- Must visit
Phoenix Art Museum
The Southwest’s largest art museum, with strong collections in American, Latin American, Asian, European, and contemporary art plus rotating exhibitions.
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Travel Information
Compare bus, flight, and train for Santa Barbara, CA to Phoenix, AZ
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Santa Barbara, CA to Phoenix, AZ among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $80. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 58m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $80, and a flight costs an average of $339.
Distance: 441 miles (711 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Flight | Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$139 Average price Cheapest | $435 Average price | $155 Average price | $94 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
9h 50m Average total duration 9h 20m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 58m Average total duration Fastest 2h 58m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 12h 41m Average total duration 12h 11m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 9m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Santa Barbara, CA to Phoenix, AZ is a bus with an average price of $139 (€114).
This is compared to other travel options from Santa Barbara, CA to Phoenix, AZ:
A bus is $16 (€13) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Santa Barbara, CA to Phoenix, AZ costing on average $155 (€127).
A bus is $296 (€243) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Santa Barbara, CA to Phoenix, AZ costing on average $435 (€357).
The fastest way to travel from Santa Barbara, CA to Phoenix, AZ is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 58m.
Other travel options to Phoenix, AZ take longer:
Bus takes on average 9h 20m.
Train takes on average 12h 11m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Santa Barbara, CA and Phoenix, AZ including taking a bus, flight, and train.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Santa Barbara, CA to Phoenix, 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.
Santa Barbara, CA to Phoenix, AZ Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 01:55PM | Arrival Time 01:05AM | Duration 11h10 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $96 |
Operator Flixbus USA | Departure Time 02:45PM | Arrival Time 01:05AM | Duration 10h20 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $128 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 08:55PM | Arrival Time 08:05AM | Duration 11h10 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $208 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 09:45PM | Arrival Time 08:05AM | Duration 10h20 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $154 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 10:45PM | Arrival Time 09:05AM | Duration 10h20 | Departure days Mon, Thu | Cheapest price $99 |
Compare prices and tickets Santa Barbara, CA to Phoenix, AZ by bus, flight, or train
Compare bus, flight, and train 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 Santa Barbara, CA to Phoenix, AZ buses with Omio?
Greyhound as well as FlixBus offer buses services from Santa Barbara, CA to Phoenix, AZ.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Santa Barbara, CA to Phoenix, AZ.
Why book with Omio vs Greyhound?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Greyhound, but also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Santa Barbara, CA to Phoenix, AZ.
- 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, flight and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Santa Barbara, CA to Phoenix, AZ.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Santa Barbara, CA to Phoenix, AZ.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, flight and train to find the ideal travel option from Santa Barbara, CA to Phoenix, AZ.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Santa Barbara, CA to Phoenix, AZ
USAUSA
Buses from Santa Barbara, CA to Phoenix, AZ run on average 2 times per day, taking around 9h 20m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $80 (€65) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 01:25, the last at 22:50. The fastest bus covers the 441 miles (711 km) distance in 10h 20m.
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 441 miles (711 km) |
Average bus duration 9h 20m |
Cheapest ticket price $80 (€65) |
Buses per day 2 |
Fastest bus 10h 20m |
First bus 1:25 AM |
Last bus 10:50 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
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 Santa Barbara, CA to Phoenix, AZYou can travel by bus between Santa Barbara, CA to Phoenix, AZ with Greyhound, FlixBus for as low as $80 (€65). 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
10h 20m
Cheapest Price
$128 (€105)
FlixBus frequency
1 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
10h 20m
Cheapest Price
$80 (€65)
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 Phoenix
Things to do in Phoenix
Discover the best of Phoenix — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Phoenix trip today.
- Must visit
Heard Museum
A leading museum of Native American art and culture, especially known for Indigenous artists of the Southwest and thoughtful permanent exhibitions.
- Must visit
Musical Instrument Museum
A widely acclaimed museum showcasing instruments from around the world, with immersive audio displays and a popular hands-on gallery.
- Must visit
Desert Botanical Garden
A signature Phoenix attraction with exceptional desert plant displays, scenic trails, and seasonal light installations that are highly photogenic.
- Must visit
Papago Park
A large desert park known for red sandstone formations, easy walking trails, and iconic city views near major cultural attractions.
- Must visit
Camelback Mountain
Phoenix’s most famous urban peak, drawing hikers for challenging trails and panoramic valley views; especially popular at sunrise.
Sonoran Hot Dog
A bacon-wrapped hot dog in a bolillo-style bun, typically topped with beans, onions, tomatoes, mustard, mayo, and jalapeño sauce. A defining Phoenix and Arizona borderlands street-food favorite.
- Vegetarian
Cheese Crisp
An Arizona classic of an open-faced flour tortilla baked until crisp and topped with melted cheese, often finished with green chiles or chorizo. Common in Phoenix Mexican restaurants.
Green Chile Burrito
A flour tortilla burrito filled with meat, beans, or cheese and smothered in roasted green chile sauce. It reflects the strong Sonoran and New Mexican influence on Phoenix cooking.
The Fry Bread House
A beloved casual spot specializing in Native American and Southwestern dishes such as fry bread tacos and stews. It is one of Phoenix's most distinctive local eateries.
Durant's
An old-school Phoenix steakhouse with red-leather booths, classic service, and a strong local reputation for steaks, martinis, and special-occasion dining.
Pizzeria Bianco
A nationally known Phoenix institution celebrated for wood-fired pizzas, excellent ingredients, and a simple, refined atmosphere in Downtown Phoenix.
United States Dollar
Moderate by major U.S. city standards. Hotels vary by season; casual dining and coffee are fairly typical, while upscale dining and resort areas cost more.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-18 for fast food or a casual lunch.
- Mid-range
- USD 20-40 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 75+ per person before drinks and tip.
- Coffee
- USD 4-7 for a coffee drink.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% in restaurants, more for great service. Bartenders: USD 1-2 per drink. Taxis/rideshares: 10-15% or round up. Hotel staff and valet tips are customary.
FAQs: Bus from Santa Barbara, CA to Phoenix, AZ
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Santa Barbara, CA to Phoenix, 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 Phoenix, AZ, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Santa Barbara, CA to Phoenix, AZ can start from as little as $80 (€65) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Santa Barbara, CA to Phoenix, AZ is $139 (€114) ; 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 Santa Barbara, CA to Phoenix, AZ is 10h 20m to travel the 441 miles (711 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 Santa Barbara, CA to Phoenix, AZ leaves at 1:25 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Santa Barbara, CA to Phoenix, AZ leaves at 10:50 PM.
There are 2 buses a day from Santa Barbara, CA to Phoenix, AZ which require at least one change with Greyhound, FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Santa Barbara, CA to Phoenix, AZ, you can count on Greyhound, FlixBus for the best way to get you to Phoenix, AZ. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Santa Barbara, CA and Phoenix, AZ and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Phoenix, AZ from Santa Barbara, CA is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 10h 20m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Santa Barbara, CA to Phoenix, AZ is May.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Santa Barbara, CA and Phoenix, AZ including taking a bus, flight, and train.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Santa Barbara, CA to Phoenix, AZ:
- Greyhound
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Santa Barbara, CA to Phoenix, AZ for bus company Greyhound, FlixBus.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Phoenix, AZ are:
- Desert Botanical Garden, a 140-acre garden showcasing a vast collection of arid-land plants and desert landscapes
- Heard Museum, a renowned museum dedicated to the advancement of American Indian art and culture
- Phoenix Art Museum, the largest art museum in the southwestern United States featuring diverse collections and exhibitions
- Camelback Mountain, a popular hiking destination offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding desert
- Papago Park, a scenic park known for its distinctive geological formations and recreational opportunities.
The best things to do in Phoenix, AZ include:
- Musical Instrument Museum, a unique museum showcasing instruments from around the world
- South Mountain Park and Preserve, offering extensive trails and breathtaking views of the desert landscape
- Roosevelt Row, a vibrant arts district known for its galleries, murals, and local eateries
- Phoenix Zoo, a family-friendly attraction with a wide variety of animals and interactive exhibits
- Taliesin West, the winter home and architectural school of Frank Lloyd Wright, offering tours of its stunning design.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Santa Barbara, CA to Phoenix, AZ 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.
- 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 Greyhound, 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 Santa Barbara, CA to Phoenix, AZ.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Santa Barbara, CA to Phoenix, AZ:
- Greyhound
- One carry-on bag up to 25 lbs (11 kg) and one checked bag up to 50 lbs (23 kg).
- 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 Santa Barbara, CA to Phoenix, AZ:
- Greyhound
- $15 per additional bag.
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Santa Barbara, CA to Phoenix, 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 Santa Barbara, CA to Phoenix, AZ with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Santa Barbara, CA to Phoenix, AZ with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Santa Barbara, CA to Phoenix, AZ with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Since neither Santa Barbara, CA nor Phoenix, 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 bus as it is the most popular way to get from Santa Barbara, CA to Phoenix, 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 Phoenix, AZ, travelers should be cautious of vehicle break-ins, especially in parking lots and popular tourist areas. Common scams include overcharging by some taxi or ride-share drivers and street vendors selling counterfeit goods. It's important to stay aware in crowded places, avoid leaving valuables visible in cars, and use reputable transportation services to ensure safety.
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 Santa Barbara, CA to Phoenix, AZ
Santa Barbara
Phoenix
The major bus station for departures in Santa Barbara is Santa Barbara, Bus station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Santa Barbara, Bus station for your trip from Santa Barbara to Phoenix.
Santa Barbara, Bus station
information
The major bus station for arrivals in Phoenix is Phoenix, Bus Station (E Buckeye Rd). Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Phoenix, Bus Station (E Buckeye Rd) for your trip to Phoenix from Santa Barbara.
Phoenix, Bus Station (E Buckeye Rd)
information
Phoenix, Sky Train Station
information
Most popular bus connections from Santa Barbara, CA
More options for your journey from Santa Barbara, CA to Phoenix, AZ
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Phoenix, AZ and Santa Barbara, CA
Most popular bus connections to Phoenix, AZ
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