- Must visit
San Francisco Museum of Modern Art
Major modern and contemporary art museum with an outstanding collection, rotating exhibitions, and a central SoMa location.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Merced, CA to San Francisco, CA
Showing times and prices for Jun 16
Cheapest price
$63
Average price
$70
Fastest journey
6 h 15 m
Average duration
7 h 10 m
Buses per day
3
Distance
179 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Merced, CA 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 Merced, CA to San Francisco, CA will cost around $70 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $63.
Fast buses
Of the 3 buses that leave Merced, CA for San Francisco, CA on Tue, Jun 16, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Tue, Jun 16 the direct buses cover the 179 km distance in an average of 7 h 10 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 6 h 15 m .
On Tue, Jun 16 the slowest buses will take 8 h 55 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.
1:05 PM6h20Merced, CA7:25 PMSan Francisco, CA$631One-way0 transfers- 10:10 PM8h55Merced, CA7:05 AMSan Francisco, CA$721One-way0 transfers
- 1:10 PM6h15Merced, CA7:25 PMSan Francisco, CA$761One-way0 transfers
- 1:10 PM6h15Merced, CA7:25 PMSan Francisco, CA$761One-way0 transfers
- 1:05 PM6h20Merced, CA7:25 PMSan Francisco, CA$631One-way0 transfers
- 10:10 PM8h55Merced, CA7:05 AMSan Francisco, CA$721One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Merced, CA to San Francisco, CA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Merced, CA to San Francisco, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $40. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 7m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $40, and a bus costs an average of $36.
Distance: 111 miles (179 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$76 Average price | $43 Average price Cheapest | $45 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 7m Average total duration 3h 37m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 37m Average total duration Fastest 3h 7m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 17m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular bus company |  Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Merced, CA to San Francisco, CA is a train with an average price of $43 (€35).
This is compared to other travel options from Merced, CA to San Francisco, CA:
A train is $33 (€27) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Merced, CA to San Francisco, CA costing on average $76 (€62).
The fastest way to travel from Merced, CA to San Francisco, CA is by train with an average journey time of 3h 7m.
Other travel options to San Francisco, CA take longer:
Bus takes on average 3h 37m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Merced, CA and San Francisco, 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 Francisco, 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.
Merced, CA to San Francisco, CA Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 01:05PM | Arrival Time 07:25PM | Duration 6h20 | Departure days Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $40 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 01:10PM | Arrival Time 07:25PM | Duration 6h15 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $41 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 02:05PM | Arrival Time 08:25PM | Duration 6h20 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $54 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 09:05PM | Arrival Time 06:05AM | Duration 9h00 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $63 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 10:10PM | Arrival Time 07:05AM | Duration 8h55 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $66 |
Live departures
Merced, CA to San Francisco, CA bus times
The table below shows live departures for Merced, CA to San Francisco, CA buses for today, Monday, June 15. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1:10 PM Merced, CA | 6h15 | 7:25 PM San Francisco, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 2:05 PM Merced, CA | 6h20 | 8:25 PM San Francisco, 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 Francisco, 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.
Tue
Jun 16
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Jun 22
Jun 22
Why should you book Merced, CA to San Francisco, CA buses with Omio?
Greyhound operates all buses services from Merced, CA to San Francisco, CA.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Merced, CA to San Francisco, CA.
Why book with Omio vs Greyhound?
- 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 Francisco, CA.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- 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 Francisco, CA.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Merced, CA to San Francisco, CA
USAUSA
Buses from Merced, CA to San Francisco, CA run on average 4 times per day, taking around 3h 37m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $36 (€29) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 04:25, the last at 21:19. The fastest bus covers the 111 miles (179 km) distance in 6h 15m.
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 111 miles (179 km) |
Average bus duration 3h 37m |
Cheapest ticket price $36 (€29) |
Buses per day 4 |
Fastest bus 6h 15m |
First bus 4:25 AM |
Last bus 9:19 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 49 days |
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 from Merced, CA to San Francisco, CAYou can travel by bus between Merced, CA to San Francisco, CA with Greyhound for as low as $36 (€29). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
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
6h 15m
Cheapest Price
$36 (€29)
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 Francisco
Things to do in San Francisco
Discover the best of San Francisco — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect San Francisco trip today.
- Must visit
Exploratorium
Hands-on science and perception museum on the Embarcadero, especially popular for interactive exhibits and bay views.
- Recommended
de Young Museum
Fine arts museum in Golden Gate Park known for American art, textiles, global collections, and its observation tower.
- Must visit
Golden Gate Park
Vast urban park with gardens, museums, lakes, trails, and open space, ideal for walking, cycling, and relaxing.
- Must visit
Lombard Street
Famous crooked block with sharp turns, flower beds, and classic city views, especially popular with first-time visitors.
- Must visit
Painted Ladies at Alamo Square
Iconic row of Victorian houses facing a hilltop park with one of the city's most photographed skyline backdrops.
- Gluten-free
Cioppino
A tomato-based seafood stew created by Italian American fishermen in San Francisco, usually filled with crab, clams, mussels, shrimp, and fish.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Sourdough Bread
San Francisco’s most famous loaf, known for its tangy flavor from local wild yeast culture and a long baking tradition.
Mission-Style Burrito
A large foil-wrapped burrito popularized in the Mission District, typically packed with rice, beans, meat, salsa, and extras.
House of Prime Rib
Classic San Francisco institution serving carved prime rib with old-school service and a bustling supper-club atmosphere.
La Taqueria
Legendary Mission District taqueria famous for mission-style burritos and tacos, with a casual fast-moving atmosphere.
Swan Oyster Depot
Iconic no-frills seafood counter celebrated for ultra-fresh oysters, crab, and shellfish with a classic local feel.
United States Dollar
One of the priciest U.S. cities. Hotels, dining, parking, and taxes are high, though casual food options exist.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 12-20 for fast food, food trucks, or a simple cafe meal.
- Mid-range
- USD 25-45 per person at a casual sit-down restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 90+ per person before drinks, tax, and tip.
- Coffee
- USD 4-7 for drip coffee or a basic latte.
Tipping culture
Restaurants: 18-20% standard, 20%+ for great service. Bars: USD 1-2 per drink. Taxis/rideshares: 10-15%. Hotels: USD 2-5 for housekeeping, USD 1-2 per bag for porters.
FAQs: Bus from Merced, CA to San Francisco, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Merced, CA 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 Merced, CA to San Francisco, CA can start from as little as $36 (€29) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Merced, CA to San Francisco, CA is $76 (€62) ; 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 Francisco, CA is 6h 15m to travel the 111 miles (179 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 Francisco, CA leaves at 4:25 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Merced, CA to San Francisco, CA leaves at 9:19 PM.
There are 4 buses a day from Merced, CA to San Francisco, CA which require at least one change with Greyhound. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Merced, CA to San Francisco, CA, you can count on Greyhound for the best way to get you to San Francisco, CA. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Merced, CA and San Francisco, CA and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to San Francisco, CA from Merced, CA is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 6h 15m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Merced, CA to San Francisco, CA is August.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Merced, CA and San Francisco, CA including taking a bus and train.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Merced, CA to San Francisco, CA:
- Greyhound
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Merced, CA to San Francisco, CA for bus company Greyhound.
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.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Merced, CA to San Francisco, 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.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company Greyhound.
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 Francisco, CA.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Merced, CA to San Francisco, CA:
- 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 Francisco, CA:
- Greyhound
- $15 per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Merced, CA to San Francisco, CA.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Merced, CA to San Francisco, CA with the following bus company: Greyhound
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Merced, CA to San Francisco, CA with the following bus company: Greyhound.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Merced, CA to San Francisco, CA with the following bus company: Greyhound.
Since neither Merced, CA 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.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Merced, CA to San Francisco, 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 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 Merced, CA to San Francisco, CA
Merced
San Francisco
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 Francisco.
Merced, W 16th St (Greyhound Bus Station)
information
The major bus station for arrivals in San Francisco is San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29 for your trip to San Francisco from Merced.
San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29
information
Most popular bus connections from Merced, CA
More options for your journey from Merced, CA 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 Merced, CA
Most popular bus connections to San Francisco, CA
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