- Recommended
Jack and Shanaz Langson Institute and Museum of California Art
Orange County’s leading contemporary art museum, presenting rotating exhibitions and acclaimed modern artists near UC Irvine.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from San Jose, CA to Irvine, CA
Showing times and prices for Aug 04
Cheapest price
$119
Average price
$119
Fastest journey
11 h 56 m
Average duration
11 h 56 m
Buses per day
2
Distance
550 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from San Jose, CA to Irvine, CA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from San Jose, CA to Irvine, CA will cost around $119 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $119.
Fast buses
Of the 2 buses that leave San Jose, CA for Irvine, CA on Tue, Aug 04, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Tue, Aug 04 the direct buses cover the 550 km distance in an average of 11 h 56 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 11 h 56 m .
On Tue, Aug 04 the slowest buses will take 11 h 56 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.
4:15 PM11h56San Jose, CA4:11 AMIrvine, CA$1191One-way0 transfers- 5:15 PM11h56San Jose, CA5:11 AMIrvine, CA$1191One-way0 transfers
- 5:15 PM11h56San Jose, CA5:11 AMIrvine, CA$1191One-way0 transfers
- 4:15 PM11h56San Jose, CA4:11 AMIrvine, CA$1191One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for San Jose, CA to Irvine, CA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from San Jose, CA to Irvine, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $84. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 6h 44m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.2 - 0.5kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $84, and a flight costs an average of $136.
Distance: 341 miles (550 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$123 Average price | $115 Average price Cheapest | $408 Average price | $77 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
11h 45m Average total duration 11h 15m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 11h 57m Average total duration 11h 27m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 44m Average total duration Fastest 6h 44m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 5h 49m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.5 - 1.4kg CO2 emissions | 0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 1.6 - 3.3kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from San Jose, CA to Irvine, CA is a train with an average price of $115 (€94).
This is compared to other travel options from San Jose, CA to Irvine, CA:
A train is $9 (€7) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from San Jose, CA to Irvine, CA costing on average $123 (€101).
A train is $293 (€239) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from San Jose, CA to Irvine, CA costing on average $408 (€333).
The fastest way to travel from San Jose, CA to Irvine, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 6h 44m.
Other travel options to Irvine, CA take longer:
Bus takes on average 11h 15m.
Train takes on average 11h 27m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between San Jose, CA and Irvine, CA including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from San Jose, CA to Irvine, CA 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 Jose, CA to Irvine, CA Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 05:35AM | Arrival Time 05:11PM | Duration 11h36 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $163 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 07:50AM | Arrival Time 05:11PM | Duration 9h21 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $158 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 08:17AM | Arrival Time 09:11PM | Duration 12h54 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $169 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 09:15AM | Arrival Time 09:11PM | Duration 11h56 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $163 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 12:35PM | Arrival Time 05:00AM | Duration 16h25 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $224 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 01:35PM | Arrival Time 06:00AM | Duration 16h25 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $134 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 04:15PM | Arrival Time 04:11AM | Duration 11h56 | Departure days Tue, Fri | Cheapest price $119 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 05:15PM | Arrival Time 05:11AM | Duration 11h56 | Departure days Tue, Fri | Cheapest price $119 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 11:45PM | Arrival Time 11:11AM | Duration 11h26 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $163 |
Live departures
San Jose, CA to Irvine, CA bus times
The table below shows live departures for San Jose, CA to Irvine, CA buses for today, Monday, August 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4770 AMTRAK · 770 Pacific Surfliner | 11:45 PM San José Diridon Station, San Jose, CA | 11h26 | 11:11 AM Irvine Transportation Center, Irvine, CA | 1 transfer | |
| Tuesday, August 4 | |||||
| 4:15 PM San Jose, CA | 11h56 | 4:11 AM Irvine, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 5:15 PM San Jose, CA | 11h56 | 5:11 AM Irvine, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets San Jose, CA to Irvine, 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.
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Journey information
Overview: Bus from San Jose, CA to Irvine, CA
USAUSA
Buses from San Jose, CA to Irvine, CA run on average 7 times per day, taking around 11h 15m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $118 (€96) but you can travel from only $84 (€68) by train.
The earliest bus runs at 00:15, the last at 23:55. The fastest bus covers the 341 miles (550 km) distance in 9h 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from $84 (€68)
Distance 341 miles (550 km) |
Average bus duration 11h 15m |
Cheapest ticket price $118 (€96) |
Buses per day 7 |
Fastest bus 9h 5m |
First bus 12:15 AM |
Last bus 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Best time to book 77 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
Train from $84 (€68)
Complete guide to Irvine, CA
Things to do in Irvine, CA
Discover the best of Irvine, CA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Irvine, CA trip today.
- Recommended
University Art Gallery at UC Irvine
University art museum featuring exhibitions of contemporary and historical works, with thought-provoking programs and free admission.
- Recommended
Irvine Ranch Historic Park
Historic farm site with interpretive exhibits, original structures, and programs that bring Orange County’s agricultural past to life.
- Must visit
Orange County Great Park
Major civic park with trails, sports areas, art spaces, and the iconic balloon, popular with both visitors and locals.
- Must visit
Irvine Spectrum Center
Lakeside shopping and entertainment district with landscaped plazas and a lively pedestrian setting day and night.
- Recommended
Aldrich Park
Circular park at the heart of UC Irvine with mature trees and paths, ideal for walking, picnics, and campus atmosphere.
- Gluten-free
Fish Tacos
Fish tacos are a Southern California staple: battered or grilled fish in corn tortillas with cabbage, crema, and salsa. They reflect the region’s Baja and coastal influence.
California Roll
California rolls were popularized in Southern California sushi culture. Crab, avocado, and cucumber make them approachable and iconic to the region’s Japanese influence.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Avocado Toast
Avocado toast is a modern California café classic. Fresh avocado on artisan bread showcases the state’s produce culture and everyday brunch habits.
Habuya Okinawan Dining
Established Japanese restaurant in Diamond Jamboree known for quality sushi, izakaya dishes, and a polished yet comfortable setting.
North Italia
Well-known upscale-casual venue serving seasonal Californian cuisine. Stylish room and dependable service make it a strong fine dining option.
85C Bakery Cafe
Highly regarded Taiwanese bakery café famous for sea salt coffee, breads, and desserts. Casual, busy, and representative of Irvine’s café culture.
US Dollar ($)
Irvine is pricier than many US cities, with higher hotel and dining costs. Transit is limited, so visitors often need taxis or rental cars, raising daily spend.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $12-18 for fast food or casual meals.
- Mid-range
- $25-45 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $75+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- $4-6 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, 15-20% for taxis and rideshares, and $1-2 per drink or coffee is appreciated.
FAQs: Bus from San Jose, CA to Irvine, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from San Jose, CA to Irvine, 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 Irvine, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from San Jose, CA to Irvine, CA can start from as little as $118 (€96) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for San Jose, CA to Irvine, CA is $123 (€101) ; 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 Jose, CA to Irvine, CA is 9h 5m to travel the 341 miles (550 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 Jose, CA to Irvine, CA leaves at 12:15 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from San Jose, CA to Irvine, CA leaves at 11:55 PM.
A trip to Irvine, CA from San Jose, CA is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 9h 5m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from San Jose, CA to Irvine, CA is March.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between San Jose, CA and Irvine, CA including taking a bus, train, and flight.
No, the bus from San Jose, CA to Irvine, CA has no accessibility options.
No, there are no bathrooms on board the bus from San Jose, CA to Irvine, CA.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Irvine, CA are:
- Orange County Great Park, a large public park offering sports facilities, a carousel, and a giant helium balloon ride for panoramic views
- Irvine Spectrum Center, a popular outdoor shopping center with a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options including a Ferris wheel
- Bommer Canyon, a nature preserve with hiking trails and scenic views of the surrounding hills
- Pretend City Children's Museum, an interactive museum designed for children to explore and learn through play
- Irvine Museum, a museum dedicated to the preservation and display of California Impressionist art.
The best things to do in Irvine, CA include:
- Tanaka Farms, a family-friendly farm offering seasonal tours and fresh produce picking
- Irvine Barclay Theatre, a venue offering a variety of performances including music, dance, and theater
- San Joaquin Wildlife Sanctuary, a peaceful place for bird watching and enjoying nature
- K1 Speed, an indoor go-kart racing track for thrill-seekers
- William R. Mason Regional Park, a large park with picnic areas, walking trails, and a lake for paddle boating.
No, bikes are not allowed on board the bus from San Jose, CA to Irvine, CA.
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.
No, there is no food available to purchase on board the bus from San Jose, CA to Irvine, CA.
No, luggage for the bus from San Jose, CA to Irvine, CA needs to be booked in addition.
No, there are no additional luggage options for the bus from San Jose, CA to Irvine, CA.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from San Jose, CA to Irvine, CA.
No, there are no USB plugs on board the bus from San Jose, CA to Irvine, CA.
No, there is no WiFi on board the bus from San Jose, CA to Irvine, CA.
Since neither San Jose, CA nor Irvine, 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 Jose, CA to Irvine, 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 Irvine, CA, travelers should be aware of common safety concerns such as occasional vehicle break-ins and petty theft in parking areas. Scam attempts may include fake ticket sellers or unlicensed transportation services, so it is advised to purchase tickets from reputable sources and verify service credentials. Staying vigilant in crowded places and using official transportation options helps ensure a safe visit.
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 Jose, CA to Irvine, CA
Most San Jose, CA to Irvine, CA buses use the San José, Cahill Street (Diridon Station) to Anaheim, Regional Transportation Intermodal Center (ARTIC) station pair. Use this guide to compare San Jose, CA and Irvine, CA bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in San Jose
Arrival bus stations in Irvine
San José, Cahill Street (Diridon Station)
City-centre transport
Getting to San José, Cahill Street (Diridon Station) from San Jose city centre
BusRapid 500, Rapid 568, 64A, 64B, 68, 202 · 7m · $6 · every ~26 min
TramGreen Line · 17m · $4 · every ~7 min
Most popular bus connections from San Jose, CA
More options for your journey from San Jose, CA to Irvine, CA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Irvine, CA and San Jose, CA
Most popular bus connections to Irvine, CA
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