- Must visit
The Tech Interactive
Interactive science center with hands-on exhibits, an IMAX dome theater, and family-friendly displays in the heart of downtown.
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Travel Information
Compare train and bus for South San Francisco, CA to San Jose, CA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from South San Francisco, CA to San Jose, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $9. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 0m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $9, and a train costs an average of $10.
Distance: 35 miles (57 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$9 Average price Cheapest | $10 Average price | $8 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 45m Average total duration 3h 15m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 30m Average total duration Fastest 1h 0m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 41m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from South San Francisco, CA to San Jose, CA is a bus with an average price of $9 (€7).
This is compared to other travel options from South San Francisco, CA to San Jose, CA:
A bus is $0.73 (€0.60) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from South San Francisco, CA to San Jose, CA costing on average $10 (€8).
The fastest way to travel from South San Francisco, CA to San Jose, CA is by train with an average journey time of 1h 0m.
Other travel options to San Jose, CA take longer:
Bus takes on average 3h 15m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between South San Francisco, CA and San Jose, CA including taking a train and bus.
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.
South San Francisco, CA to San Jose, CA Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator SamTrans | Departure Time 06:51AM | Arrival Time 09:40AM | Duration 2h49 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $9 |
Operator SamTrans | Departure Time 07:06AM | Arrival Time 10:10AM | Duration 3h04 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $9 |
Operator SamTrans | Departure Time 07:28AM | Arrival Time 10:25AM | Duration 2h57 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $9 |
Operator SamTrans | Departure Time 07:38AM | Arrival Time 10:40AM | Duration 3h02 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $9 |
Operator SamTrans | Departure Time 07:51AM | Arrival Time 10:55AM | Duration 3h04 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $9 |
Operator SamTrans | Departure Time 08:07AM | Arrival Time 11:10AM | Duration 3h03 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $9 |
Operator SamTrans | Departure Time 08:23AM | Arrival Time 11:25AM | Duration 3h02 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $9 |
Operator SamTrans | Departure Time 08:38AM | Arrival Time 11:40AM | Duration 3h02 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $9 |
Operator SamTrans | Departure Time 08:53AM | Arrival Time 11:55AM | Duration 3h02 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $9 |
Operator SamTrans | Departure Time 09:09AM | Arrival Time 12:10PM | Duration 3h01 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $9 |
Operator SamTrans | Departure Time 09:24AM | Arrival Time 12:25PM | Duration 3h01 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $9 |
Operator SamTrans | Departure Time 09:40AM | Arrival Time 12:40PM | Duration 3h00 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $9 |
Operator SamTrans | Departure Time 09:55AM | Arrival Time 12:55PM | Duration 3h00 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $9 |
Operator SamTrans | Departure Time 10:10AM | Arrival Time 01:25PM | Duration 3h15 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $9 |
Operator SamTrans | Departure Time 10:20AM | Arrival Time 01:25PM | Duration 3h05 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $11 |
Operator SamTrans | Departure Time 10:25AM | Arrival Time 01:40PM | Duration 3h15 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $9 |
Operator SamTrans | Departure Time 10:40AM | Arrival Time 01:55PM | Duration 3h15 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $9 |
Operator SamTrans | Departure Time 10:55AM | Arrival Time 02:10PM | Duration 3h15 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $9 |
Operator SamTrans | Departure Time 11:05AM | Arrival Time 02:10PM | Duration 3h05 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $11 |
Operator SamTrans | Departure Time 11:10AM | Arrival Time 02:25PM | Duration 3h15 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $9 |
Operator SamTrans | Departure Time 11:25AM | Arrival Time 02:40PM | Duration 3h15 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $9 |
Operator SamTrans | Departure Time 11:40AM | Arrival Time 02:55PM | Duration 3h15 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $9 |
Operator SamTrans | Departure Time 11:55AM | Arrival Time 03:10PM | Duration 3h15 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $9 |
Operator SamTrans | Departure Time 12:00PM | Arrival Time 03:10PM | Duration 3h10 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $11 |
Operator SamTrans | Departure Time 12:11PM | Arrival Time 03:25PM | Duration 3h14 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $9 |
Operator SamTrans | Departure Time 12:26PM | Arrival Time 03:54PM | Duration 3h28 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $9 |
Operator SamTrans | Departure Time 12:41PM | Arrival Time 04:09PM | Duration 3h28 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $9 |
Operator SamTrans | Departure Time 12:45PM | Arrival Time 03:54PM | Duration 3h09 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $11 |
Operator SamTrans | Departure Time 12:56PM | Arrival Time 04:24PM | Duration 3h28 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $9 |
Operator SamTrans | Departure Time 01:11PM | Arrival Time 04:39PM | Duration 3h28 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $9 |
Operator SamTrans | Departure Time 01:20PM | Arrival Time 04:39PM | Duration 3h19 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $11 |
Operator SamTrans | Departure Time 01:26PM | Arrival Time 04:54PM | Duration 3h28 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $9 |
Operator SamTrans | Departure Time 01:41PM | Arrival Time 05:09PM | Duration 3h28 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $9 |
Operator SamTrans | Departure Time 01:56PM | Arrival Time 05:24PM | Duration 3h28 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $9 |
Operator SamTrans | Departure Time 02:05PM | Arrival Time 05:24PM | Duration 3h19 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $11 |
Operator SamTrans | Departure Time 02:11PM | Arrival Time 05:54PM | Duration 3h43 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $9 |
Operator SamTrans | Departure Time 02:26PM | Arrival Time 06:09PM | Duration 3h43 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $9 |
Operator SamTrans | Departure Time 02:41PM | Arrival Time 06:24PM | Duration 3h43 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $9 |
Operator SamTrans | Departure Time 02:50PM | Arrival Time 06:09PM | Duration 3h19 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $11 |
Operator SamTrans | Departure Time 03:11PM | Arrival Time 06:39PM | Duration 3h28 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $9 |
Operator SamTrans | Departure Time 03:26PM | Arrival Time 06:55PM | Duration 3h29 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $9 |
Operator SamTrans | Departure Time 03:35PM | Arrival Time 06:55PM | Duration 3h20 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $11 |
Operator SamTrans | Departure Time 03:43PM | Arrival Time 07:12PM | Duration 3h29 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $9 |
Operator SamTrans | Departure Time 04:13PM | Arrival Time 07:32PM | Duration 3h19 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $9 |
Operator SamTrans | Departure Time 04:20PM | Arrival Time 07:32PM | Duration 3h12 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $11 |
Operator SamTrans | Departure Time 04:42PM | Arrival Time 07:53PM | Duration 3h11 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $9 |
Operator SamTrans | Departure Time 04:57PM | Arrival Time 08:14PM | Duration 3h17 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $9 |
Operator SamTrans | Departure Time 05:05PM | Arrival Time 08:14PM | Duration 3h09 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $11 |
Operator SamTrans | Departure Time 05:27PM | Arrival Time 08:35PM | Duration 3h08 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $9 |
Operator SamTrans | Departure Time 05:57PM | Arrival Time 08:55PM | Duration 2h58 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $9 |
Compare prices and tickets South San Francisco, CA to San Jose, CA by train or bus
Compare train and bus 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 South San Francisco, CA to San Jose, CA
USAUSA
Buses from South San Francisco, CA to San Jose, CA run on average 50 times per day, taking around 3h 15m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $9 (€7) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 06:51, the last at 17:57. The fastest bus covers the 35 miles (57 km) distance in 2h 49m.
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 35 miles (57 km) |
Average bus duration 3h 15m |
Cheapest ticket price $9 (€7) |
Buses per day 50 |
Fastest bus 2h 49m |
First bus 6:51 AM |
Last bus 5:57 PM |
High Season Jan - Mar |
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: SamTrans from South San Francisco, CA to San Jose, CAYou can travel by bus between South San Francisco, CA to San Jose, CA with SamTrans for as low as $9 (€7). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
SamTrans
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 49m
Cheapest Price
$9 (€7)
SamTrans frequency
50 a day
Complete guide to San Jose
Things to do in San Jose
Discover the best of San Jose — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect San Jose trip today.
- Must visit
San Jose Museum of Art
Large art museum known for modern and contemporary works, strong West Coast focus, and thoughtful rotating exhibitions.
- Must visit
Computer History Museum
A vast collection of restored computer history, from early machines to supercomputers, popular with tech enthusiasts.
- Must visit
Plaza de César Chávez
Signature downtown plaza for festivals, concerts, and civic life, surrounded by museums, hotels, and historic buildings.
- Must visit
Japantown
A vibrant historic district with Japanese shops, temples, murals, and a strong sense of local community and heritage.
- Must visit
SoFA District
Lively arts district centered on galleries, murals, and monthly South First Fridays, ideal for an evening walk downtown.
Pho
A Vietnamese noodle soup with beef or chicken in a fragrant broth. San Jose's large Vietnamese community makes it a defining local comfort food.
Banh Mi
A Vietnamese sandwich on a crisp baguette, often filled with grilled pork, pickled vegetables, herbs, and pate. A staple tied to San Jose's Little Saigon.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Dosa
A South Indian rice and lentil crepe served with chutney and sambar. It is a local favorite thanks to San Jose's strong South Asian community.
Le Papillon
Refined fine dining destination offering modern French cuisine, polished service, and an elegant special-occasion atmosphere.
Henry's Hi-Life
Beloved San Jose institution serving smoked meats, ribs, and classic sides in a casual, old-school barbecue setting.
Pupuseria Los Dubon
Casual neighborhood favorite for handcrafted pupusas and Salvadoran comfort food with a warm, family-run feel.
US Dollar ($)
San Jose is pricier than many US cities. Hotels, dining, and parking add up fast, though public transit and casual food can help control daily costs.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $12-18 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- $25-45 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $80+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- $4-6 for a coffee drink.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, 15-20% for taxis or rideshares, and $1-2 at cafes for good service. Tax is usually added separately.
FAQs: Bus from South San Francisco, CA to San Jose, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from South San Francisco, CA to San Jose, 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 Jose, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from South San Francisco, CA to San Jose, CA can start from as little as $9 (€7) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for South San Francisco, CA to San Jose, CA is $9 (€7) ; 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 South San Francisco, CA to San Jose, CA is 2h 49m to travel the 35 miles (57 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 South San Francisco, CA to San Jose, CA leaves at 6:51 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from South San Francisco, CA to San Jose, CA leaves at 5:57 PM.
There are 50 buses a day from South San Francisco, CA to San Jose, CA which require at least one change with SamTrans. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from South San Francisco, CA to San Jose, CA, you can count on SamTrans for the best way to get you to San Jose, CA. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between South San Francisco, CA and San Jose, CA and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to San Jose, CA from South San Francisco, CA is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 2h 49m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between South San Francisco, CA and San Jose, CA including taking a train and bus.
No, there are no bathrooms on board the bus from South San Francisco, CA to San Jose, CA.
No, the bus from South San Francisco, CA to San Jose, CA has no accessibility options.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in San Jose, CA are:
- Winchester Mystery House, an architectural curiosity with a maze-like design and historical significance
- The Tech Interactive, an engaging science and technology center with hands-on exhibits
- San Jose Museum of Art, a contemporary art museum featuring works from the 20th and 21st centuries
- Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum, a museum dedicated to ancient Egyptian artifacts and culture
- Municipal Rose Garden, a beautiful and serene garden featuring over 3,500 rose bushes.
The best things to do in San Jose, CA include:
- Explore the Japanese Friendship Garden, a tranquil space inspired by Japanese landscape design
- Visit the Children's Discovery Museum, offering interactive exhibits for families and children
- Enjoy a performance at the San Jose Center for the Performing Arts, hosting a variety of shows and events
- Discover the history of Silicon Valley at the Computer History Museum
- Take a scenic hike in Alum Rock Park, offering trails and natural beauty.
No, bikes are not allowed on board the bus from South San Francisco, CA to San Jose, 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 South San Francisco, CA to San Jose, CA.
No, luggage for the bus from South San Francisco, CA to San Jose, CA needs to be booked in addition.
No, there are no additional luggage options for the bus from South San Francisco, CA to San Jose, CA.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from South San Francisco, CA to San Jose, CA.
No, there are no USB plugs on board the bus from South San Francisco, CA to San Jose, CA.
No, there is no WiFi on board the bus from South San Francisco, CA to San Jose, CA.
Since neither South San Francisco, CA nor San Jose, 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.
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 Jose, CA, travelers should be aware of pickpocketing and vehicle break-ins, especially in crowded areas and parking lots. Common scams include fake charity requests and overcharging by unauthorized taxi or ride-share drivers. Staying alert in busy districts and using official transportation services helps 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 South San Francisco, CA to San Jose, CA
Most South San Francisco, CA to San Jose, CA buses use the to San José, Cahill Street (Diridon Station) station pair. Use this guide to compare South San Francisco, CA and San Jose, CA bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in South San Francisco
Arrival bus stations in San Jose
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
More options for your journey from South San Francisco, CA to San Jose, CA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from San Jose, CA and South San Francisco, CA
Most popular bus connections to San Jose, CA
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