- Must visit
San Francisco Museum of Modern Art
Major modern and contemporary art museum with an internationally important collection and a striking SoMa building.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Tampa, FL to San Francisco, CA
Showing times and prices for May 28
Cheapest price
$326
Average price
$326
Fastest journey
2 d 23 h 5 m
Average duration
2 d 23 h 5 m
Buses per day
1
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 $326 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $326.
Fast buses
Of the 1 buses that leave Tampa, FL for San Francisco, CA on Thu, May 28, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Thu, May 28 the direct buses cover the 3857 km distance in an average of 2 d 23 h 5 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 2 d 23 h 5 m .
On Thu, May 28 the slowest buses will take 2 d 23 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.
3:10 PM71h05Tampa, FL2:15 PMSan Francisco, CA$3261One-way0 transfers
- 3:10 PM71h05Tampa, FL2:15 PMSan Francisco, CA$3261One-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 flight with prices starting from $132. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 5h 46m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a flight costs an average of $132, and a train costs an average of $292.
Distance: 2396 miles (3857 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Flight | Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$324 Average price | $294 Average price Cheapest | $947 Average price | $570 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
75h 10m Average total duration 74h 40m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 46m Average total duration Fastest 5h 46m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 100h 26m Average total duration 99h 56m Onboard + 30m 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 flight with an average price of $294 (€237).
This is compared to other travel options from Tampa, FL to San Francisco, CA:
A flight is $30 (€24) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Tampa, FL to San Francisco, CA costing on average $324 (€261).
A flight is $653 (€526) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Tampa, FL to San Francisco, CA costing on average $947 (€763).
The fastest way to travel from Tampa, FL to San Francisco, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 5h 46m.
Other travel options to San Francisco, CA take longer:
Bus takes on average 74h 40m.
Train takes on average 99h 56m.
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 06:20AM | Arrival Time 11:05AM | Duration 79h45 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $224 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 11:10AM | Arrival Time 07:15AM | Duration 71h05 | Departure days Mon, Wed | Cheapest price $207 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 03:10PM | Arrival Time 02:15PM | Duration 71h05 | Departure days Thu, Sun | Cheapest price $241 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 04:10PM | Arrival Time 03:15PM | Duration 71h05 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $162 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 09:15PM | Arrival Time 12:50AM | Duration 75h35 | Departure days Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $239 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 10:10PM | Arrival Time 11:05AM | Duration 87h55 | Departure days Mon, Wed | Cheapest price $230 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 10:25PM | Arrival Time 02:05AM | Duration 75h40 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $622 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 10:35PM | Arrival Time 11:05AM | Duration 87h30 | Departure days Mon, Wed | Cheapest price $230 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 10:55PM | Arrival Time 07:05AM | Duration 80h10 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $510 |
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, Wednesday, May 27. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| · · · | 11:10 AM Tampa, Marion Transit Center | 71h05 | 7:15 AM San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29 | 5 transfers | |
 FlixBus+ · · | 10:10 PM Tampa, USF Holly Drive (Central Plant), FL | 87h55 | 11:05 AM San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street, CA | 5 transfers | |
| FlixBus+ · · | 10:10 PM Tampa, USF Holly Drive (Central Plant), FL | 84h05 | 7:15 AM San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29 | 4 transfers | |
| FlixBus+ · · | 10:35 PM Tampa, Marion Transit Center | 87h30 | 11:05 AM San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street, CA | 5 transfers | |
| FlixBus+ · · | 10:35 PM Tampa, Marion Transit Center | 83h40 | 7:15 AM San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29 | 4 transfers |
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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May 28
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May 29
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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 9 times per day, taking around 74h 40m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $162 (€131) but you can travel from only $132 (€106) by flight.
The earliest bus runs at 06:10, the last at 23:50. The fastest bus covers the 2396 miles (3857 km) distance in 71h 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 $132 (€106)
Distance 2396 miles (3857 km) |
Average bus duration 74h 40m |
Cheapest ticket price $162 (€131) |
Buses per day 9 |
Fastest bus 71h 5m |
First bus 6:10 AM |
Last bus 11:50 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $132 (€106)
Complete guide to San Francisco
Things to do in San Francisco
Discover the best of San Francisco — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect San Francisco trip today.
- Must visit
Exploratorium
Hands-on science and perception museum on the Embarcadero, especially popular for interactive exhibits and bay views.
- Must visit
California Academy of Sciences
Large natural history and science museum with aquarium, planetarium, and rainforest dome in Golden Gate Park.
- Must visit
Golden Gate Park
Expansive urban park with gardens, lakes, museums, trails, and some of the city's best walking and cycling space.
- Must visit
Chinatown
One of North America's oldest and most vibrant Chinatowns, packed with temples, gates, markets, and side streets.
- Must visit
Lands End
Dramatic coastal walking area with cliffs, cypress-lined trails, Golden Gate views, and Sutro Baths ruins nearby.
- Gluten-free
Cioppino
A tomato-based seafood stew created by Italian immigrant fishermen in San Francisco. It typically includes crab, clams, mussels, shrimp, and fish, and is one of the city’s signature dishes.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Sourdough Bread
San Francisco is famous for its tangy sourdough, shaped by local wild yeast cultures. It is a historic staple often served as a loaf, toast, or bread bowl.
Mission-Style Burrito
A large foil-wrapped burrito associated with the Mission District, packed with rice, beans, meat or other fillings, salsa, and extras. It is one of the city’s most influential casual foods.
La Taqueria
A Mission District institution celebrated for outstanding Mission-style burritos and tacos. Lively, casual, and widely regarded as one of the city’s essential eats.
Swan Oyster Depot
A legendary seafood counter famous for ultra-fresh oysters, crab, and seafood cocktails. Casual, iconic, and one of the city’s best-known classic stops.
The House
A popular restaurant serving Asian fusion dishes with bold flavors in a cozy setting. Well known for garlic noodles and seafood-focused plates.
United States Dollar
San Francisco is one of the priciest U.S. cities. Hotels, dining, and parking are costly, though casual food options exist.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 12-20 for fast casual or takeout.
- Mid-range
- USD 25-45 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 90+ per person before drinks and tax.
- Coffee
- USD 4-7 for drip coffee or a latte.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants; 20%+ for excellent service. Bars: USD 1-2 per drink. Taxis/rideshares: 10-15%. Hotel staff: USD 2-5. Not expected at fast food.
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 $162 (€131) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Tampa, FL to San Francisco, CA is $324 (€261) ; 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 71h 5m 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.
A trip to San Francisco, CA from Tampa, FL is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 71h 5m 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
Tampa
San Francisco
The major bus station for departures in Tampa is Tampa, Marion Transit Center. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Tampa, Marion Transit Center for your trip from Tampa to San Francisco.
Tampa, Marion Transit Center
information
Tampa, USF Holly Drive (Central Plant)
information
The major bus station for arrivals in San Francisco is San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29 for your trip to San Francisco from Tampa.
San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29
information
San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street
information
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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