- Must visit
San Francisco Museum of Modern Art
Major modern and contemporary art museum with an internationally important collection and frequent blockbuster exhibitions.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Monterey, CA to San Francisco, CA
Showing times and prices for Jul 09
Cheapest price
$27
Average price
$27
Fastest journey
2 h 5 m
Average duration
2 h 5 m
Buses per day
1
Distance
139 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Monterey, 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 Monterey, CA to San Francisco, CA will cost around $27 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $27.
Fast buses
Of the 1 buses that leave Monterey, CA for San Francisco, CA on Thu, Jul 09, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Thu, Jul 09 the direct buses cover the 139 km distance in an average of 2 h 5 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 2 h 5 m .
On Thu, Jul 09 the slowest buses will take 2 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.
FlixBus6:15 PM2h05Salinas, Greyhound8:20 PMSan Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street, CA$271One-way0 transfers
- FlixBus6:15 PM2h05Salinas, Greyhound8:20 PMSan Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street, CA$271One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Monterey, CA to San Francisco, CA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Monterey, CA to San Francisco, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $25. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 2h 0m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $25, and a train costs an average of $48.
Distance: 86 miles (139 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$30 Average price Cheapest | $87 Average price | $23 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 30m Average total duration Fastest 2h 0m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 0m Average total duration 4h 30m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 3m 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 Monterey, CA to San Francisco, CA is a bus with an average price of $30 (€25).
This is compared to other travel options from Monterey, CA to San Francisco, CA:
A bus is $56 (€46) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Monterey, CA to San Francisco, CA costing on average $87 (€71).
The fastest way to travel from Monterey, CA to San Francisco, CA is by bus with an average journey time of 2h 0m.
Other travel options to San Francisco, CA take longer:
Train takes on average 4h 30m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Monterey, CA and San Francisco, CA including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Monterey, CA to San Francisco, CA among Omio's users.
Take the bus. It's the quicker way to make this trip, and the time saved usually justifies the slightly higher cost.
You'll arrive about 3m sooner (2h 0m by bus vs 2h 3m by car). Tickets start at around $30 (€25) compared to roughly $23 (€19) in fuel and tolls — a bit more, but you're getting time back, skipping traffic and parking, and you can work or rest on board.
Direct coaches are operated by FlixBus.
Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel splits across several people), want flexibility on timing, or plan to stop en route.
Monterey, CA to San Francisco, CA Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 06:15PM | Arrival Time 08:20PM | Duration 2h05 | Departure days Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $25 |
Compare prices and tickets Monterey, CA to San Francisco, CA by train or bus
Compare train and bus 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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Why should you book Monterey, CA to San Francisco, CA buses with Omio?
FlixBus operates all buses services from Monterey, CA to San Francisco, CA.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Monterey, CA to San Francisco, CA.
Why book with Omio vs FlixBus?
- 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 FlixBus with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Monterey, CA to San Francisco, CA.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Monterey, CA to San Francisco, CA.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Monterey, CA to San Francisco, CA
USAUSA
Buses from Monterey, CA to San Francisco, CA run on average 3 times per day, taking around 2h 0m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $25 (€21) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 07:00, the last at 18:15. The fastest bus covers the 86 miles (139 km) distance in 2h 5m.
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 86 miles (139 km) |
Average bus duration 2h 0m |
Cheapest ticket price $25 (€21) |
Buses per day 3 |
Fastest bus 2h 5m |
First bus 7:00 AM |
Last bus 6:15 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Thu |
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: FlixBus from Monterey, CA to San Francisco, CAYou can travel by bus between Monterey, CA to San Francisco, CA with FlixBus for as low as $25 (€21). 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
2h 5m
Cheapest Price
$25 (€21)
FlixBus frequency
1 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.
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 art museum on the Embarcadero, especially popular for interactive exhibits and bay views.
- Recommended
de Young Museum
Leading fine arts museum in Golden Gate Park, known for American art, textiles, and its observation tower.
- Must visit
Fisherman's Wharf
Busy waterfront district known for classic San Francisco atmosphere, bay views, piers, and easy access to major sights.
- Must visit
Lombard Street
Famous crooked block with steep curves, manicured gardens, and one of the city's most photographed street scenes.
- Must visit
Golden Gate Park
Huge urban park with gardens, lakes, museums, and broad walking and cycling routes across the western city.
- Gluten-free
Cioppino
A tomato-based seafood stew created by Italian American fishermen in San Francisco, typically filled with crab, clams, mussels, shrimp, and fish.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Sourdough Bread
San Francisco’s famous tangy sourdough loaf, shaped by the city’s historic wild yeast culture and long baking tradition.
Mission-Style Burrito
A large foil-wrapped burrito associated with the Mission District, usually packed with rice, beans, meat, salsa, and extras.
House of Prime Rib
Classic San Francisco institution serving carved prime rib with old-fashioned hospitality and a lively, upscale supper-club feel.
La Taqueria
Iconic Mission District taqueria celebrated for Mission-style burritos and tacos with a simple, always-busy casual atmosphere.
Swan Oyster Depot
Historic seafood counter famous for ultra-fresh oysters, crab, and cioppino ingredients in a classic old-school San Francisco setting.
United States Dollar
Prices are high for hotels, dining, parking, and taxes. Budget options exist, but overall costs rank among the highest in the US.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 12-20 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- USD 25-45 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 90+ per person before drinks and tip.
- Coffee
- USD 4-7 for a regular coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% in restaurants; 20%+ for great service. Bars: USD 1-2 per drink. Taxis/rideshares: 10-15% or round up. Hotels: USD 2-5 for porters, USD 3-5 daily for housekeeping.
FAQs: Bus from Monterey, CA to San Francisco, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Monterey, 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 Monterey, CA to San Francisco, CA can start from as little as $25 (€21) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Monterey, CA to San Francisco, CA is $30 (€25) ; 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 Monterey, CA to San Francisco, CA is 2h 5m to travel the 86 miles (139 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 Monterey, CA to San Francisco, CA leaves at 7:00 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Monterey, CA to San Francisco, CA leaves at 6:15 PM.
There are 3 buses a day from Monterey, CA to San Francisco, CA which require at least one change with FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Monterey, CA to San Francisco, CA, you can count on FlixBus for the best way to get you to San Francisco, CA. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Monterey, CA and San Francisco, CA and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to San Francisco, CA from Monterey, CA is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 2h 5m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Monterey, CA to San Francisco, CA is August.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Monterey, CA and San Francisco, CA including taking a train and bus.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Monterey, CA to San Francisco, CA for bus company FlixBus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Monterey, CA to San Francisco, CA:
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
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 Monterey, CA to San Francisco, CA depends on the bus companies:
- 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 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 Monterey, CA to San Francisco, CA.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Monterey, CA to San Francisco, CA:
- 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 Monterey, CA to San Francisco, CA:
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Monterey, CA to San Francisco, 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 Monterey, CA to San Francisco, CA with the following bus company: FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Monterey, CA to San Francisco, CA with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Monterey, CA to San Francisco, CA with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Since neither Monterey, 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 Monterey, 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 Monterey, CA to San Francisco, CA
Most Monterey, CA to San Francisco, CA buses use the Salinas, Greyhound to San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street station pair. Use this guide to compare Monterey, CA and San Francisco, CA bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Monterey
Arrival bus stations in San Francisco
San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th StreetSan Francisco Bus Station,401 Townsend St,94107
City-centre transport
Getting to San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street from San Francisco city centre
BusEast, West · 20m · every ~4 min
Nbus, Nowl · 24m · $2 · every ~2 min
TramN · 23m · $2 · every ~11 min
Most popular bus connections from Monterey, CA
More options for your journey from Monterey, 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 Monterey, CA
Most popular bus connections to San Francisco, CA
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