- Must visit
USS Midway Museum
A large aircraft carrier museum on the waterfront with restored aircraft, flight deck views, and naval history exhibits. One of the city’s signature attractions.
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 and prices for May 29
Cheapest price
$78
Average price
$79
Fastest journey
8 h 48 m
Average duration
8 h 48 m
Buses per day
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 $79 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $78.
Fast buses
Of the 2 buses that leave Merced, CA for San Diego, CA on Fri, May 29, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, May 29 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 Fri, May 29 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$781One-way0 transfers- 3:47 AM8h48Merced, CA12:35 PMSan Diego, CA$801One-way0 transfers
- 4:47 AM8h48Merced, CA1:35 PMSan Diego, CA$781One-way0 transfers
- 3:47 AM8h48Merced, CA12:35 PMSan Diego, CA$801One-way0 transfers
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 $76. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 8h 25m. 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 $76, and a train costs an average of $92.
Distance: 368 miles (593 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$82 Average price Cheapest | $98 Average price | $81 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
9h 45m Average total duration 9h 15m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 55m Average total duration Fastest 8h 25m 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 |
 Most popular bus company | Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
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 $82 (€66).
This is compared to other travel options from Merced, CA to San Diego, CA:
A bus is $16 (€13) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Merced, CA to San Diego, CA costing on average $98 (€79).
The fastest way to travel from Merced, CA to San Diego, CA is by train with an average journey time of 8h 25m.
Other travel options to San Diego, CA take longer:
Bus takes on average 9h 15m.
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 -4h -11m sooner (9h 15m by bus vs 6h 4m by car) and save roughly $-1.60 (€-1.29) compared to fuel and tolls ($82 (€66) vs $81 (€65)). 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
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 01:00AM | Arrival Time 04:25PM | Duration 15h25 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $119 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 03:47AM | Arrival Time 12:35PM | Duration 8h48 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $77 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 04:47AM | Arrival Time 01:35PM | Duration 8h48 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $76 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 05:17AM | Arrival Time 02:05PM | Duration 8h48 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $78 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 09:00AM | Arrival Time 07:45PM | Duration 10h45 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $104 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 05:05PM | Arrival Time 07:50AM | Duration 14h45 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $112 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 08:47PM | Arrival Time 05:35AM | Duration 8h48 | Departure days Wed | 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 today, Wednesday, May 27. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 718 Gold Runner · 5818 AMTRAK | 8:47 PM Merced Station, Merced, CA | 8h48 | 5:35 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 1 transfer | |
| Thursday, May 28 | |||||
| 3:47 AM Merced, CA | 8h48 | 12:35 PM San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 4:47 AM Merced, CA | 8h48 | 1:35 PM San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
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.
Thu
May 28
May 28
Fri
May 29
May 29
Sat
May 30
May 30
Sun
May 31
May 31
Mon
Jun 01
Jun 01
Tue
Jun 02
Jun 02
Wed
Jun 03
Jun 03
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
Buses from Merced, CA to San Diego, CA run on average 10 times per day, taking around 9h 15m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $76 (€61) 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 8h 48m.
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 9h 15m |
Cheapest ticket price $76 (€61) |
Buses per day 10 |
Fastest bus 8h 48m |
First bus 1:00 AM |
Last bus 10:10 PM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
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, Infobus from Merced, CA to San Diego, CAYou can travel by bus between Merced, CA to San Diego, CA with Greyhound, Infobus for as low as $76 (€61). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
Infobus
About
Infobus is an international IT company that operates as an online service for finding and purchasing bus, train, and plane tickets, rather than being a bus company itself. Established in 2002, Infobus acts as an intermediary between passengers and various transport carriers, particularly helping smaller bus companies offer online booking services. They utilize their own "BusSystem" to manage routes and ticket sales globally. Infobus covers over 30 countries and 300 cities, offering a wide range of routes and daily departures. While amenities can vary by carrier, Infobus aims to provide affordable and convenient travel with features like online booking, 24/7 support, and prompt notifications.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Infobus frequency
4 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 5kg (40x20x25) and one checked bag up to 20kg (50x30x80).
Additional luggage
10€ per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a partial refund. Cancellations within 24 hours may incur a fee.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Transport for wheelchairs and mobility aids.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed; may require prior reservation and an additional fee.
Pets
Small pets allowed in carriers; larger pets may require a separate ticket.
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
10h 45m
Cheapest Price
$104 (€84)
Greyhound frequency
3 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
Things to do in San Diego
Discover the best of San Diego — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect San Diego trip today.
- Recommended
San Diego Museum of Art
Balboa Park’s major art museum, known for European old masters, Asian art, and rotating exhibitions in a landmark Spanish Colonial Revival building.
- Recommended
Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego
Contemporary art museum with strong regional and international programming, especially noted for its oceanfront La Jolla location and modern exhibitions.
- Must visit
Balboa Park
San Diego’s flagship urban park, packed with gardens, museums, Spanish Colonial architecture, plazas, and highly photogenic walking paths.
- Must visit
La Jolla Cove
A scenic coastal area known for sea lions, cliffs, turquoise water, and one of the city’s most photographed ocean viewpoints.
- Must visit
Gaslamp Quarter
The city’s best-known historic downtown district, lined with Victorian-era buildings, lively streets, and a strong day-to-night atmosphere.
Fish Tacos
Beer-battered or grilled fish in a tortilla, usually topped with cabbage, crema, and salsa. A signature San Diego favorite shaped by Baja California influence.
California Burrito
A San Diego staple burrito filled with carne asada, fries, cheese, and salsa. It is one of the city’s most iconic late-night and taqueria foods.
Carne Asada Fries
French fries topped with carne asada, cheese, guacamole, sour cream, and salsa. This indulgent border-style dish is strongly associated with San Diego taco shops.
Mitch's Seafood
Established waterfront seafood restaurant in Point Loma known for fresh local catch, fish sandwiches, and harbor views.
Las Cuatro Milpas
Legendary casual spot in Barrio Logan known for traditional Mexican plates, handmade tortillas, and an old-school local atmosphere.
Oscar's Mexican Seafood
Popular casual venue celebrated for fish tacos, smoked fish tacos, and fresh coastal Baja-style seafood in a laid-back setting.
United States Dollar
San Diego is pricey by U.S. standards, especially for hotels and dining, though tacos, casual eats, and happy hours can help keep daily costs lower.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-18 for tacos, fast food, or casual counter service.
- Mid-range
- USD 25-45 per person at a standard sit-down restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 80+ per person before drinks, tax, and tip.
- Coffee
- USD 4-7 for drip coffee or a latte.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants; 20%+ for great service. USD 1-2 per drink at bars, round up or 10-15% for taxis, and USD 2-5 nightly for hotel housekeeping.
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 $76 (€61) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Merced, CA to San Diego, CA is $82 (€66) ; 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 8h 48m 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 10 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.
A trip to San Diego, CA from Merced, CA is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 8h 48m 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
Merced
San Diego
The major bus station for departures in Merced is Merced, W 16th St (Greyhound Bus Station). Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Merced, W 16th St (Greyhound Bus Station) for your trip from Merced to San Diego.
Merced, W 16th St (Greyhound Bus Station)
information
The major bus station for arrivals in San Diego is San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park). Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park) for your trip to San Diego from Merced.
San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park)
information
San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center
information
San Diego, Rail Ct / E San Ysidro Blvd (McDonald`s)
information
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
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.
