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Raleigh, NC, USA to Charlotte, NC, USA from $14: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Raleigh, United States
to
Charlotte, United States

How to Get from Raleigh to Charlotte: 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.

$14 by busBest price
209.2 kmDistance
2h 51m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Raleigh to Charlotte 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
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
3h  10m
Estimated price
$7-95
Recommended
route map
Distance: 209.2 km
Duration: 2h 51m

See more options

Company
Flixbus
Bus
Average Duration
4h  45m
Estimated price
$14-60
Company
Greyhound
Bus
Average Duration
4h  14m
Estimated price
$16-61
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
2h  51m
Estimated price
$30-45
Company
American Airlines
Plane
Average Duration
3h  23m
Estimated price
$78-285
Company
various
Taxi
Plane
Average Duration
2h  57m
Estimated price
$432-549
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Raleigh to Charlotte

The journey from Raleigh to Charlotte showcases two distinct cities: Raleigh, known for its rich history and vibrant academic atmosphere, contrasts with Charlotte’s dynamic business center and lively entertainment scene.

Best Neighbourhoods in Charlotte

Charlotte offers diverse neighborhoods, each with its own charm and attractions.

Uptown
• Hub for entertainment and dining options.
• Home to major sports arenas and events.
NoDa
• Vibrant arts district filled with galleries.
• Known for craft breweries and music venues.
South End
• Trendy area with unique shops and eateries.
• Connected to the light rail system for easy access.

Best Times To Visit Charlotte's Attractions

Charlotte's attractions attract visitors year-round; timing your visit can enhance your experience.

Carowinds
Visit on weekdays in early fall for shorter lines and cooler weather.
The NASCAR Hall of Fame
Mornings during weekdays offer a quieter environment to explore exhibits.
U.S. National Whitewater Center
Go early in the day or on weekdays for a less crowded outdoor adventure.

Charlotte Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Charlotte experiences a humid subtropical climate, offering warm summers and mild winters, making spring and fall the ideal times for comfortable travel. Weather can greatly influence your activities, as summer thunderstorms may affect outdoor plans while pleasant temperatures in spring and fall enhance exploration.

Dining in Charlotte: A Culinary Adventure

Try the pulled pork sandwich at Midwood Smokehouse, where the smoky flavors and rich barbecue sauce reflect Charlotte's southern culinary roots, offering a bold contrast to Raleigh’s farm-to-table scene. The lively atmosphere, combined with locally sourced ingredients and traditional preparation methods, sets a unique dining experience that captures the essence of the Queen City.

Raleigh - Charlotte operators

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

Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from Raleigh Union Station to Charlotte Amtrak Station

Average Duration
3h 10m
Estimated price
$7-95
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
https://www.greyhound.com/

Bus from Raleigh Bus Station to Charlotte Bus Station

Average Duration
3h 5m
Estimated price
$18-55
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
https://www.flixbus.com/

Bus from Raleigh Bus Station to Charlotte Bus Station

Average Duration
3h 5m
Estimated price
$15-60

Bus from GoRaleigh Station to Durham Station

Average Duration
55m
Estimated price
$0-0

Bus from Durham to Charlotte

Average Duration
2h 50m
Estimated price
$14-60
all-pages.other Show other routes
Contact phone
+1-919-840-7277

Other from Raleigh to Fayetteville Municipal

Average Duration
1h 11m
Estimated price
$140-180
Plane Show flights
Website
http://aa.com

Plane from Raleigh/Durham (RDU) to Charlotte (CLT)

Average Duration
1h 9m
Estimated price
$260-550

Plane from Fayetteville Municipal (FAY) to Charlotte (CLT)

Average Duration
1h 16m
Estimated price
$363-365

Raleigh to Charlotte: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Raleigh and Charlotte 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 Raleigh to Charlotte, covering a driving distance of 265.5 km. Enjoy a smooth journey that takes approximately 2 hours and 51 minutes by car. 💸 Experience budget-friendly travel options as the prices to drive from Raleigh to Charlotte range from $30 to $45. 🏙️ Arrive in Charlotte after a pleasant drive and immerse yourself in the city's rich culture, delicious cuisine, and bustling city life. Unwind, explore, and make treasured memories in North Carolina's charismatic Queen City.
Average price
$30 - $45
🚆 Enjoy a scenic train journey from Raleigh to Charlotte with trains departing four times a day from Raleigh Union Station and arriving at Charlotte Amtrak Station. The trip takes approximately 3 hours 10 minutes. 🌆 Travel comfortably on the Amtrak-operated train, covering a distance of 278.4 km between the two cities. Prices for the train tickets vary from $7 to $95, offering a budget-friendly option for your trip from Raleigh to Charlotte. Sit back and relax as you embark on a smooth 3-hour 10-minute ride to explore the vibrant city of Charlotte from Raleigh via train.
Departure Point
Raleigh Union Station
Arrival Point
Charlotte Amtrak Station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard Services: On the Amtrak Carolinian service from Raleigh to Charlotte, you can expect a café car offering a variety of snacks, beverages, and light meals. Breakfast options may include sandwiches and pastries, while lunch and dinner options often feature boxed meals such as sandwiches, salads, and chips. Plan ahead if you have dietary restrictions, as selections can vary based on time of day and demand.
• Seating Options: The Amtrak Carolinian offers several seating options. In First Class, you'll enjoy larger seats with more legroom and complimentary beverages. Business Class also offers enhanced seating with additional space and a quieter environment. Economy Class is available for budget travelers but comes with standard seating arrangements. If you're looking for a more comfortable journey, consider upgrading to Business or First Class.
• Arrival Station Tip: When you arrive at Charlotte's Amtrak station, be prepared for a smaller facility. While there are no dedicated luggage storage services, you can temporarily leave small bags at the customer service desk, subject to availability. Restrooms are available; however, showers are not provided within the station. Be sure to utilize the nearby dining options if you have time to spare.
• Fastest Way to City Center: To get from Charlotte's Amtrak station to the city center, take the CATS Gold Line light rail, which is just a short walk from the station. The light rail operates frequently and will take you directly to the center of Charlotte in approximately 15-20 minutes. The closest light rail stop is the '9th St' stop, where you can catch the train heading towards 'I485'.
🛫 Flying from Raleigh to Charlotte is a convenient and quick option, with a direct flight taking just 1 hour and 9 minutes on American Airlines. 💸 With flight prices ranging from $78 to $285, there are options to suit different budgets, making air travel an accessible choice for those looking to travel between Raleigh and Charlotte.
Departure Point
Raleigh/Durham Airport
Arrival Point
Charlotte Airport
🛣️ The journey by bus from Raleigh to Charlotte, including transfers, typically takes around 4 hours and 14 minutes. 💸 Depending on the type of ticket and schedule you choose, bus prices for the Raleigh to Charlotte route can range from $16 to $61.
Departure Point
Raleigh Bus Station
Arrival Point
Charlotte Bus Station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Make sure to check the Greyhound schedule in advance as there are multiple routes available that vary in travel time from 2 hours 40 minutes to over 4 hours; it’s best to find one that fits your timing to avoid long waits or mismatched connections. Visit greyhound.com for schedules.
• When you arrive at Charlotte Bus Station, be prepared for local transport options like the CATS bus or Light Rail; familiarize yourself with the transit system by visiting charlottenc.gov for maps and schedules to plan your next steps.
• Since you're traveling from Raleigh via Greyhound, consider packing snacks and drinks for the trip, as bus snacks can be limited, and bring a power bank to keep your devices charged for the duration of the journey.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Raleigh to Charlotte.

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The distance between Raleigh and Charlotte is approximately 209.2 km by road. By train, it takes about 3 hours and 10 minutes to reach Charlotte from Raleigh. If you choose to take a bus, it takes around 4 hours and 7 minutes by first traveling to Fayetteville Municipal and then flying. The fastest mode of transportation is by plane, which takes about 3 hours and 20 minutes. Driving by car is also a convenient option, with a travel time of approximately 2 hours and 51 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Raleigh to Charlotte is by train, which can cost between $7 and $95 and takes approximately 3 hours and 10 minutes. This is a convenient and affordable choice for those who prefer not to drive. However, if you are looking for the quickest option, driving is the best choice as it takes around 2 hours and 51 minutes and typically costs between $30 and $45 for fuel expenses.
The cost of a train ticket between Raleigh and Charlotte ranges from $7 to $95, depending on factors such as the time of travel and class of service. Similarly, bus fares between the two cities can vary from $19 to $56.
To get from Raleigh to Charlotte without using public transportation, you can drive. The distance between the two cities is 265.5 km, and it takes approximately 2 hours and 51 minutes to drive. The cost of driving from Raleigh to Charlotte will vary depending on factors such as gas prices and tolls, but it can range from $30 to $45.
The best way to travel from Raleigh to Charlotte without a car is by train, which takes approximately 3 hours and 10 minutes and costs between $7 and $95. Another option is to take a bus, which takes around 3 hours and 49 minutes and costs between $19 and $60. If you prefer to fly, there is also an option to take a flight, which takes approximately 3 hours and 20 minutes and costs between $85 and $290.
Yes, there is a direct link between Raleigh and Charlotte. You can take a train from Raleigh Union Station to Charlotte Amtrak Station, which operates four times a day and takes approximately 3 hours and 10 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a bus from GoRaleigh Station to Charlotte Bus Station with a transfer, which takes approximately 3 hours and 49 minutes.
The flight between Raleigh and Charlotte typically takes 1 hour and 7 minutes on a direct flight. However, flight times may vary depending on factors such as weather conditions and airline schedules. The cost of a flight ticket between the two cities can range from $88 to $285, depending on various factors including the time of booking, airline, and class of service chosen.
There are many options for accommodation near Charlotte with over 583 hotels available. Prices for hotels start at $52 per night, offering a range of options to suit different budgets.