- Must visit
Detroit Institute of Arts
World-class museum with Diego Rivera’s Detroit Industry murals and major collections spanning ancient to contemporary art.
Cheapest price on Sep 20
$177
Average ticket price on Sep 20
$219
Fastest journey on Sep 20
2 d 10 h 5 m
Average journey duration on Sep 20
2 d 11 h 40 m
Buses on Sep 20
9
Distance
3167 km
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from San Diego, CA to Detroit, MI is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from San Diego, CA to Detroit, MI will cost around $219 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $177.
It's difficult to get from San Diego, CA to Detroit, MI without transferring at least 3 times.
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· · Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from San Diego, CA to Detroit, MI among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $373 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 8h 48m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 1.0 - 2.9kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $373, while a flight costs an average of $776.
Distance: 1967 miles (3167 km)
| Bus | Most popular Flight | Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$373 Average price Cheapest | $776 Average price | $465 Average price | $480 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
54h 17m Average total duration 53h 47m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 48m Average total duration Fastest 6h 48m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 57h 52m Average total duration 57h 22m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 33h 52m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
3.2 - 7.9kg CO2 emissions | 9.5 - 19.0kg CO2 emissions | 1.0 - 2.9kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular bus company | ![]() Most popular airline | ![]() Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
This is compared to other travel options from San Diego, CA to Detroit, MI:
A bus is $92 (€76) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from San Diego, CA to Detroit, MI costing on average $465 (€380).
A bus is $403 (€329) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from San Diego, CA to Detroit, MI costing on average $776 (€634).
Other travel options to Detroit, MI take longer:
Bus takes on average 53h 47m.
Train takes on average 57h 22m.
Tickets start at around $373 (€305) compared to roughly $480 (€393) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $108 (€88). The journey takes 53h 47m versus 33h 52m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can use the time productively rather than spending it behind the wheel. No parking to sort, no fuel stops, and most coaches have Wi-Fi and power outlets.
Driving is worth considering if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), or want the flexibility to stop along the way.
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 02:00AM | Arrival Time 01:55PM | Duration 59h55 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $286 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 03:00AM | Arrival Time 02:55PM | Duration 59h55 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $261 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 09:15AM | Arrival Time 10:55PM | Duration 58h40 | Departure days Mon, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $232 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 09:25AM | Arrival Time 04:50PM | Duration 76h25 | Departure days Mon, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $176 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 09:50AM | Arrival Time 10:55PM | Duration 58h05 | Departure days Mon, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $192 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 12:40PM | Arrival Time 06:50AM | Duration 63h10 | Departure days Mon, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $230 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 01:10PM | Arrival Time 06:50AM | Duration 62h40 | Departure days Mon, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $174 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 02:55PM | Arrival Time 03:55AM | Duration 61h00 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $236 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 07:10PM | Arrival Time 09:55AM | Duration 59h45 | Departure days Mon, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $267 |
Operator Greyhound Mexico | Departure Time 07:25PM | Arrival Time 03:55PM | Duration 68h30 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $678 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 07:45PM | Arrival Time 09:55AM | Duration 59h10 | Departure days Mon, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $207 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 09:45PM | Arrival Time 06:50AM | Duration 78h05 | Departure days Mon, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $193 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 10:05PM | Arrival Time 06:50AM | Duration 77h45 | Departure days Mon, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $193 |
The table below shows live departures for San Diego, CA to Detroit, MI buses for today, Saturday, September 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
· · · | 9:15 AM San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center | 58h40 | 10:55 PM Detroit, Greyhound Terminal | 3 transfers | |
FlixBus · FlixBus+ · | 9:25 AM San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), CA | 76h25 | 4:50 PM Detroit, Greyhound Terminal | 5 transfers | |
· · · | 9:50 AM San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), CA | 58h05 | 10:55 PM Detroit, Greyhound Terminal | 3 transfers | |
FlixBus+ · · | 12:40 PM San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center | 63h10 | 6:50 AM Detroit, Greyhound Terminal | 5 transfers | |
FlixBus+ · · | 1:10 PM San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District), CA | 62h40 | 6:50 AM Detroit, Greyhound Terminal | 5 transfers | |
· · · | 7:10 PM San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center | 59h45 | 9:55 AM Detroit, Greyhound Terminal | 4 transfers | |
· · · | 7:45 PM San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), CA | 59h10 | 9:55 AM Detroit, Greyhound Terminal | 4 transfers | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare train, bus, 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.
Buses from San Diego, CA to Detroit, MI run on average 8 times per day, taking around 53h 47m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $171 (€139) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 05:00, the last at 23:25. The fastest bus covers the 1967 miles (3167 km) distance in 49h 40m.
Distance 1967 miles (3167 km) |
Average bus duration 53h 47m |
Cheapest ticket price $171 (€139) |
Buses per day 8 |
Fastest bus 49h 40m |
First bus 5:00 AM |
Last bus 11:25 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Discover the best of Detroit, MI — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Detroit, MI trip today.
World-class museum with Diego Rivera’s Detroit Industry murals and major collections spanning ancient to contemporary art.
Immersive museum of African American history, culture, and achievement with strong regional and national storytelling.
Motown’s original Studio A preserves the sound and stories behind legendary recordings that shaped popular music worldwide.
Riverfront promenade with public art, plazas, and skyline views; one of the city’s best places for a scenic walk.
Large island park with gardens, trails, beaches, and major attractions, offering a nature escape minutes from downtown.
Revived public square at the city center, hosting events, seasonal programming, and easy access to downtown landmarks.
A square deep-dish pizza with a crisp, caramelized cheese edge and striped sauce. It is Detroit’s signature pie, born in blue steel auto pans.
A hot dog topped with chili, mustard, and diced onions on a steamed bun. It is a classic Detroit street food tied to Greek-American diners.
A layered sandwich of corned beef, swiss cheese, coleslaw, and Russian dressing on grilled rye. It is a beloved deli staple in metro Detroit.
Acclaimed fine-dining restaurant focused on seasonal tasting menus and polished service. One of Detroit’s top special-occasion destinations.
Beloved Eastern Market bakery known for paczki, cakes, and old-school sweets. Expect a busy, nostalgic counter-service experience.
Historic downtown institution famous for Detroit-style square pizza in a lively, casual setting with old-school local character.
Moderate for US city breaks: hotels and dining are mid-priced, transit is limited, and car or rideshare costs can raise daily spend.
Tip 18-20% in restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, 10-15% for taxis, and spare change or about 10% in cafes if there is table service.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from San Diego, CA to Detroit, MI 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 Detroit, MI, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most San Diego, CA to Detroit, MI buses use the San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park) to Detroit, Greyhound Terminal station pair. Use this guide to compare San Diego, CA and Detroit, MI bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park) is 5 km from San Diego city centre. Public transport options include:
San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Several dining options nearby.
Wi-Fi is available at San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park). ATMs are available at San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park).
Ticket office support is available at San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park).
Available at San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park): Wheelchair accessible routes available.
San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center is 22 km from San Diego city centre. Public transport options include:
San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Several fast food eateries located nearby.
Wi-Fi is available at San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center. ATMs are available near the entrance.
Ticket office support is available at San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center.
Available at San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center: Wheelchair accessible with ramps.
San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District) is 1 km from San Diego city centre. Public transport options include:
San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Several dining options are in the area.
Wi-Fi is available at San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District). ATMs are available at San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District).
Ticket office support is available at San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District).
Available at San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District): Accessible for persons with disabilities.
Detroit, Greyhound Terminal is 1 km from Detroit city centre. Public transport options include:
Detroit, Greyhound Terminal has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Fast food and coffee shops available.
Free Wi-Fi available in waiting areas. ATMs are aTM located near the main entrance.
Ticket office support is available at Detroit, Greyhound Terminal.
Available at Detroit, Greyhound Terminal: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Detroit, Greyhound Terminal: Wheelchair accessible facilities available.
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