- Must visit
Orange County Museum of Art
Major contemporary art museum in nearby Costa Mesa, widely visited for its architecture and changing exhibitions.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from San Diego, CA to Irvine, CA
Showing times and prices for Jun 15
Cheapest price
$28
Average price
$31
Fastest journey
1 h 35 m
Average duration
1 h 51 m
Buses per day
6
Distance
123 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from San Diego, CA to Irvine, CA 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 Irvine, CA will cost around $31 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $28.
Fast buses
Of the 6 buses that leave San Diego, CA for Irvine, CA on Mon, Jun 15, 6 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Mon, Jun 15 the direct buses cover the 123 km distance in an average of 1 h 51 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 1 h 35 m .
On Mon, Jun 15 the slowest buses will take 2 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.
11:55 PM1h35San Diego, CA1:30 AMIrvine, CA$281One-way0 transfers- 6:55 PM2h25San Diego, CA9:20 PMIrvine, CA$291One-way0 transfers
1:45 PM1h55San Diego, CA3:40 PMIrvine, CA$291One-way0 transfers- 7:55 PM2h25San Diego, CA10:20 PMIrvine, CA$301One-way0 transfers
- 2:35 AM1h45San Diego, CA4:20 AMIrvine, CA$321One-way0 transfers
- 11:55 PM1h35San Diego, CA1:30 AMIrvine, CA$281One-way0 transfers
- 10:55 PM1h35San Diego, CA12:30 AMIrvine, CA$361One-way0 transfers
- 2:35 AM1h45San Diego, CA4:20 AMIrvine, CA$321One-way0 transfers
- 1:45 PM1h55San Diego, CA3:40 PMIrvine, CA$291One-way0 transfers
- 7:55 PM2h25San Diego, CA10:20 PMIrvine, CA$301One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for San Diego, CA to Irvine, CA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from San Diego, CA to Irvine, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $28. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 43m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $28, and a bus costs an average of $17.
Distance: 76 miles (123 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$31 Average price | $29 Average price Cheapest | $25 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 24m Average total duration 1h 54m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 13m Average total duration Fastest 1h 43m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 29m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions | 0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular bus company |  Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from San Diego, CA to Irvine, CA is a train with an average price of $29 (€24).
This is compared to other travel options from San Diego, CA to Irvine, CA:
A train is $1 (€1) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from San Diego, CA to Irvine, CA costing on average $31 (€25).
The fastest way to travel from San Diego, CA to Irvine, CA is by train with an average journey time of 1h 43m.
Other travel options to Irvine, CA take longer:
Bus takes on average 1h 54m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between San Diego, CA and Irvine, CA including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from San Diego, CA to Irvine, CA among Omio's users.
Take the bus. On this route, it's both cheaper and quicker than driving.
You'll arrive about -1h -25m sooner (1h 54m by bus vs 1h 29m by car) and save roughly $-5.40 (€-4.38) compared to fuel and tolls ($31 (€25) vs $25 (€21)). 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.
San Diego, CA to Irvine, CA Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 02:00AM | Arrival Time 04:30AM | Duration 2h30 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $30 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 02:35AM | Arrival Time 04:20AM | Duration 1h45 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $26 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 03:35AM | Arrival Time 05:20AM | Duration 1h45 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $21 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 01:45PM | Arrival Time 03:40PM | Duration 1h55 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $23 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 02:45PM | Arrival Time 04:40PM | Duration 1h55 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $29 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 03:55PM | Arrival Time 05:15PM | Duration 1h20 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $23 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 06:55PM | Arrival Time 09:20PM | Duration 2h25 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $25 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:55PM | Arrival Time 10:20PM | Duration 2h25 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $22 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:55PM | Arrival Time 12:30AM | Duration 1h35 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $29 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:15PM | Arrival Time 12:55AM | Duration 1h40 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $18 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:55PM | Arrival Time 01:30AM | Duration 1h35 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $24 |
Live departures
San Diego, CA to Irvine, CA bus times
The table below shows live departures for San Diego, CA to Irvine, CA buses for today, Sunday, June 14. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1:45 PM San Diego, CA | 1h55 | 3:40 PM Irvine, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 6:55 PM San Diego, CA | 2h25 | 9:20 PM Irvine, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:55 PM San Diego, CA | 2h25 | 10:20 PM Irvine, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 10:55 PM San Diego, CA | 1h35 | 12:30 AM Irvine, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 11:55 PM San Diego, CA | 1h35 | 1:30 AM Irvine, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 2:35 AM San Diego, CA | 1h45 | 4:20 AM Irvine, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets San Diego, CA to Irvine, 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.
Mon
Jun 15
Jun 15
Tue
Jun 16
Jun 16
Wed
Jun 17
Jun 17
Thu
Jun 18
Jun 18
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Jun 19
Jun 19
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Jun 21
Jun 21
Why should you book San Diego, CA to Irvine, CA buses with Omio?
FlixBus as well as Greyhound or Infobus offer buses services from San Diego, CA to Irvine, CA.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from San Diego, CA to Irvine, 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 Greyhound or Infobus to find the best option for your trip from San Diego, CA to Irvine, 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 San Diego, CA to Irvine, CA.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu, Trainline or Busbud?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Greyhound or Infobus to find the best option for your trip from San Diego, CA to Irvine, CA.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from San Diego, CA to Irvine, CA.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from San Diego, CA to Irvine, CA
USAUSA
Buses from San Diego, CA to Irvine, CA run on average 8 times per day, taking around 1h 54m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $17 (€14) if you book in advance.
There are 8 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:05, the last at 23:15. The fastest bus covers the 76 miles (123 km) distance in 1h 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 76 miles (123 km) |
Average bus duration 1h 54m |
Cheapest ticket price $17 (€14) |
Buses per day 8 |
Direct buses 8 |
Fastest bus 1h 20m |
First bus 12:05 AM |
Last bus 11:15 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 84 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, Greyhound, Infobus from San Diego, CA to Irvine, CAYou can travel by bus between San Diego, CA to Irvine, CA with FlixBus, Greyhound, Infobus for as low as $17 (€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
1h 20m
Cheapest Price
$18 (€14)
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
Average Duration
1h 34m
Cheapest Price
$84 (€68)
Infobus frequency
9 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.
Greyhound
About
Greyhound Lines, Inc. is a prominent American intercity bus transportation provider, established in 1914. It operates the largest intercity bus network in the United States, also extending services to Canada and Mexico. Greyhound is known for offering affordable and reliable long-distance travel, connecting major cities and rural communities across North America. The company's buses are equipped with amenities such as free Wi-Fi, power outlets, and extra legroom to enhance passenger comfort. Greyhound is a subsidiary of Flix SE, which also owns FlixBus, and together they offer an extensive network of over 1,600 destinations.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 45m
Cheapest Price
$17 (€14)
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 25 lbs (11 kg) and one checked bag up to 50 lbs (23 kg).
Additional luggage
$15 per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket for a refund or exchange up to 24 hours before departure, for a cancellation fee applied.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed.
Complete guide to Irvine
Things to do in Irvine
Discover the best of Irvine — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Irvine trip today.
- Recommended
Jack and Shanaz Langson Institute and Museum of California Art
University museum focused on California art, with rotating exhibitions and a strong regional perspective.
- Recommended
Pretend City Children’s Museum
Interactive children’s museum with a miniature city designed for hands-on learning and family visits.
- Must visit
Orange County Great Park
Vast public park with sports fields, gardens, art spaces, and the city’s signature balloon attraction.
- Must visit
San Joaquin Marsh and Wildlife Sanctuary
Tranquil wetland walking area with birdlife, reflective ponds, and easy trails close to central Irvine.
- Recommended
Bommer Canyon
Scenic open-space preserve with hiking trails, oak woodland, and a more local feel than busier parks.
- Gluten-free
Fish Tacos
A Southern California staple of grilled or fried fish in tortillas with cabbage, salsa, and crema. Irvine locals commonly enjoy it as a casual coastal comfort food.
California Burrito
A regional favorite filled with carne asada, fries, cheese, and salsa. It reflects the Mexican American fast-casual food culture found across Orange County.
- Gluten-free
Poke Bowl
A popular Hawaiian-inspired dish of marinated raw fish over rice with fresh toppings. It is especially common in Irvine because of the city’s broader Pacific Rim food scene.
HiroNori Craft Ramen - Irvine
Popular ramen shop known for rich tonkotsu broth, handmade noodles, and a modern casual atmosphere.
Din Tai Fung Irvine
Well-known Taiwanese restaurant famous for soup dumplings, noodles, and precise service in a polished, lively setting.
North Italia Irvine
Stylish Italian restaurant serving housemade pasta, pizza, and cocktails, suitable for both casual dinners and date nights.
United States Dollar
Irvine is pricier than many U.S. cities, especially for hotels and dining, though casual meals are manageable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-18 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- USD 20-40 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 60+ per person before drinks and tip.
- Coffee
- USD 4-7 for a coffee drink.
Tipping culture
Tip 15-20% at restaurants; 20%+ for great service. Tip bartenders USD 1-2 per drink, taxis 10-15%, hotel staff USD 2-5, and round up for coffee jars.
FAQs: Bus from San Diego, CA to Irvine, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from San Diego, CA to Irvine, 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 Irvine, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from San Diego, CA to Irvine, CA can start from as little as $17 (€14) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for San Diego, CA to Irvine, 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 San Diego, CA to Irvine, CA is 1h 20m to travel the 76 miles (123 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 San Diego, CA to Irvine, CA leaves at 12:05 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from San Diego, CA to Irvine, CA leaves at 11:15 PM.
Yes, there are 8 direct buses a day from San Diego, CA to Irvine, CA with FlixBus, Infobus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from San Diego, CA to Irvine, CA, you can count on FlixBus, Greyhound, Infobus for the best way to get you to Irvine, CA. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between San Diego, CA and Irvine, CA and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A day trip to Irvine, CA from San Diego, CA is worth doing with a journey time of 1h 20m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from San Diego, CA to Irvine, CA is July.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between San Diego, CA and Irvine, CA including taking a train and bus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from San Diego, CA to Irvine, CA:
- Infobus
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Transport for wheelchairs and mobility aids.
- Greyhound
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from San Diego, CA to Irvine, CA for bus company FlixBus, Greyhound, Infobus.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Irvine, CA are:
- Orange County Great Park, a large public park offering sports facilities, a carousel, and a giant helium balloon ride for panoramic views
- Irvine Spectrum Center, a popular outdoor shopping center with a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options including a Ferris wheel
- Bommer Canyon, a nature preserve with hiking trails and scenic views of the surrounding hills
- Pretend City Children's Museum, an interactive museum designed for children to explore and learn through play
- Irvine Museum, a museum dedicated to the preservation and display of California Impressionist art.
The best things to do in Irvine, CA include:
- Tanaka Farms, a family-friendly farm offering seasonal tours and fresh produce picking
- Irvine Barclay Theatre, a venue offering a variety of performances including music, dance, and theater
- San Joaquin Wildlife Sanctuary, a peaceful place for bird watching and enjoying nature
- K1 Speed, an indoor go-kart racing track for thrill-seekers
- William R. Mason Regional Park, a large park with picnic areas, walking trails, and a lake for paddle boating.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from San Diego, CA to Irvine, 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.
- Greyhound
- You can cancel your ticket for a refund or exchange up to 24 hours before departure, for a cancellation fee applied.
- 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, Greyhound, 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 San Diego, CA to Irvine, CA.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from San Diego, CA to Irvine, CA:
- Infobus
- One carry-on bag up to 5kg (40x20x25) and one checked bag up to 20kg (50x30x80).
- Greyhound
- One carry-on bag up to 25 lbs (11 kg) and one checked bag up to 50 lbs (23 kg).
- 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 San Diego, CA to Irvine, CA:
- Infobus
- 10€ per additional bag.
- Greyhound
- $15 per additional bag.
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from San Diego, CA to Irvine, 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 San Diego, CA to Irvine, CA with the following bus company: FlixBus, Greyhound, Infobus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from San Diego, CA to Irvine, CA with the following bus company: FlixBus, Greyhound, Infobus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from San Diego, CA to Irvine, CA with the following bus company: FlixBus, Greyhound, Infobus.
Since neither San Diego, CA nor Irvine, 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 San Diego, CA to Irvine, 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 Irvine, CA, travelers should be aware of common safety concerns such as occasional vehicle break-ins and petty theft in parking areas. Scam attempts may include fake ticket sellers or unlicensed transportation services, so it is advised to purchase tickets from reputable sources and verify service credentials. Staying vigilant in crowded places and using official transportation options helps ensure a safe visit.
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 San Diego, CA to Irvine, CA
San Diego
Irvine
San Diego
information
San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park)
information
San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center
information
More options for your journey from San Diego, CA to Irvine, CA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Irvine, CA and San Diego, CA
Most popular bus connections to Irvine, CA
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