- Must visit
USS Midway Museum
A large aircraft carrier museum on the waterfront with restored aircraft, flight deck views, and naval history exhibits. One of the city’s signature attractions.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Riverside, CA to San Diego, CA
Showing times and prices for May 29
Cheapest price
$26
Average price
$49
Fastest journey
2 h 16 m
Average duration
2 h 33 m
Buses per day
8
Distance
139 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Riverside, 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 Riverside, CA to San Diego, CA will cost around $49 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $26.
Fast buses
Of the 8 buses that leave Riverside, CA for San Diego, CA on Fri, May 29, 8 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, May 29 the direct buses cover the 139 km distance in an average of 2 h 33 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 2 h 16 m .
On Fri, May 29 the slowest buses will take 3 h 15 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.
FlixBus3:30 PM2h40Riverside, Parking Lot 30, CA6:10 PMSan Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), CA$261One-way0 transfers- FlixBus3:30 PM3h15Riverside, Parking Lot 30, CA6:45 PMSan Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center$311One-way0 transfers
- FlixBus1:00 PM5h20Riverside, Parking Lot 30, CA6:20 PMSan Diego, Rail Ct / E San Ysidro Blvd (McDonald`s), CA$431One-way0 transfers
- FlixBus1:00 PM5h20Riverside, Parking Lot 30, CA6:20 PMSan Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center$431One-way0 transfers
- FlixBus1:00 PM4h50Riverside, Parking Lot 30, CA5:50 PMSan Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), CA$461One-way0 transfers
01:01 PM2h16Riverside, CA3:17 PMSan Diego, CA$681One-way0 transfers- 010:01 AM2h16Riverside, CA12:17 PMSan Diego, CA$681One-way0 transfers
- 02:01 AM2h16Riverside, CA4:17 AMSan Diego, CA$681One-way0 transfers
- FlixBus3:30 PM2h40Riverside, Parking Lot 30, CA6:10 PMSan Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), CA$261One-way0 transfers
- FlixBus3:30 PM3h15Riverside, Parking Lot 30, CA6:45 PMSan Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center$311One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Riverside, CA to San Diego, CA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Riverside, CA to San Diego, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $18. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 17m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $18, and a train costs an average of $37.
Distance: 86 miles (139 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$33 Average price Cheapest | $38 Average price | $20 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 29m Average total duration 3h 59m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 47m Average total duration Fastest 3h 17m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 41m 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 Riverside, CA to San Diego, CA is a bus with an average price of $33 (€26).
This is compared to other travel options from Riverside, CA to San Diego, CA:
A bus is $6 (€5) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Riverside, CA to San Diego, CA costing on average $38 (€31).
The fastest way to travel from Riverside, CA to San Diego, CA is by train with an average journey time of 3h 17m.
Other travel options to San Diego, CA take longer:
Bus takes on average 3h 59m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Riverside, CA and San Diego, CA including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Riverside, 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 -3h -18m sooner (3h 59m by bus vs 1h 41m by car) and save roughly $-12.32 (€-9.93) compared to fuel and tolls ($33 (€26) vs $20 (€16)). 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 FlixBus, Infobus.
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 San Diego, CA Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Infobus | Departure Time 02:01AM | Arrival Time 04:17AM | Duration 2h16 | Departure days Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $68 |
Operator Infobus | Departure Time 10:01AM | Arrival Time 12:17PM | Duration 2h16 | Departure days Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $68 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 01:00PM | Arrival Time 06:20PM | Duration 5h20 | Departure days Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $43 |
Operator Infobus | Departure Time 01:01PM | Arrival Time 03:17PM | Duration 2h16 | Departure days Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $68 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 03:30PM | Arrival Time 06:10PM | Duration 2h40 | Departure days Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $26 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:30PM | Arrival Time 01:10AM | Duration 2h40 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat | Cheapest price $31 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:30PM | Arrival Time 02:10AM | Duration 2h40 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat | Cheapest price $29 |
Live departures
Riverside, CA to San Diego, CA bus times
The table below shows live departures for Riverside, CA to San Diego, CA buses for today, Thursday, May 28. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 11:30 PM Riverside, CA | 2h40 | 2:10 AM San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Friday, May 29 | |||||
| 0 | 2:01 AM Riverside, CA | 2h16 | 4:17 AM San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 0 | 10:01 AM Riverside, CA | 2h16 | 12:17 PM San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| FlixBus | 1:00 PM Riverside, Parking Lot 30, CA | 5h20 | 6:20 PM San Diego, Rail Ct / E San Ysidro Blvd (McDonald`s), CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| FlixBus | 1:00 PM Riverside, Parking Lot 30, CA | 4h50 | 5:50 PM San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| FlixBus | 1:00 PM Riverside, Parking Lot 30, CA | 5h20 | 6:20 PM San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 0 | 1:01 PM Riverside, CA | 2h16 | 3:17 PM San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| FlixBus | 3:30 PM Riverside, Parking Lot 30, CA | 2h40 | 6:10 PM San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| FlixBus | 3:30 PM Riverside, Parking Lot 30, CA | 3h15 | 6:45 PM San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Riverside, CA to San Diego, 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.
Fri
May 29
May 29
Sat
May 30
May 30
Sun
May 31
May 31
Mon
Jun 01
Jun 01
Tue
Jun 02
Jun 02
Wed
Jun 03
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Thu
Jun 04
Jun 04
Why should you book Riverside, CA to San Diego, CA buses with Omio?
FlixBus as well as Infobus offer buses services from Riverside, CA to San Diego, CA.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Riverside, CA to San Diego, 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 Infobus to find the best option for your trip from Riverside, 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 FlixBus with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Riverside, CA to San Diego, CA.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu, Trainline or Busbud?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Riverside, CA to San Diego, CA.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Riverside, CA to San Diego, CA
USAUSA
Buses from Riverside, CA to San Diego, CA run on average 10 times per day, taking around 3h 59m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $18 (€14) if you book in advance.
There are 6 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:05, the last at 22:00. The fastest bus covers the 86 miles (139 km) distance in 2h 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
Distance 86 miles (139 km) |
Average bus duration 3h 59m |
Cheapest ticket price $18 (€14) |
Buses per day 10 |
Direct buses 6 |
Fastest bus 2h 40m |
First bus 12:05 AM |
Last bus 10:00 PM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 6 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, Infobus from Riverside, CA to San Diego, CAYou can travel by bus between Riverside, CA to San Diego, CA with FlixBus, Infobus for as low as $18 (€14). 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 40m
Cheapest Price
$18 (€14)
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.
Infobus
About
Infobus is an international IT company that operates as an online service for finding and purchasing bus, train, and plane tickets, rather than being a bus company itself. Established in 2002, Infobus acts as an intermediary between passengers and various transport carriers, particularly helping smaller bus companies offer online booking services. They utilize their own "BusSystem" to manage routes and ticket sales globally. Infobus covers over 30 countries and 300 cities, offering a wide range of routes and daily departures. While amenities can vary by carrier, Infobus aims to provide affordable and convenient travel with features like online booking, 24/7 support, and prompt notifications.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Infobus frequency
5 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 5kg (40x20x25) and one checked bag up to 20kg (50x30x80).
Additional luggage
10€ per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a partial refund. Cancellations within 24 hours may incur a fee.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Transport for wheelchairs and mobility aids.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed; may require prior reservation and an additional fee.
Pets
Small pets allowed in carriers; larger pets may require a separate ticket.
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’s major art museum, known for European old masters, Asian art, and rotating exhibitions in a landmark Spanish Colonial Revival building.
- Recommended
Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego
Contemporary art museum with strong regional and international programming, especially noted for its oceanfront La Jolla location and modern exhibitions.
- Must visit
Balboa Park
San Diego’s flagship urban park, packed with gardens, museums, Spanish Colonial architecture, plazas, and highly photogenic walking paths.
- Must visit
La Jolla Cove
A scenic coastal area known for sea lions, cliffs, turquoise water, and one of the city’s most photographed ocean viewpoints.
- Must visit
Gaslamp Quarter
The city’s best-known historic downtown district, lined with Victorian-era buildings, lively streets, and a strong day-to-night atmosphere.
Fish Tacos
Beer-battered or grilled fish in a tortilla, usually topped with cabbage, crema, and salsa. A signature San Diego favorite shaped by Baja California influence.
California Burrito
A San Diego staple burrito filled with carne asada, fries, cheese, and salsa. It is one of the city’s most iconic late-night and taqueria foods.
Carne Asada Fries
French fries topped with carne asada, cheese, guacamole, sour cream, and salsa. This indulgent border-style dish is strongly associated with San Diego taco shops.
Mitch's Seafood
Established waterfront seafood restaurant in Point Loma known for fresh local catch, fish sandwiches, and harbor views.
Las Cuatro Milpas
Legendary casual spot in Barrio Logan known for traditional Mexican plates, handmade tortillas, and an old-school local atmosphere.
Oscar's Mexican Seafood
Popular casual venue celebrated for fish tacos, smoked fish tacos, and fresh coastal Baja-style seafood in a laid-back setting.
United States Dollar
San Diego is pricey by U.S. standards, especially for hotels and dining, though tacos, casual eats, and happy hours can help keep daily costs lower.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-18 for tacos, fast food, or casual counter service.
- Mid-range
- USD 25-45 per person at a standard sit-down restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 80+ 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%+ for great service. USD 1-2 per drink at bars, round up or 10-15% for taxis, and USD 2-5 nightly for hotel housekeeping.
FAQs: Bus from Riverside, CA to San Diego, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Riverside, 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 Riverside, CA to San Diego, CA can start from as little as $18 (€14) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Riverside, CA to San Diego, CA is $33 (€26) ; 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 San Diego, CA is 2h 40m 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 Riverside, CA to San Diego, CA leaves at 12:05 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Riverside, CA to San Diego, CA leaves at 10:00 PM.
Yes, there are 6 direct buses a day from Riverside, CA to San Diego, CA with FlixBus, Infobus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Riverside, CA to San Diego, CA, you can count on FlixBus, Infobus for the best way to get you to San Diego, CA. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Riverside, CA and San Diego, CA and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to San Diego, CA from Riverside, CA is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 2h 40m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Riverside, CA to San Diego, CA is December.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Riverside, CA and San Diego, CA including taking a train and bus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Riverside, CA to San Diego, CA:
- Infobus
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Transport for wheelchairs and mobility aids.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Riverside, CA to San Diego, CA for bus company FlixBus, Infobus.
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 Riverside, CA to San Diego, CA depends on the bus companies:
- Infobus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a partial refund. Cancellations within 24 hours may incur a fee.
- 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, Infobus.
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 San Diego, CA.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Riverside, CA to San Diego, CA:
- Infobus
- One carry-on bag up to 5kg (40x20x25) and one checked bag up to 20kg (50x30x80).
- 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 San Diego, CA:
- Infobus
- 10€ per additional bag.
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Riverside, CA to San Diego, CA. The following conditions apply:
- Infobus
- Small pets allowed in carriers
- larger pets may require a separate ticket.
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Riverside, CA to San Diego, CA with the following bus company: FlixBus, Infobus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Riverside, CA to San Diego, CA with the following bus company: FlixBus, Infobus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Riverside, CA to San Diego, CA with the following bus company: FlixBus, Infobus.
Since neither Riverside, 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 Riverside, 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 Riverside, CA to San Diego, CA
Riverside
San Diego
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 San Diego.
Riverside, Parking Lot 30
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 Riverside.
San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park)
information
San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center
information
San Diego
information
Most popular bus connections from Riverside, CA
More options for your journey from Riverside, 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 Riverside, CA
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