- Must visit
San Diego Museum of Art
Major Balboa Park museum with works from Spanish old masters to modern art, plus strong regional and international exhibitions.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Washington, DC to San Diego, CA
Showing times and prices for Jul 31
Cheapest price
$309
Average price
$339
Fastest journey
2 d 23 h 10 m
Average duration
3 d 25 m
Buses per day
3
Distance
3653 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Washington, DC to San Diego, CA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Washington, DC to San Diego, CA will cost around $339 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $309.
Fast buses
Of the 3 buses that leave Washington, DC for San Diego, CA on Fri, Jul 31, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, Jul 31 the direct buses cover the 3653 km distance in an average of 3 d 25 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 2 d 23 h 10 m .
On Fri, Jul 31 the slowest buses will take 3 d 2 h 30 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.
10:35 PM71h35Washington, DC10:10 PMSan Diego, CA$3091One-way0 transfers- 3:10 AM71h10Washington, DC2:20 AMSan Diego, CA$3191One-way0 transfers
- 2:45 AM74h30Washington, DC5:15 AMSan Diego, CA$3881One-way0 transfers
- 3:10 AM71h10Washington, DC2:20 AMSan Diego, CA$3191One-way0 transfers
- 10:35 PM71h35Washington, DC10:10 PMSan Diego, CA$3091One-way0 transfers
- 2:45 AM74h30Washington, DC5:15 AMSan Diego, CA$3881One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Washington, DC to San Diego, CA
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Washington, DC to San Diego, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the flight with prices starting from $150. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 6h 34m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a flight costs an average of $150, and a train costs an average of $311.
Distance: 2269 miles (3653 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Flight | Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$336 Average price | $284 Average price Cheapest | $612 Average price | $522 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
56h 35m Average total duration 56h 5m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 34m Average total duration Fastest 6h 34m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 72h 17m Average total duration 71h 47m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 38h 48m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline |  Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Washington, DC to San Diego, CA is a flight with an average price of $284 (€234).
This is compared to other travel options from Washington, DC to San Diego, CA:
A flight is $52 (€43) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Washington, DC to San Diego, CA costing on average $336 (€277).
A flight is $329 (€271) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Washington, DC to San Diego, CA costing on average $612 (€505).
The fastest way to travel from Washington, DC to San Diego, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 6h 34m.
Other travel options to San Diego, CA take longer:
Bus takes on average 56h 5m.
Train takes on average 71h 47m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Washington, DC and San Diego, CA including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Washington, DC to San Diego, 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.
Washington, DC to San Diego, CA Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 02:10AM | Arrival Time 01:20AM | Duration 71h10 | Departure days Thu, Sun | Cheapest price $227 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 02:45AM | Arrival Time 12:45AM | Duration 70h00 | Departure days Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $361 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 03:10AM | Arrival Time 02:20AM | Duration 71h10 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $319 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 05:50AM | Arrival Time 06:20PM | Duration 63h30 | Departure days Tue, Sun | Cheapest price $220 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 09:50AM | Arrival Time 01:20AM | Duration 63h30 | Departure days Wed, Sat | Cheapest price $192 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 10:05AM | Arrival Time 10:15PM | Duration 87h10 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $249 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 10:50AM | Arrival Time 02:20AM | Duration 63h30 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $491 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 05:35PM | Arrival Time 06:20PM | Duration 75h45 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $204 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 05:50PM | Arrival Time 06:20PM | Duration 75h30 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $227 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 09:35PM | Arrival Time 09:10PM | Duration 71h35 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $467 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 10:35PM | Arrival Time 10:10PM | Duration 71h35 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Fri | Cheapest price $177 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 11:30PM | Arrival Time 06:10PM | Duration 69h40 | Departure days Tue, Sun | Cheapest price $285 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 11:35PM | Arrival Time 06:10PM | Duration 69h35 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $222 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 11:45PM | Arrival Time 10:15PM | Duration 73h30 | Departure days Tue, Sun | Cheapest price $209 |
Live departures
Washington, DC to San Diego, CA bus times
The table below shows live departures for Washington, DC to San Diego, CA buses for today, Thursday, July 30. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2:45 AM Washington, DC | 70h00 | 12:45 AM San Diego, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Washington, DC to San Diego, CA by train, bus, or flight
Compare train, bus, 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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Jul 31
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Why should you book Washington, DC to San Diego, CA buses with Omio?
Greyhound as well as FlixBus offer buses services from Washington, DC to San Diego, CA.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Washington, DC to San Diego, CA.
Why book with Omio vs Greyhound?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Greyhound, but also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Washington, DC to San Diego, CA.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Greyhound with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Washington, DC to San Diego, CA.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Washington, DC to San Diego, CA.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Washington, DC to San Diego, CA.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Washington, DC to San Diego, CA
USAUSA
Buses from Washington, DC to San Diego, CA run on average 12 times per day, taking around 56h 5m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $132 (€109) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 01:00, the last at 23:55. The fastest bus covers the 2269 miles (3653 km) distance in 63h 20m.
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 2269 miles (3653 km) |
Average bus duration 56h 5m |
Cheapest ticket price $132 (€109) |
Buses per day 12 |
Fastest bus 63h 20m |
First bus 1:00 AM |
Last bus 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jan - Mar |
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
Bus providers: Greyhound, FlixBus from Washington, DC to San Diego, CAYou can travel by bus between Washington, DC to San Diego, CA with Greyhound, FlixBus for as low as $132 (€109). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
FlixBus
About
FlixBus is one of Europe’s leading low-cost bus companies, founded in Germany and now offering long-distance services across Europe and the United States. In addition to its extensive daytime network, FlixBus also operates overnight buses on select European routes. Standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, power outlets to charge devices, extra legroom, luggage space, and onboard toilets, with snacks and drinks available for purchase. FlixBus offers a single Standard ticket type for all routes, which includes one carry-on bag and one checked bag per passenger. Additional fees apply for extra luggage and for reserving specific seats, such as Extra Seats, Table Seats, or Panorama Seats. This combination of affordability, comfort, and wide coverage makes FlixBus a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
63h 50m
Cheapest Price
$762 (€628)
FlixBus frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed for a fee; must be booked.
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed; guide dogs travel for free.
Greyhound
About
Greyhound Lines, Inc. is a prominent American intercity bus transportation provider, established in 1914. It operates the largest intercity bus network in the United States, also extending services to Canada and Mexico. Greyhound is known for offering affordable and reliable long-distance travel, connecting major cities and rural communities across North America. The company's buses are equipped with amenities such as free Wi-Fi, power outlets, and extra legroom to enhance passenger comfort. Greyhound is a subsidiary of Flix SE, which also owns FlixBus, and together they offer an extensive network of over 1,600 destinations.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
63h 20m
Cheapest Price
$132 (€109)
Greyhound frequency
12 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 25 lbs (11 kg) and one checked bag up to 50 lbs (23 kg).
Additional luggage
$15 per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket for a refund or exchange up to 24 hours before departure, for a cancellation fee applied.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed.
Complete guide to San Diego, CA
Things to do in San Diego, CA
Discover the best of San Diego, CA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect San Diego, CA trip today.
- Must visit
Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego
Acclaimed contemporary art museum in La Jolla featuring oceanfront settings, modern works, and rotating global exhibitions.
- Must visit
USS Midway Museum
Museum aboard a historic aircraft carrier with restored aircraft, naval exhibits, and immersive views of life at sea.
- Must visit
Balboa Park
Balboa Park is San Diego's grand cultural park, packed with gardens, architecture, museums, and walkable plazas worth lingering in.
- Must visit
Gaslamp Quarter
Historic Gaslamp Quarter offers Victorian-era streets, nightlife energy, and preserved downtown architecture for an atmospheric walk.
- Must visit
La Jolla Cove
Dramatic seaside cliffs and walking paths in La Jolla, famous for waves, sea lions, and sweeping Pacific views.
Fish Taco
A San Diego staple: grilled fish in a soft tortilla with cabbage, crema, and salsa. Popularized by Baja influence and coastal seafood culture.
California Burrito
French fries, carne asada, cheese, guacamole, and crema wrapped in a flour tortilla. A late-night local favorite born in San Diego taquerias.
- Gluten-free
Sea Urchin (Uni)
Fresh local sea urchin served raw, prized for its rich, buttery taste. It reflects San Diego's access to Pacific seafood and sushi culture.
Sushi Ota
Celebrated sushi restaurant specializing in omakase and pristine seafood, including uni. Intimate, polished, and highly respected by locals.
Mitch's Seafood
Iconic casual seafood counter known for fish tacos, smoked fish, and harbor views. A classic stop for San Diego's Baja-inspired seafood style.
Juniper and Ivy
Refined fine-dining restaurant showcasing local seafood and seasonal California ingredients. Elegant room with one of the city's strongest reputations.
US Dollar ($)
San Diego is pricey for US travel, with higher hotel rates, dining, and parking than many cities, though casual food and buses stay manageable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $10-18 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- $25-45 per person for a mid-range meal.
- Fine dining
- $75+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- $4-6 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, 15-20% for taxis or rideshares, and $1-2 for coffee drinks or small cafe orders.
FAQs: Bus from Washington, DC to San Diego, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Washington, DC to San Diego, 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 Diego, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Washington, DC to San Diego, CA can start from as little as $132 (€109) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Washington, DC to San Diego, CA is $336 (€277) ; 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 Washington, DC to San Diego, CA is 63h 20m to travel the 2269 miles (3653 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 Washington, DC to San Diego, CA leaves at 1:00 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Washington, DC to San Diego, CA leaves at 11:55 PM.
There are 12 buses a day from Washington, DC to San Diego, CA which require at least one change with Greyhound, FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Washington, DC to San Diego, CA, you can count on Greyhound, FlixBus for the best way to get you to San Diego, CA. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Washington, DC and San Diego, CA and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to San Diego, CA from Washington, DC is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 63h 20m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Washington, DC to San Diego, CA is June.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Washington, DC and San Diego, CA including taking a train, bus, and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Washington, DC to San Diego, CA:
- Greyhound
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Washington, DC to San Diego, CA for bus company Greyhound, FlixBus.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in San Diego, CA are:
- Balboa Park, a sprawling urban park with museums, gardens, and the San Diego Zoo
- USS Midway Museum, a historic naval aircraft carrier museum offering interactive exhibits and tours
- La Jolla Cove, a picturesque coastal area known for its stunning views and marine life
- Gaslamp Quarter, a lively historic district with Victorian architecture, dining, and entertainment options
- Coronado Beach, a beautiful sandy beach known for its gentle waves and iconic hotel.
The best things to do in San Diego, CA include:
- Explore the vibrant art scene at the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego
- enjoy a harbor cruise for stunning views of the skyline and naval ships
- hike the scenic trails at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve
- visit the Birch Aquarium to learn about marine life and ocean conservation
- experience the thrill of a whale watching tour off the coast.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Washington, DC to San Diego, CA depends on the bus companies:
- Greyhound
- You can cancel your ticket for a refund or exchange up to 24 hours before departure, for a cancellation fee applied.
- FlixBus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company Greyhound, FlixBus.
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.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Washington, DC to San Diego, CA.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Washington, DC to San Diego, CA:
- Greyhound
- One carry-on bag up to 25 lbs (11 kg) and one checked bag up to 50 lbs (23 kg).
- FlixBus
- One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Washington, DC to San Diego, CA:
- Greyhound
- $15 per additional bag.
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Washington, DC to San Diego, CA. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Washington, DC to San Diego, CA with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Washington, DC to San Diego, CA with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Washington, DC to San Diego, CA with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Since neither Washington, DC nor San Diego, 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 Washington, DC to San Diego, 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 Diego, CA, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like beaches, public transportation, and popular tourist spots such as the Gaslamp Quarter and Old Town. Common scams include overpriced parking fees and unauthorized ticket sellers near attractions. Staying aware of surroundings, securing belongings, and using official transportation services help reduce risks. Additionally, travelers should avoid isolated areas at night and be mindful of local traffic laws when using scooters or bikes.
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 Washington, DC to San Diego, CA
Most Washington, DC to San Diego, CA buses use the Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station to San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park) station pair, with some services arriving at San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District). Use this guide to compare Washington, DC and San Diego, CA bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Washington
Arrival bus stations in San Diego
Which Washington, DC station do buses to San Diego, CA leave from?
Buses from Washington, DC to San Diego, CA leave from Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station. The station is 1 miles (3 km) from Washington, DC city centre at 50 Massachusetts Ave NE, Washington, DC 20002, USA.
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
San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park)
City-centre transport
Getting to San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park) from San Diego city centre
BusFlixBus 2017 · 20m · $1
83 · 26m · $6
TramGreen, Blue, Event · 16m · every ~18 min
Blue · 21m · every ~9 min
San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District)
San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center
City-centre transport
Getting to San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center from San Diego city centre
BusFlixBus 2017 · 25m · $2
910 · 41m · $6
TramBlue · 41m · $17 · every ~14 min
Blue · 43m · $17 · every ~14 min
More options for your journey from Washington, DC to San Diego, CA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from San Diego, CA and Washington, DC
Most popular bus connections to San Diego, CA
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