- Must visit
National Air and Space Museum
This world-class museum presents aviation and space history through iconic aircraft, spacecraft, and hands-on science exhibits.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from South San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC
Showing times and prices for Aug 24
Cheapest price
$241
Average price
$333
Fastest journey
3 d 20 m
Average duration
3 d 1 h 42 m
Buses per day
3
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 $333 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $241.
Fast buses
Of the 3 buses that leave South San Francisco, CA for Washington, DC on Mon, Aug 24, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Mon, Aug 24 the direct buses cover the 3922 km distance in an average of 3 d 1 h 42 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 3 d 20 m .
On Mon, Aug 24 the slowest buses will take 3 d 3 h 55 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.
2:30 PM72h50South San Francisco, CA3:20 PMWashington, DC$2411One-way0 transfers- 6:40 AM75h55South San Francisco, CA10:35 AMWashington, DC$3341One-way0 transfers
- 8:30 PM72h20South San Francisco, CA8:50 PMWashington, DC$4241One-way0 transfers
- 8:30 PM72h20South San Francisco, CA8:50 PMWashington, DC$4241One-way0 transfers
- 2:30 PM72h50South San Francisco, CA3:20 PMWashington, DC$2411One-way0 transfers
- 6:40 AM75h55South San Francisco, CA10:35 AMWashington, DC$3341One-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 $137. 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 $137, and a train costs an average of $208.
Distance: 2437 miles (3922 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$182 Average price | $389 Average price | $155 Average price Cheapest | $685 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
72h 0m Average total duration 71h 30m 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 $155 (€125).
This is compared to other travel options from South San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC:
A flight is $27 (€21) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from South San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC costing on average $182 (€146).
A flight is $234 (€188) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from South San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC costing on average $389 (€313).
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 30m.
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 $170 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 06:25AM | Arrival Time 04:20PM | Duration 81h55 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $418 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 06:40AM | Arrival Time 10:35AM | Duration 75h55 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $334 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 02:30PM | Arrival Time 03:20PM | Duration 72h50 | Departure days Mon, Sun | Cheapest price $241 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 08:30PM | Arrival Time 08:50PM | Duration 72h20 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $163 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 09:30PM | Arrival Time 04:35PM | Duration 67h05 | Departure days Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $279 |
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, Sunday, August 23. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2:30 PM South San Francisco, CA | 72h50 | 3:20 PM Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:30 PM South San Francisco, CA | 67h05 | 3:35 PM Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:30 PM South San Francisco, CA | 67h05 | 4:35 PM Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Monday, August 24 | |||||
| 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.
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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 14 times per day, taking around 71h 30m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $157 (€126) but you can travel from only $137 (€110) by flight.
The earliest bus runs at 00:40, the last at 23:55. The fastest bus covers the 2437 miles (3922 km) distance in 67h 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $137 (€110)
Distance 2437 miles (3922 km) |
Average bus duration 71h 30m |
Cheapest ticket price $157 (€126) |
Buses per day 14 |
Fastest bus 67h 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $137 (€110)
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 $137 (€110). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
SamTrans
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
71h 13m
Cheapest Price
$786 (€632)
SamTrans frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to Washington, DC
Things to do in Washington, DC
Discover the best of Washington, DC — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Washington, DC trip today.
- Must visit
Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
Housed in a Beaux-Arts building, this museum explores natural wonders with dinosaurs, gems, fossils, and global biodiversity.
- Must visit
National Museum of African American History and Culture
A landmark museum documenting African American history and culture through powerful exhibitions, artifacts, and storytelling.
- Must visit
National Mall
The National Mall is Washington's grand civic promenade, lined with museums, memorials, and classic views ideal for first-time visitors.
- Must visit
Georgetown
Georgetown charms with historic streets, rowhouses, waterfront paths, and independent shops that make it one of the city's best walking areas.
- Must visit
Tidal Basin
The Tidal Basin loop offers famous cherry blossoms, water views, and easy access to several of Washington's most iconic memorials.
Half-Smoke
Half-smoke sausage, usually smoked pork and beef, served on a bun with chili, mustard, and onions. It is DC's signature street food, strongly tied to Ben's Chili Bowl.
- Vegetarian
Jumbo Slice Pizza
Jumbo slice is an oversized late-night pizza slice popular in Adams Morgan. It is a recognizable DC nightlife food known for its huge foldable portions.
Mumbo Sauce With Fried Chicken
Mumbo sauce is a sweet tangy red sauce commonly served with fried chicken and wings at DC carryouts. It is a beloved local condiment with roots in Black DC food culture.
Rose's Luxury
Acclaimed fine-dining restaurant focused on Mid-Atlantic ingredients and refined tasting menus in an elegant, contemporary dining room.
The Salt Line
Polished seafood institution at the municipal fish market, best known for regional oysters, crab cakes, and classic Chesapeake flavors.
Ben's Chili Bowl
Historic casual landmark famous for half-smokes, chili, and a classic diner feel. A must for trying DC's best-known street food tradition.
US dollar ($)
DC is pricier than many US cities. Hotels and dining run high in central areas, but Metro and many free museums help balance daily travel costs.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $10-18 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- $25-45 per person for a meal.
- Fine dining
- $80+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- $4-6 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, more for great service. Taxis usually 10-15%. Cafes: round up or add $1-2.
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 $157 (€126) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for South San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC is $182 (€146) ; 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 67h 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 14 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.
When departing from South San Francisco, CA , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29, San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street, CA . When arriving in Washington, DC , you can end your journey in bus stations like Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station, Washington, DuPont Circle (Connecticut Ave. NW / 20th St. NW), Bethesda, Waverly Street / Montgomery Ave, MD, Arlington, Wilson Blvd / N Kent St (Rosslyn), VA, New Carrollton, Garden City Dr (Train Station), Arlington, 19th Street North / North Kent Street (Rosslyn), VA .Passengers board the bus most frequently from San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29, which is located around 1 miles (2 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station, located 2 away from the city centre.
A trip to Washington, DC from South San Francisco, CA is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 67h 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, there are no bathrooms on board the bus from South San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC.
No, the bus from South San Francisco, CA to Washington, DC has no accessibility options.
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)Connecticut Ave NW & 20th St NW, Washington, DC 20009, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Washington, DuPont Circle (Connecticut Ave. NW / 20th St. NW) from Washington city centre
Washington, DuPont Circle (Connecticut Ave. NW / 20th St. NW) is 1 km from Washington city centre. Public transport options include:
BusD70 · 11m · $4 · every ~7 min
SubwayR · 6m · $2 · every ~27 min
Washington, DuPont Circle (Connecticut Ave. NW / 20th St. NW) bus station facilities and services
Washington, DuPont Circle (Connecticut Ave. NW / 20th St. NW) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Washington, DuPont Circle (Connecticut Ave. NW / 20th St. NW). ATMs are available at Washington, DuPont Circle (Connecticut Ave. NW / 20th St. NW).
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Washington, DuPont Circle (Connecticut Ave. NW / 20th St. NW).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Washington, DuPont Circle (Connecticut Ave. NW / 20th St. NW): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Washington, DuPont Circle (Connecticut Ave. NW / 20th St. NW): Sidewalks and crosswalks are wheelchair accessible.
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
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