- Must visit
The Getty Center
Hilltop art museum with European paintings, sculpture, gardens, and striking architecture plus sweeping city views.
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Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for San Mateo, CA to Los Angeles, CA
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from San Mateo, CA to Los Angeles, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $89. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 4h 18m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $89, and a flight costs an average of $133.
Distance: 333 miles (536 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$134 Average price Cheapest | $763 Average price | $78 Average price (fuel + tolls) | |
9h 29m Average total duration 8h 59m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 18m Average total duration Fastest 4h 18m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 5h 36m Average total duration (door-to-door) | |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from San Mateo, CA to Los Angeles, CA is a bus with an average price of $134 (€108).
This is compared to other travel options from San Mateo, CA to Los Angeles, CA:
A bus is $629 (€506) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from San Mateo, CA to Los Angeles, CA costing on average $763 (€614).
The fastest way to travel from San Mateo, CA to Los Angeles, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 4h 18m.
Other travel options to Los Angeles, CA take longer:
Bus takes on average 8h 59m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between San Mateo, CA and Los Angeles, CA including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from San Mateo, CA to Los Angeles, CA among Omio's users.
Take the bus. On this route, it's both cheaper and quicker than driving.
You'll arrive about -4h -23m sooner (8h 59m by bus vs 5h 36m by car) and save roughly $-56.65 (€-45.60) compared to fuel and tolls ($134 (€108) vs $78 (€62)). 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 FlixBus.
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 Mateo, CA to Los Angeles, CA Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 12:00AM | Arrival Time 03:30PM | Duration 15h30 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $142 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 02:45PM | Arrival Time 02:43AM | Duration 11h58 | Departure days Thu, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $57 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 03:45PM | Arrival Time 03:43AM | Duration 11h58 | Departure days Thu, Sun | Cheapest price $58 |
Compare prices and tickets San Mateo, CA to Los Angeles, 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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Why should you book San Mateo, CA to Los Angeles, CA buses with Omio?
FlixBus operates all buses services from San Mateo, CA to Los Angeles, CA.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from San Mateo, CA to Los Angeles, CA.
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 bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from San Mateo, CA to Los Angeles, CA.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from San Mateo, CA to Los Angeles, CA.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from San Mateo, CA to Los Angeles, CA
USAUSA
Buses from San Mateo, CA to Los Angeles, CA run on average 7 times per day, taking around 8h 59m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $89 (€72) if you book in advance.
There are 5 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:05, the last at 23:50. The fastest bus covers the 333 miles (536 km) distance in 6h 55m.
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 333 miles (536 km) |
Average bus duration 8h 59m |
Cheapest ticket price $89 (€72) |
Buses per day 7 |
Direct buses 5 |
Fastest bus 6h 55m |
First bus 12:05 AM |
Last bus 11:50 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
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 Mateo, CA to Los Angeles, CAYou can travel by bus between San Mateo, CA to Los Angeles, CA with Greyhound, FlixBus for as low as $89 (€72). 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
6h 55m
Cheapest Price
$89 (€72)
FlixBus frequency
7 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
8h 5m
Cheapest Price
$93 (€75)
Greyhound frequency
4 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 Los Angeles, CA
Things to do in Los Angeles, CA
Discover the best of Los Angeles, CA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Los Angeles, CA trip today.
- Must visit
The Broad
Major contemporary art museum in Downtown LA, known for broad collections, special shows, and bold architecture.
- Must visit
Los Angeles County Museum of Art
World-class encyclopedic museum on Wilshire Boulevard, famous for diverse collections and the Urban Light installation.
- Must visit
Hollywood Boulevard
Legendary boulevard known for the Walk of Fame, theaters, neon, and classic Hollywood atmosphere mixed with tourist energy.
- Must visit
Venice Beach Boardwalk
Lively beachside promenade with street performers, Muscle Beach, and easy access to the Venice Boardwalk scene.
- Must visit
Griffith Park
Major urban park with trails, the observatory, picnic areas, and some of the best public views in Los Angeles.
Danger Dog
A bacon-wrapped hot dog grilled on a street cart and topped with peppers, onions, mustard, ketchup, and mayo. A late-night Los Angeles street food classic.
French Dip Sandwich
A French dip sandwich of thin-sliced roast beef on a roll, often dipped in meat jus. Los Angeles claims the original and locals still debate the best version.
- Gluten-free
Birria Tacos
Double corn tortillas filled with stewed beef, birria broth, onions, and cilantro. A beloved Los Angeles Mexican staple, especially popular from trucks and taquerias.
n/naka
Acclaimed fine-dining restaurant serving a seasonal California tasting menu. Refined, intimate, and one of Los Angeles's most respected special-occasion venues.
Sonoratown
Legendary taqueria known for charcoal-grilled carne asada tacos. Casual, fast-paced, and widely considered one of Los Angeles's essential taco stops.
Philippe The Original
Historic downtown deli linked to the French dip. Old-school counter service and classic sandwiches in a landmark Los Angeles setting.
United States dollar ($)
Los Angeles is pricier than many U.S. cities for hotels, dining, parking, and rides. Budget options exist, but tourist areas and transport costs raise daily spend.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $12-20 for fast food or casual takeaway.
- Mid-range
- $25-45 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $80+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- $4-7 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% in restaurants, 15-20% for taxis or rideshares, and $1-2 at cafes for counter service or coffee.
FAQs: Bus from San Mateo, CA to Los Angeles, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from San Mateo, CA to Los Angeles, 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 Los Angeles, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from San Mateo, CA to Los Angeles, CA can start from as little as $89 (€72) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for San Mateo, CA to Los Angeles, CA is $134 (€108) ; 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 Mateo, CA to Los Angeles, CA is 6h 55m to travel the 333 miles (536 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 Mateo, CA to Los Angeles, CA leaves at 12:05 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from San Mateo, CA to Los Angeles, CA leaves at 11:50 PM.
Yes, there are 5 direct buses a day from San Mateo, CA to Los Angeles, CA with FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from San Mateo, CA to Los Angeles, CA, you can count on FlixBus for the best way to get you to Los Angeles, CA. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between San Mateo, CA and Los Angeles, CA and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from San Mateo, CA , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Oakland, West Oakland BART Station, CA, Redwood City Station, CA, Hayward BART Station, Richmond, BART, CA, San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29, San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street, CA . When arriving in Los Angeles, CA , you can end your journey in bus stations like Los Angeles, Patsaouras Transit Plaza (Union Station), CA, Los Angeles, Gayley / Strathmore, CA, Los Angeles, Cesar E Chavez / Vignes, CA .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Oakland, West Oakland BART Station, CA, which is located around 1 miles (2 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Los Angeles, Patsaouras Transit Plaza (Union Station), CA, located 1 away from the city centre.
A trip to Los Angeles, CA from San Mateo, CA is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 6h 55m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from San Mateo, CA to Los Angeles, CA is September.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between San Mateo, CA and Los Angeles, CA including taking a bus, train, and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from San Mateo, CA to Los Angeles, CA:
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from San Mateo, CA to Los Angeles, CA for bus company FlixBus.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Los Angeles, CA are:
- Griffith Observatory, an iconic facility offering stunning views of Los Angeles and exhibits on astronomy
- The Getty Center, a renowned art museum with impressive architecture and beautiful gardens
- Santa Monica Pier, a historic landmark featuring an amusement park, aquarium, and scenic ocean views
- Hollywood Walk of Fame, a famous sidewalk celebrating entertainment industry icons with star plaques
- Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), the largest art museum in the western United States with diverse collections.
The best things to do in Los Angeles, CA include:
- Explore the vibrant Venice Beach Boardwalk, known for its eclectic shops, street performers, and skate park
- Visit the historic El Capitan Theatre for a classic movie experience
- Take a scenic hike in Runyon Canyon Park, offering panoramic views of the city
- Enjoy a live performance at the Walt Disney Concert Hall, known for its stunning architecture and acoustics
- Discover the unique exhibits at the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from San Mateo, CA to Los Angeles, CA 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 Mateo, CA to Los Angeles, CA.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from San Mateo, CA to Los Angeles, CA:
- 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 Mateo, CA to Los Angeles, CA:
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from San Mateo, CA to Los Angeles, CA. 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 Mateo, CA to Los Angeles, CA with the following bus company: FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from San Mateo, CA to Los Angeles, CA with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from San Mateo, CA to Los Angeles, CA with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Since neither San Mateo, CA nor Los Angeles, 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 bus as it is the most popular way to get from San Mateo, CA to Los Angeles, 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 Los Angeles, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and vehicle break-ins, especially in crowded or tourist-heavy areas like Hollywood and Venice Beach. Common scams include fake ticket vendors near popular attractions and overcharging by unlicensed ride services. It's important to use official transportation options, stay aware of surroundings, and avoid sharing personal information with strangers to stay safe.
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 Mateo, CA to Los Angeles, CA
Most San Mateo, CA to Los Angeles, CA buses use the Oakland, West Oakland BART Station to Los Angeles, Patsaouras Transit Plaza (Union Station) station pair, with some services arriving at Los Angeles, Gayley / Strathmore. Use this guide to compare San Mateo, CA and Los Angeles, CA bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in San Mateo
Arrival bus stations in Los Angeles
Which Los Angeles, CA station do buses from San Mateo, CA arrive at?
Buses from San Mateo, CA to Los Angeles, CA most often arrive at Los Angeles, Patsaouras Transit Plaza (Union Station). Some services arrive at Los Angeles, Gayley / Strathmore, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Los Angeles, CA arrival station.
Los Angeles, Patsaouras Transit Plaza (Union Station)Union Station, Los Angeles, CA 90012, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Los Angeles, Patsaouras Transit Plaza (Union Station) from Los Angeles city centre
Los Angeles, Patsaouras Transit Plaza (Union Station) is 1 km from Los Angeles city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus4X · 8m · $2
SubwayMetro B Line, Metro D Line · 12m · $2 · every ~24 min
Los Angeles, Patsaouras Transit Plaza (Union Station) bus station facilities and services
Los Angeles, Patsaouras Transit Plaza (Union Station) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Food court and various dining options available.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi available in main waiting areas. ATMs are aTMs available near main concourse.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Los Angeles, Patsaouras Transit Plaza (Union Station).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Los Angeles, Patsaouras Transit Plaza (Union Station): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Los Angeles, Patsaouras Transit Plaza (Union Station): Station fully accessible with elevators and ramps.
Los Angeles, Gayley / StrathmoreWestwood Ucla Amtrak Bus Stop, 592 Gayley Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90024, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Los Angeles, Gayley / Strathmore from Los Angeles city centre
Los Angeles, Gayley / Strathmore is 19 km from Los Angeles city centre. Public transport options include:
BusFlixBus N2002, FlixBus N2030, FlixBus 2000 · 25m · $2
431B, 431 · 41m · $5
20 · 1h 4m · $2 · every ~3 min
20 · 1h 32m · $2 · every ~8 min
Los Angeles, Gayley / Strathmore bus station facilities and services
Los Angeles, Gayley / Strathmore 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 Los Angeles, Gayley / Strathmore. ATMs are available at Los Angeles, Gayley / Strathmore.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Los Angeles, Gayley / Strathmore.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Los Angeles, Gayley / Strathmore: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Los Angeles, Gayley / Strathmore: Basic accessibility features available for buses.
Los Angeles, Cesar E Chavez / VignesCesar E Chavez / Vignes, Los Angeles, CA 90012, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Los Angeles, Cesar E Chavez / Vignes from Los Angeles city centre
Los Angeles, Cesar E Chavez / Vignes is 1 km from Los Angeles city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus40, 74 · 3m · $2 · every ~15 min
33 · 4m · $2 · every ~9 min
D · 11m · $5 · every ~12 min
490, 495, 499, 699, 493, 498, 707 · 13m · $7 · every ~9 min
TramMetro A Line · 10m · $2 · every ~12 min
SubwayMetro B Line, Metro D Line · 10m · $2 · every ~24 min
Los Angeles, Cesar E Chavez / Vignes bus station facilities and services
Los Angeles, Cesar E Chavez / Vignes 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 Los Angeles, Cesar E Chavez / Vignes. ATMs are available at Los Angeles, Cesar E Chavez / Vignes.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Los Angeles, Cesar E Chavez / Vignes.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Los Angeles, Cesar E Chavez / Vignes: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Los Angeles, Cesar E Chavez / Vignes: The station is accessible to people with disabilities.
More options for your journey from San Mateo, CA to Los Angeles, CA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Los Angeles, CA and San Mateo, CA
Most popular bus connections to Los Angeles, CA
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