- Must visit
USS Midway Museum
Museum aboard the historic aircraft carrier USS Midway with restored aircraft, flight deck exhibits, and audio tours on San Diego Bay.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Modesto, CA to San Diego, CA
Showing times and prices for Jun 23
Cheapest price
$81
Average price
$109
Fastest journey
9 h 34 m
Average duration
13 h 17 m
Buses per day
4
Distance
649 km
Cheap tickets
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 $109 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $81.
Fast buses
Of the 4 buses that leave Modesto, CA for San Diego, CA on Tue, Jun 23, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Tue, Jun 23 the direct buses cover the 649 km distance in an average of 13 h 17 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 9 h 34 m .
On Tue, Jun 23 the slowest buses will take 22 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.
4:01 AM9h34Modesto, CA1:35 PMSan Diego, CA$811One-way0 transfers- 3:01 AM9h34Modesto, CA12:35 PMSan Diego, CA$831One-way0 transfers
7:10 AM22h05Modesto, CA5:15 AMSan Diego, CA$851One-way0 transfers- 6:55 PM11h55Modesto, CA6:50 AMSan Diego, CA$1881One-way0 transfers
- 4:01 AM9h34Modesto, CA1:35 PMSan Diego, CA$811One-way0 transfers
- 3:01 AM9h34Modesto, CA12:35 PMSan Diego, CA$831One-way0 transfers
- 6:55 PM11h55Modesto, CA6:50 AMSan Diego, CA$1881One-way0 transfers
- 7:10 AM22h05Modesto, CA5:15 AMSan Diego, CA$851One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Modesto, CA to San Diego, CA
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 prices starting from $70. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 33m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.2 - 0.6kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $70, and a flight costs an average of $35.
Distance: 403 miles (649 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$94 Average price Cheapest | $104 Average price | $263 Average price | $87 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
10h 41m Average total duration 10h 11m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 44m Average total duration 9h 14m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 33m Average total duration Fastest 1h 33m Onboard + 3h 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 |
Most popular bus company | Most popular train company |  Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | 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 Modesto, CA to San Diego, CA is a bus with an average price of $94 (€77).
This is compared to other travel options from Modesto, CA to San Diego, CA:
A bus is $9 (€8) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Modesto, CA to San Diego, CA costing on average $104 (€85).
A bus is $169 (€138) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Modesto, CA to San Diego, CA costing on average $263 (€215).
The fastest way to travel from Modesto, CA to San Diego, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 33m.
Other travel options to San Diego, CA take longer:
Train takes on average 9h 14m.
Bus takes on average 10h 11m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Modesto, CA and San Diego, CA including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Modesto, 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 -37m sooner (10h 11m by bus vs 6h 34m by car) and save roughly $-6.93 (€-5.67) compared to fuel and tolls ($94 (€77) vs $87 (€72)). 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 Greyhound.
Driving is still worth considering if you're travelling with bulky luggage, need flexibility on departure times, or plan to stop along the way.
Modesto, CA to San Diego, CA Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 12:20AM | Arrival Time 10:15PM | Duration 21h55 | Departure days Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $115 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 03:01AM | Arrival Time 12:35PM | Duration 9h34 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $83 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 04:01AM | Arrival Time 01:35PM | Duration 9h34 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $81 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 07:10AM | Arrival Time 05:15AM | Duration 22h05 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $78 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:20AM | Arrival Time 06:15AM | Duration 21h55 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $100 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 11:30AM | Arrival Time 12:25AM | Duration 12h55 | Departure days Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $103 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 06:55PM | Arrival Time 06:50AM | Duration 11h55 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Sat | Cheapest price $70 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 07:55PM | Arrival Time 07:50AM | Duration 11h55 | Departure days Thu, Sat | Cheapest price $76 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 08:01PM | Arrival Time 05:35AM | Duration 9h34 | Departure days Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $85 |
Live departures
Modesto, CA to San Diego, CA bus times
The table below shows live departures for Modesto, CA to San Diego, CA buses for today, Sunday, June 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 11:30 AM Modesto, Downtown Transit Center (Southern Pacififc) | 12h20 | 11:50 PM San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 11:30 AM Modesto, Downtown Transit Center (Southern Pacififc) | 12h55 | 12:25 AM San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 718 Gold Runner · 5818 AMTRAK | 8:01 PM Modesto Station, Modesto, CA | 9h34 | 5:35 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 1 transfer | |
| Monday, June 22 | |||||
| 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 | |
| 7:10 AM Modesto, CA | 22h05 | 5:15 AM 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 Modesto, CA to San Diego, CA by bus, train, or flight
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.
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Jun 28
Why should you book Modesto, CA to San Diego, CA buses with Omio?
Greyhound as well as FlixBus or Tufesa Mexico offer buses services from Modesto, CA to San Diego, CA.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Modesto, 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 or Tufesa Mexico to find the best option for your trip from Modesto, 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, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Modesto, 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 or Tufesa Mexico to find the best option for your trip from Modesto, CA to San Diego, CA.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Modesto, CA to San Diego, CA.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Modesto, CA to San Diego, CA
USAUSA
Buses from Modesto, CA to San Diego, CA run on average 14 times per day, taking around 10h 11m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $70 (€58) but you can travel from only $35 (€28) by flight.
There are 3 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 34m.
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $35 (€28)
Distance 403 miles (649 km) |
Average bus duration 10h 11m |
Cheapest ticket price $70 (€58) |
Buses per day 14 |
Direct buses 3 |
Fastest bus 9h 34m |
First bus 12:05 AM |
Last bus 10:10 PM |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Best time to book 2 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $35 (€28)
Bus providers: Greyhound, FlixBus, Tufesa Mexico from Modesto, CA to San Diego, CAYou can travel by bus between Modesto, CA to San Diego, CA with Greyhound, FlixBus, Tufesa Mexico for as low as $35 (€28). 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
21h 55m
Cheapest Price
$100 (€82)
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
11h 35m
Cheapest Price
$70 (€58)
Greyhound frequency
5 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.
Tufesa Mexico
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
12h 30m
Cheapest Price
$72 (€59)
Tufesa Mexico frequency
1 a day
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 art museum known for Spanish old masters, South Asian works, and rotating exhibitions in a landmark building.
- Recommended
Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego
Leading contemporary art museum with major postwar and current works, especially strong in Southern California and Pacific Rim artists.
- Must visit
Balboa Park
Vast cultural park with gardens, museums, Spanish Colonial Revival architecture, walking paths, and some of San Diego's best photo spots.
- Must visit
La Jolla Cove
Scenic cove known for sea lions, clear water, coastal cliffs, and highly shareable sunset and ocean-view walks.
- Must visit
Coronado Beach
Wide sandy beach beside the Hotel del Coronado, popular for walking, photography, and classic Southern California scenery.
- Gluten-free
Fish Tacos
Beer-battered or grilled local fish in tortillas, usually topped with cabbage, crema, and salsa. A signature coastal San Diego staple with strong Baja influence.
California Burrito
A San Diego original burrito filled with carne asada, fries, cheese, and salsa. It is one of the city’s most iconic late-night and casual foods.
- Gluten-free
Carne Asada Fries
French fries topped with carne asada, cheese, guacamole, sour cream, and salsa. This indulgent dish is strongly associated with San Diego taco shop culture.
Mitch's Seafood
Popular waterfront seafood restaurant serving fresh local catch, fish tacos, and sandwiches in a relaxed harbor setting near the fishing fleet.
Las Cuatro Milpas
Historic, no-frills Mexican restaurant famous for house-made tortillas, rolled tacos, and comforting traditional plates. A beloved local institution with a classic atmosphere.
Hodad's
Iconic casual spot in Ocean Beach known for oversized burgers, fries, and a lively beach-town vibe. A long-standing San Diego favorite.
United States Dollar
Prices are high by U.S. standards, especially for hotels, dining, and parking near the coast and downtown.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-18 for tacos, fast food, or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- USD 20-40 per person at a standard sit-down restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 75+ per person before drinks and tax.
- Coffee
- USD 4-7 for a latte or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, 20%+ for great service. Tip USD 1-2 per drink at bars, round up taxis, and tip hotel staff and valet.
FAQs: Bus from Modesto, CA to San Diego, CA
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.
Cheap bus tickets from Modesto, CA to San Diego, CA can start from as little as $70 (€58) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Modesto, CA to San Diego, CA is $94 (€77) ; 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 Modesto, CA to San Diego, CA is 9h 34m to travel the 403 miles (649 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 Modesto, CA to San Diego, CA leaves at 12:05 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Modesto, CA to San Diego, CA leaves at 10:10 PM.
Yes, there are 3 direct buses a day from Modesto, CA to San Diego, CA with Greyhound. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Modesto, CA to San Diego, CA, you can count on Greyhound, FlixBus, Tufesa Mexico for the best way to get you to San Diego, CA. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Modesto, CA and San Diego, CA and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to San Diego, CA from Modesto, CA is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 9h 34m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Modesto, CA to San Diego, CA is October.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Modesto, CA and San Diego, CA including taking a bus, train, and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Modesto, CA to San Diego, CA:
- Greyhound
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Modesto, CA to San Diego, CA for bus company Greyhound, FlixBus.
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 Modesto, 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 Modesto, CA to San Diego, CA.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Modesto, 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 Modesto, 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 Modesto, 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 Modesto, CA to San Diego, CA with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Modesto, CA to San Diego, CA with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Modesto, CA to San Diego, CA with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Since neither Modesto, 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 Modesto, 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 Modesto, CA to San Diego, CA
Modesto
San Diego
The major bus station for departures in Modesto is Modesto, Downtown Transit Center (Southern Pacififc). Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Modesto, Downtown Transit Center (Southern Pacififc) for your trip from Modesto to San Diego.
Modesto, Downtown Transit Center (Southern Pacififc)
information
Modesto, E Hatch Rd / Church Ln (Parklawn)
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 Modesto.
San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park)
information
San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center
information
San Diego
information
Most popular bus connections from Modesto, CA
More options for your journey from Modesto, 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 Modesto, CA
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