- Must visit
The Children's Museum of Indianapolis
The world's largest children's museum, known for immersive science, history, and culture exhibits for all ages.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from San Francisco, CA to Indianapolis, IN
Showing times and prices for Jun 11
Cheapest price
$323
Average price
$323
Fastest journey
2 d 12 h 5 m
Average duration
2 d 12 h 5 m
Buses per day
1
Distance
3130 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from San Francisco, CA to Indianapolis, IN 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 Indianapolis, IN will cost around $323 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $323.
Fast buses
Of the 1 buses that leave San Francisco, CA for Indianapolis, IN on Thu, Jun 11, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Thu, Jun 11 the direct buses cover the 3130 km distance in an average of 2 d 12 h 5 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 2 d 12 h 5 m .
On Thu, Jun 11 the slowest buses will take 2 d 12 h 5 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.
6:25 AM60h05San Francisco, CA6:30 PMIndianapolis, IN$3231One-way0 transfers
- 6:25 AM60h05San Francisco, CA6:30 PMIndianapolis, IN$3231One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for San Francisco, CA to Indianapolis, IN
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from San Francisco, CA to Indianapolis, IN among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $155. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 5h 35m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $155, and a train costs an average of $191.
Distance: 1944 miles (3130 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$287 Average price Cheapest | $475 Average price | $422 Average price | $456 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
58h 0m Average total duration 57h 30m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 57h 32m Average total duration 57h 2m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 35m Average total duration Fastest 5h 35m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 32h 50m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
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 |
The cheapest way to travel from San Francisco, CA to Indianapolis, IN is a bus with an average price of $287 (€234).
This is compared to other travel options from San Francisco, CA to Indianapolis, IN:
A bus is $135 (€110) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from San Francisco, CA to Indianapolis, IN costing on average $422 (€344).
A bus is $188 (€153) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from San Francisco, CA to Indianapolis, IN costing on average $475 (€387).
The fastest way to travel from San Francisco, CA to Indianapolis, IN is by flight with an average journey time of 5h 35m.
Other travel options to Indianapolis, IN take longer:
Train takes on average 57h 2m.
Bus takes on average 57h 30m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between San Francisco, CA and Indianapolis, IN 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 Indianapolis, IN 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 Francisco, CA to Indianapolis, IN Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 05:40AM | Arrival Time 06:30PM | Duration 60h50 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $365 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 06:25AM | Arrival Time 06:30PM | Duration 60h05 | Departure days Thu, Sat | Cheapest price $281 |
Operator Flixbus USA | Departure Time 08:20AM | Arrival Time 07:25AM | Duration 71h05 | Departure days Tue, Thu | Cheapest price $650 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 08:30PM | Arrival Time 11:20PM | Duration 50h50 | Departure days Mon, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $223 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 09:30PM | Arrival Time 12:20AM | Duration 50h50 | Departure days Mon, Fri | Cheapest price $180 |
Live departures
San Francisco, CA to Indianapolis, IN bus times
The table below shows live departures for San Francisco, CA to Indianapolis, IN buses for today, Tuesday, June 9. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 8:20 AM San Francisco, CA | 71h05 | 7:25 AM Indianapolis, IN | 2 transfers | |
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 Indianapolis, IN 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.
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Why should you book San Francisco, CA to Indianapolis, IN buses with Omio?
Greyhound as well as FlixBus offer buses services from San Francisco, CA to Indianapolis, IN.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from San Francisco, CA to Indianapolis, IN.
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 Indianapolis, IN.
- 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 Indianapolis, IN.
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 Indianapolis, IN.
- 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 Indianapolis, IN.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from San Francisco, CA to Indianapolis, IN
USAUSA
Buses from San Francisco, CA to Indianapolis, IN run on average 11 times per day, taking around 57h 30m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $155 (€126) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 03:15, the last at 23:55. The fastest bus covers the 1944 miles (3130 km) distance in 50h 50m.
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 1944 miles (3130 km) |
Average bus duration 57h 30m |
Cheapest ticket price $155 (€126) |
Buses per day 11 |
Fastest bus 50h 50m |
First bus 3:15 AM |
Last bus 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
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 Indianapolis, INYou can travel by bus between San Francisco, CA to Indianapolis, IN with Greyhound, FlixBus for as low as $155 (€126). 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
71h 5m
Cheapest Price
$650 (€529)
FlixBus frequency
1 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
50h 50m
Cheapest Price
$155 (€126)
Greyhound frequency
8 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 Indianapolis
Things to do in Indianapolis
Discover the best of Indianapolis — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Indianapolis trip today.
- Must visit
Newfields
A major art campus featuring the Indianapolis Museum of Art, gardens, and rotating exhibitions in a scenic setting.
- Must visit
Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum
A must for racing fans, with historic cars, Indianapolis 500 artifacts, and motorsport heritage.
- Must visit
Monument Circle
Downtown's central circle and gathering place, lined with historic buildings and anchored by the city's iconic monument.
- Must visit
White River State Park
Major urban park linking museums, trails, green space, and canal-side walks in the heart of the city.
- Must visit
Massachusetts Avenue
Trendy cultural district known for independent shops, theaters, murals, and strong day-to-night energy.
Pork Tenderloin Sandwich
A Hoosier classic: a breaded and fried pork cutlet served on a bun, often much larger than the bread. It is one of Central Indiana's most iconic comfort foods.
- Gluten-free
Shrimp Cocktail
Indianapolis is famous for steakhouse-style shrimp cocktail topped with very spicy cocktail sauce, especially associated with old-school downtown dining.
- Vegetarian
Sugar Cream Pie
Often called Hoosier pie, this simple custard-like pie made with cream, sugar, and flour is one of Indiana's signature desserts.
St. Elmo Steak House
Historic downtown steakhouse best known for dry-aged steaks and its legendary spicy shrimp cocktail. Classic, upscale, and one of Indianapolis's most famous dining rooms.
Bluebeard
Well-regarded New American restaurant in Fletcher Place, known for seasonal menus, thoughtful cocktails, and a stylish neighborhood setting.
Workingman's Friend
Historic no-frills tavern famous for old-school burgers and a classic local atmosphere. A beloved casual stop with deep Indianapolis roots.
United States Dollar
Moderate by U.S. city standards. Hotels vary by events, while casual dining, coffee, and transport are generally manageable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-15 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- USD 20-35 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 60+ per person before drinks and tax.
- Coffee
- USD 3-6 for drip coffee or a latte.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% in restaurants; 20%+ for great service. Tip bartenders USD 1-2 per drink, taxis 10-15%, hotel staff USD 2-5, and round up for casual services.
FAQs: Bus from San Francisco, CA to Indianapolis, IN
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from San Francisco, CA to Indianapolis, IN 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 Indianapolis, IN, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from San Francisco, CA to Indianapolis, IN can start from as little as $155 (€126) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for San Francisco, CA to Indianapolis, IN is $287 (€234) ; 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 Indianapolis, IN is 50h 50m to travel the 1944 miles (3130 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 Indianapolis, IN leaves at 3:15 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from San Francisco, CA to Indianapolis, IN leaves at 11:55 PM.
There are 11 buses a day from San Francisco, CA to Indianapolis, IN 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 Francisco, CA to Indianapolis, IN, you can count on Greyhound, FlixBus for the best way to get you to Indianapolis, IN. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between San Francisco, CA and Indianapolis, IN and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Indianapolis, IN from San Francisco, CA is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 50h 50m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from San Francisco, CA to Indianapolis, IN is January.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between San Francisco, CA and Indianapolis, IN including taking a bus, train, and flight.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from San Francisco, CA to Indianapolis, IN for bus company Greyhound, FlixBus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from San Francisco, CA to Indianapolis, IN:
- Greyhound
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Indianapolis, IN are:
- Indianapolis Motor Speedway, a historic racing circuit known for hosting the Indianapolis 500
- The Children's Museum of Indianapolis, the world's largest children's museum featuring interactive exhibits
- Indianapolis Zoo, a popular attraction with diverse animal exhibits and a botanical garden
- Indiana State Museum, showcasing the state's history, art, and science through various exhibits
- White River State Park, a sprawling urban park offering trails, gardens, and cultural attractions.
The best things to do in Indianapolis, IN include:
- Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields, a vast art museum with extensive collections and beautiful gardens
- Attend a race at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, home of the iconic Indy 500
- Explore the interactive exhibits and educational programs at The Children's Museum of Indianapolis
- Visit the dolphin pavilion and animal habitats at the Indianapolis Zoo
- Enjoy a walk along the canal and cultural attractions at White River State Park.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from San Francisco, CA to Indianapolis, IN 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 Indianapolis, IN.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from San Francisco, CA to Indianapolis, IN:
- 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 Indianapolis, IN:
- 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 Indianapolis, IN. 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 Indianapolis, IN with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from San Francisco, CA to Indianapolis, IN with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from San Francisco, CA to Indianapolis, IN with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Since neither San Francisco, CA nor Indianapolis, IN 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 Indianapolis, IN 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 Indianapolis, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and vehicle break-ins, especially in busy areas like downtown and near major event venues. Common scams include overcharging by unofficial taxi or rideshare drivers and distraction tactics used to steal belongings. It's advised to use authorized transportation services, avoid poorly lit or unfamiliar areas at night, and keep valuables secure.
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 Indianapolis, IN
San Francisco
Indianapolis
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 Indianapolis.
San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29
information
San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street
information
The major bus station for arrivals in Indianapolis is Indianapolis, Illinois St (Greyhound Bus Station). Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Indianapolis, Illinois St (Greyhound Bus Station) for your trip to Indianapolis from San Francisco.
Indianapolis, Illinois St (Greyhound Bus Station)
information
Indianapolis, E Washington St / N Delaware St (City/County Building)
information
Most popular bus connections from San Francisco, CA
More options for your journey from San Francisco, CA to Indianapolis, IN
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Indianapolis, IN and San Francisco, CA
Most popular bus connections to Indianapolis, IN
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