1map logoGo to main page

Indianapolis, IN, USA to Iowa City, IA, USA from $58: 11 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Indianapolis, United States
to
Iowa City, United States

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

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$58 - Train, night busBest price
502 kmDistance
5h 59m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Indianapolis to Iowa City 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.

Company
Palmland, Burlington Trailways
Bus
Average Duration
10h  2m
Estimated price
$102-165
Recommended
Company
Cardinal, Btw1203
Train
Bus
Average Duration
10h  54m
Estimated price
$58-201
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 502 km
Duration: 5h 59m

See more options

Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
5h  59m
Estimated price
$65-1020
Company
Amtrak
Train
Bus
Average Duration
13h  28m
Estimated price
$67-301
Company
Greyhound, Btw1203
Bus
Bus
Average Duration
9h  30m
Estimated price
$71-159
Company
Palmland, Btw1203
Bus
Bus
Average Duration
9h  12m
Estimated price
$102-165
Company
Various
Plane
Average Duration
8h  12m
Estimated price
$1021-1022
Company
Various
Plane
Average Duration
7h  5m
Estimated price
$1023-1024
Company
Various
Plane
Average Duration
10h  10m
Estimated price
$1025-1026
Company
Various
Plane
Average Duration
9h  38m
Estimated price
$1027-1028
Company
Palmland, Various
Plane
Average Duration
9h  13m
Estimated price
$1029-1650
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Indianapolis to Iowa City

The journey from Indianapolis to Iowa City offers a striking contrast between the bustling urban vibe of Indianapolis and the charming, laid-back atmosphere of Iowa City.

Best Neighbourhoods in Iowa City

Iowa City boasts vibrant neighborhoods, each with its own charm.

Downtown Iowa City
• Lively shops and restaurants at every corner.
• Home to the historic Englert Theatre.
Iowa River Landing
• Scenic river views enhance outdoor activities.
• Features diverse dining and shopping options.
Northside District
• Known for its cozy cafes and bookstores.
• Rich in local history and arts culture.

Best Times To Visit Iowa City's Attractions

Maximize your experience in Iowa City by choosing the right times to visit attractions.

University of Iowa Campus
Visit early mornings or weekdays to enjoy the campus with fewer crowds.
Iowa City Public Library
Afternoons on weekdays provide a quieter atmosphere for reading and exploring.
Old Capitol Museum
Late afternoons during the week offer a chance to explore without busy tours.

Iowa City Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Iowa City experiences a humid continental climate, with warm summers and cold winters, making late spring and early fall ideal for comfortable travel. Be mindful of winter snowfall, which can affect travel plans but also provides a picturesque backdrop for winter activities.

Dining Recommendation

Try the famous spinach salad at The Bread Garden Market in Iowa City, where the use of fresh, local ingredients creates a vibrant flavor profile that stands apart from Indianapolis's steak-heavy cuisine. The cozy, community-centric atmosphere enhances the dining experience, allowing you to immerse yourself in the local food scene.

Indianapolis - Iowa City operators

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

Bus
Website
palmlandlines.com

Bus from Indianapolis IN to Chicago IL

Average Duration
3h 20m
Estimated price
$2017-65

Bus from Chicago, Il to Iowa City, Ia

Average Duration
Estimated price
$102-165
Contact phone
1(800) 992-4618
Website
burlingtontrailways.com

Bus from Chicago, Il to Iowa City, Ia

Average Duration
Estimated price
$2017-677

Bus from Galesburg, Il to Davenport, Ia

Average Duration
Estimated price
$679-2018

Bus from Davenport, Ia to Iowa City, Ia

Average Duration
Estimated price
$2016-2018
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
greyhound.com

Bus from Indianapolis Bus Station to Chicago Bus Station

Average Duration
3h 45m
Estimated price
$676-6720

Bus from Chicago, Il to Iowa City, Ia

Average Duration
Estimated price
$102-165
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Indianapolis to Chicago Union Station

Average Duration
5h
Estimated price
$2010-2011

Train from Chicago Union Station to Galesburg Amtrak Station

Average Duration
2h 38m
Estimated price
$672-1020

Train from Indianapolis to Chicago Union Station

Average Duration
Estimated price
$0-0

Train from Chicago, Il to Iowa City, Ia

Average Duration
Estimated price
$58-201
Plane
Website
united.com

Plane from Indianapolis (IND) to Cedar Rapids (CID)

Average Duration
4h 25m
Estimated price
$1655-1656
Website
aa.com

Plane from Indianapolis (IND) to Cedar Rapids (CID)

Average Duration
5h 49m
Estimated price
$1659-650
Other Show other routes

Other from Indianapolis to Iowa City

Average Duration
5h 59m
Estimated price
$65-1020

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

Traveling between Indianapolis and Iowa City 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.

🚗 Buckle up for a scenic road trip from Indianapolis to Iowa City, covering a distance of 362 miles. Enjoy the changing landscapes and charming small towns along the way. 🛣️ Plan for a roughly 6-hour drive from Indianapolis to Iowa City, allowing for pit stops to stretch your legs and grab a bite to eat. The journey promises a mix of highway cruising and rural beauty. ⛽ Prices for the trip by car range from $65 to $95, offering flexibility for different budgets. Explore the Heartland at your own pace on this memorable drive from Indiana to Iowa.
Average price
$65 - $95
🛫 Travelers flying from Indianapolis to Iowa City will find that there is no direct flight available. The quickest option includes one stopover and takes approximately 3 hours and 46 minutes. 💸 The prices for flights between Iowa City and Indianapolis can range from $148 to $328. With a total flight duration of 8 hours and 12 minutes, travelers can explore various flight options to find the best deal for their trip.
Departure Point
Indianapolis Airport
Arrival Point
Cedar Rapids Airport. The quickest flight takes 3h 46m and has one stopover
🚌 Traveling from Indianapolis to Iowa City by bus involves a journey with a transfer in Chicago, IL. The total travel time is approximately 10 hours and 2 minutes. 🚏 The bus services from Indianapolis to Iowa City are operated by Palmland Bus Lines for departure and Burlington Trailways for arrival. Tickets can cost between $102 and $165 for this route.
Departure Point
Indianapolis IN station
Arrival Point
Iowa City, Ia station

Frequently asked questions

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

Or choose the category:
The distance between Indianapolis and Iowa City is approximately 502.1 km or 582.9 km by road. The typical travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. By train and night bus, it takes around 10 hours and 54 minutes to reach Iowa City from Indianapolis. By plane, it takes approximately 8 hours and 13 minutes. By car, the travel time is around 5 hours and 59 minutes, while by bus, it takes about 10 hours and 2 minutes to reach Iowa City from Indianapolis.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient option for traveling from Indianapolis to Iowa City is by driving. It takes approximately 5 hours and 59 minutes to cover the 502.1 km distance, with a cost ranging from $65 to $95.
The prices for traveling by bus between Indianapolis and Iowa City can vary from $102 to $165.
To travel from Indianapolis to Iowa City without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of approximately 582.6 km. The estimated driving time is around 5 hours and 59 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The cost of fuel for the trip can vary, but it is typically around $65 to $95, depending on the vehicle's fuel efficiency and current fuel prices.
If you do not have access to a car, the best way to travel from Indianapolis to Iowa City is by taking a bus. The journey takes approximately 10 hours and 2 minutes, and ticket prices range from $100 to $170.
Yes, there is a direct link between Indianapolis and Iowa City but it involves transfers. The journey by bus from Indianapolis to Iowa City takes approximately 10 hours and 2 minutes, with a transfer in Chicago, IL. The bus services are operated by Palmland Bus Lines and Burlington Trailways.
The flight between Indianapolis and Iowa City typically takes around 3 hours and 30 minutes with one stopover. The exact duration and cost may vary depending on the airline and the specific dates of travel. On average, the prices for a flight between Iowa City and Indianapolis range from $138 to $388.
There are plenty of accommodation options near Iowa City. With over 41 hotels to choose from, you will have no trouble finding a place to stay. Prices start at $47 per night, offering a range of affordable options for budget travelers.

Trips from Indianapolis

Trips to Chicago