- Must visit
San Diego Museum of Art
Major Balboa Park museum with works from Spanish old masters to modern art, plus strong regional and international exhibitions.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest buses from Merced, CA to San Diego, CA
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 17
Cheapest price on Oct 17
$75
Average ticket price on Oct 17
$75
Fastest journey on Oct 17
8 h 48 m
Average journey duration on Oct 17
8 h 48 m
Buses on Oct 17
2
Distance
593 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Merced, CA to San Diego, CA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Merced, CA to San Diego, CA will cost around $75 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $75.
Fast buses
On Sat, Oct 17, we found 2 buses from Merced, CA to San Diego, CA, including 2 direct services.
On Sat, Oct 17 the direct buses cover the 593 km distance in an average of 8 h 48 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 8 h 48 m .
On Sat, Oct 17 the slowest buses will take 8 h 48 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.
4:47 AM8h48Merced, CA1:35 PMSan Diego, CA$751One-way0 transfers- 5:17 AM8h48Merced, CA2:05 PMSan Diego, CA$751One-way0 transfers
- 4:47 AM8h48Merced, CA1:35 PMSan Diego, CA$751One-way0 transfers
- 5:17 AM8h48Merced, CA2:05 PMSan Diego, CA$751One-way0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Merced, CA to San Diego, CA
USAUSA
Buses from Merced, CA to San Diego, CA run on average 4 times per day, taking around 10h 34m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $70 (€58) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 01:00, the last at 22:10. The fastest bus covers the 368 miles (593 km) distance in 9h 40m.
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 368 miles (593 km) |
Average bus duration 10h 34m |
Cheapest ticket price $70 (€58) |
Buses per day 4 |
Fastest bus 9h 40m |
First bus 1:00 AM |
Last bus 10:10 PM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Best time to book 1 day |
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
Merced, CA to San Diego, CA Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 01:10AM | Arrival Time 11:45AM | Duration 10h35 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $80 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 03:47AM | Arrival Time 12:35PM | Duration 8h48 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $76 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 04:47AM | Arrival Time 01:35PM | Duration 8h48 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $73 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 05:17AM | Arrival Time 02:05PM | Duration 8h48 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $75 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 05:05PM | Arrival Time 07:50AM | Duration 14h45 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $108 |
Live departures
Merced, CA to San Diego, CA bus times
The table below shows live departures for Merced, CA to San Diego, CA buses for today, Saturday, October 10. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 · | 1:10 AM Merced, W 16th St (Greyhound Bus Station) | 10h35 | 11:45 AM San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), CA | 1 transfer | |
+ FlixBus · FlixBus | 1:10 AM Merced, W 16th St (Greyhound Bus Station) | 17h10 | 6:20 PM San Diego, Rail Ct / E San Ysidro Blvd (McDonald`s), CA | 2 transfers | |
| +FlixBus | 1:10 AM Merced, W 16th St (Greyhound Bus Station) | 15h15 | 4:25 PM San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), CA | 1 transfer | |
| · | 1:10 AM Merced, W 16th St (Greyhound Bus Station) | 11h10 | 12:20 PM San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center | 1 transfer | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Merced, CA to San Diego, CA buses with Omio?
Greyhound as well as FlixBus offer buses services from Merced, CA to San Diego, CA.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Merced, CA to San Diego, CA.
Why book with Omio vs Greyhound?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Greyhound, but also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Merced, CA to San Diego, 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 Greyhound with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Merced, CA to San Diego, CA.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Merced, CA to San Diego, CA.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Merced, CA to San Diego, CA.
Bus providers: Greyhound, FlixBus from Merced, CA to San Diego, CAYou can travel by bus between Merced, CA to San Diego, CA with Greyhound, FlixBus for as low as $70 (€58). 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
10h 5m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
$88 (€74)
FlixBus frequency
3 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
9h 40m
Cheapest Greyhound Price
$70 (€58)
Greyhound frequency
4 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 Diego, CA
Things to do in San Diego, CA
Discover the best of San Diego, CA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect San Diego, CA trip today.
- Must visit
Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego
Acclaimed contemporary art museum in La Jolla featuring oceanfront settings, modern works, and rotating global exhibitions.
- Must visit
USS Midway Museum
Museum aboard a historic aircraft carrier with restored aircraft, naval exhibits, and immersive views of life at sea.
- Must visit
Balboa Park
Balboa Park is San Diego's grand cultural park, packed with gardens, architecture, museums, and walkable plazas worth lingering in.
- Must visit
Gaslamp Quarter
Historic Gaslamp Quarter offers Victorian-era streets, nightlife energy, and preserved downtown architecture for an atmospheric walk.
- Must visit
La Jolla Cove
Dramatic seaside cliffs and walking paths in La Jolla, famous for waves, sea lions, and sweeping Pacific views.
Fish Taco
A San Diego staple: grilled fish in a soft tortilla with cabbage, crema, and salsa. Popularized by Baja influence and coastal seafood culture.
California Burrito
French fries, carne asada, cheese, guacamole, and crema wrapped in a flour tortilla. A late-night local favorite born in San Diego taquerias.
- Gluten-free
Sea Urchin (Uni)
Fresh local sea urchin served raw, prized for its rich, buttery taste. It reflects San Diego's access to Pacific seafood and sushi culture.
Sushi Ota
Celebrated sushi restaurant specializing in omakase and pristine seafood, including uni. Intimate, polished, and highly respected by locals.
Mitch's Seafood
Iconic casual seafood counter known for fish tacos, smoked fish, and harbor views. A classic stop for San Diego's Baja-inspired seafood style.
Juniper and Ivy
Refined fine-dining restaurant showcasing local seafood and seasonal California ingredients. Elegant room with one of the city's strongest reputations.
US Dollar ($)
San Diego is pricey for US travel, with higher hotel rates, dining, and parking than many cities, though casual food and buses stay manageable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $10-18 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- $25-45 per person for a mid-range meal.
- Fine dining
- $75+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- $4-6 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, 15-20% for taxis or rideshares, and $1-2 for coffee drinks or small cafe orders.
FAQs: Bus from Merced, CA to San Diego, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Merced, CA to San Diego, 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 Diego, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Merced, CA to San Diego, CA can start from as little as $70 (€58) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Merced, CA to San Diego, CA is $112 (€94) ; 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 Merced, CA to San Diego, CA is 9h 40m to travel the 368 miles (593 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 Merced, CA to San Diego, CA leaves at 1:00 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Merced, CA to San Diego, CA leaves at 10:10 PM.
There are 4 buses a day from Merced, CA to San Diego, CA which require at least one change with Greyhound, FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Merced, CA to San Diego, CA, you can count on Greyhound, FlixBus for the best way to get you to San Diego, CA. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Merced, CA and San Diego, CA and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from Merced, CA , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Merced, W 16th St (Greyhound Bus Station), Merced, CA . When arriving in San Diego, CA , you can end your journey in bus stations like San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), CA, San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center, San Diego, Rail Ct / E San Ysidro Blvd (McDonald`s), CA, San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District), CA .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Merced, W 16th St (Greyhound Bus Station), which is located around away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), CA, located 5 away from the city centre.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Merced, CA and San Diego, CA including taking a bus and train.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Merced, CA to San Diego, CA for bus company Greyhound, FlixBus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Merced, CA to San Diego, CA:
- Greyhound
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Merced, CA to San Diego, 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.
- 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 Greyhound, 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 Merced, CA to San Diego, CA.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Merced, CA to San Diego, CA:
- Greyhound
- One carry-on bag up to 25 lbs (11 kg) and one checked bag up to 50 lbs (23 kg).
- 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 Merced, CA to San Diego, CA:
- Greyhound
- $15 per additional bag.
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Merced, CA to San Diego, 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 Merced, CA to San Diego, CA with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Merced, CA to San Diego, CA with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Merced, CA to San Diego, CA with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
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 Diego, CA, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like beaches, public transportation, and popular tourist spots such as the Gaslamp Quarter and Old Town. Common scams include overpriced parking fees and unauthorized ticket sellers near attractions. Staying aware of surroundings, securing belongings, and using official transportation services help reduce risks. Additionally, travelers should avoid isolated areas at night and be mindful of local traffic laws when using scooters or bikes.
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 Merced, CA to San Diego, CA
Most Merced, CA to San Diego, CA buses use the Merced, W 16th St (Greyhound Bus Station) to San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park) station pair, with some services arriving at San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center. Use this guide to compare Merced, CA and San Diego, CA bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Merced
Arrival bus stations in San Diego
Which Merced, CA station do buses to San Diego, CA leave from?
Buses from Merced, CA to San Diego, CA leave from Merced, W 16th St (Greyhound Bus Station). The station is from Merced, CA city centre at W 16th St, Merced, CA, USA.
Merced, W 16th St (Greyhound Bus Station)W 16th St, Merced, CA, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Merced, W 16th St (Greyhound Bus Station) from Merced city centre
BusM5, Uc · 3m · $4 · every ~4 min
Merced, W 16th St (Greyhound Bus Station) bus station facilities and services
Merced, W 16th St (Greyhound Bus Station) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Available for passengers. ATMs are available at Merced, W 16th St (Greyhound Bus Station).
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Merced, W 16th St (Greyhound Bus Station).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Merced, W 16th St (Greyhound Bus Station): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Merced, W 16th St (Greyhound Bus Station): Wheelchair accessible entrance.
Merced
Which San Diego, CA station do buses from Merced, CA arrive at?
Buses from Merced, CA to San Diego, CA most often arrive at San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park). Some services arrive at San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your San Diego, CA arrival station.
San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park)Congress St, San Diego, CA 92110, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park) from San Diego city centre
San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park) is 5 km from San Diego city centre. Public transport options include:
BusFlixBus 2017 · 20m · $1
83 · 26m · $6
TramGreen, Blue, Event · 16m · every ~18 min
Blue · 21m · every ~9 min
San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park) bus station facilities and services
San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Several dining options nearby.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park). ATMs are available at San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park).
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park): Wheelchair accessible routes available.
San Diego, San Ysidro Transit CenterSan Ysidro Station, San Diego, CA 92173, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center from San Diego city centre
San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center is 22 km from San Diego city centre. Public transport options include:
BusFlixBus 2017 · 25m · $2
910 · 41m · $6
TramBlue · 41m · $17 · every ~14 min
Blue · 43m · $17 · every ~14 min
San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center bus station facilities and services
San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Several fast food eateries located nearby.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center. ATMs are available near the entrance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center: Wheelchair accessible with ramps.
San Diego, Rail Ct / E San Ysidro Blvd (McDonald`s)San Diego Rail Ct, San Diego, CA 92173, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to San Diego, Rail Ct / E San Ysidro Blvd (McDonald`s) from San Diego city centre
San Diego, Rail Ct / E San Ysidro Blvd (McDonald`s) is 22 km from San Diego city centre. Public transport options include:
BusFlixBus 2017 · 27m · $2
910 · 43m · $6
TramBlue · 42m · $17 · every ~14 min
Blue · 44m · $17 · every ~14 min
San Diego, Rail Ct / E San Ysidro Blvd (McDonald`s) bus station facilities and services
San Diego, Rail Ct / E San Ysidro Blvd (McDonald`s) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: McDonald's located nearby.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at San Diego, Rail Ct / E San Ysidro Blvd (McDonald`s). ATMs are available at San Diego, Rail Ct / E San Ysidro Blvd (McDonald`s).
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at San Diego, Rail Ct / E San Ysidro Blvd (McDonald`s).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at San Diego, Rail Ct / E San Ysidro Blvd (McDonald`s): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at San Diego, Rail Ct / E San Ysidro Blvd (McDonald`s): Accessible paths available.
Most popular bus connections from Merced, CA
More options for your journey from Merced, CA to San Diego, CA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from San Diego, CA and Merced, CA
Most popular bus connections to San Diego, CA
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
