- 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.
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 Washington, DC
Showing times and prices for Jul 15
Cheapest price
$461
Average price
$535
Fastest journey
2 d 19 h 5 m
Average duration
2 d 23 h 42 m
Buses per day
3
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 $535 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $461.
Fast buses
Of the 3 buses that leave San Francisco, CA for Washington, DC on Wed, Jul 15, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, Jul 15 the direct buses cover the 3919 km distance in an average of 2 d 23 h 42 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 2 d 19 h 5 m .
On Wed, Jul 15 the slowest buses will take 3 d 3 h 10 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.
8:30 PM67h05San Francisco, CA3:35 PMWashington, DC$4611One-way0 transfers- 6:25 AM75h10San Francisco, CA9:35 AMWashington, DC$4741One-way0 transfers
- 2:30 PM72h50San Francisco, CA3:20 PMWashington, DC$6711One-way0 transfers
- 8:30 PM67h05San Francisco, CA3:35 PMWashington, DC$4611One-way0 transfers
- 2:30 PM72h50San Francisco, CA3:20 PMWashington, DC$6711One-way0 transfers
- 6:25 AM75h10San Francisco, CA9:35 AMWashington, DC$4741One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the flight with prices starting from $161. 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 flight costs an average of $161, and a train costs an average of $209.
Distance: 2435 miles (3919 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Flight | Train |
|---|---|---|
$388 Average price | $336 Average price Cheapest | $978 Average price |
69h 39m Average total duration 69h 9m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 35m Average total duration Fastest 5h 35m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 71h 45m Average total duration 71h 15m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline |  Most popular train company |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC is a flight with an average price of $336 (€277).
This is compared to other travel options from San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC:
A flight is $52 (€43) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC costing on average $388 (€320).
A flight is $643 (€530) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC costing on average $978 (€807).
The fastest way to travel from San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC is by flight with an average journey time of 5h 35m.
Other travel options to Washington, DC take longer:
Bus takes on average 69h 9m.
Train takes on average 71h 15m.
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.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC among Omio's users.
San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 05:40AM | Arrival Time 05:40AM | Duration 96h00 | Departure days Mon, Sat | Cheapest price $308 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 06:25AM | Arrival Time 09:35AM | Duration 75h10 | Departure days Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $397 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 06:30AM | Arrival Time 10:20AM | Duration 72h50 | Departure days Mon, Tue | Cheapest price $159 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 06:40AM | Arrival Time 09:35AM | Duration 74h55 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $425 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 07:10AM | Arrival Time 10:20AM | Duration 72h10 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $432 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 07:30AM | Arrival Time 10:20AM | Duration 71h50 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $137 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 01:30PM | Arrival Time 02:20PM | Duration 72h50 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Sat | Cheapest price $149 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 02:30PM | Arrival Time 03:20PM | Duration 72h50 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $671 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 03:20PM | Arrival Time 02:20PM | Duration 71h00 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $439 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 04:20PM | Arrival Time 03:20PM | Duration 71h00 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $438 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 04:30PM | Arrival Time 03:20PM | Duration 70h50 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $160 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 08:30PM | Arrival Time 03:35PM | Duration 67h05 | Departure days Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $170 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 09:30PM | Arrival Time 04:35PM | Duration 67h05 | Departure days Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $304 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 10:30PM | Arrival Time 01:40AM | Duration 96h10 | Departure days Mon, Tue | Cheapest price $157 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 11:25PM | Arrival Time 11:35AM | Duration 81h10 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $167 |
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, Tuesday, July 14. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| · · · | 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+ · · | 7:10 AM San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street, CA | 87h25 | 1:35 AM Washington, DuPont Circle (Connecticut Ave. NW / 20th St. NW) | 5 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 | |
| · · · | 1:30 PM San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29 | 67h05 | 11:35 AM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 3 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 | |
| Wednesday, July 15 | |||||
| 6:25 AM San Francisco, CA | 75h10 | 9:35 AM Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
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 Washington, DC 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.
Wed
Jul 15
Jul 15
Thu
Jul 16
Jul 16
Fri
Jul 17
Jul 17
Sat
Jul 18
Jul 18
Sun
Jul 19
Jul 19
Mon
Jul 20
Jul 20
Tue
Jul 21
Jul 21
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.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC
USAUSA
Buses from San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC run on average 8 times per day, taking around 69h 9m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $160 (€132) 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 67h 5m.
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 69h 9m |
Cheapest ticket price $160 (€132) |
Buses per day 8 |
Fastest bus 67h 5m |
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 42 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 from San Francisco, CA to Washington, DCYou can travel by bus between San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC with Greyhound for as low as $160 (€132). 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 Duration
67h 5m
Cheapest Price
$160 (€132)
Greyhound frequency
7 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 $160 (€132) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC is $388 (€320) ; 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 67h 5m 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 8 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.
A trip to Washington, DC from San Francisco, CA is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 67h 5m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC is October.
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.
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 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.
Since neither San Francisco, 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 Francisco, 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.
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
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.
