- Must visit
Kern County Museum
Open-air history museum with dozens of restored buildings, regional exhibits, and Pioneer Village showcasing Kern County heritage.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Riverside, CA to Bakersfield, CA
Showing times and prices for Jun 20
Cheapest price
$45
Average price
$64
Fastest journey
4 h 15 m
Average duration
6 h 41 m
Buses per day
4
Distance
217 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Riverside, CA to Bakersfield, CA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Riverside, CA to Bakersfield, CA will cost around $64 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $45.
Fast buses
Of the 4 buses that leave Riverside, CA for Bakersfield, CA on Sat, Jun 20, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sat, Jun 20 the direct buses cover the 217 km distance in an average of 6 h 41 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 4 h 15 m .
On Sat, Jun 20 the slowest buses will take 12 h 30 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.
1:33 PM5h37Riverside, CA7:10 PMBakersfield, CA$451One-way2 transfers
7:10 AM4h20Riverside, CA11:30 AMBakersfield, CA$671One-way0 transfers- 11:15 AM4h15Riverside, CA3:30 PMBakersfield, CA$671One-way0 transfers
- 3:25 PM12h30Riverside, CA3:55 AMBakersfield, CA$781One-way1 transfer
- 11:15 AM4h15Riverside, CA3:30 PMBakersfield, CA$671One-way0 transfers
- 7:10 AM4h20Riverside, CA11:30 AMBakersfield, CA$671One-way0 transfers
- 1:33 PM5h37Riverside, CA7:10 PMBakersfield, CA$451One-way2 transfers
- 3:25 PM12h30Riverside, CA3:55 AMBakersfield, CA$781One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare bus for Riverside, CA to Bakersfield, CA
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Riverside, CA to Bakersfield, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $39. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 4h 22m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $39, and a bus costs an average of $39.
Distance: 134 miles (217 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Driving |
|---|---|
$52 Average price Cheapest | $33 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 52m Average total duration Fastest 4h 22m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 47m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
 Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Riverside, CA to Bakersfield, CA is a bus with an average price of $52 (€43).
The fastest way to travel from Riverside, CA to Bakersfield, CA is by bus with an average journey time of 4h 22m.
Yes, you can take a bus between Riverside, CA and Bakersfield, CA.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Riverside, CA to Bakersfield, 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.
Riverside, CA to Bakersfield, CA Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 07:10AM | Arrival Time 11:30AM | Duration 4h20 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $67 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:05AM | Arrival Time 03:30PM | Duration 5h25 | Departure days Thu, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $59 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 11:15AM | Arrival Time 03:30PM | Duration 4h15 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $67 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 01:05PM | Arrival Time 07:10PM | Duration 6h05 | Departure days Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $71 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 01:25PM | Arrival Time 07:10PM | Duration 5h45 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $63 |
Operator Omnitrans | Departure Time 01:33PM | Arrival Time 07:10PM | Duration 5h37 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $45 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 03:25PM | Arrival Time 03:55AM | Duration 12h30 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $78 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 04:00PM | Arrival Time 10:45PM | Duration 6h45 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $41 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 05:00PM | Arrival Time 11:45PM | Duration 6h45 | Departure days Mon, Wed | Cheapest price $39 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 05:05PM | Arrival Time 10:30PM | Duration 5h25 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $58 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 09:00PM | Arrival Time 03:10AM | Duration 6h10 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $72 |
Live departures
Riverside, CA to Bakersfield, CA bus times
The table below shows live departures for Riverside, CA to Bakersfield, CA buses for today, Friday, June 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 10:05 AM Riverside, Parking Lot 30, CA | 5h25 | 3:30 PM Bakersfield, McKee Road / South H Street (Kern Delta Park), CA | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 10:05 AM Riverside, Parking Lot 30, CA | 5h55 | 4:00 PM Bakersfield, Amtrak Terminal, CA | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus · FlixBus+ | 1:05 PM Riverside, Parking Lot 30, CA | 6h05 | 7:10 PM Bakersfield, Amtrak Terminal, CA | 2 transfers | |
| Saturday, June 20 | |||||
| 7:10 AM Riverside, CA | 4h20 | 11:30 AM Bakersfield, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 11:15 AM Riverside, CA | 4h15 | 3:30 PM Bakersfield, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 1:33 PM Riverside, CA | 5h37 | 7:10 PM Bakersfield, CA | 2 transfers | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Riverside, CA to Bakersfield, CA by bus
Compare 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.
Sat
Jun 20
Jun 20
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Jun 26
Why should you book Riverside, CA to Bakersfield, CA buses with Omio?
FlixBus as well as Riverside Transit Agency or Omnitrans offer buses services from Riverside, CA to Bakersfield, CA.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Riverside, CA to Bakersfield, 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 Riverside Transit Agency or Omnitrans to find the best option for your trip from Riverside, CA to Bakersfield, 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.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Riverside, CA to Bakersfield, CA
USAUSA
Buses from Riverside, CA to Bakersfield, CA run on average 4 times per day, taking around 4h 22m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $39 (€32) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 04:35, the last at 23:40. The fastest bus covers the 134 miles (217 km) distance in 5h 25m.
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 134 miles (217 km) |
Average bus duration 4h 22m |
Cheapest ticket price $39 (€32) |
Buses per day 4 |
Fastest bus 5h 25m |
First bus 4:35 AM |
Last bus 11:40 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 1 day |
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, Riverside Transit Agency, Omnitrans from Riverside, CA to Bakersfield, CAYou can travel by bus between Riverside, CA to Bakersfield, CA with FlixBus, Riverside Transit Agency, Omnitrans for as low as $39 (€32). 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
5h 25m
Cheapest Price
$58 (€48)
FlixBus frequency
2 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.
Riverside Transit Agency
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 28m
Cheapest Price
$45 (€37)
Riverside Transit Agency frequency
1 a day
Omnitrans
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 37m
Cheapest Price
$45 (€37)
Omnitrans frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to Bakersfield
Things to do in Bakersfield
Discover the best of Bakersfield — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Bakersfield trip today.
- Recommended
Bakersfield Museum of Art
Leading local art museum featuring rotating contemporary and regional exhibitions, sculpture garden, and community programs in Mill Creek Park.
- Recommended
Buena Vista Museum of Natural History & Science
Family-friendly museum focused on geology, paleontology, fossils, and natural sciences with hands-on displays in downtown Bakersfield.
- Must visit
Downtown Bakersfield
The city's main historic and cultural core with theaters, murals, civic landmarks, and a growing arts and nightlife scene.
- Must visit
The Park at River Walk
Popular lakeside park with walking paths, bridges, and sunset views, frequently featured in local social media content.
- Recommended
Panorama Bluffs
Scenic bluff-top walking area with sweeping city and Kern River views, especially popular at sunrise and sunset.
Basque Family-Style Dinner
A Bakersfield classic rooted in the city’s Basque community, usually served in boardinghouse restaurants with soup, salad, beans, pickled tongue, fries, pasta, and a grilled meat main.
- Gluten-free
Tri-Tip Barbecue
Central California barbecue favorite featuring seasoned beef tri-tip grilled over red oak or similar wood. It is widely loved in Bakersfield and across the San Joaquin Valley.
- Gluten-free
Taco Truck Tacos
Bakersfield is known for strong Mexican food culture, and simple street-style tacos with carne asada, carnitas, onion, cilantro, and salsa are a local staple.
Luigi's Restaurant and Delicatessen
A Bakersfield institution blending Italian American comfort food with local tradition. Known for ravioli, sandwiches, and a bustling, historic atmosphere.
Wool Growers Restaurant
Iconic Basque restaurant known for classic family-style meals, cocktails, and a historic boardinghouse atmosphere. One of Bakersfield’s signature dining experiences.
Pyrenees Cafe
Long-running downtown Basque spot serving hearty family-style dinners and traditional specialties in a casual, old-Bakersfield setting.
United States Dollar
Generally cheaper than major California cities. Hotels and dining are moderate, while car travel and some attractions add costs.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-15 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- USD 20-35 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 50-90 per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- USD 3-6 for drip coffee or a latte.
Tipping culture
Tip 15-20% in restaurants; 20% for strong service. Tip USD 1-2 per drink at bars, round up taxis, and tip hotel staff USD 2-5 where helpful.
FAQs: Bus from Riverside, CA to Bakersfield, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Riverside, CA to Bakersfield, 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 Bakersfield, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Riverside, CA to Bakersfield, CA can start from as little as $39 (€32) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Riverside, CA to Bakersfield, CA is $52 (€43) ; 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 Riverside, CA to Bakersfield, CA is 5h 25m to travel the 134 miles (217 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 Riverside, CA to Bakersfield, CA leaves at 4:35 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Riverside, CA to Bakersfield, CA leaves at 11:40 PM.
There are 4 buses a day from Riverside, CA to Bakersfield, CA which require at least one change with FlixBus, Riverside Transit Agency, Omnitrans. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Riverside, CA to Bakersfield, CA, you can count on FlixBus, Riverside Transit Agency, Omnitrans for the best way to get you to Bakersfield, CA. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Riverside, CA and Bakersfield, CA and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Bakersfield, CA from Riverside, CA is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 5h 25m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Riverside, CA to Bakersfield, CA is September.
Yes, you can take a bus between Riverside, CA and Bakersfield, CA.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Riverside, CA to Bakersfield, CA:
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Riverside, CA to Bakersfield, CA for bus company FlixBus.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Bakersfield, CA are:
- Kern County Museum, a historical museum showcasing artifacts and exhibits from the region's past
- Buck Owens' Crystal Palace, a music venue and restaurant dedicated to the legacy of country music star Buck Owens
- California Living Museum (CALM), a zoo and botanical garden focusing on native California wildlife and plants
- Bakersfield Museum of Art, featuring a diverse collection of contemporary and traditional artworks
- Hart Memorial Park, a large public park offering picnic areas, fishing spots, and scenic views along the Kern River.
The best things to do in Bakersfield, CA include:
- Explore the vibrant downtown Bakersfield area, with its eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues
- Attend a live performance at the historic Fox Theater, known for its stunning architecture and diverse lineup of shows
- Enjoy a day of hiking or biking at the Panorama Vista Preserve, offering beautiful trails and wildlife viewing opportunities
- Visit the Buena Vista Museum of Natural History & Science, featuring fascinating exhibits on paleontology, geology, and anthropology
- Experience local flavors at the Bakersfield Farmers Market, where you can find fresh produce and artisanal goods.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Riverside, CA to Bakersfield, 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 Riverside, CA to Bakersfield, CA.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Riverside, CA to Bakersfield, 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 Riverside, CA to Bakersfield, CA:
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Riverside, CA to Bakersfield, 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 Riverside, CA to Bakersfield, CA with the following bus company: FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Riverside, CA to Bakersfield, CA with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Riverside, CA to Bakersfield, CA with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Since neither Riverside, CA nor Bakersfield, 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 bus as it is the most popular way to get from Riverside, CA to Bakersfield, 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 Bakersfield, CA, travelers should remain cautious of petty theft and vehicle break-ins, especially in crowded areas and parking lots. Scams involving fake ticket sales or unauthorized transportation services can occur, so purchasing tickets only through official vendors is advised. It’s also important to stay aware of surroundings at night and avoid poorly lit or isolated areas for 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 Riverside, CA to Bakersfield, CA
Riverside
Bakersfield
The major bus station for departures in Riverside is Riverside, Parking Lot 30. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Riverside, Parking Lot 30 for your trip from Riverside to Bakersfield.
Riverside, Parking Lot 30
information
The major bus station for arrivals in Bakersfield is Bakersfield, Amtrak Terminal. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Bakersfield, Amtrak Terminal for your trip to Bakersfield from Riverside.
Bakersfield, Amtrak Terminal
information
Bakersfield, McKee Road / South H Street (Kern Delta Park)
information
Bakersfield
information
Most popular bus connections from Riverside, CA
More options for your journey from Riverside, CA to Bakersfield, CA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Bakersfield, CA and Riverside, CA
Most popular bus connections to Bakersfield, CA
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