- Must visit
The Getty Center
Major hilltop art museum with European paintings, decorative arts, gardens, and panoramic city views.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from National City, CA to Los Angeles, CA
Showing times and prices for Jul 02
Cheapest price
$40
Average price
$41
Fastest journey
3 h 23 m
Average duration
4 h 3 m
Buses per day
4
Distance
186 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from National City, CA to Los Angeles, CA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from National City, CA to Los Angeles, CA will cost around $41 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $40.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from National City, CA to Los Angeles, CA without transferring at least once.
6:13 AM4h27National City, CA10:40 AMLos Angeles, CA$401One-way1 transfer- 1:11 PM3h59National City, CA5:10 PMLos Angeles, CA$401One-way1 transfer
- 6:57 PM3h23National City, CA10:20 PMLos Angeles, CA$401One-way1 transfer
- 6:17 AM4h23National City, CA10:40 AMLos Angeles, CA$451One-way2 transfers
- 6:57 PM3h23National City, CA10:20 PMLos Angeles, CA$401One-way1 transfer
- 1:11 PM3h59National City, CA5:10 PMLos Angeles, CA$401One-way1 transfer
- 6:17 AM4h23National City, CA10:40 AMLos Angeles, CA$451One-way2 transfers
- 6:13 AM4h27National City, CA10:40 AMLos Angeles, CA$401One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for National City, CA to Los Angeles, CA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from National City, CA to Los Angeles, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $29. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 49m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $29, and a flight costs an average of $212.
Distance: 115 miles (186 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$31 Average price Cheapest | $39 Average price | $221 Average price | $25 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 40m Average total duration 4h 10m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 19m Average total duration Fastest 2h 49m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 13h 0m Average total duration 10h 0m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 2h 17m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from National City, CA to Los Angeles, CA is a bus with an average price of $31 (€25).
This is compared to other travel options from National City, CA to Los Angeles, CA:
A bus is $8 (€7) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from National City, CA to Los Angeles, CA costing on average $39 (€32).
A bus is $191 (€157) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from National City, CA to Los Angeles, CA costing on average $221 (€182).
The fastest way to travel from National City, CA to Los Angeles, CA is by train with an average journey time of 2h 49m.
Other travel options to Los Angeles, CA take longer:
Bus takes on average 4h 10m.
Flight takes on average 10h 0m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between National City, CA and Los Angeles, CA including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from National City, CA to Los Angeles, 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.
National City, CA to Los Angeles, CA Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator San Diego Metro Transit | Departure Time 06:13AM | Arrival Time 10:40AM | Duration 4h27 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $40 |
Operator San Diego Metro Transit | Departure Time 06:17AM | Arrival Time 10:40AM | Duration 4h23 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $45 |
Operator San Diego Metro Transit | Departure Time 06:38AM | Arrival Time 10:40AM | Duration 4h02 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $40 |
Operator San Diego Metro Transit | Departure Time 01:11PM | Arrival Time 05:10PM | Duration 3h59 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $40 |
Operator San Diego Metro Transit | Departure Time 01:21PM | Arrival Time 05:10PM | Duration 3h49 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $40 |
Operator San Diego Metro Transit | Departure Time 06:42PM | Arrival Time 10:20PM | Duration 3h38 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $40 |
Operator San Diego Metro Transit | Departure Time 06:57PM | Arrival Time 10:20PM | Duration 3h23 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $40 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:35PM | Arrival Time 11:55PM | Duration 3h20 | Departure days Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $29 |
Live departures
National City, CA to Los Angeles, CA bus times
The table below shows live departures for National City, CA to Los Angeles, CA buses for tomorrow, Thursday, July 2. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:13 AM National City, CA | 4h27 | 10:40 AM Los Angeles, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 6:17 AM National City, CA | 4h23 | 10:40 AM Los Angeles, CA | 2 transfers | |
| 1:11 PM National City, CA | 3h59 | 5:10 PM Los Angeles, CA | 1 transfer | |
| 6:57 PM National City, CA | 3h23 | 10:20 PM Los Angeles, CA | 1 transfer | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets National City, CA to Los Angeles, 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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Why should you book National City, CA to Los Angeles, CA buses with Omio?
FlixBus as well as San Diego Metro Transit offer buses services from National City, CA to Los Angeles, CA.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from National City, CA to Los Angeles, CA.
Why book with Omio vs FlixBus?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for FlixBus, but also compare tickets for the likes of San Diego Metro Transit to find the best option for your trip from National City, CA to Los Angeles, 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 FlixBus with all available travel options, which are bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from National City, CA to Los Angeles, CA.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from National City, CA to Los Angeles, CA.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from National City, CA to Los Angeles, CA
USAUSA
Buses from National City, CA to Los Angeles, CA run on average 26 times per day, taking around 4h 10m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $29 (€24) if you book in advance.
There are 26 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:05, the last at 22:20. The fastest bus covers the 115 miles (186 km) distance in 3h 20m.
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 115 miles (186 km) |
Average bus duration 4h 10m |
Cheapest ticket price $29 (€24) |
Buses per day 26 |
Direct buses 26 |
Fastest bus 3h 20m |
First bus 12:05 AM |
Last bus 10:20 PM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Wed |
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, San Diego Metro Transit from National City, CA to Los Angeles, CAYou can travel by bus between National City, CA to Los Angeles, CA with FlixBus, San Diego Metro Transit for as low as $29 (€24). 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
3h 20m
Cheapest Price
$29 (€24)
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.
San Diego Metro Transit
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 23m
Cheapest Price
$40 (€33)
San Diego Metro Transit frequency
3 a day
Complete guide to Los Angeles
Things to do in Los Angeles
Discover the best of Los Angeles — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Los Angeles trip today.
- Must visit
Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)
The largest art museum in the western United States, known for broad global collections and the Urban Light installation.
- Must visit
The Broad
Contemporary art museum with a high-profile collection featuring works by Yayoi Kusama, Jeff Koons, and Jean-Michel Basquiat.
- Must visit
Griffith Park
Vast urban park with trails, scenic overlooks, and access to some of the city’s best outdoor viewpoints.
- Must visit
Santa Monica Pier
Classic Southern California waterfront area popular for ocean views, walks, and iconic beach atmosphere.
- Must visit
Venice Beach Boardwalk
Famous beachfront promenade known for street culture, murals, skate energy, and people-watching.
French Dip Sandwich
A Los Angeles classic of thinly sliced roast beef on a roll, usually served with savory jus for dipping. It is one of the city’s most iconic old-school sandwiches.
- Gluten-free
Street Tacos
Small corn-tortilla tacos filled with meats such as carne asada, al pastor, or carnitas, topped simply with onion, cilantro, and salsa. They reflect the city’s deep Mexican culinary influence.
- Gluten-free
Korean Barbecue
Grilled marinated meats cooked at the table, commonly enjoyed with banchan in Koreatown. Los Angeles is especially famous for its vibrant Korean barbecue culture.
Bestia
Popular upscale restaurant in the Arts District known for house-made charcuterie, pasta, and a stylish industrial setting.
Philippe The Original
Historic casual eatery best known for the French dip sandwich, old-school counter service, and classic Los Angeles atmosphere.
Guelaguetza
Well-known Oaxacan restaurant celebrated for mole, tlayudas, and lively traditional flavors in a vibrant setting.
United States Dollar
Los Angeles is costly for visitors, especially lodging, parking, and dining. Casual food is manageable, but transport and attractions add up quickly.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-18 for fast food, tacos, 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 latte.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants; 20% is common for good service. Tip USD 1-2 per drink at bars, round up or tip 10-15% for taxis, and tip hotel staff and valet.
FAQs: Bus from National City, CA to Los Angeles, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from National City, CA to Los Angeles, 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 Los Angeles, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from National City, CA to Los Angeles, CA can start from as little as $29 (€24) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for National City, CA to Los Angeles, CA is $31 (€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 National City, CA to Los Angeles, CA is 3h 20m to travel the 115 miles (186 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 National City, CA to Los Angeles, CA leaves at 12:05 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from National City, CA to Los Angeles, CA leaves at 10:20 PM.
Yes, there are 26 direct buses a day from National City, CA to Los Angeles, CA with . Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from National City, CA to Los Angeles, CA, you can count on FlixBus, San Diego Metro Transit for the best way to get you to Los Angeles, CA. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between National City, CA and Los Angeles, CA and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Los Angeles, CA from National City, CA is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 3h 20m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from National City, CA to Los Angeles, CA is November.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between National City, CA and Los Angeles, CA including taking a bus, train, and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from National City, CA to Los Angeles, CA:
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from National City, CA to Los Angeles, CA for bus company FlixBus.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Los Angeles, CA are:
- Griffith Observatory, an iconic facility offering stunning views of Los Angeles and exhibits on astronomy
- The Getty Center, a renowned art museum with impressive architecture and beautiful gardens
- Santa Monica Pier, a historic landmark featuring an amusement park, aquarium, and scenic ocean views
- Hollywood Walk of Fame, a famous sidewalk celebrating entertainment industry icons with star plaques
- Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), the largest art museum in the western United States with diverse collections.
The best things to do in Los Angeles, CA include:
- Explore the vibrant Venice Beach Boardwalk, known for its eclectic shops, street performers, and skate park
- Visit the historic El Capitan Theatre for a classic movie experience
- Take a scenic hike in Runyon Canyon Park, offering panoramic views of the city
- Enjoy a live performance at the Walt Disney Concert Hall, known for its stunning architecture and acoustics
- Discover the unique exhibits at the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from National City, CA to Los Angeles, 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 National City, CA to Los Angeles, CA.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from National City, CA to Los Angeles, 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 National City, CA to Los Angeles, CA:
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from National City, CA to Los Angeles, 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 National City, CA to Los Angeles, CA with the following bus company: FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from National City, CA to Los Angeles, CA with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from National City, CA to Los Angeles, CA with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Since neither National City, CA nor Los Angeles, 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 National City, CA to Los Angeles, 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 Los Angeles, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and vehicle break-ins, especially in crowded or tourist-heavy areas like Hollywood and Venice Beach. Common scams include fake ticket vendors near popular attractions and overcharging by unlicensed ride services. It's important to use official transportation options, stay aware of surroundings, and avoid sharing personal information with strangers to stay safe.
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 National City, CA to Los Angeles, CA
Most National City, CA to Los Angeles, CA buses use the San Diego to Hantington Park station pair, with some services arriving at Los Angeles, Patsaouras Transit Plaza (Union Station). Use this guide to compare National City, CA and Los Angeles, CA bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in National City
Arrival bus stations in Los Angeles
Los Angeles, Patsaouras Transit Plaza (Union Station)
City-centre transport
Getting to Los Angeles, Patsaouras Transit Plaza (Union Station) from Los Angeles city centre
Bus4X · 8m · $2
SubwayMetro B Line, Metro D Line · 12m · $2 · every ~24 min
Los Angeles, Cesar E Chavez / Vignes
City-centre transport
Getting to Los Angeles, Cesar E Chavez / Vignes from Los Angeles city centre
Bus40, 74 · 3m · $2 · every ~15 min
33 · 4m · $2 · every ~9 min
D · 11m · $5 · every ~12 min
490, 495, 499, 699, 493, 498, 707 · 13m · $7 · every ~9 min
TramMetro A Line · 10m · $2 · every ~12 min
SubwayMetro B Line, Metro D Line · 10m · $2 · every ~24 min
Los Angles, S Hope St. USC Parking
City-centre transport
Getting to Los Angles, S Hope St. USC Parking from Los Angeles city centre
Bus92 · 1m · $2 · every ~6 min
D · 2m · $5 · every ~12 min
More options for your journey from National City, CA to Los Angeles, CA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Los Angeles, CA and National City, CA
Most popular bus connections to Los Angeles, CA
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