- Must visit
The Getty Center
Major hilltop art museum with European paintings, decorative arts, architecture, and city views; one of Los Angeles’s signature cultural sites.
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Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for San Mateo, CA to Los Angeles, CA
Omio recommends booking the train 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 $56. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 30m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $56, and a flight costs an average of $68.
Distance: 333 miles (536 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$71 Average price Cheapest | $91 Average price | $168 Average price | $75 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
9h 22m Average total duration 8h 52m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 41m Average total duration 9h 11m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 30m Average total duration Fastest 1h 30m 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 $71 (€58).
This is compared to other travel options from San Mateo, CA to Los Angeles, CA:
A bus is $20 (€16) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from San Mateo, CA to Los Angeles, CA costing on average $91 (€75).
A bus is $96 (€79) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from San Mateo, CA to Los Angeles, CA costing on average $168 (€137).
The fastest way to travel from San Mateo, CA to Los Angeles, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 30m.
Other travel options to Los Angeles, CA take longer:
Bus takes on average 8h 52m.
Train takes on average 9h 11m.
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 train as it is the most popular way to get from San Mateo, CA to Los Angeles, CA among Omio's users.
Take the bus. It's the cheapest way to make this trip, and the price gap is usually bigger than people expect.
Tickets start at around $71 (€58) compared to roughly $75 (€62) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $4 (€3). The journey takes 8h 52m versus 5h 36m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can use the time productively rather than spending it behind the wheel. No parking to sort, no fuel stops, and most coaches have Wi-Fi and power outlets.
Direct services are operated by FlixBus.
Driving is worth considering if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), or want the flexibility 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 $140 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 12:05AM | Arrival Time 07:40AM | Duration 7h35 | Departure days Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $73 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 06:10AM | Arrival Time 05:55PM | Duration 11h45 | Departure days Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $76 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 07:00AM | Arrival Time 07:55PM | Duration 12h55 | Departure days Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $76 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 07:35AM | Arrival Time 07:43PM | Duration 12h08 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $170 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 07:45AM | Arrival Time 07:43PM | Duration 11h58 | Departure days Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $59 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:45AM | Arrival Time 05:10PM | Duration 7h25 | Departure days Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $62 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 10:10AM | Arrival Time 09:46PM | Duration 11h36 | Departure days Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $77 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:45AM | Arrival Time 07:50PM | Duration 9h05 | Departure days Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $72 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 12:06PM | Arrival Time 11:55PM | Duration 11h49 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $152 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 01:10PM | Arrival Time 10:10PM | Duration 9h00 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $70 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 01:45PM | Arrival Time 10:10PM | Duration 8h25 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $70 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 02:05PM | Arrival Time 12:20AM | Duration 10h15 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $152 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 02:45PM | Arrival Time 02:43AM | Duration 11h58 | Departure days Thu, Sun | Cheapest price $57 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 03:45PM | Arrival Time 03:43AM | Duration 11h58 | Departure days Thu, Sun | Cheapest price $57 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 10:35PM | Arrival Time 09:46AM | Duration 11h11 | Departure days Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $59 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:35PM | Arrival Time 07:00AM | Duration 8h25 | Departure days Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $70 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:00PM | Arrival Time 07:00AM | Duration 8h00 | Departure days Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $70 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 11:05PM | Arrival Time 07:50AM | Duration 8h45 | Departure days Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $62 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 11:35PM | Arrival Time 07:50AM | Duration 8h15 | Departure days Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $62 |
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 19 times per day, taking around 8h 52m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $56 (€46) if you book in advance.
There are 2 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 11h 58m.
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 52m |
Cheapest ticket price $56 (€46) |
Buses per day 19 |
Direct buses 2 |
Fastest bus 11h 58m |
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: FlixBus from San Mateo, CA to Los Angeles, CAYou can travel by bus between San Mateo, CA to Los Angeles, CA with FlixBus for as low as $56 (€46). 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
12h 20m
Cheapest Price
$40 (€33)
FlixBus frequency
5 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 Los Angeles
Things to do in Los Angeles
Discover the best of Los Angeles — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Los Angeles trip today.
- Must visit
Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)
The largest art museum in the western United States, known for broad global collections and the iconic Urban Light installation.
- Must visit
The Broad
Popular contemporary art museum in Downtown Los Angeles with works by Kusama, Warhol, and other major postwar artists.
- Must visit
Griffith Park
Vast urban park with trails, scenic overlooks, and access to major attractions; a classic Los Angeles outdoor destination.
- Must visit
Santa Monica Pier
Iconic oceanfront boardwalk area with classic California views and broad appeal for first-time visitors.
- Must visit
Venice Beach Boardwalk
Famous beachfront promenade known for street culture, skate scenes, murals, and constant people-watching.
French Dip Sandwich
A Los Angeles classic of thinly sliced roast beef on a roll, served with rich jus for dipping. It is one of the city’s most iconic old-school sandwiches.
- Gluten-free
L.A.-Style Tacos
Street tacos are central to Los Angeles food culture, especially carne asada, al pastor, and grilled fish tacos served on corn tortillas with salsa, onion, and cilantro.
Korean Barbecue
A signature Los Angeles meal shaped by Koreatown, featuring grilled marinated meats, banchan, and shared dining. The city is especially known for its strong Korean barbecue scene.
Providence
Acclaimed fine dining restaurant known for refined seafood tasting menus and elegant service. One of Los Angeles’s top special-occasion destinations.
Philippe The Original
Historic downtown institution famous for the French dip sandwich. Casual, old-school atmosphere and one of Los Angeles’s most iconic food stops.
Guelaguetza
Well-known Oaxacan restaurant celebrated for complex moles, tlayudas, and mezcal. Lively atmosphere and a landmark for regional Mexican cuisine in Los Angeles.
United States Dollar
Los Angeles is expensive for visitors. Hotels, parking, and dining add up quickly, though casual food and some neighborhoods offer better value.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-18 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- USD 25-45 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 80+ per person before drinks and tip.
- Coffee
- USD 4-7 for a regular coffee or latte.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants; 20%+ for great service. Bars: USD 1-2 per drink. Taxis/rideshares: 10-15%. Hotel staff: USD 2-5. Not expected at fast-food spots.
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 $56 (€46) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for San Mateo, CA to Los Angeles, CA is $71 (€58) ; 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 11h 58m 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 2 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.
A trip to Los Angeles, CA from San Mateo, CA is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 11h 58m 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, there are bathrooms on board the bus from San Mateo, CA to Los Angeles, CA for bus company FlixBus.
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.
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 train 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
San Mateo
Los Angeles
Los Angeles, Patsaouras Transit Plaza (Union Station)
information
Los Angeles, Gayley / Strathmore
information
Los Angeles, Cesar E Chavez / Vignes
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