- 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 Raleigh, NC to San Francisco, CA
Showing times and prices for Jul 10
Cheapest price
$218
Average price
$420
Fastest journey
2 d 22 h 40 m
Average duration
3 d 8 h 33 m
Buses per day
2
Distance
3870 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Raleigh, NC 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 Raleigh, NC to San Francisco, CA will cost around $420 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $218.
Fast buses
Of the 2 buses that leave Raleigh, NC for San Francisco, CA on Fri, Jul 10, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, Jul 10 the direct buses cover the 3870 km distance in an average of 3 d 8 h 33 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 2 d 22 h 40 m .
On Fri, Jul 10 the slowest buses will take 3 d 18 h 25 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.
7:15 PM90h25Raleigh, NC1:40 PMSan Francisco, CA$2181One-way0 transfers- 2:25 AM70h40Raleigh, NC1:05 AMSan Francisco, CA$6211One-way0 transfers
- 2:25 AM70h40Raleigh, NC1:05 AMSan Francisco, CA$6211One-way0 transfers
- 7:15 PM90h25Raleigh, NC1:40 PMSan Francisco, CA$2181One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Raleigh, NC to San Francisco, CA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Raleigh, NC to San Francisco, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the flight with prices starting from $164. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 15h 44m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a flight costs an average of $164, and a train costs an average of $288.
Distance: 2404 miles (3870 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight |
|---|---|---|
$431 Average price | $930 Average price | $298 Average price Cheapest |
76h 49m Average total duration 76h 19m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 79h 7m Average total duration 78h 37m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 18h 44m Average total duration Fastest 15h 44m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Raleigh, NC to San Francisco, CA is a flight with an average price of $298 (€245).
This is compared to other travel options from Raleigh, NC to San Francisco, CA:
A flight is $132 (€109) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Raleigh, NC to San Francisco, CA costing on average $431 (€354).
A flight is $631 (€519) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Raleigh, NC to San Francisco, CA costing on average $930 (€764).
The fastest way to travel from Raleigh, NC to San Francisco, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 15h 44m.
Other travel options to San Francisco, CA take longer:
Bus takes on average 76h 19m.
Train takes on average 78h 37m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Raleigh, NC and San Francisco, CA including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Raleigh, NC to San Francisco, CA among Omio's users.
Raleigh, NC to San Francisco, CA Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 02:25AM | Arrival Time 01:05AM | Duration 70h40 | Departure days Thu, Sat | Cheapest price $621 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 07:15PM | Arrival Time 01:40PM | Duration 90h25 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $218 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 07:25PM | Arrival Time 07:25PM | Duration 72h00 | Departure days Mon, Thu | Cheapest price $334 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 08:25PM | Arrival Time 08:25PM | Duration 72h00 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $426 |
Live departures
Raleigh, NC to San Francisco, CA bus times
The table below shows live departures for Raleigh, NC to San Francisco, CA buses for today, Thursday, July 9. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:25 PM Raleigh, NC | 72h00 | 7:25 PM San Francisco, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:25 PM Raleigh, NC | 72h00 | 8:25 PM San Francisco, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Friday, July 10 | |||||
| 2:25 AM Raleigh, NC | 70h40 | 1:05 AM 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 Raleigh, NC to San Francisco, 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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Journey information
Overview: Bus from Raleigh, NC to San Francisco, CA
USAUSA
Buses from Raleigh, NC to San Francisco, CA run on average 7 times per day, taking around 76h 19m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $209 (€172) but you can travel from only $164 (€135) by flight.
The earliest bus runs at 06:30, the last at 23:25. The fastest bus covers the 2404 miles (3870 km) distance in 70h 40m.
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 $164 (€135)
Distance 2404 miles (3870 km) |
Average bus duration 76h 19m |
Cheapest ticket price $209 (€172) |
Buses per day 7 |
Fastest bus 70h 40m |
First bus 6:30 AM |
Last bus 11:25 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
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 $164 (€135)
Bus providers: GoRaleigh from Raleigh, NC to San Francisco, CAYou can travel by bus between Raleigh, NC to San Francisco, CA with GoRaleigh for as low as $164 (€135). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
GoRaleigh
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
70h 5m
Cheapest Price
$840 (€691)
GoRaleigh frequency
1 a day
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 Raleigh, NC to San Francisco, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Raleigh, NC 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 Raleigh, NC to San Francisco, CA can start from as little as $209 (€172) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Raleigh, NC to San Francisco, CA is $431 (€354) ; 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 Raleigh, NC to San Francisco, CA is 70h 40m to travel the 2404 miles (3870 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 Raleigh, NC to San Francisco, CA leaves at 6:30 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Raleigh, NC to San Francisco, CA leaves at 11:25 PM.
There are 7 buses a day from Raleigh, NC to San Francisco, CA which require at least one change with GoRaleigh. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Raleigh, NC to San Francisco, CA, you can count on GoRaleigh for the best way to get you to San Francisco, CA. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Raleigh, NC and San Francisco, CA and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to San Francisco, CA from Raleigh, NC is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 70h 40m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Raleigh, NC to San Francisco, CA is May.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Raleigh, NC and San Francisco, CA including taking a bus, train, and flight.
No, the bus from Raleigh, NC to San Francisco, CA has no accessibility options.
No, there are no bathrooms on board the bus from Raleigh, NC to San Francisco, CA.
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.
No, bikes are not allowed on board the bus from Raleigh, NC to San Francisco, CA.
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.
No, there is no food available to purchase on board the bus from Raleigh, NC to San Francisco, CA.
No, luggage for the bus from Raleigh, NC to San Francisco, CA needs to be booked in addition.
No, there are no additional luggage options for the bus from Raleigh, NC to San Francisco, CA.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Raleigh, NC to San Francisco, CA.
No, there are no USB plugs on board the bus from Raleigh, NC to San Francisco, CA.
No, there is no WiFi on board the bus from Raleigh, NC to San Francisco, CA.
Since neither Raleigh, NC 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 Raleigh, NC 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 Raleigh, NC to San Francisco, CA
Most Raleigh, NC to San Francisco, CA buses use the Raleigh, Bus Station to San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29 station pair, with some services arriving at San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street. Use this guide to compare Raleigh, NC 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 Raleigh
Arrival bus stations in San Francisco
Raleigh, Bus Station
City-centre transport
Getting to Raleigh, Bus Station from Raleigh city centre
Bus1 · 8m · $2 · every ~10 min
Raleigh, New Bern Avenue (Exxon)
City-centre transport
Getting to Raleigh, New Bern Avenue (Exxon) from Raleigh city centre
BusZwx · 5m · every ~1 min
15, 18 · 7m · $2 · every ~11 min
San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29
City-centre transport
Getting to San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29 from San Francisco city centre
Bus397 · 8m · $2
14, 14R · 13m · $2 · every ~30 min
101, 120 · 14m · $6 · every ~9 min
7 · 21m · $2 · every ~10 min
SubwayYellow-N, Green-N, Red-N, Blue-N · 10m · $2 · every ~27 min
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
More options for your journey from Raleigh, NC 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 Raleigh, NC
Most popular bus connections to San Francisco, CA
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