Merced, CA to San Diego, CA bus with Greyhound

Wed, Aug 26
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2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Merced, CA to San Diego, CA

Showing times and prices for Aug 26

Cheapest price

$79

Average price

$114

Fastest journey

8 h 48 m

Average duration

11 h 29 m

Buses per day

7

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 $114 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $79.

Fast buses

It's difficult to get from Merced, CA to San Diego, CA without transferring at least once.

  • Amtrak718 Gold Runner · 5818 AMTRAK
    8:47 PM8h48
    Merced Station, Merced, CA
    5:35 AMSanta Fe Depot, San Diego, CA
    $791One-way
    1 transfer
  • FlixBusFlixBus+Greyhound
    9:05 AM14h45
    Merced, CA
    11:50 PMSan Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), CA
    $831One-way
    1 transfer
  • FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus
    9:05 AM13h10
    Merced, CA
    10:15 PMSan Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District), CA
    $831One-way
    1 transfer
  • FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus
    9:05 AM13h40
    Merced, CA
    10:45 PMSan Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center
    $921One-way
    1 transfer
  • Greyhound+FlixBusFlixBus
    1:10 AM15h15
    Merced, W 16th St (Greyhound Bus Station)
    4:25 PMSan Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), CA
    $1501One-way
    1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare bus and train for Merced, CA to San Diego, CA

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Merced, CA to San Diego, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $65. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 10h 33m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.2 - 0.5kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $65, and a bus costs an average of $65.

Distance: 368 miles (593 km)

Compare bus with

Bus
Most popular
Train
Driving

$113

Average price

Cheapest

$82

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

11h 3m

Average total duration

Fastest

10h 33m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 4m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.6 - 1.5kg

CO2 emissions

0.2 - 0.5kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

-

CO2 emissions

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 Merced, CA to San Diego, CA is a bus with an average price of $113 (€91).
The fastest way to travel from Merced, CA to San Diego, CA is by bus with an average journey time of 10h 33m.
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.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Merced, CA to San Diego, CA among Omio's users.
Take the bus. On this route, it's both cheaper and quicker than driving.

You'll arrive about -5h -29m sooner (10h 33m by bus vs 6h 4m by car) and save roughly $-30.76 (€-24.76) compared to fuel and tolls ($113 (€91) vs $82 (€66)). 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 Infobus.

Driving is still worth considering if you're travelling with bulky luggage, need flexibility on departure times, or plan to stop along the way.

Merced, CA to San Diego, CA Bus Timetables

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
01:10AM
Arrival Time
11:45AM
Duration
10h35
Departure days
Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun
Cheapest price
$64
Operator
Amtrak
Departure Time
03:47AM
Arrival Time
12:35PM
Duration
8h48
Departure days
Wed, Sun
Cheapest price
$77
Operator
Amtrak
Departure Time
04:47AM
Arrival Time
01:35PM
Duration
8h48
Departure days
Wed, Sun
Cheapest price
$76
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
09:00AM
Arrival Time
07:45PM
Duration
10h45
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
$104
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
09:05AM
Arrival Time
11:50PM
Duration
14h45
Departure days
Wed, Thu
Cheapest price
$83
Operator
Amtrak
Departure Time
08:47PM
Arrival Time
05:35AM
Duration
8h48
Departure days
Wed, Thu
Cheapest price
$79

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 tomorrow, Wednesday, August 26. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Greyhound+FlixBusFlixBus1:10 AM Merced, W 16th St (Greyhound Bus Station)
15h15
4:25 PM San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), CA1 transfer
Greyhound · 1:10 AM Merced, W 16th St (Greyhound Bus Station)
11h10
12:20 PM San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center1 transfer
Greyhound · 1:10 AM Merced, W 16th St (Greyhound Bus Station)
10h35
11:45 AM San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), CA1 transfer
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus9:05 AM Merced, CA
13h40
10:45 PM San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center1 transfer
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus9:05 AM Merced, CA
13h10
10:15 PM San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District), CA1 transfer
FlixBusFlixBus+Greyhound9:05 AM Merced, CA
14h45
11:50 PM San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), CA1 transfer

This is the last bus of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Merced, CA to San Diego, CA by bus or train

Compare bus 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.

Wed
Aug 26
Thu
Aug 27
Fri
Aug 28
Sat
Aug 29
Sun
Aug 30
Mon
Aug 31
Tue
Sep 01

Why should you book Merced, CA to San Diego, CA buses with Omio?

Greyhound as well as Infobus 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 Infobus 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, Busbud or Checkmybus?

  • 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.

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Merced, CA to San Diego, CA

USAUSA
USAUSA
Icon of bus

Buses from Merced, CA to San Diego, CA run on average 5 times per day, taking around 10h 33m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $65 (€52) 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 33m
Cheapest ticket price
$65 (€52)
Buses per day
5
Fastest bus
9h 40m
First bus
1:00 AM
Last bus
10:10 PM
Cheapest Month
Dec
Cheapest Day
Wed
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

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 $65 (€52). 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 Duration
10h 5m
Cheapest Price
$92 (€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 Duration
9h 40m
Cheapest Price
$65 (€52)
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

San Diego Museum of Art

Major Balboa Park museum with works from Spanish old masters to modern art, plus strong regional and international exhibitions.

  • 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.

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.

FAQs
Cheap bus tickets from Merced, CA to San Diego, CA can start from as little as $65 (€52) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Merced, CA to San Diego, CA is $113 (€91) ; 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 5 buses a day from Merced, CA to San Diego, CA which require at least one change with Greyhound, Infobus. 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, Infobus 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), Atwater, 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, San Diego, CA, La Jolla, UCSD Health La Jolla Station, CA, Tijuana, Terminal de Autobuses (Aeropuerto) .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.
A trip to San Diego, CA from Merced, CA is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 9h 40m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Merced, CA to San Diego, CA is December.
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, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Merced, CA to San Diego, CA:
  • Infobus
    • Assistance
    • Priority seating
    • Transport for wheelchairs and mobility aids.
  • Greyhound
    • Assistance
    • Priority seating
    • Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Merced, CA to San Diego, CA for bus company Greyhound, Infobus.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in San Diego, CA are:
  • Balboa Park, a sprawling urban park with museums, gardens, and the San Diego Zoo
  • USS Midway Museum, a historic naval aircraft carrier museum offering interactive exhibits and tours
  • La Jolla Cove, a picturesque coastal area known for its stunning views and marine life
  • Gaslamp Quarter, a lively historic district with Victorian architecture, dining, and entertainment options
  • Coronado Beach, a beautiful sandy beach known for its gentle waves and iconic hotel.
The best things to do in San Diego, CA include:
  • Explore the vibrant art scene at the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego
  • enjoy a harbor cruise for stunning views of the skyline and naval ships
  • hike the scenic trails at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve
  • visit the Birch Aquarium to learn about marine life and ocean conservation
  • experience the thrill of a whale watching tour off the coast.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Merced, CA to San Diego, CA depends on the bus companies:
  • Infobus
    • You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a partial refund. Cancellations within 24 hours may incur a fee.
  • Greyhound
    • You can cancel your ticket for a refund or exchange up to 24 hours before departure, for a cancellation fee applied.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company Greyhound, Infobus.
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:
  • Infobus
    • One carry-on bag up to 5kg (40x20x25) and one checked bag up to 20kg (50x30x80).
  • Greyhound
    • One carry-on bag up to 25 lbs (11 kg) and one checked bag up to 50 lbs (23 kg).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Merced, CA to San Diego, CA:
  • Infobus
    • 10€ per additional bag.
  • Greyhound
    • $15 per additional bag.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Merced, CA to San Diego, CA. The following conditions apply:
  • Infobus
    • Small pets allowed in carriers
    • larger pets may require a separate ticket.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Merced, CA to San Diego, CA with the following bus company: Greyhound, Infobus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Merced, CA to San Diego, CA with the following bus company: Greyhound, Infobus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Merced, CA to San Diego, CA with the following bus company: Greyhound, Infobus.
Since neither Merced, CA nor San Diego, 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 Merced, CA to San Diego, 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 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, USAWifiParkingATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Office
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.

Most popular bus connections from Merced, CA

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