- Must visit
California Academy of Sciences
Renowned science museum with rainforest dome, aquarium, and planetarium. Interactive exhibits make it a standout for all ages.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Tampa, FL to San Francisco, CA
Showing times and prices for Aug 27
Cheapest price
$221
Average price
$269
Fastest journey
2 d 23 h 5 m
Average duration
3 d 5 h 23 m
Buses per day
2
Distance
3857 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Tampa, FL to San Francisco, CA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Tampa, FL to San Francisco, CA will cost around $269 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $221.
Fast buses
Of the 2 buses that leave Tampa, FL for San Francisco, CA on Thu, Aug 27, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Thu, Aug 27 the direct buses cover the 3857 km distance in an average of 3 d 5 h 23 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 2 d 23 h 5 m .
On Thu, Aug 27 the slowest buses will take 3 d 11 h 40 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.
2:35 AM83h40Tampa, FL2:15 PMSan Francisco, CA$2211One-way0 transfers- 3:10 PM71h05Tampa, FL2:15 PMSan Francisco, CA$3171One-way0 transfers
- 3:10 PM71h05Tampa, FL2:15 PMSan Francisco, CA$3171One-way0 transfers
- 2:35 AM83h40Tampa, FL2:15 PMSan Francisco, CA$2211One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Tampa, FL to San Francisco, CA
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Tampa, FL to San Francisco, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $170. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 7h 46m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $170, and a flight costs an average of $222.
Distance: 2396 miles (3857 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Flight | Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$429 Average price Cheapest | $588 Average price | $580 Average price (fuel + tolls) | |
68h 29m Average total duration 67h 59m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 10h 46m Average total duration Fastest 7h 46m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 41h 40m Average total duration (door-to-door) | |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Tampa, FL to San Francisco, CA is a bus with an average price of $429 (€345).
This is compared to other travel options from Tampa, FL to San Francisco, CA:
A bus is $160 (€129) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Tampa, FL to San Francisco, CA costing on average $588 (€474).
The fastest way to travel from Tampa, FL to San Francisco, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 7h 46m.
Other travel options to San Francisco, CA take longer:
Bus takes on average 67h 59m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Tampa, FL and San Francisco, CA including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Tampa, FL to San Francisco, 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.
Tampa, FL to San Francisco, CA Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 02:35AM | Arrival Time 02:15PM | Duration 83h40 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $221 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 11:10AM | Arrival Time 08:45AM | Duration 72h35 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $202 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 03:10PM | Arrival Time 02:15PM | Duration 71h05 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $317 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 04:00PM | Arrival Time 05:55PM | Duration 76h55 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $256 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 04:10PM | Arrival Time 03:15PM | Duration 71h05 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $162 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 04:35PM | Arrival Time 08:50PM | Duration 79h15 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $258 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 09:15PM | Arrival Time 12:35AM | Duration 75h20 | Departure days Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $239 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 09:30PM | Arrival Time 10:05PM | Duration 75h35 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $197 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 10:25PM | Arrival Time 02:05AM | Duration 75h40 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $243 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 10:35PM | Arrival Time 08:45AM | Duration 85h10 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $244 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 10:55PM | Arrival Time 07:05AM | Duration 80h10 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $511 |
Live departures
Tampa, FL to San Francisco, CA bus times
The table below shows live departures for Tampa, FL to San Francisco, CA buses for today, Tuesday, August 25. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10:55 PM Tampa, FL | 80h10 | 7:05 AM San Francisco, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Wednesday, August 26 | |||||
| 2:35 AM Tampa, FL | 83h40 | 2:15 PM San Francisco, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 3:10 PM Tampa, FL | 71h05 | 2:15 PM San Francisco, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Tampa, FL to San Francisco, 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 Tampa, FL to San Francisco, CA
USAUSA
Buses from Tampa, FL to San Francisco, CA run on average 7 times per day, taking around 67h 59m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $170 (€136) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 06:10, the last at 23:50. The fastest bus covers the 2396 miles (3857 km) distance in 64h 34m.
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 2396 miles (3857 km) |
Average bus duration 67h 59m |
Cheapest ticket price $170 (€136) |
Buses per day 7 |
Fastest bus 64h 34m |
First bus 6:10 AM |
Last bus 11:50 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Best time to book 14 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 Francisco, CA
Things to do in San Francisco, CA
Discover the best of San Francisco, CA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect San Francisco, CA trip today.
- Must visit
de Young Museum
Major fine arts museum in Golden Gate Park with American art, textiles, and a panoramic tower. A classic cultural highlight.
- Must visit
San Francisco Museum of Modern Art
Leading modern and contemporary art museum with landmark architecture and strong global collections. Essential for art-focused visitors.
- Must visit
Golden Gate Park
Large urban park with gardens, lakes, museums, and trails. It is a must for relaxing, walking, and seeing several major attractions.
- Must visit
Lombard Street
Steeply curving block lined with flowers and grand homes. This famous street offers classic photos and a quintessential San Francisco scene.
- Must visit
The Embarcadero
Popular waterfront promenade with bay views, piers, and ferries. Great for walking, people-watching, and connecting to nearby sights.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
San Francisco Sourdough
A crusty loaf with a tangy flavor shaped by the city’s historic wild yeast culture. It is one of San Francisco’s most iconic foods.
- Gluten-free
Dungeness Crab
Fresh local Dungeness crab, often cracked and served simply or in cioppino. It is a Bay Area seasonal specialty tied to the fishing waterfront.
Cioppino
A tomato-based seafood stew created by Italian American fishermen in North Beach. It is a classic San Francisco dish built from the day’s catch.
Benu
Celebrated fine dining destination known for inventive tasting menus and polished service in an elegant, intimate setting.
Sotto Mare
Historic North Beach seafood house famous for cioppino, crab, and old-school San Francisco waterfront charm.
La Taqueria
Legendary Mission taqueria known for large Mission-style burritos and a lively, no-frills local atmosphere.
US Dollar ($)
Very high hotel, dining, and transport costs make San Francisco pricier than most US cities and many major tourist destinations.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $12-20 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- $25-45 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $90+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- $4-7 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, 15-20% for taxis, and round up or tip $1 at cafes for good service.
FAQs: Bus from Tampa, FL to San Francisco, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Tampa, FL to San Francisco, 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 Francisco, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Tampa, FL to San Francisco, CA can start from as little as $170 (€136) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Tampa, FL to San Francisco, CA is $429 (€345) ; 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 Tampa, FL to San Francisco, CA is 64h 34m to travel the 2396 miles (3857 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 Tampa, FL to San Francisco, CA leaves at 6:10 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Tampa, FL to San Francisco, CA leaves at 11:50 PM.
When departing from Tampa, FL , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Tampa, Marion Transit Center, Tampa, USF Holly Drive (Central Plant), FL . When arriving in San Francisco, CA , you can end your journey in bus stations like San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29, San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street, CA, Oakland, West Oakland BART Station, CA, Hayward BART Station .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Tampa, Marion Transit Center, which is located around away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29, located 2 away from the city centre.
A trip to San Francisco, CA from Tampa, FL is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 64h 34m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Tampa, FL to San Francisco, CA is June.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Tampa, FL and San Francisco, CA including taking a bus, train, and flight.
No, the bus from Tampa, FL to San Francisco, CA has no accessibility options.
No, there are no bathrooms on board the bus from Tampa, FL to San Francisco, CA.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in San Francisco, CA are:
- Golden Gate Bridge, an iconic suspension bridge offering panoramic views of the San Francisco Bay
- Alcatraz Island, a historic site featuring the infamous former prison and informative audio tours
- Fisherman's Wharf, a bustling waterfront area known for seafood, shops, and sea lions
- Golden Gate Park, a large urban park with gardens, museums, and recreational activities
- Chinatown, the oldest and one of the largest Chinatowns in North America, offering vibrant culture and cuisine.
The best things to do in San Francisco, CA include:
- Ride a cable car through the steep streets of San Francisco for a classic city experience
- Explore the vibrant murals and street art in the Mission District
- Visit the Exploratorium, an interactive science museum perfect for all ages
- Take a scenic walk along the Embarcadero, offering views of the Bay Bridge and access to the Ferry Building Marketplace
- Enjoy a wine tasting tour in nearby Napa Valley, a short drive from the city.
No, bikes are not allowed on board the bus from Tampa, FL to San Francisco, 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 Tampa, FL to San Francisco, CA.
No, luggage for the bus from Tampa, FL to San Francisco, CA needs to be booked in addition.
No, there are no additional luggage options for the bus from Tampa, FL to San Francisco, CA.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Tampa, FL to San Francisco, CA.
No, there are no USB plugs on board the bus from Tampa, FL to San Francisco, CA.
No, there is no WiFi on board the bus from Tampa, FL to San Francisco, CA.
Since neither Tampa, FL nor San Francisco, 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 flight as it is the most popular way to get from Tampa, FL to San Francisco, 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 Francisco, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like Fisherman's Wharf and Union Square. Common scams include distraction techniques used by groups to steal wallets and fake charity solicitations. It's advisable to avoid poorly lit or isolated areas at night and be wary of unofficial taxi 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 Tampa, FL to San Francisco, CA
Most Tampa, FL to San Francisco, CA buses use the Tampa, Marion Transit Center to San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29 station pair, with some services arriving at San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street. Use this guide to compare Tampa, FL and San Francisco, CA bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Tampa
Arrival bus stations in San Francisco
Which Tampa, FL station do buses to San Francisco, CA leave from?
Buses from Tampa, FL to San Francisco, CA leave from Tampa, Marion Transit Center. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Tampa, FL city centre at Marion Transit Center, 1211 N Marion St, Tampa, FL 33602, USA.
Tampa, Marion Transit CenterMarion Transit Center, 1211 N Marion St, Tampa, FL 33602, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Tampa, Marion Transit Center from Tampa city centre
Bus1, 5, 19, 30 · 3m · $5 · every ~15 min
Tampa, Marion Transit Center bus station facilities and services
Tampa, Marion Transit Center 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 Tampa, Marion Transit Center. ATMs are available at Tampa, Marion Transit Center.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Tampa, Marion Transit Center.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Tampa, Marion Transit Center: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Tampa, Marion Transit Center: Wheelchair accessible with ramps.
Tampa, USF Holly Drive (Central Plant)University of South Florida, Central Plant, 13302 USF Chestnut Dr, Tampa, FL 33620, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Tampa, USF Holly Drive (Central Plant) from Tampa city centre
Tampa, USF Holly Drive (Central Plant) is 13 km from Tampa city centre. Public transport options include:
BusFlixBus 2421 · 26m · $1
9, 400 · 1h 3m · $5 · every ~7 min
6 · 1h 9m · $5 · every ~5 min
Tampa, USF Holly Drive (Central Plant) bus station facilities and services
Tampa, USF Holly Drive (Central Plant) 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 Tampa, USF Holly Drive (Central Plant). ATMs are available at Tampa, USF Holly Drive (Central Plant).
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Tampa, USF Holly Drive (Central Plant).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Tampa, USF Holly Drive (Central Plant): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Tampa, USF Holly Drive (Central Plant): Wheelchair accessible facilities.
Which San Francisco, CA station do buses from Tampa, FL arrive at?
Buses from Tampa, FL to San Francisco, CA most often arrive at San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29. Some services arrive at San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your San Francisco, CA arrival station.
San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29Transit Center Bay 29, San Francisco, CA 94105, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29 from San Francisco city centre
San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29 is 2 km from San Francisco city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus397 · 8m · $2
14, 14R · 13m · $2 · every ~30 min
101, 120 · 14m · $6 · every ~9 min
7 · 21m · $2 · every ~10 min
SubwayYellow-N, Green-N, Red-N, Blue-N · 10m · $2 · every ~27 min
San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29 bus station facilities and services
San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29 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 San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29. ATMs are available at San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29: Wheelchair accessible areas present.
San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th StreetSan Francisco Bus Station,401 Townsend St,94107
City-centre transport
Getting to San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street from San Francisco city centre
BusEast, West · 20m · every ~4 min
Nbus, Nowl · 24m · $2 · every ~2 min
TramN · 23m · $2 · every ~11 min
Most popular bus connections from Tampa, FL
More options for your journey from Tampa, FL to San Francisco, CA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from San Francisco, CA and Tampa, FL
Most popular bus connections to San Francisco, CA
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