- Must visit
USS Midway Museum
A large aircraft carrier museum on the waterfront with restored aircraft, flight deck views, and naval history exhibits. One of the city’s signature attractions.
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Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Santa Clara, CA to San Diego, CA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Santa Clara, CA to San Diego, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $54. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 55m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $54, and a flight costs an average of $119.
Distance: 420 miles (676 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$100 Average price Cheapest | $125 Average price | $266 Average price | $96 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
12h 45m Average total duration 12h 15m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 12h 52m Average total duration 12h 22m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 55m Average total duration Fastest 2h 55m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 7h 57m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Santa Clara, CA to San Diego, CA is a bus with an average price of $100 (€80).
This is compared to other travel options from Santa Clara, CA to San Diego, CA:
A bus is $25 (€20) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Santa Clara, CA to San Diego, CA costing on average $125 (€100).
A bus is $166 (€134) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Santa Clara, CA to San Diego, CA costing on average $266 (€214).
The fastest way to travel from Santa Clara, CA to San Diego, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 55m.
Other travel options to San Diego, CA take longer:
Bus takes on average 12h 15m.
Train takes on average 12h 22m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Santa Clara, CA and San Diego, CA including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Santa Clara, CA to San Diego, 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.
Santa Clara, CA to San Diego, CA Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 01:00AM | Arrival Time 12:35PM | Duration 11h35 | Departure days Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $115 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 02:00AM | Arrival Time 01:35PM | Duration 11h35 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $112 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 03:35PM | Arrival Time 05:15AM | Duration 13h40 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $101 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 05:25PM | Arrival Time 06:15AM | Duration 12h50 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $54 |
Compare prices and tickets Santa Clara, CA to San Diego, 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 Santa Clara, CA to San Diego, CA
USAUSA
Buses from Santa Clara, CA to San Diego, CA run on average 6 times per day, taking around 12h 15m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $54 (€43) if you book in advance.
There are 1 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:05, the last at 23:45. The fastest bus covers the 420 miles (676 km) distance in 11h 35m.
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 420 miles (676 km) |
Average bus duration 12h 15m |
Cheapest ticket price $54 (€43) |
Buses per day 6 |
Direct buses 1 |
Fastest bus 11h 35m |
First bus 12:05 AM |
Last bus 11:45 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Best time to book 7 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
Complete guide to San Diego
Things to do in San Diego
Discover the best of San Diego — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect San Diego trip today.
- Recommended
San Diego Museum of Art
Balboa Park’s major art museum, known for European old masters, Asian art, and rotating exhibitions in a landmark Spanish Colonial Revival building.
- Recommended
Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego
Contemporary art museum with strong regional and international programming, especially noted for its oceanfront La Jolla location and modern exhibitions.
- Must visit
Balboa Park
San Diego’s flagship urban park, packed with gardens, museums, Spanish Colonial architecture, plazas, and highly photogenic walking paths.
- Must visit
La Jolla Cove
A scenic coastal area known for sea lions, cliffs, turquoise water, and one of the city’s most photographed ocean viewpoints.
- Must visit
Gaslamp Quarter
The city’s best-known historic downtown district, lined with Victorian-era buildings, lively streets, and a strong day-to-night atmosphere.
Fish Tacos
Beer-battered or grilled fish in a tortilla, usually topped with cabbage, crema, and salsa. A signature San Diego favorite shaped by Baja California influence.
California Burrito
A San Diego staple burrito filled with carne asada, fries, cheese, and salsa. It is one of the city’s most iconic late-night and taqueria foods.
Carne Asada Fries
French fries topped with carne asada, cheese, guacamole, sour cream, and salsa. This indulgent border-style dish is strongly associated with San Diego taco shops.
Mitch's Seafood
Established waterfront seafood restaurant in Point Loma known for fresh local catch, fish sandwiches, and harbor views.
Las Cuatro Milpas
Legendary casual spot in Barrio Logan known for traditional Mexican plates, handmade tortillas, and an old-school local atmosphere.
Oscar's Mexican Seafood
Popular casual venue celebrated for fish tacos, smoked fish tacos, and fresh coastal Baja-style seafood in a laid-back setting.
United States Dollar
San Diego is pricey by U.S. standards, especially for hotels and dining, though tacos, casual eats, and happy hours can help keep daily costs lower.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-18 for tacos, fast food, or casual counter service.
- Mid-range
- USD 25-45 per person at a standard sit-down restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 80+ per person before drinks, tax, and tip.
- Coffee
- USD 4-7 for drip coffee or a latte.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants; 20%+ for great service. USD 1-2 per drink at bars, round up or 10-15% for taxis, and USD 2-5 nightly for hotel housekeeping.
FAQs: Bus from Santa Clara, CA to San Diego, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Santa Clara, CA to San Diego, 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 San Diego, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Santa Clara, CA to San Diego, CA can start from as little as $54 (€43) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Santa Clara, CA to San Diego, CA is $100 (€80) ; 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 Clara, CA to San Diego, CA is 11h 35m to travel the 420 miles (676 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 Clara, CA to San Diego, CA leaves at 12:05 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Santa Clara, CA to San Diego, CA leaves at 11:45 PM.
A trip to San Diego, CA from Santa Clara, CA is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 11h 35m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Santa Clara, CA to San Diego, CA is May.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Santa Clara, CA and San Diego, CA including taking a bus, train, and flight.
No, there are no bathrooms on board the bus from Santa Clara, CA to San Diego, CA.
No, the bus from Santa Clara, CA to San Diego, CA has no accessibility options.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in San Diego, CA are:
- Balboa Park, a sprawling urban park with museums, gardens, and the San Diego Zoo
- USS Midway Museum, a historic naval aircraft carrier museum offering interactive exhibits and tours
- La Jolla Cove, a picturesque coastal area known for its stunning views and marine life
- Gaslamp Quarter, a lively historic district with Victorian architecture, dining, and entertainment options
- Coronado Beach, a beautiful sandy beach known for its gentle waves and iconic hotel.
The best things to do in San Diego, CA include:
- Explore the vibrant art scene at the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego
- enjoy a harbor cruise for stunning views of the skyline and naval ships
- hike the scenic trails at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve
- visit the Birch Aquarium to learn about marine life and ocean conservation
- experience the thrill of a whale watching tour off the coast.
No, bikes are not allowed on board the bus from Santa Clara, CA to San Diego, 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 Santa Clara, CA to San Diego, CA.
No, luggage for the bus from Santa Clara, CA to San Diego, CA needs to be booked in addition.
No, there are no additional luggage options for the bus from Santa Clara, CA to San Diego, CA.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Santa Clara, CA to San Diego, CA.
No, there are no USB plugs on board the bus from Santa Clara, CA to San Diego, CA.
No, there is no WiFi on board the bus from Santa Clara, CA to San Diego, CA.
Since neither Santa Clara, CA nor San Diego, 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 Santa Clara, CA to San Diego, 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 San Diego, CA, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like beaches, public transportation, and popular tourist spots such as the Gaslamp Quarter and Old Town. Common scams include overpriced parking fees and unauthorized ticket sellers near attractions. Staying aware of surroundings, securing belongings, and using official transportation services help reduce risks. Additionally, travelers should avoid isolated areas at night and be mindful of local traffic laws when using scooters or bikes.
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 Clara, CA to San Diego, CA
Santa Clara
San Diego
San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park)
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San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center
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San Diego
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Most popular bus connections from Santa Clara, CA
More options for your journey from Santa Clara, CA to San Diego, CA
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Most popular buses to and from San Diego, CA and Santa Clara, CA
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