Washington, DC to San Diego, CA bus with Greyhound

Mon, Sep 14
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Washington, DC to San Diego, CA

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 14

Cheapest price on Sep 14

€385

Average ticket price on Sep 14

€394

Fastest journey on Sep 14

2 d 23 h 35 m

Average journey duration on Sep 14

2 d 23 h 35 m

Buses on Sep 14

2

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 €394 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €385.

Fast buses

On Mon, Sep 14, we found 2 buses from Washington, DC to San Diego, CA, including 2 direct services.

On Mon, Sep 14 the direct buses cover the 3653 km distance in an average of 2 d 23 h 35 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 2 d 23 h 35 m .

On Mon, Sep 14 the slowest buses will take 2 d 23 h 35 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.

  • Greyhound
    9:35 PM71h35
    Washington, DC
    9:10 PMSan Diego, CA
    3851One-way
    0 transfers
  • Greyhound
    10:35 PM71h35
    Washington, DC
    10:10 PMSan Diego, CA
    4041One-way
    0 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 bus, with an average ticket price of €288 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 9h 27m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €288, while a train costs an average of €1975.

Distance: 2269 miles (3653 km)

Compare bus with

Bus
Most popular
Flight
Train
Driving

€288

Average price

Cheapest

€499

Average price

€1975

Average price

€437

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

62h 49m

Average total duration

62h 19m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

9h 27m

Average total duration

Fastest

7h 27m

Onboard

+

2h 0m

Additional time*

69h 44m

Average total duration

69h 14m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

38h 48m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Greyhound

Most popular bus company

United

Most popular airline

Amtrak

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 bus with an average price of €288.

This is compared to other travel options from Washington, DC to San Diego, CA:

A bus is €211 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Washington, DC to San Diego, CA costing on average €499.

A bus is €1687 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Washington, DC to San Diego, CA costing on average €1975.

The fastest way to travel from Washington, DC to San Diego, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 7h 27m.

Other travel options to San Diego, CA take longer:

Bus takes on average 62h 19m.

Train takes on average 69h 14m.

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. It's the cheapest way to make this trip, and the price gap is usually bigger than people expect.

Tickets start at around €288 compared to roughly €437 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about €149. The journey takes 62h 19m versus 38h 48m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can use the time productively rather than spending it behind the wheel. No parking to sort, no fuel stops, and most coaches have Wi-Fi and power outlets.

Driving is worth considering if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), or want the flexibility to stop along the way.

Washington, DC to San Diego, CA Bus Timetables

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
02:10AM
Arrival Time
01:20AM
Duration
71h10
Departure days
Thu, Sun
Cheapest price
187
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
02:45AM
Arrival Time
12:45AM
Duration
70h00
Departure days
Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
297
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
03:10AM
Arrival Time
02:20AM
Duration
71h10
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
263
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
05:50AM
Arrival Time
10:15PM
Duration
67h25
Departure days
Tue
Cheapest price
131
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
09:50AM
Arrival Time
05:15AM
Duration
67h25
Departure days
Wed, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
109
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
10:50AM
Arrival Time
02:20AM
Duration
63h30
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
405
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
05:50PM
Arrival Time
04:25PM
Duration
73h35
Departure days
Tue
Cheapest price
129
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
09:35PM
Arrival Time
09:10PM
Duration
71h35
Departure days
Mon
Cheapest price
385
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
10:35PM
Arrival Time
10:10PM
Duration
71h35
Departure days
Mon, Wed, Fri
Cheapest price
146
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
11:45PM
Arrival Time
06:20PM
Duration
69h35
Departure days
Tue
Cheapest price
136

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, Sunday, September 13. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Greyhound9:50 AM Washington, DC
67h25
5:15 AM San Diego, CA0 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.

Mon
Sep 14
Tue
Sep 15
Wed
Sep 16
Thu
Sep 17
Fri
Sep 18
Sat
Sep 19
Sun
Sep 20

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
USAUSA
Icon of bus

Buses from Washington, DC to San Diego, CA run on average 10 times per day, taking around 62h 19m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at €134 but you can travel from only €98 by flight.

The earliest bus runs at 01:00, the last at 23:55. The fastest bus covers the 2269 miles (3653 km) distance in 56h 45m.

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 €98
Distance
2269 miles (3653 km)
Average bus duration
62h 19m
Cheapest ticket price
€134
Buses per day
10
Fastest bus
56h 45m
First bus
1:00 AM
Last bus
11:55 PM
Cheapest Month
Jun
Cheapest Day
Fri
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Mon
Least Busy Day
Mon
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 €98

Bus providers: Greyhound from Washington, DC to San Diego, CAYou can travel by bus between Washington, DC to San Diego, CA with Greyhound for as low as €134. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey

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 Greyhound Duration
56h 45m
Cheapest Greyhound Price
€134
Greyhound frequency
10 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

San Diego Museum of Art

Major Balboa Park museum with works from Spanish old masters to modern art, plus strong regional and international exhibitions.

  • 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.

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.

FAQs
Cheap bus tickets from Washington, DC to San Diego, CA can start from as little as €134 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Washington, DC to San Diego, CA is €288 ; 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 56h 45m 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 10 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.
When departing from Washington, DC , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including 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) . When arriving in San Diego, CA , you can end your journey in bus stations like San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), CA, San Diego, West Harbor Drive (The Headquarters at Seaport District), CA, San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center, La Jolla, UCSD Health La Jolla Station, CA, San Diego, Rail Ct / E San Ysidro Blvd (McDonald`s), CA .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station, which is located around 1 miles (2 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park), CA, located 5 away from the city centre.
A trip to San Diego, CA from Washington, DC is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 56h 45m 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, USAWifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Office
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 · €3 · 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, USAWifiParkingATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Office
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 · €3 · 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.

Most popular buses to and from San Diego, CA and Washington, DC

HomeBusesBuses in USABus tickets to San Diego, CAWashington, DC to San Diego, CA bus

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