- Must visit
National Air and Space Museum
This world-class museum presents aviation and space history through iconic aircraft, spacecraft, and hands-on science exhibits.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 13
Cheapest price on Oct 13
$176
Average ticket price on Oct 13
$218
Fastest journey on Oct 13
2 d 19 h 25 m
Average journey duration on Oct 13
2 d 23 h 48 m
Buses on Oct 13
10
Distance
3919 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from San Francisco, 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 Francisco, CA to Washington, DC will cost around $218 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $176.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC without transferring at least 3 times.
FlixBus+
· · 7:10 AM72h10San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street, CA10:20 AMWashington, Columbus Circle, Union Station$1761One-way4 transfers- FlixBus+ · · 1:05 AM74h40San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street, CA6:45 AMWashington, Columbus Circle, Union Station$1761One-way3 transfers
- · · · 6:30 AM72h50San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 2910:20 AMWashington, Columbus Circle, Union Station$1891One-way5 transfers
- · · · 1:10 PM67h25San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 2911:35 AMWashington, Columbus Circle, Union Station$2031One-way3 transfers
- FlixBus+ · · 8:40 AM71h55San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street, CA11:35 AMWashington, Columbus Circle, Union Station$2051One-way4 transfers
- · · · 1:10 PM67h25San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 2911:35 AMWashington, Columbus Circle, Union Station$2031One-way3 transfers
- FlixBus+ · · 8:40 AM71h55San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street, CA11:35 AMWashington, Columbus Circle, Union Station$2051One-way4 transfers
- FlixBus+ · · 7:10 AM72h10San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street, CA10:20 AMWashington, Columbus Circle, Union Station$1761One-way4 transfers
- · · · 6:30 AM72h50San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 2910:20 AMWashington, Columbus Circle, Union Station$1891One-way5 transfers
- FlixBus+ · · 1:05 AM74h40San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street, CA6:45 AMWashington, Columbus Circle, Union Station$1761One-way3 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Bus from San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC
USAUSA
Buses from San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC run on average 3 times per day, taking around 67h 13m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $118 (€99) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 03:40, the last at 23:55. The fastest bus covers the 2435 miles (3919 km) distance in 64h 10m.
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 2435 miles (3919 km) |
Average bus duration 67h 13m |
Cheapest ticket price $118 (€99) |
Buses per day 3 |
Fastest bus 64h 10m |
First bus 3:40 AM |
Last bus 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Best time to book 14 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
San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 01:00AM | Arrival Time 06:45AM | Duration 74h45 | Departure days Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $171 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 01:05AM | Arrival Time 06:45AM | Duration 74h40 | Departure days Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $176 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 06:30AM | Arrival Time 10:20AM | Duration 72h50 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $167 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 07:10AM | Arrival Time 10:20AM | Duration 72h10 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $159 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 08:40AM | Arrival Time 01:35AM | Duration 85h55 | Departure days Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $167 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 08:55AM | Arrival Time 01:35AM | Duration 85h40 | Departure days Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $152 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 01:10PM | Arrival Time 11:35AM | Duration 67h25 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $151 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 01:30PM | Arrival Time 11:35AM | Duration 67h05 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $153 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 06:05PM | Arrival Time 06:45AM | Duration 81h40 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Sun | Cheapest price $178 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 10:30PM | Arrival Time 05:35AM | Duration 76h05 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $193 |
Live departures
San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC bus times
The table below shows live departures for San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC buses for today, Monday, October 12. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| · · · | 1:30 PM San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29 | 67h05 | 11:35 AM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 3 transfers | |
| · · +FlixBus | 1:30 PM San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29 | 81h05 | 1:35 AM Washington, DuPont Circle (Connecticut Ave. NW / 20th St. NW) | 4 transfers | |
| · · · | 10:30 PM San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29 | 76h05 | 5:35 AM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 4 transfers | |
| · · +FlixBus | 10:30 PM San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29 | 96h05 | 1:35 AM Washington, DuPont Circle (Connecticut Ave. NW / 20th St. NW) | 4 transfers | |
| Tuesday, October 13 | |||||
| FlixBus+ · · | 1:05 AM San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street, CA | 74h40 | 6:45 AM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 3 transfers | |
| · · · | 6:30 AM San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29 | 72h50 | 10:20 AM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 5 transfers | |
| FlixBus+ · · | 7:10 AM San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street, CA | 72h10 | 10:20 AM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 4 transfers | |
| FlixBus+ · · | 8:40 AM San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street, CA | 85h55 | 1:35 AM Washington, DuPont Circle (Connecticut Ave. NW / 20th St. NW) | 5 transfers | |
| FlixBus+ · · | 8:40 AM San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street, CA | 71h55 | 11:35 AM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 4 transfers | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC buses with Omio?
Greyhound operates all buses services from San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC.
Why book with Omio vs Greyhound?
- 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 Washington, DC.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- 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 Washington, DC.
Bus providers: Greyhound from San Francisco, CA to Washington, DCYou can travel by bus between San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC with Greyhound for as low as $118 (€99). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
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 Greyhound Duration
64h 10m
Cheapest Greyhound Price
$118 (€99)
Greyhound frequency
3 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, DC
Things to do in Washington, DC
Discover the best of Washington, DC — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Washington, DC trip today.
- Must visit
Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
Housed in a Beaux-Arts building, this museum explores natural wonders with dinosaurs, gems, fossils, and global biodiversity.
- Must visit
National Museum of African American History and Culture
A landmark museum documenting African American history and culture through powerful exhibitions, artifacts, and storytelling.
- Must visit
National Mall
The National Mall is Washington's grand civic promenade, lined with museums, memorials, and classic views ideal for first-time visitors.
- Must visit
Georgetown
Georgetown charms with historic streets, rowhouses, waterfront paths, and independent shops that make it one of the city's best walking areas.
- Must visit
Tidal Basin
The Tidal Basin loop offers famous cherry blossoms, water views, and easy access to several of Washington's most iconic memorials.
Half-Smoke
Half-smoke sausage, usually smoked pork and beef, served on a bun with chili, mustard, and onions. It is DC's signature street food, strongly tied to Ben's Chili Bowl.
- Vegetarian
Jumbo Slice Pizza
Jumbo slice is an oversized late-night pizza slice popular in Adams Morgan. It is a recognizable DC nightlife food known for its huge foldable portions.
Mumbo Sauce With Fried Chicken
Mumbo sauce is a sweet tangy red sauce commonly served with fried chicken and wings at DC carryouts. It is a beloved local condiment with roots in Black DC food culture.
Rose's Luxury
Acclaimed fine-dining restaurant focused on Mid-Atlantic ingredients and refined tasting menus in an elegant, contemporary dining room.
The Salt Line
Polished seafood institution at the municipal fish market, best known for regional oysters, crab cakes, and classic Chesapeake flavors.
Ben's Chili Bowl
Historic casual landmark famous for half-smokes, chili, and a classic diner feel. A must for trying DC's best-known street food tradition.
US dollar ($)
DC is pricier than many US cities. Hotels and dining run high in central areas, but Metro and many free museums help balance daily travel costs.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $10-18 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- $25-45 per person for a meal.
- Fine dining
- $80+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- $4-6 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, more for great service. Taxis usually 10-15%. Cafes: round up or add $1-2.
FAQs: Bus from San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from San Francisco, 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.
Cheap bus tickets from San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC can start from as little as $118 (€99) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC is $344 (€289) ; 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 Washington, DC is 64h 10m to travel the 2435 miles (3919 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 Washington, DC leaves at 3:40 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC leaves at 11:55 PM.
There are 3 buses a day from San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC which require at least one change with Greyhound. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC, you can count on Greyhound for the best way to get you to Washington, DC. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between San Francisco, CA and Washington, DC and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from San Francisco, CA , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29, San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street, CA . When arriving in Washington, DC , you can end your journey in bus stations like Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station, Washington, DuPont Circle (Connecticut Ave. NW / 20th St. NW) .Passengers board the bus most frequently from San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29, which is located around 1 miles (2 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station, located 2 away from the city centre.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between San Francisco, CA and Washington, DC including taking a bus, train, and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC:
- Greyhound
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC for bus company Greyhound.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from San Francisco, 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.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company Greyhound.
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 Washington, DC.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from San Francisco, 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).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC:
- Greyhound
- $15 per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC with the following bus company: Greyhound
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC with the following bus company: Greyhound.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC with the following bus company: Greyhound.
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 Francisco, CA to Washington, DC
Most San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC buses use the San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29 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 Francisco, 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 Francisco
Arrival bus stations in Washington
Which San Francisco, CA station do buses to Washington, DC leave from?
Buses from San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC leave from San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29. The station is 1 miles (3 km) from San Francisco, CA city centre at Transit Center Bay 29, San Francisco, CA 94105, USA.
San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29Transit Center Bay 29, San Francisco, CA 94105, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29 from San Francisco city centre
San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29 is 2 km from San Francisco city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus397 · 8m · $2
14, 14R · 13m · $2 · every ~30 min
101, 120 · 14m · $6 · every ~9 min
7 · 21m · $2 · every ~10 min
SubwayYellow-N, Green-N, Red-N, Blue-N · 10m · $2 · every ~27 min
San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29 bus station facilities and services
San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29 has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29. ATMs are available at San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29: Wheelchair accessible areas present.
San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th StreetSan Francisco Bus Station,401 Townsend St,94107
City-centre transport
Getting to San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street from San Francisco city centre
BusEast, West · 20m · every ~4 min
Nbus, Nowl · 24m · $2 · every ~2 min
TramN · 23m · $2 · every ~11 min
Which Washington, DC station do buses from San Francisco, CA arrive at?
Buses from San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC most often arrive at Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station. Some services arrive at Washington, DuPont Circle (Connecticut Ave. NW / 20th St. NW), so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Washington, DC arrival station.
Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station50 Massachusetts Ave NE, Washington, DC 20002, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station from Washington city centre
Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station is 2 km from Washington city centre. Public transport options include:
BusD30 · 15m · $4 · every ~10 min
281, 481, 483, 484, 486 · 19m · $2 · every ~1 min
SubwayR · 5m · $2 · every ~27 min
Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station bus station facilities and services
Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: McDonald's (in the station), Shake Shack (in the station)
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the main entrance and food court.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station: Elevators, ramps.
Washington, DuPont Circle (Connecticut Ave. NW / 20th St. NW)Connecticut Ave NW & 20th St NW, Washington, DC 20009, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Washington, DuPont Circle (Connecticut Ave. NW / 20th St. NW) from Washington city centre
Washington, DuPont Circle (Connecticut Ave. NW / 20th St. NW) is 1 km from Washington city centre. Public transport options include:
BusD70 · 11m · $4 · every ~7 min
SubwayR · 6m · $2 · every ~27 min
Washington, DuPont Circle (Connecticut Ave. NW / 20th St. NW) bus station facilities and services
Washington, DuPont Circle (Connecticut Ave. NW / 20th St. NW) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Washington, DuPont Circle (Connecticut Ave. NW / 20th St. NW). ATMs are available at Washington, DuPont Circle (Connecticut Ave. NW / 20th St. NW).
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Washington, DuPont Circle (Connecticut Ave. NW / 20th St. NW).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Washington, DuPont Circle (Connecticut Ave. NW / 20th St. NW): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Washington, DuPont Circle (Connecticut Ave. NW / 20th St. NW): Sidewalks and crosswalks are wheelchair accessible.
Most popular bus connections from San Francisco, CA
More options for your journey from San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Washington, DC and San Francisco, CA
Most popular bus connections to Washington, DC
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