- 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.
Cheapest price on Sep 26
$84
Average ticket price on Sep 26
$127
Fastest journey on Sep 26
9 h 34 m
Average journey duration on Sep 26
10 h 47 m
Buses on Sep 26
4
Distance
649 km
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Modesto, 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 Modesto, CA to San Diego, CA will cost around $127 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $84.
On Sat, Sep 26, we found 4 buses from Modesto, CA to San Diego, CA, including 4 direct services.
On Sat, Sep 26 the direct buses cover the 649 km distance in an average of 10 h 47 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 9 h 34 m .
On Sat, Sep 26 the slowest buses will take 12 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.








Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Modesto, CA to San Diego, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $143 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 6h 40m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.2 - 0.6kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $143, while a flight costs an average of $680.
Distance: 403 miles (649 km)
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$143 Average price Cheapest | $680 Average price | $89 Average price (fuel + tolls) | |
12h 24m Average total duration 11h 54m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 40m Average total duration Fastest 4h 40m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 6h 34m Average total duration (door-to-door) | |
0.6 - 1.6kg CO2 emissions | 0.2 - 0.6kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 1.9 - 3.9kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
This is compared to other travel options from Modesto, CA to San Diego, CA:
A bus is $537 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Modesto, CA to San Diego, CA costing on average $680.
Other travel options to San Diego, CA take longer:
Bus takes on average 11h 54m.
Tickets start at around $143 compared to roughly $89 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-54.46. The journey takes 11h 54m versus 6h 34m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can use the time productively rather than spending it behind the wheel. No parking to sort, no fuel stops, and most coaches have Wi-Fi and power outlets.
Driving is worth considering if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), or want the flexibility to stop along the way.
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 12:20AM | Arrival Time 06:20PM | Duration 18h00 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $93 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 03:01AM | Arrival Time 12:35PM | Duration 9h34 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $83 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 04:01AM | Arrival Time 01:35PM | Duration 9h34 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $81 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 07:10AM | Arrival Time 06:45PM | Duration 11h35 | Departure days Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $78 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:20AM | Arrival Time 06:15AM | Duration 21h55 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $78 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 10:10AM | Arrival Time 10:15PM | Duration 12h05 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $78 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 11:30AM | Arrival Time 12:25AM | Duration 12h55 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $82 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 06:45PM | Arrival Time 06:50AM | Duration 12h05 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $199 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 06:55PM | Arrival Time 06:50AM | Duration 11h55 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $70 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 07:55PM | Arrival Time 07:50AM | Duration 11h55 | Departure days Thu, Sun | Cheapest price $76 |
The table below shows live departures for Modesto, CA to San Diego, CA buses for today, Saturday, September 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
FlixBus · FlixBus | 8:20 AM Modesto, Dale Road / Braden Avenue (Sizzler), CA | 14h25 | 10:45 PM San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus+![]() | 8:20 AM Modesto, Dale Road / Braden Avenue (Sizzler), CA | 15h30 | 11:50 PM San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), CA | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus · FlixBus | 8:20 AM Modesto, Dale Road / Braden Avenue (Sizzler), CA | 13h55 | 10:15 PM San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District), CA | 1 transfer | |
![]() | 11:30 AM Modesto, Downtown Transit Center (Southern Pacififc) | 12h55 | 12:25 AM San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 11:30 AM Modesto, Downtown Transit Center (Southern Pacififc) | 12h20 | 11:50 PM San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 3:01 AM Modesto, CA | 9h34 | 12:35 PM San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 4:01 AM Modesto, CA | 9h34 | 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 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.
Buses from Modesto, CA to San Diego, CA run on average 7 times per day, taking around 11h 54m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $63 if you book in advance.
There are 2 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:05, the last at 22:10. The fastest bus covers the 403 miles (649 km) distance in 9h 30m.
Distance 403 miles (649 km) |
Average bus duration 11h 54m |
Cheapest ticket price $63 |
Buses per day 7 |
Direct buses 2 |
Fastest bus 9h 30m |
First bus 12:05 AM |
Last bus 10:10 PM |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Best time to book 1 day |
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.
Major Balboa Park museum with works from Spanish old masters to modern art, plus strong regional and international exhibitions.
Acclaimed contemporary art museum in La Jolla featuring oceanfront settings, modern works, and rotating global exhibitions.
Museum aboard a historic aircraft carrier with restored aircraft, naval exhibits, and immersive views of life at sea.
Balboa Park is San Diego's grand cultural park, packed with gardens, architecture, museums, and walkable plazas worth lingering in.
Historic Gaslamp Quarter offers Victorian-era streets, nightlife energy, and preserved downtown architecture for an atmospheric walk.
Dramatic seaside cliffs and walking paths in La Jolla, famous for waves, sea lions, and sweeping Pacific views.
A San Diego staple: grilled fish in a soft tortilla with cabbage, crema, and salsa. Popularized by Baja influence and coastal seafood culture.
French fries, carne asada, cheese, guacamole, and crema wrapped in a flour tortilla. A late-night local favorite born in San Diego taquerias.
Fresh local sea urchin served raw, prized for its rich, buttery taste. It reflects San Diego's access to Pacific seafood and sushi culture.
Celebrated sushi restaurant specializing in omakase and pristine seafood, including uni. Intimate, polished, and highly respected by locals.
Iconic casual seafood counter known for fish tacos, smoked fish, and harbor views. A classic stop for San Diego's Baja-inspired seafood style.
Refined fine-dining restaurant showcasing local seafood and seasonal California ingredients. Elegant room with one of the city's strongest reputations.
San Diego is pricey for US travel, with higher hotel rates, dining, and parking than many cities, though casual food and buses stay manageable.
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, 15-20% for taxis or rideshares, and $1-2 for coffee drinks or small cafe orders.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Modesto, 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.

Most Modesto, CA to San Diego, CA buses use the Modesto, Downtown Transit Center (Southern Pacififc) 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 Modesto, CA and San Diego, CA bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Modesto, Downtown Transit Center (Southern Pacififc) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Free Wi-Fi available in the waiting area. ATMs are aTM available near the ticket office.
Ticket office support is available at Modesto, Downtown Transit Center (Southern Pacififc).
Available at Modesto, Downtown Transit Center (Southern Pacififc): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Modesto, Downtown Transit Center (Southern Pacififc): Wheelchair accessible entrance and facilities.
Modesto, E Hatch Rd / Church Ln (Parklawn) is 3 km from Modesto city centre. Public transport options include:
Modesto, E Hatch Rd / Church Ln (Parklawn) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi is available at Modesto, E Hatch Rd / Church Ln (Parklawn). ATMs are available at Modesto, E Hatch Rd / Church Ln (Parklawn).
Ticket office support is available at Modesto, E Hatch Rd / Church Ln (Parklawn).
Available at Modesto, E Hatch Rd / Church Ln (Parklawn): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Modesto, E Hatch Rd / Church Ln (Parklawn): Accessible for passengers with disabilities.
San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park) is 5 km from San Diego city centre. Public transport options include:
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 options include: Several dining options nearby.
Wi-Fi is available at San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park). ATMs are available at San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park).
Ticket office support is available at San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park).
Available at San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park): Wheelchair accessible routes available.
San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center is 22 km from San Diego city centre. Public transport options include:
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 options include: Several fast food eateries located nearby.
Wi-Fi is available at San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center. ATMs are available near the entrance.
Ticket office support is available at San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center.
Available at San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center: Wheelchair accessible with ramps.
San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District) is 1 km from San Diego city centre. Public transport options include:
San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Several dining options are in the area.
Wi-Fi is available at San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District). ATMs are available at San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District).
Ticket office support is available at San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District).
Available at San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District): Accessible for persons with disabilities.
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