- Must visit
Kern County Museum
Open-air history museum with dozens of restored buildings, regional exhibits, and Pioneer Village showcasing Kern County heritage.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest buses from San Francisco, CA to Bakersfield, CA
Showing times and prices for Jun 20
Cheapest price
$53
Average price
$59
Fastest journey
5 h 25 m
Average duration
7 h 58 m
Buses per day
2
Distance
404 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from San Francisco, CA to Bakersfield, CA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from San Francisco, CA to Bakersfield, CA will cost around $59 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $53.
Fast buses
Of the 2 buses that leave San Francisco, CA for Bakersfield, CA on Sat, Jun 20, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sat, Jun 20 the direct buses cover the 404 km distance in an average of 7 h 58 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 5 h 25 m .
On Sat, Jun 20 the slowest buses will take 10 h 30 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.
FlixBus11:25 PM5h25San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street, CA4:50 AMBakersfield, McKee Road / South H Street (Kern Delta Park), CA$531One-way0 transfers
· 6:30 AM10h30San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 295:00 PMBakersfield, Amtrak Terminal, CA$651One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus11:25 PM5h25San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street, CA4:50 AMBakersfield, McKee Road / South H Street (Kern Delta Park), CA$531One-way0 transfers
- · 6:30 AM10h30San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 295:00 PMBakersfield, Amtrak Terminal, CA$651One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for San Francisco, CA to Bakersfield, CA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from San Francisco, CA to Bakersfield, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $68. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 30m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $68, and a flight costs an average of $243.
Distance: 251 miles (404 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$71 Average price | $71 Average price Cheapest | $502 Average price | $58 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
7h 21m Average total duration 6h 51m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 56m Average total duration 6h 26m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 30m Average total duration Fastest 3h 30m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 4h 11m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from San Francisco, CA to Bakersfield, CA is a train with an average price of $71 (€58).
This is compared to other travel options from San Francisco, CA to Bakersfield, CA:
A train is $0.42 (€0.34) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from San Francisco, CA to Bakersfield, CA costing on average $71 (€58).
A train is $431 (€353) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from San Francisco, CA to Bakersfield, CA costing on average $502 (€411).
The fastest way to travel from San Francisco, CA to Bakersfield, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 30m.
Other travel options to Bakersfield, CA take longer:
Train takes on average 6h 26m.
Bus takes on average 6h 51m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between San Francisco, CA and Bakersfield, CA including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from San Francisco, CA to Bakersfield, CA among Omio's users.
Take the bus. On this route, it's both cheaper and quicker than driving.
You'll arrive about -3h -40m sooner (6h 51m by bus vs 4h 11m by car) and save roughly $-13.70 (€-11.22) compared to fuel and tolls ($71 (€58) vs $58 (€47)). 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.
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 Francisco, CA to Bakersfield, CA Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 12:00AM | Arrival Time 12:45PM | Duration 12h45 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $54 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 06:25AM | Arrival Time 11:50AM | Duration 5h25 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $62 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 06:30AM | Arrival Time 05:00PM | Duration 10h30 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $65 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 02:30PM | Arrival Time 01:05AM | Duration 10h35 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $60 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 11:00PM | Arrival Time 11:45AM | Duration 12h45 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $60 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:25PM | Arrival Time 04:50AM | Duration 5h25 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $49 |
Live departures
San Francisco, CA to Bakersfield, CA bus times
The table below shows live departures for San Francisco, CA to Bakersfield, CA buses for today, Friday, June 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FlixBus | 11:25 PM San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street, CA | 5h25 | 4:50 AM Bakersfield, McKee Road / South H Street (Kern Delta Park), CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Saturday, June 20 | |||||
| · | 6:30 AM San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29 | 10h30 | 5:00 PM Bakersfield, Amtrak Terminal, CA | 1 transfer | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets San Francisco, CA to Bakersfield, CA by bus, train, or flight
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.
Sat
Jun 20
Jun 20
Sun
Jun 21
Jun 21
Mon
Jun 22
Jun 22
Tue
Jun 23
Jun 23
Wed
Jun 24
Jun 24
Thu
Jun 25
Jun 25
Fri
Jun 26
Jun 26
Why should you book San Francisco, CA to Bakersfield, CA buses with Omio?
Greyhound as well as FlixBus offer buses services from San Francisco, CA to Bakersfield, CA.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from San Francisco, CA to Bakersfield, CA.
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 Francisco, CA to Bakersfield, 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 Greyhound with all available travel options, which are bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from San Francisco, CA to Bakersfield, CA.
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 Francisco, CA to Bakersfield, CA.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from San Francisco, CA to Bakersfield, CA.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from San Francisco, CA to Bakersfield, CA
USAUSA
Buses from San Francisco, CA to Bakersfield, CA run on average 5 times per day, taking around 6h 51m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $38 (€31) if you book in advance.
There are 1 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 01:05, the last at 23:50. The fastest bus covers the 251 miles (404 km) distance in 5h 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
Distance 251 miles (404 km) |
Average bus duration 6h 51m |
Cheapest ticket price $38 (€31) |
Buses per day 5 |
Direct buses 1 |
Fastest bus 5h 25m |
First bus 1:05 AM |
Last bus 11:50 PM |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 28 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: Greyhound, FlixBus from San Francisco, CA to Bakersfield, CAYou can travel by bus between San Francisco, CA to Bakersfield, CA with Greyhound, FlixBus for as low as $38 (€31). 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
5h 25m
Cheapest Price
$38 (€31)
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
10h 35m
Cheapest Price
$54 (€44)
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 Bakersfield
Things to do in Bakersfield
Discover the best of Bakersfield — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Bakersfield trip today.
- Recommended
Bakersfield Museum of Art
Leading local art museum featuring rotating contemporary and regional exhibitions, sculpture garden, and community programs in Mill Creek Park.
- Recommended
Buena Vista Museum of Natural History & Science
Family-friendly museum focused on geology, paleontology, fossils, and natural sciences with hands-on displays in downtown Bakersfield.
- Must visit
Downtown Bakersfield
The city's main historic and cultural core with theaters, murals, civic landmarks, and a growing arts and nightlife scene.
- Must visit
The Park at River Walk
Popular lakeside park with walking paths, bridges, and sunset views, frequently featured in local social media content.
- Recommended
Panorama Bluffs
Scenic bluff-top walking area with sweeping city and Kern River views, especially popular at sunrise and sunset.
Basque Family-Style Dinner
A Bakersfield classic rooted in the city’s Basque community, usually served in boardinghouse restaurants with soup, salad, beans, pickled tongue, fries, pasta, and a grilled meat main.
- Gluten-free
Tri-Tip Barbecue
Central California barbecue favorite featuring seasoned beef tri-tip grilled over red oak or similar wood. It is widely loved in Bakersfield and across the San Joaquin Valley.
- Gluten-free
Taco Truck Tacos
Bakersfield is known for strong Mexican food culture, and simple street-style tacos with carne asada, carnitas, onion, cilantro, and salsa are a local staple.
Luigi's Restaurant and Delicatessen
A Bakersfield institution blending Italian American comfort food with local tradition. Known for ravioli, sandwiches, and a bustling, historic atmosphere.
Wool Growers Restaurant
Iconic Basque restaurant known for classic family-style meals, cocktails, and a historic boardinghouse atmosphere. One of Bakersfield’s signature dining experiences.
Pyrenees Cafe
Long-running downtown Basque spot serving hearty family-style dinners and traditional specialties in a casual, old-Bakersfield setting.
United States Dollar
Generally cheaper than major California cities. Hotels and dining are moderate, while car travel and some attractions add costs.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-15 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- USD 20-35 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 50-90 per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- USD 3-6 for drip coffee or a latte.
Tipping culture
Tip 15-20% in restaurants; 20% for strong service. Tip USD 1-2 per drink at bars, round up taxis, and tip hotel staff USD 2-5 where helpful.
FAQs: Bus from San Francisco, CA to Bakersfield, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from San Francisco, CA to Bakersfield, 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 Bakersfield, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from San Francisco, CA to Bakersfield, CA can start from as little as $38 (€31) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for San Francisco, CA to Bakersfield, CA is $71 (€58) ; 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 Francisco, CA to Bakersfield, CA is 5h 25m to travel the 251 miles (404 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 Francisco, CA to Bakersfield, CA leaves at 1:05 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from San Francisco, CA to Bakersfield, CA leaves at 11:50 PM.
Yes, there are 1 direct buses a day from San Francisco, CA to Bakersfield, CA with FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from San Francisco, CA to Bakersfield, CA, you can count on Greyhound, FlixBus for the best way to get you to Bakersfield, CA. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between San Francisco, CA and Bakersfield, CA and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Bakersfield, CA from San Francisco, CA is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 5h 25m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from San Francisco, CA to Bakersfield, CA is October.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between San Francisco, CA and Bakersfield, CA including taking a bus, train, and flight.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from San Francisco, CA to Bakersfield, CA for bus company Greyhound, FlixBus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from San Francisco, CA to Bakersfield, CA:
- Greyhound
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Bakersfield, CA are:
- Kern County Museum, a historical museum showcasing artifacts and exhibits from the region's past
- Buck Owens' Crystal Palace, a music venue and restaurant dedicated to the legacy of country music star Buck Owens
- California Living Museum (CALM), a zoo and botanical garden focusing on native California wildlife and plants
- Bakersfield Museum of Art, featuring a diverse collection of contemporary and traditional artworks
- Hart Memorial Park, a large public park offering picnic areas, fishing spots, and scenic views along the Kern River.
The best things to do in Bakersfield, CA include:
- Explore the vibrant downtown Bakersfield area, with its eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues
- Attend a live performance at the historic Fox Theater, known for its stunning architecture and diverse lineup of shows
- Enjoy a day of hiking or biking at the Panorama Vista Preserve, offering beautiful trails and wildlife viewing opportunities
- Visit the Buena Vista Museum of Natural History & Science, featuring fascinating exhibits on paleontology, geology, and anthropology
- Experience local flavors at the Bakersfield Farmers Market, where you can find fresh produce and artisanal goods.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from San Francisco, CA to Bakersfield, CA 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 Francisco, CA to Bakersfield, CA.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from San Francisco, CA to Bakersfield, CA:
- 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 Francisco, CA to Bakersfield, CA:
- 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 Francisco, CA to Bakersfield, CA. 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 Francisco, CA to Bakersfield, CA with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from San Francisco, CA to Bakersfield, CA with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from San Francisco, CA to Bakersfield, CA with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Since neither San Francisco, CA nor Bakersfield, 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 Francisco, CA to Bakersfield, 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 Bakersfield, CA, travelers should remain cautious of petty theft and vehicle break-ins, especially in crowded areas and parking lots. Scams involving fake ticket sales or unauthorized transportation services can occur, so purchasing tickets only through official vendors is advised. It’s also important to stay aware of surroundings at night and avoid poorly lit or isolated areas for safety.
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 Francisco, CA to Bakersfield, CA
San Francisco
Bakersfield
The major bus station for departures in San Francisco is San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29 for your trip from San Francisco to Bakersfield.
San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29
information
San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street
information
The major bus station for arrivals in Bakersfield is Bakersfield, Amtrak Terminal. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Bakersfield, Amtrak Terminal for your trip to Bakersfield from San Francisco.
Bakersfield, Amtrak Terminal
information
Bakersfield, McKee Road / South H Street (Kern Delta Park)
information
Most popular bus connections from San Francisco, CA
More options for your journey from San Francisco, CA to Bakersfield, CA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Bakersfield, CA and San Francisco, CA
Most popular bus connections to Bakersfield, CA
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
