- Must visit
Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
One of the world’s most visited natural history museums, known for dinosaur fossils, the Hope Diamond, and broad family-friendly exhibits.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest buses from South San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC
Showing times and prices for Jul 09
Cheapest price
$306
Average price
$343
Fastest journey
2 d 19 h 5 m
Average duration
2 d 19 h 5 m
Buses per day
2
Distance
3922 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from South San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from South San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC will cost around $343 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $306.
Fast buses
Of the 2 buses that leave South San Francisco, CA for Washington, DC on Thu, Jul 09, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Thu, Jul 09 the direct buses cover the 3922 km distance in an average of 2 d 19 h 5 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 2 d 19 h 5 m .
On Thu, Jul 09 the slowest buses will take 2 d 19 h 5 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
8:30 PM67h05South San Francisco, CA3:35 PMWashington, DC$3061One-way0 transfers- 9:30 PM67h05South San Francisco, CA4:35 PMWashington, DC$3811One-way0 transfers
- 9:30 PM67h05South San Francisco, CA4:35 PMWashington, DC$3811One-way0 transfers
- 8:30 PM67h05South San Francisco, CA3:35 PMWashington, DC$3061One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for South San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from South San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the flight with prices starting from $159. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 5h 15m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a flight costs an average of $159, and a train costs an average of $252.
Distance: 2437 miles (3922 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$323 Average price | $828 Average price | $259 Average price Cheapest | $662 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
72h 12m Average total duration 71h 42m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 70h 19m Average total duration 69h 49m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 15m Average total duration Fastest 5h 15m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 41h 22m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from South San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC is a flight with an average price of $259 (€213).
This is compared to other travel options from South San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC:
A flight is $64 (€53) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from South San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC costing on average $323 (€266).
A flight is $569 (€468) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from South San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC costing on average $828 (€681).
The fastest way to travel from South San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC is by flight with an average journey time of 5h 15m.
Other travel options to Washington, DC take longer:
Train takes on average 69h 49m.
Bus takes on average 71h 42m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between South San Francisco, CA and Washington, DC including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from South San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC 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.
South San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 05:40AM | Arrival Time 04:20PM | Duration 82h40 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $166 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 06:25AM | Arrival Time 04:20PM | Duration 81h55 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $409 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 06:40AM | Arrival Time 05:20PM | Duration 82h40 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $326 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 02:30PM | Arrival Time 03:20PM | Duration 72h50 | Departure days Mon, Sun | Cheapest price $236 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 08:30PM | Arrival Time 03:30PM | Duration 67h00 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $160 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 09:30PM | Arrival Time 03:35PM | Duration 66h05 | Departure days Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $272 |
Live departures
South San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC bus times
The table below shows live departures for South San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC buses for today, Wednesday, July 8. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5:40 AM South San Francisco, CA | 76h05 | 9:45 AM Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 6:25 AM South San Francisco, CA | 81h55 | 4:20 PM Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 6:40 AM South San Francisco, CA | 75h55 | 10:35 AM Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets South San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC 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.
Thu
Jul 09
Jul 09
Fri
Jul 10
Jul 10
Sat
Jul 11
Jul 11
Sun
Jul 12
Jul 12
Mon
Jul 13
Jul 13
Tue
Jul 14
Jul 14
Wed
Jul 15
Jul 15
Journey information
Overview: Bus from South San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC
USAUSA
Buses from South San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC run on average 15 times per day, taking around 71h 42m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $121 (€100) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 00:40, the last at 23:55. The fastest bus covers the 2437 miles (3922 km) distance in 66h 5m.
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 2437 miles (3922 km) |
Average bus duration 71h 42m |
Cheapest ticket price $121 (€100) |
Buses per day 15 |
Fastest bus 66h 5m |
First bus 12:40 AM |
Last bus 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Sun |
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: SamTrans from South San Francisco, CA to Washington, DCYou can travel by bus between South San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC with SamTrans for as low as $121 (€100). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
SamTrans
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
71h 13m
Cheapest Price
$768 (€632)
SamTrans frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to Washington
Things to do in Washington
Discover the best of Washington — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Washington trip today.
- Must visit
National Air and Space Museum
Flagship Smithsonian museum covering aviation and spaceflight, with iconic aircraft, spacecraft, and major interactive exhibits.
- Must visit
National Gallery of Art
Premier art museum with strong collections from the Middle Ages to modern art, plus sculpture garden and rotating exhibitions.
- Must visit
National Mall
The city’s grand ceremonial park lined with Smithsonian museums, memorials, and iconic government buildings.
- Must visit
Georgetown
Historic neighborhood of cobblestone streets, waterfront walks, rowhouses, and some of Washington’s most photogenic corners.
- Must visit
Tidal Basin
Scenic waterside loop famous for cherry blossoms and views of major memorials, especially popular for sunrise and spring visits.
Half-Smoke
Washington’s signature sausage, usually smoky and spicy, served on a bun with chili, mustard, and onions. It is one of the city’s most iconic street foods.
Mumbo Sauce With Fried Chicken Wings
A sweet-tangy sauce closely associated with Washington carryout culture, often paired with fried chicken wings and fries. It is a local comfort-food staple.
- Gluten-free
Chesapeake Blue Crab
Steamed or picked blue crab from the nearby Chesapeake region is deeply tied to local food traditions. It is especially popular in warmer months.
Rose's Luxury
Celebrated upscale restaurant with creative small plates and a warm, energetic atmosphere. It is one of Washington’s best-known modern dining destinations.
Old Ebbitt Grill
A classic, long-running Washington institution known for oysters, crab cakes, and traditional American fare in an elegant historic atmosphere.
Le Diplomate
Bustling brasserie known for polished French classics, strong brunch, and a stylish dining room that is popular with both locals and visitors.
United States Dollar
Prices are high for hotels and dining, especially downtown. Free museums help balance daily costs.
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 tax.
- Coffee
- USD 4-7 for a regular coffee or latte.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants. USD 1-2 per drink at bars, round up taxis, and tip hotel staff USD 2-5.
DC Metro and Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- USD 2.25
- Day pass
- USD 13.00
To the city center
L'Enfant Plaza, Washington, DC -> Metro Center, Washington, DC
- Distance
- 2 km
- Travel time
- 6 min
- Tap a SmarTrip card or mobile wallet on Metrorail and Metrobus; fares vary by time and distance on rail. Metrobus accepts card and contactless payment, but cash payment is not available on Metrorail.
- Use the official WMATA tools to check service alerts before travel, especially on weekends. Day passes can be good value if you plan multiple Metrorail and Metrobus trips in one day.
FAQs: Bus from South San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from South San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC 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 Washington, DC, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from South San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC can start from as little as $121 (€100) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for South San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC is $323 (€266) ; 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 Washington, DC is 66h 5m to travel the 2437 miles (3922 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 Washington, DC leaves at 12:40 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from South San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC leaves at 11:55 PM.
There are 15 buses a day from South San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC 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 Washington, DC, you can count on SamTrans for the best way to get you to Washington, DC. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between South San Francisco, CA and Washington, DC and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Washington, DC from South San Francisco, CA is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 66h 5m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from South San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC is January.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between South San Francisco, CA and Washington, DC including taking a bus, train, and flight.
No, the bus from South San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC has no accessibility options.
No, there are no bathrooms on board the bus from South San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Washington, DC are:
- The National Mall, a historic and iconic open-area national park featuring monuments and museums
- The White House, the official residence and workplace of the President of the United States
- The United States Capitol, the home of the United States Congress and a symbol of the American people and government
- The Smithsonian Institution, a group of museums and research institutions offering diverse exhibits and educational programs
- The Lincoln Memorial, a monument honoring the 16th President of the United States, Abraham Lincoln, known for its impressive architecture and historical significance.
The best things to do in Washington, DC include:
- Discover the National Gallery of Art, featuring an extensive collection of European and American art from the Middle Ages to the present
- Stroll through Georgetown, a historic neighborhood known for its cobblestone streets, upscale shops, and vibrant dining scene
- Visit the Library of Congress, the largest library in the world, offering a vast collection of books, recordings, and exhibits
- Explore the vibrant Eastern Market, a historic public market offering fresh food, local arts, and crafts
- Enjoy a performance at the Kennedy Center, a premier venue for the performing arts, featuring theater, dance, and music.
No, bikes are not allowed on board the bus from South San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC.
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 Washington, DC.
No, luggage for the bus from South San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC needs to be booked in addition.
No, there are no additional luggage options for the bus from South San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from South San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC.
No, there are no USB plugs on board the bus from South San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC.
No, there is no WiFi on board the bus from South San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC.
Since neither South San Francisco, CA nor Washington, DC 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 South San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC 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 Washington, DC, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like the National Mall and Metro stations. Common scams include overpriced taxi rides and unofficial tour operators. It's advisable to use licensed transportation services and stay aware of surroundings, particularly at night or in less busy neighborhoods.
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 Washington, DC
Most South San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC buses use the San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29 to Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station station pair, with some services arriving at Washington, DuPont Circle (Connecticut Ave. NW / 20th St. NW). Use this guide to compare South San Francisco, CA and Washington, DC 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 Washington
Which Washington, DC station do buses from South San Francisco, CA arrive at?
Buses from South San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC most often arrive at Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station. Some services arrive at Washington, DuPont Circle (Connecticut Ave. NW / 20th St. NW), so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Washington, DC arrival station.
Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station50 Massachusetts Ave NE, Washington, DC 20002, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station from Washington city centre
Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station is 2 km from Washington city centre. Public transport options include:
BusD30 · 15m · $4 · every ~10 min
281, 481, 483, 484, 486 · 19m · $2 · every ~1 min
SubwayR · 5m · $2 · every ~27 min
Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station bus station facilities and services
Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: McDonald's (in the station), Shake Shack (in the station)
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the main entrance and food court.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station: Elevators, ramps.
Washington, DuPont Circle (Connecticut Ave. NW / 20th St. NW)
City-centre transport
Getting to Washington, DuPont Circle (Connecticut Ave. NW / 20th St. NW) from Washington city centre
BusD70 · 11m · $4 · every ~7 min
SubwayR · 6m · $2 · every ~27 min
More options for your journey from South San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Washington, DC and South San Francisco, CA
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
