Cheap bus tickets from Denver to San Francisco

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Bus from Denver to San Francisco: Journey Information

There are 2 intercity buses per day from Denver to San Francisco. Travelling by bus from Denver to San Francisco usually takes around 1 day, 18 hours and 51 minutes, but the fastest FlixBus US bus can make the trip in 1 day and 18 hours.

Distance
947 mi (1525 km)
Shortest duration
42h
Cheapest price
$185.49
Trips per day
2
Most frequent service
FlixBus US
Bus lines
1

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Denver to San Francisco Bus Schedule

Is it better to travel by bus or train from Denver to San Francisco?

There is usually 1 daily train trip available from Denver to San Francisco.

Bus
Train
Avg. Price$340.45Avg. Price$332.05Cheaper
Daily Trips2Daily Trips1
Duration42h 51mDuration34h 1mFaster
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How much is a bus ticket from Denver to San Francisco?

Bus tickets for a trip from Denver to San Francisco cost about $220 when you book at the cheapest time, 28 days ahead. Bus tickets on this route can be a bit expensive due to the length of the trip. But even with a higher price tag, taking the bus is often more affordable than flying to San Francisco. If you book your trip ahead of time using Wanderu, you can easily find bus tickets at or below this price.

Average bus ticket prices from Denver to San Francisco by travel date

$300$200$100NovNov

If you're planning to travel by bus from Denver to San Francisco in the next month, the average ticket price is expected to range from $216 to $297. The cheapest bus tickets available in the next few weeks are for trips departing on November 18, 2026. If you’re looking to travel to San Francisco this week, bus tickets are available starting at $246.

Prices as travel date approaches

$500$400$300$200$1000

Most bus companies charge higher ticket prices closer to the date of travel, so it’s a good idea to buy your bus tickets as early as possible. To find the cheapest bus tickets, book your trip at least 28 days in advance. This way, you can save up to $265.55 on your bus ticket compared to booking last-minute.

What bus companies travel from Denver to San Francisco?

There is one intercity bus company available to search and book on Wanderu that operates from Denver to San Francisco. FlixBus US is the one bus line that serves this route. Although it's the sole option, there are a couple of different scheduled times to choose from.

BusDaily TripsAvg. TimeAvg. Price
FlixBus US242h 51m$340.44
  • FlixBus US is the American branch of German bus company FlixBus, known for providing sustainable, affordable, and modern bus travel. The company offers cheap bus tickets to popular urban destinations throughout the United States. FlixBus US buses include many amenities, including comfortable seats, free WiFi, power outlets at every seat, and an online portal for free entertainment. On average, FlixBus US operates 2 trips per day from Denver to San Francisco, and the average ticket for this route costs only $340.44.

    USFLX-0USFLX-1USFLX-2USFLX-3USFLX-4USFLX-5

Frequently asked questions about travelling by bus from Denver to San Francisco

There are usually only 2 buses per day from Denver to San Francisco. However, neither bus offers direct service, so you will have to get off your original vehicle to transfer buses during the trip. Need more travel options? Consider taking the train from Denver to San Francisco; ticket prices start at $190.

Trips per day

2

Direct trips

0

The bus takes an average of 1 day, 18 hours and 51 minutes to cover the 1,525 kilometres from Denver to San Francisco. However, the fastest bus only takes 1 day and 18 hours. It’s definitely on the longer side, so plan to get comfortable for a long road trip. Keep in mind that your actual bus may arrive earlier or later than scheduled, depending on whether there is more or less traffic than usual.

Distance (mi)

947

Distance (km)

1525

The first bus leaves at 2:10 p.m. and the last bus leaves at 2:10 p.m. To see the times for all buses from Denver to San Francisco, enter your specific travel dates in the search bar.

Earliest bus

2:10pm

Latest bus

2:10pm

With many people travelling in the middle of the week, Wednesday is the busiest day of the week for bus travel. If you are planning to travel on a Wednesday, you should make sure to book tickets well in advance as they may sell out. On the other hand, Saturday is typically the least busy day for bus travel on this route. If you’re looking for a little extra space, a Saturday ticket is the way to go.

Most crowded

Wednesday

Least crowded

Saturday

City Information

Denver

Denver, CO - DEN-0Denver, CO - DEN-1Denver, CO - DEN-2

Denver is the capital of Colorado, as well as the most populous city in the state. With buildings dating back to the 19th century, Denver is considered one of the most exemplary cities of the Old West era in the United States.

Denver’s proximity to the Rocky Mountains makes it a preferred destination for young travellers seeking the thrill of the slopes during the day and the vibrant nightlife activities only an urban setting can provide. In fact, Denver is among the biggest party cities in the U.S. and one of the craft beer capitals in the country. In addition, thanks to the diverse local crowd, Denver’s restaurant scene offers top-notch options from various world cuisines.

If you’re looking for a more quiet time during your stay, head to one of the many unique museums in town such as the Denver Art Museum, the Kirkland Museum of Fine & Decorative Arts, or the Molly Brown House Museum. Craving a feast to the eyes and some fresh air? Check out the spectacular Denver Botanic Gardens.

As the biggest city in the Mountain states and a top Colorado destination, Denver is a busy travel hub. Even though the Denver airport is on the city’s outskirts, it is still easily accessible. If you are travelling to Denver by bus or train, you’ll be conveniently dropped off at Union Station in the heart of downtown Denver from where you can easily get anywhere in the city.

San Francisco

San Francisco, CA - SFO-0San Francisco, CA - SFO-1San Francisco, CA - SFO-2

Located in the heart of Northern California's Bay Area, San Francisco is a geographically small but culturally huge city known for its historic cable cars, active waterfront, and the eclectic mix of hippies and techies who call it home. While it might be one of the most expensive U.S. cities to live in, San Fran can actually be very cheap to visit, and there is no shortage of unique sights to see.

If the city's omnipresent fog (nicknamed “Karl the Fog” by locals) takes a break, the best views and Instagram photo ops of the world-famous Golden Gate Bridge are found in Golden Gate Park. Stroll through the oldest Chinatown in North America to find the perfect dim sum, or if you and your boo prefer a little Full House moment, try a romantic picnic at Alamo Square Park in front of the Victorian “Painted Ladies.” After all, San Francisco is one of the best vacation destinations for couples.

Since the city is condensed onto a small peninsula, exploring by bike is an efficient and scenic way to get around. When you’re ready to travel beyond city limits, San Francisco is a convenient hub for trips throughout Northern California. It's actually the first stop on Wanderu's West Coast Wine Tour, with the next stop, obviously, in Napa Valley. Whether travelling by bus, train, or through either of the two nearby airports, San Francisco is a can't-miss destination.

Station Information

Where does the bus leave from in Denver?

Main departure station: Union Station - 1700 Wewatta St (Buses)

Denver’s Union Station first opened in 1881, and houses some of the city’s best shops, bars, and restaurants, making it a popular destination for locals and travellers alike. There is even a seasonal farmers market at the station! But first and foremost, Union Station is the primary transport hub for Denver. The station is served by Amtrak trains, and intercity buses operated by Greyhound, Burlington Trailways, Jefferson Lines and Express Arrow. From Union Station, travellers can also easily access Denver International Airport on the A Line commuter rail.

All bus stations in Denver:

  • Union Station - 1700 Wewatta St (Buses)

Where does the bus arrive in San Francisco?

Main arrival station: Caltrain Station - 5th & Townsend St

These are the two stations where buses may stop when they arrive in San Francisco.

All bus stations in San Francisco:

  • Caltrain Station - 5th & Townsend St
  • Salesforce Transit Center

Need a return trip from San Francisco to Denver?

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