- Must visit
California State Railroad Museum
One of North America’s premier rail museums, with restored locomotives, immersive exhibits, and strong California history context.
Cheapest price on Aug 30
$101
Average ticket price on Aug 30
$150
Fastest journey on Aug 30
12 h 25 m
Average journey duration on Aug 30
12 h 54 m
Buses on Aug 30
16
Distance
761 km
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from San Diego, CA to Sacramento, 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 Sacramento, CA will cost around $150 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $101.
On Sun, Aug 30, we found 16 buses from San Diego, CA to Sacramento, CA, including 2 direct services.
On Sun, Aug 30 the direct buses cover the 761 km distance in an average of 12 h 54 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 12 h 25 m .
On Sun, Aug 30 the slowest buses will take 13 h 35 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.
5811 AMTRAK · 711 Gold Runner · 3711 AMTRAK
5811 AMTRAK · 711 Gold Runner · 3811 AMTRAK
785 Pacific Surfliner · 4785 AMTRAK · 524 Capitol Corridor
785 Pacific Surfliner · 4785 AMTRAK · 522 Capitol Corridor
5811 AMTRAK · 711 Gold Runner · 3711 AMTRAK
5811 AMTRAK · 711 Gold Runner · 3811 AMTRAK
· 
· Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from San Diego, CA to Sacramento, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $145 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 6h 9m. 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 $145, while a flight costs an average of $606.
Distance: 472 miles (761 km)
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$145 Average price Cheapest | $232 Average price | $606 Average price | $112 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
13h 44m Average total duration 13h 14m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 17h 34m Average total duration 17h 4m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 9m Average total duration Fastest 4h 9m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 7h 57m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.8 - 1.9kg CO2 emissions | 0.2 - 0.7kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 2.3 - 4.6kg 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 Sacramento, CA:
A bus is $87 (€71) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from San Diego, CA to Sacramento, CA costing on average $232 (€188).
A bus is $461 (€374) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from San Diego, CA to Sacramento, CA costing on average $606 (€491).
Other travel options to Sacramento, CA take longer:
Bus takes on average 13h 14m.
Train takes on average 17h 4m.
You'll arrive about -6h -17m sooner (13h 14m by bus vs 7h 57m by car) and save roughly $-32.99 (€-26.74) compared to fuel and tolls ($145 (€117) vs $112 (€91)). 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.
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 Greyhound | Departure Time 04:55AM | Arrival Time 06:45PM | Duration 13h50 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $104 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 05:40AM | Arrival Time 06:45PM | Duration 13h05 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $95 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:40AM | Arrival Time 02:30AM | Duration 17h50 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $115 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 09:25AM | Arrival Time 02:30AM | Duration 17h05 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $106 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 01:10PM | Arrival Time 08:45AM | Duration 19h35 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $107 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 04:01PM | Arrival Time 09:40AM | Duration 17h39 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $110 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 07:10PM | Arrival Time 08:45AM | Duration 13h35 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $170 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 07:45PM | Arrival Time 08:45AM | Duration 13h00 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $166 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:15PM | Arrival Time 04:05PM | Duration 18h50 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $118 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:45PM | Arrival Time 04:05PM | Duration 18h20 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $115 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:05PM | Arrival Time 04:05PM | Duration 18h00 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $115 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 10:10PM | Arrival Time 10:35AM | Duration 12h25 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $98 |
The table below shows live departures for San Diego, CA to Sacramento, 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
FlixBus+![]() | 9:25 AM San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), CA | 17h05 | 2:30 AM Sacramento, Bus Terminal | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus · FlixBus+![]() | 1:10 PM San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District), CA | 19h35 | 8:45 AM Sacramento, Bus Terminal | 2 transfers | |
785 Pacific Surfliner · 4785 AMTRAK · 6 California Zephyr | 4:01 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 18h11 | 10:12 AM Sacramento Valley Station, Sacramento, CA | 2 transfers | |
785 Pacific Surfliner · 4785 AMTRAK · 720 Capitol Corridor | 4:01 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 17h49 | 9:50 AM Sacramento Valley Station, Sacramento, CA | 2 transfers | |
785 Pacific Surfliner · 4785 AMTRAK · 720 Capitol Corridor | 4:01 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 17h49 | 9:50 AM Sacramento Valley Station, Sacramento, CA | 2 transfers | |
· | 7:10 PM San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center | 13h35 | 8:45 AM Sacramento, Bus Terminal | 1 transfer | |
· | 7:45 PM San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), CA | 13h00 | 8:45 AM Sacramento, Bus Terminal | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus+![]() | 9:15 PM San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center | 18h50 | 4:05 PM Sacramento, Bus Terminal | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus+![]() | 9:45 PM San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District), CA | 18h20 | 4:05 PM Sacramento, Bus Terminal | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus+![]() | 10:05 PM San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), CA | 18h00 | 4:05 PM Sacramento, Bus Terminal | 1 transfer | |
5811 AMTRAK · 711 Gold Runner · 3711 AMTRAK | 10:10 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 12h25 | 10:35 AM Sacramento Valley Station, Sacramento, CA | 2 transfers | |
5811 AMTRAK · 711 Gold Runner · 3711 AMTRAK | 10:10 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 12h10 | 10:20 AM Sacramento, CA | 2 transfers | |
5811 AMTRAK · 711 Gold Runner · 3811 AMTRAK | 10:10 PM Santa Fe Depot, San Diego, CA | 12h25 | 10:35 AM Sacramento Valley Station, Sacramento, CA | 2 transfers | |
| Sunday, August 30 | |||||
![]() | 4:55 AM San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center | 13h50 | 6:45 PM Sacramento, Bus Terminal | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 5:40 AM San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), CA | 13h05 | 6:45 PM Sacramento, Bus Terminal | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixBus+![]() | 8:40 AM San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center | 17h50 | 2:30 AM Sacramento, Bus Terminal | 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 Sacramento, CA run on average 8 times per day, taking around 13h 14m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $64 (€52) if you book in advance.
There are 2 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 03:50, the last at 22:20. The fastest bus covers the 472 miles (761 km) distance in 11h 30m.
Distance 472 miles (761 km) |
Average bus duration 13h 14m |
Cheapest ticket price $64 (€52) |
Buses per day 8 |
Direct buses 2 |
Fastest bus 11h 30m |
First bus 3:50 AM |
Last bus 10:20 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Best time to book 42 days |
Discover the best of Sacramento, CA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Sacramento, CA trip today.
One of North America’s premier rail museums, with restored locomotives, immersive exhibits, and strong California history context.
Excellent art museum known for California art, ceramics, photography, and engaging modern exhibitions in Midtown Sacramento.
State history museum inside the capitol, featuring restored offices, political artifacts, and architecture that defines California government.
Tree-lined central district known for restaurants, shops, murals, nightlife, and easy walking between major Sacramento attractions.
Large riverside park with trails, gardens, ponds, and open lawns, ideal for strolling, picnics, and seeing local wildlife.
Long riverfront path popular for walking and cycling, linking parks and neighborhoods with broad Sacramento River views.
Farm-to-fork seasonal plates built from Sacramento Valley produce. They reflect the city's agricultural identity and restaurant culture more than a single fixed recipe.
A local spin on California cuisine using grilled salmon, asparagus, citrus, and herbs. It highlights nearby river fish and regional produce.
Fresh Delta asparagus, often grilled, roasted, or served in salads. It is a celebrated spring ingredient from the nearby Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta.
Contemporary fine dining destination focused on seasonal Sacramento ingredients, tasting menus, and polished service.
Beloved local bakery and cafe for breakfast, sandwiches, pastries, and coffee with a lively neighborhood feel.
Historic upscale restaurant in Old Sacramento known for steaks, seafood, and classic dining room service in a refined setting.
Moderate for California. Hotels are often pricier than smaller US cities, while casual dining and local transit stay fairly manageable for visitors.
Tip 15-20% at restaurants, 18-22% for excellent service. Taxis usually 10-15%. Cafes often have tip jars or screen prompts; small tips are appreciated.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from San Diego, CA to Sacramento, 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 Sacramento, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most San Diego, CA to Sacramento, CA buses use the San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park) to Sacramento, Bus Terminal station pair. Use this guide to compare San Diego, CA and Sacramento, 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.
Sacramento, Bus Terminal is 1 km from Sacramento city centre. Public transport options include:
Sacramento, Bus 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 shop available
Free with registration. ATMs are multiple ATMs near ticket office.
Ticket office support is available at Sacramento, Bus Terminal.
Available at Sacramento, Bus Terminal: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Sacramento, Bus Terminal: Wheelchair ramps and elevators available.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need