- Must visit
Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum
A renowned fusion of zoo, botanical garden, aquarium, and natural history museum focused on the Sonoran Desert. It is one of Tucson’s signature attractions and excellent for understanding local desert
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Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for San Jose, CA to Tucson, AZ
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from San Jose, CA to Tucson, AZ among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $135. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 4h 34m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $135, and a flight costs an average of $409.
Distance: 715 miles (1151 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$154 Average price | $152 Average price Cheapest | $434 Average price | $166 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
16h 45m Average total duration 16h 15m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 20h 44m Average total duration 20h 14m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 34m Average total duration Fastest 4h 34m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 11h 59m 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 Jose, CA to Tucson, AZ is a train with an average price of $152 (€125).
This is compared to other travel options from San Jose, CA to Tucson, AZ:
A train is $2 (€1) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from San Jose, CA to Tucson, AZ costing on average $154 (€126).
A train is $281 (€230) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from San Jose, CA to Tucson, AZ costing on average $434 (€355).
The fastest way to travel from San Jose, CA to Tucson, AZ is by flight with an average journey time of 4h 34m.
Other travel options to Tucson, AZ take longer:
Bus takes on average 16h 15m.
Train takes on average 20h 14m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between San Jose, CA and Tucson, AZ including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from San Jose, CA to Tucson, AZ 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 Tucson, AZ Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 12:35AM | Arrival Time 09:20PM | Duration 20h45 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $117 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 12:35AM | Arrival Time 08:15PM | Duration 19h40 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $117 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 08:40AM | Arrival Time 04:35AM | Duration 19h55 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $124 |
Operator Tufesa Internacional | Departure Time 12:30PM | Arrival Time 06:30AM | Duration 18h00 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $203 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 04:35PM | Arrival Time 07:10PM | Duration 26h35 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $115 |
Operator Infobus | Departure Time 07:30PM | Arrival Time 01:30PM | Duration 18h00 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $208 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 10:05PM | Arrival Time 04:40PM | Duration 18h35 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $97 |
Compare prices and tickets San Jose, CA to Tucson, AZ by train, bus, or flight
Compare train, bus, 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 Jose, CA to Tucson, AZ buses with Omio?
FlixBus operates all buses services from San Jose, CA to Tucson, AZ.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from San Jose, CA to Tucson, AZ.
Why book with Omio vs FlixBus?
- 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 FlixBus with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from San Jose, CA to Tucson, AZ.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from San Jose, CA to Tucson, AZ.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from San Jose, CA to Tucson, AZ
USAUSA
Buses from San Jose, CA to Tucson, AZ run on average 11 times per day, taking around 16h 15m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $97 (€80) if you book in advance.
There are 1 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:55, the last at 23:15. The fastest bus covers the 715 miles (1151 km) distance in 18h 0m.
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 715 miles (1151 km) |
Average bus duration 16h 15m |
Cheapest ticket price $97 (€80) |
Buses per day 11 |
Direct buses 1 |
Fastest bus 18h 0m |
First bus 12:55 AM |
Last bus 11:15 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Best time to book 4 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: FlixBus from San Jose, CA to Tucson, AZYou can travel by bus between San Jose, CA to Tucson, AZ with FlixBus for as low as $97 (€80). 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
28h 45m
Cheapest Price
$157 (€129)
FlixBus frequency
6 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.
Complete guide to Tucson
Things to do in Tucson
Discover the best of Tucson — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Tucson trip today.
- Must visit
Pima Air & Space Museum
One of the largest non-government aviation museums in the world, displaying hundreds of aircraft indoors and outdoors. It is especially popular with aviation enthusiasts and families visiting Tucson.
- Recommended
Tucson Museum of Art
The city’s leading art museum, with collections spanning Latin American, Western, Indigenous, and contemporary art in the historic El Presidio area. A strong choice for both major exhibitions and a
- Must visit
Sabino Canyon Recreation Area
A scenic desert canyon area with paved and unpaved trails, mountain views, and classic Sonoran scenery. It is one of Tucson’s top outdoor destinations and especially popular for walking and photograp
- Must visit
Saguaro National Park East
A spectacular desert landscape filled with iconic saguaro cacti, scenic drives, and hiking trails. It is one of the defining Tucson experiences and a priority for first-time visitors.
- Must visit
Saguaro National Park West
Known for dense saguaro forests and excellent sunset views, this section of the park is especially photogenic and widely featured on social media. It is a top outdoor stop near the Arizona-Sonora Dese
Sonoran Hot Dog
A bacon-wrapped hot dog in a bolillo roll, typically topped with beans, onions, tomatoes, mustard, mayo, and jalape o salsa. It is one of Tucsons signature borderlands street foods.
- Gluten-free
Carne Seca
Air-dried beef, often shredded and served with eggs, chiltepin, or in burritos and plates. It is a hallmark of Sonoran cooking and strongly associated with Tucson.
- Vegetarian
Cheese Crisp
An open-faced flour tortilla baked until crisp and topped with melted cheese, sometimes with green chiles. This simple dish is a long-standing Tucson and Arizona favorite.
The Grill at Hacienda del Sol
Upscale dining with desert views, known for Southwestern ingredients, polished service, and a romantic hacienda setting. Good choice for a fine dining meal in Tucson.
Caf Poca Cosa
Well-known downtown spot celebrated for refined Mexican cooking, colorful presentations, and an intimate atmosphere. A long-time favorite for distinctive regional flavors.
Seis Kitchen
Popular casual venue serving regional Mexican dishes with Sonoran influences, including tacos, bowls, and breakfast. Relaxed atmosphere and consistently well-liked food.
United States Dollar
Tucson is generally affordable by U.S. city standards, with reasonable food costs and many mid-priced hotels.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-15 for fast food or casual spots.
- Mid-range
- USD 20-35 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- USD 4-6 for a coffee drink.
Tipping culture
Tip 15-20% in restaurants; 20% for great service. Tip bartenders USD 1-2 per drink, taxi and rideshare drivers 10-15%, and round up for cafes.
FAQs: Bus from San Jose, CA to Tucson, AZ
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from San Jose, CA to Tucson, AZ 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 Tucson, AZ, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from San Jose, CA to Tucson, AZ can start from as little as $97 (€80) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for San Jose, CA to Tucson, AZ is $154 (€126) ; 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 Tucson, AZ is 18h 0m to travel the 715 miles (1151 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 Tucson, AZ leaves at 12:55 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from San Jose, CA to Tucson, AZ leaves at 11:15 PM.
Yes, there are 1 direct buses a day from San Jose, CA to Tucson, AZ with . Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from San Jose, CA to Tucson, AZ, you can count on FlixBus for the best way to get you to Tucson, AZ. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between San Jose, CA and Tucson, AZ and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Tucson, AZ from San Jose, CA is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 18h 0m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from San Jose, CA to Tucson, AZ is June.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between San Jose, CA and Tucson, AZ including taking a train, bus, and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from San Jose, CA to Tucson, AZ:
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from San Jose, CA to Tucson, AZ for bus company FlixBus.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from San Jose, CA to Tucson, AZ depends on the bus companies:
- 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 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 Jose, CA to Tucson, AZ.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from San Jose, CA to Tucson, AZ:
- 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 Jose, CA to Tucson, AZ:
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from San Jose, CA to Tucson, AZ. 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 Jose, CA to Tucson, AZ with the following bus company: FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from San Jose, CA to Tucson, AZ with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from San Jose, CA to Tucson, AZ with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Since neither San Jose, CA nor Tucson, AZ 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 Tucson, AZ 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 Tucson, AZ, travelers should be cautious of petty theft and vehicle break-ins, especially in crowded or tourist-heavy areas. Common scams include overcharging by taxis or rideshares and fake ticket sellers near popular attractions. It's advised to use official transportation services and keep personal belongings secure. Additionally, travelers should stay aware of their surroundings when exploring less populated areas to avoid safety risks.
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 Tucson, AZ
Most San Jose, CA to Tucson, AZ buses use the San José, Cahill Street (Diridon Station) to Tucson, Downtown station pair, with some services arriving at Tucson, E 12th St (Bus Station). Use this guide to compare San Jose, CA and Tucson, AZ 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 Tucson
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
San Jose
City-centre transport
Getting to San Jose from San Jose city centre
BusRapid 500, Rapid 568, 64A, 64B, 68, 202 · 6m · $6 · every ~26 min
TramGreen Line · 14m · $4 · every ~7 min
Tucson, Downtown
City-centre transport
Getting to Tucson, Downtown from Tucson city centre
Bus8 · 12m · every ~7 min
Tucson, E 12th St (Bus Station)
City-centre transport
Getting to Tucson, E 12th St (Bus Station) from Tucson city centre
Bus8 · 12m · every ~7 min
Tuscon, University of Arizona Transportation Office
Most popular bus connections from San Jose, CA
More options for your journey from San Jose, CA to Tucson, AZ
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Tucson, AZ and San Jose, CA
Most popular bus connections to Tucson, AZ
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