USAUSA
Buses from Madison, WI to San Francisco, CA run on average 8 times per day, taking around 62h 0m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $240 if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 05:30, the last at 23:25. The fastest bus covers the 1762 miles (2837 km) distance in 55h 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 1762 miles (2837 km) |
Average bus duration 62h 0m |
Cheapest ticket price $240 |
Buses per day 8 |
Fastest bus 55h 25m |
First bus 5:30 AM |
Last bus 11:25 PM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jan - Mar |
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: Vangalder Bus from Madison, WI to San Francisco, CAYou can travel by bus between Madison, WI to San Francisco, CA with Vangalder Bus for as low as $240. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
Vangalder Bus
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
53h 25m
Cheapest Price
$626
Vangalder Bus frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to San Francisco, CA
Things to do in San Francisco, CA
Discover the best of San Francisco, CA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect San Francisco, CA trip today.
- Must visit
de Young Museum
Major fine arts museum in Golden Gate Park with American art, textiles, and a panoramic tower. A classic cultural highlight.
- Must visit
San Francisco Museum of Modern Art
Leading modern and contemporary art museum with landmark architecture and strong global collections. Essential for art-focused visitors.
- Must visit
Golden Gate Park
Large urban park with gardens, lakes, museums, and trails. It is a must for relaxing, walking, and seeing several major attractions.
- Must visit
Lombard Street
Steeply curving block lined with flowers and grand homes. This famous street offers classic photos and a quintessential San Francisco scene.
- Must visit
The Embarcadero
Popular waterfront promenade with bay views, piers, and ferries. Great for walking, people-watching, and connecting to nearby sights.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
San Francisco Sourdough
A crusty loaf with a tangy flavor shaped by the city’s historic wild yeast culture. It is one of San Francisco’s most iconic foods.
- Gluten-free
Dungeness Crab
Fresh local Dungeness crab, often cracked and served simply or in cioppino. It is a Bay Area seasonal specialty tied to the fishing waterfront.
Cioppino
A tomato-based seafood stew created by Italian American fishermen in North Beach. It is a classic San Francisco dish built from the day’s catch.
Benu
Celebrated fine dining destination known for inventive tasting menus and polished service in an elegant, intimate setting.
Sotto Mare
Historic North Beach seafood house famous for cioppino, crab, and old-school San Francisco waterfront charm.
La Taqueria
Legendary Mission taqueria known for large Mission-style burritos and a lively, no-frills local atmosphere.
US Dollar ($)
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 Madison, WI to San Francisco, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Madison, WI 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 Madison, WI to San Francisco, CA can start from as little as $240 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Madison, WI to San Francisco, CA is $292 ; 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 Madison, WI to San Francisco, CA is 55h 25m to travel the 1762 miles (2837 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 Madison, WI to San Francisco, CA leaves at 5:30 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Madison, WI to San Francisco, CA leaves at 11:25 PM.
There are 8 buses a day from Madison, WI to San Francisco, CA which require at least one change with Vangalder Bus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Madison, WI to San Francisco, CA, you can count on Vangalder Bus for the best way to get you to San Francisco, CA. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Madison, WI and San Francisco, CA and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to San Francisco, CA from Madison, WI is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 55h 25m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Madison, WI to San Francisco, CA is December.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Madison, WI and San Francisco, CA including taking a bus, train, and flight.
No, there are no bathrooms on board the bus from Madison, WI to San Francisco, CA.
No, the bus from Madison, WI to San Francisco, CA has no accessibility options.
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.
No, bikes are not allowed on board the bus from Madison, WI to San Francisco, 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 Madison, WI to San Francisco, CA.
No, luggage for the bus from Madison, WI to San Francisco, CA needs to be booked in addition.
No, there are no additional luggage options for the bus from Madison, WI to San Francisco, CA.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Madison, WI to San Francisco, CA.
No, there are no USB plugs on board the bus from Madison, WI to San Francisco, CA.
No, there is no WiFi on board the bus from Madison, WI to San Francisco, CA.
Since neither Madison, WI 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.
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 Madison, WI to San Francisco, CA
Most Madison, WI to San Francisco, CA buses use the Madison, Collins Ct (Dutch Mill Park and Ride) 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 Madison, WI 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 Madison
Arrival bus stations in San Francisco
Madison, North Lake Street (UW- Madison)
City-centre transport
Getting to Madison, North Lake Street (UW- Madison) from Madison city centre
Bus28, 38, 65 · 6m · $2 · every ~7 min
Madison, Collins Ct (Dutch Mill Park and Ride)
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 Madison, WI
More options for your journey from Madison, WI 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 Madison, WI
Most popular bus connections to San Francisco, CA
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