Iowa City, IA, USA to Madison, WI, USA from $30: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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How to Get from Iowa City to Madison: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$30 by carBest price

283 kmDistance

3h 14m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Iowa City to Madison with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

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Iowa City - Madison operators

Explore transport companies operating between Iowa City and Madison, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Bus

Contact phone

1(800) 992-4618

Website

burlingtontrailways.com

Bus from Iowa City, Ia to Chicago, Il

Average Duration

2h 15m

Estimated price

$50-670

Bus from Chicago Union Station to Madison

Average Duration

3h 35m

Estimated price

$1625-1623

Bus from Iowa City, Ia to Davenport, Ia

Average Duration

1h 5m

Estimated price

$1622-1623

Contact phone

+1 (855) 626-8585

Website

flixbus.com

Bus from Chicago Bus Station to Madison

Average Duration

3h 40m

Estimated price

$1626-1620

Contact phone

+1 608-752-5407

Website

coachusa.com

Bus from Chicago Union Station to Madison, WI-Lake St.

Average Duration

3h 40m

Estimated price

$1625-1623

Train

Contact phone

+1 800-872-7245

Website

amtrak.com

Train from Chicago Union Station to Milwaukee

Average Duration

1h 29m

Estimated price

$1379-670

Train from Milwaukee to Madison

Average Duration

1h 45m

Estimated price

$1627-1628

Plane

Website

united.com

Plane from Cedar Rapids (CID) to Madison (MSN)

Average Duration

3h 25m

Estimated price

$745-747

Plane from Moline (MLI) to Madison (MSN)

Average Duration

3h 29m

Estimated price

$744-748

Website

aa.com

Plane from Cedar Rapids (CID) to Madison (MSN)

Average Duration

4h 58m

Estimated price

$745-747

Plane from Moline (MLI) to Madison (MSN)

Average Duration

5h 9m

Estimated price

$1371-1372

Website

delta.com

Plane from Cedar Rapids (CID) to Madison (MSN)

Average Duration

5h 12m

Estimated price

$1373-1376

Plane from Moline (MLI) to Madison (MSN)

Average Duration

6h 13m

Estimated price

$1375-1378

Iowa City to Madison: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Iowa City and Madison offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on a scenic road trip from Iowa City to Madison, covering a distance of 176 miles. Enjoy a leisurely drive through the heart of the Midwest, passing by charming towns and picturesque countryside along the way. 💸 With prices ranging from $30 to $50 for the journey by car, this trip offers an affordable and flexible way to explore the beauty of Wisconsin. Take advantage of the freedom to stop at local diners, quirky roadside attractions, and hidden gems as you make your way to Madison. 🌆 Arrive in Madison after approximately 3 hours and 14 minutes of driving, ready to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and bustling energy of the state capital. Explore the city's renowned universities, lively waterfront, and diverse culinary scene, making memories to last a lifetime on this memorable road trip.

Average price

$30 - $50

🌍 The quickest flight option for this route typically takes around 3 hours and 12 minutes with one brief stopover along the way. This enables travelers to reach their destination in Madison efficiently while enjoying a comfortable flying experience. 💸 Prices for flights between Madison and Iowa City vary between $218 and $368, offering travelers flexibility in choosing a fare that fits their budget. With a total travel time of approximately 6 hours and 49 minutes, flying from Iowa City to Madison presents a convenient option for those seeking to reach their destination quickly.

Departure Point

Cedar Rapids Airport

Arrival Point

Madison Airport. The quickest flight takes 3h 12m and has one stopover

🚌 Embark on an adventurous bus journey from Iowa City to Madison! While there is no direct route, you'll make a transfer at Chicago Union Station during the 9-hour and 29-minute ride. 🛤️ Enjoy the scenic views as you travel through the heartland of America with Burlington Trailways and Amtrak. The bus tickets can cost between $74 to $137, offering an affordable way to explore the region.

Departure Point

Iowa City, Ia station

Arrival Point

Madison station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Iowa City to Madison.

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The distance between Iowa City and Madison is approximately 237 km by road. It takes about 3 hours and 14 minutes to drive from Iowa City to Madison. Alternatively, there are several transportation options available. Taking a night bus followed by a train would take around 9 hours and 48 minutes. Flying is the quickest option, with a travel time of approximately 7 hours and 19 minutes. Finally, taking a bus directly from Iowa City to Madison would take about 9 hours and 29 minutes.

The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Iowa City to Madison is by driving. It takes approximately 3 hours and 14 minutes to cover the road distance of 283 km.

The prices for a bus ticket between Madison and Iowa City range from $74 to $137, depending on the specific bus company and the time of travel.

To travel from Iowa City to Madison without using public transportation, the most convenient option would be to drive. The distance between the two cities is about 283 km, and it typically takes around 3 hours and 14 minutes to drive. The cost of the trip can vary between $30 to $50, depending on factors such as gas prices and tolls.

The best way to travel from Iowa City to Madison without a car is by bus via Chicago. The journey takes approximately 9 hours and 29 minutes and costs between $70 and $140. Alternatively, you could also take a night bus followed by a train, which would take around 9 hours and 48 minutes.

There is no direct link between Iowa City and Madison by bus. However, there are indirect services available. The bus journey from Iowa City to Madison, which includes transfers at Chicago Union Station, takes approximately 9 hours and 29 minutes. This service is operated by both Burlington Trailways and Amtrak.

The flight between Iowa City and Madison usually takes around 3 hours and 12 minutes with one stopover. However, please note that there is no direct flight available between Cedar Rapids Airport and Madison Airport. The cost of the flight can vary, with prices ranging from $218 to $368.

There are plenty of accommodation options available near Madison. With over 97 hotels to choose from, you'll be able to find something within your budget. Prices start at $55, offering a range of affordable options for travelers. Whether you're looking for luxury hotels, budget motels, or cozy bed and breakfasts, Madison has something to suit every preference and budget.