Washington, DC to San Francisco, CA bus with Greyhound

Wed, Apr 01
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Washington, DC to San Francisco, CA

Showing times and prices for Apr 02

Cheapest price

$350

Average price

$387

Fastest journey

2 d 21 h 50 m

Average duration

3 d 3 h 7 m

Buses per day

5

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 $387 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $350.

Fast buses

It's difficult to get from Washington, DC to San Francisco, CA without transferring at least 3 times.

  • Greyhoundundefined · undefined · undefined · undefined
    5:35 PM69h50
    Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station
    12:25 PMSan Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29
    $3501One-way
    3 transfers
  • Greyhoundundefined · undefined · undefined · undefined
    5:35 PM75h00
    Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station
    5:35 PMSan Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street, CA
    $3541One-way
    4 transfers
  • Greyhoundundefined · undefined · undefined · undefined
    10:45 AM75h20
    Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station
    11:05 AMSan Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street, CA
    $4081One-way
    5 transfers
  • Greyhoundundefined · undefined · undefined · undefined
    10:55 AM71h20
    Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station
    7:15 AMSan Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29
    $4101One-way
    5 transfers
  • Greyhoundundefined · undefined · undefined · undefined
    10:10 PM84h05
    Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station
    7:15 AMSan Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29
    $4151One-way
    5 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 $107. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 6h 26m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a flight costs an average of $107, and a train costs an average of $212.

Distance: 2435 miles (3919 km)

Compare bus with

Bus
Most popular
Flight
Train

$353

Average price

$266

Average price

Cheapest

$708

Average price

71h 50m

Average total duration

71h 20m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

9h 26m

Average total duration

Fastest

6h 26m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

73h 44m

Average total duration

73h 14m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

Greyhound

Most popular bus company

United

Most popular airline

Amtrak

Most popular train company

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Washington, DC to San Francisco, CA Bus Timetables

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
10:45AM
Arrival Time
11:05AM
Duration
75h20
Departure days
Wed, Thu
Cheapest price
$408
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
10:55AM
Arrival Time
07:15AM
Duration
71h20
Departure days
Wed, Thu
Cheapest price
$410
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
05:35PM
Arrival Time
12:25PM
Duration
69h50
Departure days
Wed, Thu
Cheapest price
$331
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
10:10PM
Arrival Time
07:15AM
Duration
84h05
Departure days
Wed, Thu
Cheapest price
$393

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, April 1. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
greyhoundundefined · undefined · undefined · undefined2:45 PM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station
75h20
6:05 PM San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street, CA5 transfers
greyhoundundefined · undefined · undefined · undefined2:55 PM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station
71h20
2:15 PM San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 295 transfers
greyhoundundefined · undefined · undefined · undefined9:35 PM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station
69h50
7:25 PM San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 293 transfers
Thursday, April 2
greyhoundundefined · undefined · undefined · undefined2:10 AM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station
84h05
2:15 PM San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 295 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.

Thu
Apr 02
Fri
Apr 03
Sat
Apr 04
Sun
Apr 05
Mon
Apr 06
Tue
Apr 07
Wed
Apr 08

Why should you book Washington, DC to San Francisco, CA buses with Omio?

Greyhound operates all 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?

  • 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?

  • 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
USAUSA
Icon of bus

Buses from Washington, DC to San Francisco, CA run on average 6 times per day, taking around 71h 20m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $154 (€125) but you can travel from only $107 (€87) 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 $107 (€87)
Distance
2435 miles (3919 km)
Average bus duration
71h 20m
Cheapest ticket price
$154 (€125)
Buses per day
6
Fastest bus
68h 40m
First bus
5:00 AM
Last bus
11:55 PM
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 $107 (€87)

Bus providers: Greyhound from Washington, DC to San Francisco, CAYou can travel by bus between Washington, DC to San Francisco, CA with Greyhound for as low as $107 (€87). 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 Duration
68h 40m
Cheapest Price
$154 (€125)
Greyhound frequency
6 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.

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.

FAQs
Cheap bus tickets from Washington, DC to San Francisco, CA can start from as little as $154 (€125) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Washington, DC to San Francisco, CA is $353 (€287) ; 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. 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 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.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Washington, DC to San Francisco, CA for bus company Greyhound.
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.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company Greyhound.
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).
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.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Washington, DC to San Francisco, CA.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Washington, DC to San Francisco, CA with the following bus company: Greyhound
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Washington, DC to San Francisco, CA with the following bus company: Greyhound.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Washington, DC to San Francisco, CA with the following bus company: Greyhound.

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 StationWifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Office
Amenities at bus station
WifiWifi
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 05:00-23:00
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
2 km
carConnection
Car connection
Massachusetts Ave NE
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free Wi-Fi
Dining
Dining
  • McDonald's (in the station)
  • Shake Shack (in the station)
Taxis
Taxis
  • Available outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Elevators, ramps
WC
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

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

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

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