- Must visit
Oakland Museum of California
Major art museum focused on California history, art, and social impact, with strong collections and a lively modern campus.
Cheapest price on Aug 30
€63
Average ticket price on Aug 30
€98
Fastest journey on Aug 30
10 h 55 m
Average journey duration on Aug 30
11 h 22 m
Buses on Aug 30
15
Distance
732 km
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from San Diego, CA to Oakland, 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 Oakland, CA will cost around €98 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €63.
On Sun, Aug 30, we found 15 buses from San Diego, CA to Oakland, CA, including 5 direct services.
On Sun, Aug 30 the direct buses cover the 732 km distance in an average of 11 h 22 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 10 h 55 m .
On Sun, Aug 30 the slowest buses will take 11 h 55 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.
761 Pacific Surfliner · 4761 AMTRAK
785 Pacific Surfliner · 4785 AMTRAK
769 Pacific Surfliner · 4769 AMTRAK
769 Pacific Surfliner · 4769 AMTRAK
761 Pacific Surfliner · 4761 AMTRAK
FlixBus
FlixBus
FlixBusOmio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from San Diego, CA to Oakland, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of €118 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 7h 21m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.2 - 0.7kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €118, while a flight costs an average of €585.
Distance: 454 miles (732 km)
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
€118 Average price Cheapest | €169 Average price | €585 Average price | €89 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
12h 41m Average total duration 12h 11m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 14h 46m Average total duration 14h 16m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 21m Average total duration Fastest 5h 21m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 7h 48m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.7 - 1.8kg CO2 emissions | 0.2 - 0.7kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 2.2 - 4.4kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular bus company | ![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular airline | 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 Oakland, CA:
A bus is €52 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from San Diego, CA to Oakland, CA costing on average €169.
A bus is €468 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from San Diego, CA to Oakland, CA costing on average €585.
Other travel options to Oakland, CA take longer:
Bus takes on average 12h 11m.
Train takes on average 14h 16m.
You'll arrive about -5h -23m sooner (12h 11m by bus vs 7h 48m by car) and save roughly €-28.83 compared to fuel and tolls (€118 vs €89). 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 Greyhound, FlixBus.
Driving is still worth considering if you're travelling with bulky luggage, need flexibility on departure times, or plan to stop along the way.
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 04:01AM | Arrival Time 05:35PM | Duration 13h34 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price €63 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 04:10AM | Arrival Time 05:35PM | Duration 13h25 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price €63 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 04:55AM | Arrival Time 09:35PM | Duration 16h40 | Departure days Wed, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price €70 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 05:40AM | Arrival Time 09:35PM | Duration 15h55 | Departure days Wed, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price €68 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 08:01AM | Arrival Time 10:15PM | Duration 14h14 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price €63 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 08:10AM | Arrival Time 10:15PM | Duration 14h05 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price €63 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 04:01PM | Arrival Time 06:15AM | Duration 14h14 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price €63 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 04:10PM | Arrival Time 06:15AM | Duration 14h05 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price €63 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 07:10PM | Arrival Time 06:40AM | Duration 11h30 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price €80 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 07:45PM | Arrival Time 06:40AM | Duration 10h55 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price €73 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:15PM | Arrival Time 09:10AM | Duration 11h55 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price €89 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:45PM | Arrival Time 09:10AM | Duration 11h25 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price €77 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:05PM | Arrival Time 09:10AM | Duration 11h05 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price €77 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 10:10PM | Arrival Time 04:00PM | Duration 17h50 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price €86 |
The table below shows live departures for San Diego, CA to Oakland, CA buses for today, Saturday, August 29. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() | 7:10 PM San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center | 11h30 | 6:40 AM Oakland, West Oakland BART Station, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 7:45 PM San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), CA | 10h55 | 6:40 AM Oakland, West Oakland BART Station, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixBus | 9:15 PM San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center | 11h55 | 9:10 AM Oakland, West Oakland BART Station, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixBus | 9:45 PM San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District), CA | 11h25 | 9:10 AM Oakland, West Oakland BART Station, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixBus | 10:05 PM San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), CA | 11h05 | 9:10 AM Oakland, West Oakland BART Station, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
761 Pacific Surfliner · 4761 AMTRAK | 4:01 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 13h34 | 5:35 PM Oakland – Jack London Square station, Oakland, CA | 1 transfer | |
761 Pacific Surfliner · 4761 AMTRAK | 4:10 AM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA | 13h25 | 5:35 PM Oakland – Jack London Square station, Oakland, CA | 1 transfer | |
· | 4:55 AM San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center | 16h40 | 9:35 PM Oakland, West Oakland BART Station, CA | 1 transfer | |
· | 5:40 AM San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), CA | 15h55 | 9:35 PM Oakland, West Oakland BART Station, CA | 1 transfer | |
769 Pacific Surfliner · 4769 AMTRAK | 8:01 AM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 14h14 | 10:15 PM Oakland – Jack London Square station, Oakland, CA | 1 transfer | |
769 Pacific Surfliner · 4769 AMTRAK | 8:10 AM Old Town Station, San Diego, CA | 14h05 | 10:15 PM Oakland – Jack London Square station, Oakland, CA | 1 transfer | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.
Buses from San Diego, CA to Oakland, CA run on average 5 times per day, taking around 12h 11m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at €46 but you can travel from only €42 by flight.
There are 2 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 03:50, the last at 23:50. The fastest bus covers the 454 miles (732 km) distance in 10h 30m.
Distance 454 miles (732 km) |
Average bus duration 12h 11m |
Cheapest ticket price €46 |
Buses per day 5 |
Direct buses 2 |
Fastest bus 10h 30m |
First bus 3:50 AM |
Last bus 11:50 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 42 days |
Discover the best of Oakland, CA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Oakland, CA trip today.
Major art museum focused on California history, art, and social impact, with strong collections and a lively modern campus.
Independent museum preserving Black Panther Party history through photographs, artifacts, and community-centered interpretation in West Oakland.
Children's museum and cultural center with hands-on exhibits celebrating Black creativity, history, and family learning experiences.
Beloved urban lake ringed by paths, gardens, and skyline views, ideal for walking, birdwatching, and experiencing everyday Oakland life.
Waterfront promenade and marina district with bay views, sailing activity, and sunset walks near Oakland's western edge.
Large hillside park with redwoods, trails, and picnic areas, offering a peaceful escape and classic East Bay outdoor scenery.
Smoked beef brisket with a peppery bark, reflecting Oakland’s strong barbecue culture shaped by Southern Black migration and longtime neighborhood smokehouses.
A tangy, mayo-based cabbage side commonly served with Oakland barbecue. It is a staple pairing at local smokehouses and cookouts.
Crisp fried chicken often served with waffles or sides, tied to Oakland’s soul food tradition and beloved at classic neighborhood restaurants.
Refined tasting-menu restaurant highlighting seasonal California ingredients with polished service and an elegant, modern dining room.
Longtime Ethiopian restaurant praised for injera platters, stews, and traditional coffee in a welcoming, community-focused space.
Celebrated Oakland Chinatown destination for handmade noodles and dumplings in a busy, casual setting with strong local following.
Oakland is moderate for US cities: lodging is often high, but dining and BART or buses are usually cheaper than in San Francisco.
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, 15-20% for taxis or rideshares, and $1-2 per drink or coffee is appreciated.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from San Diego, CA to Oakland, 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 Oakland, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most San Diego, CA to Oakland, CA buses use the San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park) to Oakland, West Oakland BART Station station pair. Use this guide to compare San Diego, CA and Oakland, CA 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.
Oakland, West Oakland BART Station is 2 km from Oakland city centre. Public transport options include:
Oakland, West Oakland BART Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi is available at Oakland, West Oakland BART Station. ATMs are available at Oakland, West Oakland BART Station.
Ticket office support is available at Oakland, West Oakland BART Station.
Available at Oakland, West Oakland BART Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Oakland, West Oakland BART Station: Station is fully accessible with elevators.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need