- Must visit
San Francisco Museum of Modern Art
Major modern and contemporary art museum with an internationally important collection and a striking SoMa building.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest buses from Washington, DC to San Francisco, CA
Showing times and prices for May 29
Cheapest price
$154
Average price
$224
Fastest journey
2 d 21 h 50 m
Average duration
3 d 4 h 58 m
Buses per day
2
Distance
3919 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Washington, DC 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 Washington, DC to San Francisco, CA will cost around $224 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $154.
Fast buses
Of the 2 buses that leave Washington, DC for San Francisco, CA on Fri, May 29, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, May 29 the direct buses cover the 3919 km distance in an average of 3 d 4 h 58 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 2 d 21 h 50 m .
On Fri, May 29 the slowest buses will take 3 d 12 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 AM84h05Washington, DC3:15 PMSan Francisco, CA$1541One-way0 transfers- 9:35 PM69h50Washington, DC7:25 PMSan Francisco, CA$2931One-way0 transfers
- 9:35 PM69h50Washington, DC7:25 PMSan Francisco, CA$2931One-way0 transfers
- 3:10 AM84h05Washington, DC3:15 PMSan Francisco, CA$1541One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Washington, DC to San Francisco, CA
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Washington, DC to San Francisco, CA 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 6h 25m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a flight costs an average of $137, and a train costs an average of $193.
Distance: 2435 miles (3919 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Flight | Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$334 Average price | $294 Average price Cheapest | $711 Average price | $656 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
68h 57m Average total duration 68h 27m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 25m Average total duration Fastest 6h 25m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 73h 44m Average total duration 73h 14m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 41h 23m 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 Francisco, CA is a flight with an average price of $294 (€237).
This is compared to other travel options from Washington, DC to San Francisco, CA:
A flight is $40 (€32) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Washington, DC to San Francisco, CA costing on average $334 (€270).
A flight is $417 (€337) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Washington, DC to San Francisco, CA costing on average $711 (€574).
The fastest way to travel from Washington, DC to San Francisco, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 6h 25m.
Other travel options to San Francisco, CA take longer:
Bus takes on average 68h 27m.
Train takes on average 73h 14m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Washington, DC 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 Washington, DC 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.
Washington, DC to San Francisco, CA Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 02:10AM | Arrival Time 02:15PM | Duration 84h05 | Departure days Wed, Sun | Cheapest price $251 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 03:10AM | Arrival Time 03:15PM | Duration 84h05 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $154 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 01:30PM | Arrival Time 07:10AM | Duration 68h40 | Departure days Mon, Wed | Cheapest price $236 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 02:45PM | Arrival Time 02:15PM | Duration 71h30 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $221 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 02:55PM | Arrival Time 02:15PM | Duration 71h20 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $197 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 05:35PM | Arrival Time 02:15PM | Duration 68h40 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Sun | Cheapest price $178 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 06:35PM | Arrival Time 03:15PM | Duration 68h40 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $207 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 09:35PM | Arrival Time 07:25PM | Duration 69h50 | Departure days Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $293 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 10:35PM | Arrival Time 08:25PM | Duration 69h50 | Departure days Tue, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $277 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 11:35PM | Arrival Time 11:05AM | Duration 86h30 | Departure days Mon, Wed | Cheapest price $269 |
Live departures
Washington, DC to San Francisco, CA bus times
The table below shows live departures for Washington, DC 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 FlixBus+ · · | 1:30 PM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 68h40 | 7:10 AM San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29 | 4 transfers | |
| FlixBus+ · · | 1:30 PM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 72h35 | 11:05 AM San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street, CA | 5 transfers | |
| · · · | 5:35 PM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 69h50 | 12:25 PM San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29 | 3 transfers | |
| Thursday, May 28 | |||||
| 3:10 AM Washington, DC | 84h05 | 3:15 PM San Francisco, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Wednesday, May 27 | |||||
| FlixBus+ · · | 11:35 PM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 86h30 | 11:05 AM San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street, CA | 5 transfers | |
| FlixBus+ · · | 11:35 PM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 82h35 | 7:10 AM San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29 | 4 transfers | |
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 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.
Wed
May 27
May 27
Fri
May 29
May 29
Mon
Jun 01
Jun 01
Wed
Jun 03
Jun 03
Fri
Jun 05
Jun 05
Sun
Jun 07
Jun 07
Mon
Jun 08
Jun 08
Tue
Jun 09
Jun 09
Wed
Jun 10
Jun 10
Thu
Jun 11
Jun 11
Fri
Jun 12
Jun 12
Sat
Jun 13
Jun 13
Sun
Jun 14
Jun 14
Mon
Jun 15
Jun 15
Why should you book Washington, DC to San Francisco, CA buses with Omio?
Greyhound as well as FlixBus offer buses services from Washington, DC to San Francisco, CA.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Washington, DC to San Francisco, 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 Francisco, 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 bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Washington, DC to San Francisco, 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 Francisco, CA.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Washington, DC to San Francisco, CA.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Washington, DC to San Francisco, CA
USAUSA
Buses from Washington, DC to San Francisco, CA run on average 6 times per day, taking around 68h 27m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $148 (€119) but you can travel from only $137 (€110) by flight.
The earliest bus runs at 05:00, the last at 23:55. The fastest bus covers the 2435 miles (3919 km) distance in 68h 40m.
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 2435 miles (3919 km) |
Average bus duration 68h 27m |
Cheapest ticket price $148 (€119) |
Buses per day 6 |
Fastest bus 68h 40m |
First bus 5:00 AM |
Last bus 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 7 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 $137 (€110)
Bus providers: Greyhound, FlixBus from Washington, DC to San Francisco, CAYou can travel by bus between Washington, DC to San Francisco, CA with Greyhound, FlixBus for as low as $137 (€110). 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
65h 40m
Cheapest Price
$834 (€673)
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
68h 40m
Cheapest Price
$148 (€119)
Greyhound frequency
2 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 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 Washington, DC to San Francisco, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Washington, DC 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 Washington, DC to San Francisco, CA can start from as little as $148 (€119) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Washington, DC to San Francisco, CA is $334 (€270) ; 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 Francisco, CA is 68h 40m to travel the 2435 miles (3919 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 Francisco, CA leaves at 5:00 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Washington, DC to San Francisco, CA leaves at 11:55 PM.
There are 6 buses a day from Washington, DC to San Francisco, 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 Francisco, CA, you can count on Greyhound, FlixBus for the best way to get you to San Francisco, CA. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Washington, DC and San Francisco, 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 . When arriving in San Francisco, CA , you can end your journey in bus stations like San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street, CA, San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29, Hayward BART Station, Oakland, West Oakland BART Station, CA .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station, which is located around 2 away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street, CA, located 0 away from the city centre.
A trip to San Francisco, CA from Washington, DC is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 68h 40m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Washington, DC to San Francisco, CA is May.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Washington, DC and San Francisco, CA including taking a bus, train, and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Washington, DC to San Francisco, 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 Francisco, CA for bus company Greyhound, FlixBus.
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.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Washington, DC to San Francisco, 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 Francisco, CA.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Washington, DC to San Francisco, 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 Francisco, 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 Francisco, 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 Francisco, CA with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Washington, DC to San Francisco, CA with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Washington, DC to San Francisco, CA with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Since neither Washington, DC 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 Washington, DC 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 Washington, DC to San Francisco, CA
Washington
San Francisco
The major bus station for departures in Washington is Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station for your trip from Washington to San Francisco.
Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station
Amenities at bus station
WifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Officeinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 05:00-23:00
Distance to city center
2 km
Car connection
Massachusetts Ave NEWifi
- Free Wi-Fi
Dining
- McDonald's (in the station)
- Shake Shack (in the station)
Taxis
- Available outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps
WC
- Available in the station.
Public transit options for Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station
- Bus: 96, 97, D6 Metro: Red Train: Amtrak, MARC, VRE
Washington, DuPont Circle (Connecticut Ave. NW / 20th St. NW)
information
The major bus station for arrivals in San Francisco is San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street for your trip to San Francisco from Washington.
San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street
information
San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29
information
More options for your journey from Washington, DC 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 Washington, DC
Most popular bus connections to San Francisco, CA
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
