San Diego, CA to Washington, DC bus with Greyhound

Wed, Jul 08
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The cheapest and fastest buses from San Diego, CA to Washington, DC

Showing times and prices for Jul 08

Cheapest price

$196

Average price

$377

Fastest journey

2 d 18 h 40 m

Average duration

2 d 23 h 28 m

Buses per day

4

Distance

3653 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from San Diego, CA to Washington, DC 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 Washington, DC will cost around $377 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $196.

Fast buses

Of the 4 buses that leave San Diego, CA for Washington, DC on Wed, Jul 08, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Wed, Jul 08 the direct buses cover the 3653 km distance in an average of 2 d 23 h 28 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 2 d 18 h 40 m .

On Wed, Jul 08 the slowest buses will take 3 d 10 h 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.

  • Greyhound
    7:40 PM82h00
    San Diego, CA
    5:40 AMWashington, DC
    $1961One-way
    0 transfers
  • Greyhound
    2:00 AM68h35
    San Diego, CA
    10:35 PMWashington, DC
    $2891One-way
    0 transfers
  • Greyhound
    3:00 AM68h35
    San Diego, CA
    11:35 PMWashington, DC
    $4891One-way
    0 transfers
  • Greyhound
    8:40 PM66h40
    San Diego, CA
    3:20 PMWashington, DC
    $5321One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for San Diego, CA to Washington, DC

Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from San Diego, CA to Washington, DC among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the flight with prices starting from $108. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 5h 58m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a flight costs an average of $108, and a train costs an average of $291.

Distance: 2269 miles (3653 km)

Compare bus with

Bus
Most popular
Flight
Train
Driving

$335

Average price

$270

Average price

Cheapest

$739

Average price

$541

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

65h 56m

Average total duration

65h 26m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

8h 58m

Average total duration

Fastest

5h 58m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

62h 52m

Average total duration

62h 22m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

38h 43m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Greyhound

Most popular bus company

United

Most popular airline

Amtrak

Most popular train company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from San Diego, CA to Washington, DC is a flight with an average price of $270 (€222).

This is compared to other travel options from San Diego, CA to Washington, DC:

A flight is $65 (€54) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from San Diego, CA to Washington, DC costing on average $335 (€276).

A flight is $469 (€386) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from San Diego, CA to Washington, DC costing on average $739 (€607).

The fastest way to travel from San Diego, CA to Washington, DC is by flight with an average journey time of 5h 58m.

Other travel options to Washington, DC take longer:

Train takes on average 62h 22m.

Bus takes on average 65h 26m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between San Diego, CA and Washington, DC including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from San Diego, CA to Washington, DC among Omio's users.
Take the bus. On this route, it's both cheaper and quicker than driving.

You'll arrive about {timeSavings} sooner ({durationInMinutes} by bus vs {drivingDurationInMinutes} by car) and save roughly {savingsAmount} compared to fuel and tolls ({cheapestPrice} vs {drivingPriceInCents}). 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 {directProviders}.

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 Washington, DC Bus Timetables

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
02:00AM
Arrival Time
10:35PM
Duration
68h35
Departure days
Tue, Wed, Thu
Cheapest price
$150
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
03:00AM
Arrival Time
11:35PM
Duration
68h35
Departure days
Wed, Thu
Cheapest price
$360
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
07:35AM
Arrival Time
05:35AM
Duration
67h00
Departure days
Fri, Sun
Cheapest price
$157
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
09:15AM
Arrival Time
05:35AM
Duration
65h20
Departure days
Fri, Sun
Cheapest price
$166
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
09:25AM
Arrival Time
10:20AM
Duration
69h55
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$177
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
09:50AM
Arrival Time
01:40AM
Duration
84h50
Departure days
Fri, Sun
Cheapest price
$145
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
12:15PM
Arrival Time
01:40AM
Duration
82h25
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
$142
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
12:40PM
Arrival Time
10:20AM
Duration
66h40
Departure days
Fri, Sun
Cheapest price
$167
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
01:10PM
Arrival Time
01:40AM
Duration
81h30
Departure days
Fri, Sun
Cheapest price
$142
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
02:55PM
Arrival Time
10:35AM
Duration
67h40
Departure days
Tue
Cheapest price
$450
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
04:15PM
Arrival Time
09:35AM
Duration
65h20
Departure days
Thu
Cheapest price
$187
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
05:15PM
Arrival Time
10:35AM
Duration
65h20
Departure days
Mon, Thu
Cheapest price
$216
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
05:25PM
Arrival Time
10:35AM
Duration
65h10
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
$178
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
07:10PM
Arrival Time
06:35PM
Duration
68h25
Departure days
Fri, Sun
Cheapest price
$167
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
07:40PM
Arrival Time
05:40AM
Duration
82h00
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu
Cheapest price
$196
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
07:55PM
Arrival Time
06:35PM
Duration
67h40
Departure days
Fri, Sun
Cheapest price
$131
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
08:15PM
Arrival Time
02:20PM
Duration
66h05
Departure days
Tue
Cheapest price
$165
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
08:40PM
Arrival Time
03:20PM
Duration
66h40
Departure days
Wed, Thu
Cheapest price
$532
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
10:25PM
Arrival Time
02:20PM
Duration
63h55
Departure days
Thu, Sat
Cheapest price
$196
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
11:25PM
Arrival Time
03:20PM
Duration
63h55
Departure days
Mon, Thu
Cheapest price
$188

Live departures

San Diego, CA to Washington, DC bus times

The table below shows live departures for San Diego, CA to Washington, DC buses for tomorrow, Wednesday, July 8. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Greyhound2:00 AM San Diego, CA
68h35
10:35 PM Washington, DC0 transfersDirect
Greyhound3:00 AM San Diego, CA
68h35
11:35 PM Washington, DC0 transfersDirect
Greyhound7:40 PM San Diego, CA
82h00
5:40 AM Washington, DC0 transfersDirect
Greyhound8:40 PM San Diego, CA
66h40
3:20 PM Washington, DC0 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 Washington, DC by train, bus, or flight

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.

Wed
Jul 08
Thu
Jul 09
Fri
Jul 10
Sat
Jul 11
Sun
Jul 12
Mon
Jul 13
Tue
Jul 14

Why should you book San Diego, CA to Washington, DC buses with Omio?

Greyhound as well as FlixBus offer buses services from San Diego, CA to Washington, DC.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from San Diego, CA to Washington, DC.

Why book with Omio vs Greyhound?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Greyhound, but also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from San Diego, CA to Washington, DC.
  • 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 Greyhound with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from San Diego, CA to Washington, DC.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from San Diego, CA to Washington, DC.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from San Diego, CA to Washington, DC.

Journey information

Overview: Bus from San Diego, CA to Washington, DC

USAUSA
USAUSA
Icon of bus

Buses from San Diego, CA to Washington, DC run on average 14 times per day, taking around 65h 26m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $150 (€123) but you can travel from only $108 (€89) by flight.

The earliest bus runs at 01:00, the last at 23:55. The fastest bus covers the 2269 miles (3653 km) distance in 63h 25m.

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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $108 (€89)
Distance
2269 miles (3653 km)
Average bus duration
65h 26m
Cheapest ticket price
$150 (€123)
Buses per day
14
Fastest bus
63h 25m
First bus
1:00 AM
Last bus
11:55 PM
Cheapest Month
Oct
Cheapest Day
Sun
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Jul - Sep
Busiest Day
Thu
Least Busy Day
Thu
Best time to book
7 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $108 (€89)

Bus providers: Greyhound, FlixBus from San Diego, CA to Washington, DCYou can travel by bus between San Diego, CA to Washington, DC with Greyhound, FlixBus for as low as $108 (€89). 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
65h 55m
Cheapest Price
$111 (€91)
FlixBus frequency
13 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.

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
63h 25m
Cheapest Price
$150 (€123)
Greyhound frequency
12 a day
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 Washington

Things to do in Washington

Discover the best of Washington — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Washington trip today.

  • Must visit

Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History

One of the world’s most visited natural history museums, known for dinosaur fossils, the Hope Diamond, and broad family-friendly exhibits.

  • Must visit

National Air and Space Museum

Flagship Smithsonian museum covering aviation and spaceflight, with iconic aircraft, spacecraft, and major interactive exhibits.

  • Must visit

National Gallery of Art

Premier art museum with strong collections from the Middle Ages to modern art, plus sculpture garden and rotating exhibitions.

United States Dollar

Prices are high for hotels and dining, especially downtown. Free museums help balance daily costs.

Average meal costs

Budget
USD 10-18 for fast food or casual takeout.
Mid-range
USD 25-45 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
Fine dining
USD 80+ per person before drinks and tax.
Coffee
USD 4-7 for a regular coffee or latte.

Tipping culture

Tip 18-20% at restaurants. USD 1-2 per drink at bars, round up taxis, and tip hotel staff USD 2-5.

FAQs: Bus from San Diego, CA to Washington, DC

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from San Diego, CA to Washington, DC 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 Washington, DC, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Cheap bus tickets from San Diego, CA to Washington, DC can start from as little as $150 (€123) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for San Diego, CA to Washington, DC is $335 (€276) ; 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 Washington, DC is 63h 25m to travel the 2269 miles (3653 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 Washington, DC leaves at 1:00 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from San Diego, CA to Washington, DC leaves at 11:55 PM.
There are 14 buses a day from San Diego, CA to Washington, DC which require at least one change with Greyhound, FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from San Diego, CA to Washington, DC, you can count on Greyhound, FlixBus for the best way to get you to Washington, DC. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between San Diego, CA and Washington, DC and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Washington, DC from San Diego, CA is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 63h 25m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from San Diego, CA to Washington, DC is October.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between San Diego, CA and Washington, DC including taking a train, bus, and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from San Diego, CA to Washington, DC:
  • 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 Washington, DC for bus company Greyhound, FlixBus.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Washington, DC are:
  • The National Mall, a historic and iconic open-area national park featuring monuments and museums
  • The White House, the official residence and workplace of the President of the United States
  • The United States Capitol, the home of the United States Congress and a symbol of the American people and government
  • The Smithsonian Institution, a group of museums and research institutions offering diverse exhibits and educational programs
  • The Lincoln Memorial, a monument honoring the 16th President of the United States, Abraham Lincoln, known for its impressive architecture and historical significance.
The best things to do in Washington, DC include:
  • Discover the National Gallery of Art, featuring an extensive collection of European and American art from the Middle Ages to the present
  • Stroll through Georgetown, a historic neighborhood known for its cobblestone streets, upscale shops, and vibrant dining scene
  • Visit the Library of Congress, the largest library in the world, offering a vast collection of books, recordings, and exhibits
  • Explore the vibrant Eastern Market, a historic public market offering fresh food, local arts, and crafts
  • Enjoy a performance at the Kennedy Center, a premier venue for the performing arts, featuring theater, dance, and music.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from San Diego, CA to Washington, DC depends on the bus companies:
  • 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 Greyhound, FlixBus.
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 Washington, DC.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from San Diego, CA to Washington, DC:
  • 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 Washington, DC:
  • 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 Washington, DC. The following conditions apply:
  • FlixBus
    • Small pets in carriers allowed
    • guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from San Diego, CA to Washington, DC with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from San Diego, CA to Washington, DC with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from San Diego, CA to Washington, DC with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Since neither San Diego, CA nor Washington, DC 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 flight as it is the most popular way to get from San Diego, CA to Washington, DC 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 Washington, DC, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like the National Mall and Metro stations. Common scams include overpriced taxi rides and unofficial tour operators. It's advisable to use licensed transportation services and stay aware of surroundings, particularly at night or in less busy neighborhoods.
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 Washington, DC

Most San Diego, CA to Washington, DC buses use the San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park) to Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station station pair, with some services arriving at Washington, DuPont Circle (Connecticut Ave. NW / 20th St. NW). Use this guide to compare San Diego, CA and Washington, DC bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.

Departure bus stations in San Diego
Arrival bus stations in Washington
San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park)
City-centre transport

Getting to San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park) from San Diego city centre

BusFlixBus 2017 · 20m · $1
83 · 26m · $6
TramGreen, Blue, Event · 16m · every ~18 min
Blue · 21m · every ~9 min
San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center
City-centre transport

Getting to San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center from San Diego city centre

BusFlixBus 2017 · 25m · $2
910 · 41m · $6
TramBlue · 41m · $17 · every ~14 min
Blue · 43m · $17 · every ~14 min
San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District)

Most popular buses to and from Washington, DC and San Diego, CA

HomeBusesBuses in USABus tickets to Washington, DCSan Diego, CA to Washington, DC bus

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