Columbus, OH, USA to Indianapolis, IN, USA from $16: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car
Compare Travel Options and Prices
How to Get from Columbus to Indianapolis: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way
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$16 by busBest price
283 kmDistance
2h 54m Fastest
Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options
Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Columbus to Indianapolis 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.
Columbus - Indianapolis operators
Explore transport companies operating between Columbus and Indianapolis, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585Website
flixbus.com
Bus from Columbus to Indianapolis
Average Duration
3h 30mEstimated price
$16-65Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100Website
greyhound.com
Bus from Dayton Trotwood Bus Station to Indianapolis Bus Station
Average Duration
1h 45mEstimated price
$650-651Contact phone
+1 888-378-3823Website
baronsbus.com
Bus from Columbus, OH to Dayton Trotwood, OH
Average Duration
1h 15mEstimated price
$168-169Website
delta.com
Plane from Columbus (CMH) to Indianapolis (IND)
Average Duration
4h 1mEstimated price
$161-162Website
aa.com
Plane from Columbus (CMH) to Indianapolis (IND)
Average Duration
4h 11mEstimated price
$164-165Website
united.com
Plane from Columbus (CMH) to Indianapolis (IND)
Average Duration
4h 44mEstimated price
$160-650Website
southwest.com
Plane from Columbus (CMH) to Indianapolis (IND)
Average Duration
4h 55mEstimated price
$166-167Columbus to Indianapolis: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips
Traveling between Columbus and Indianapolis 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 Columbus to Indianapolis covering a distance of 176 miles. Enjoy the smooth ride as you head towards the vibrant city of Indianapolis.
💰 Prices for the journey from Columbus to Indianapolis by car typically range between $30 to $50, offering a budget-friendly travel option. Plan your trip accordingly to make the most of your travel budget.
🏙️ Arrive in Indianapolis after approximately 2 hours and 54 minutes of driving, ready to explore the city's attractions, cultural sites, and vibrant atmosphere. Enjoy your drive and make memorable stops along the way.
Average price
$30 - $50
🚆 Traveling from Columbus to Indianapolis by train offers a convenient way to explore the 168-mile route. Welcome aboard a comfortable FlixBus departing from Columbus and heading towards Indianapolis, allowing you to sit back and enjoy the scenic journey.
🚆 For a slightly longer but still enjoyable trip, consider the GoBus route with a transfer along the 183-mile distance. Begin your journey at Columbus Airport, transfer at Greyhound, and continue towards Indianapolis on a Greyhound bus departing from Columbus.
🚆 If you prefer a more leisurely pace, opt for the route with two transfers covering the 187-mile distance. Start your adventure at Columbus Airport with GoBus, continue through Greyhound to Miller Transportation, and finally arrive in Indianapolis on a Greyhound bus departing from Dayton Trotwood.
🛫 Traveling from Columbus to Indianapolis by plane involves taking a flight with one stopover, typically lasting around 3 hours and 28 minutes. Airlines such as Southwest, American, United, and Delta operate this route.
🌍 The total duration of the journey from Columbus Airport to Indianapolis Airport is approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes, including layover time. Despite no direct flights, travelers have multiple carrier options for this trip.
💸 Flight prices between Columbus and Indianapolis range from $124 to $265, providing some flexibility for passengers based on their budget and preferences. Booking in advance or being flexible with travel dates can help secure better deals for this route.
Departure Point
Columbus Airport
Arrival Point
Indianapolis Airport. The quickest flight takes 3h 28m and has one stopover
🚌 Traveling from Columbus to Indianapolis by bus is a convenient option with a direct service operated by Flixbus USA. The journey typically lasts around 3 hours and 30 minutes.
🛣️ The distance between the two cities is 168 miles, and there are multiple bus routes available with varying travel times and transfer options. Prices for the bus tickets can range from $16 to $65 depending on the chosen route and service provider.
Departure Point
Columbus station
Arrival Point
Indianapolis station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Book your ticket on FlixBus in advance for the best rates, as prices range from $16 to $65, and the service only departs once daily, ensuring your seat is secured for the approximately 3h and 30m journey to Indianapolis. You can book directly at their website: flixbus.com
• When packing for your trip from Columbus to Indianapolis, consider bringing snacks and a refillable water bottle, as there are limited food options available on the bus, and it’s a good idea to stay hydrated for the duration of the ride.
• Upon arriving at the Indianapolis Bus Station, expect a busy environment; be sure to familiarize yourself with the station map available online at indygov.org for easier navigation—especially if you plan to use local public transport options to continue your journey.
Frequently asked questions
Find out more about the route from Columbus to Indianapolis.
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The distance between Columbus and Indianapolis is approximately 272.0 km by air and 283.1 km by road. On average, it takes around 5 hours and 51 minutes to travel from Columbus to Indianapolis by plane, 2 hours and 54 minutes by car, and 3 hours and 30 minutes by bus.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Columbus to Indianapolis is by bus, which ranges from $16 to $65 and takes approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes. If time efficiency is a priority, driving is the quickest option, taking about 2 hours and 54 minutes and costing between $30 and $50.
The prices for a bus ticket between Indianapolis and Columbus can range from $16 to $65 depending on the company and type of ticket purchased.
To travel from Columbus to Indianapolis without using public transportation, you can opt to drive by car. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 283.2 km and the journey takes around 2 hours and 54 minutes. The costs for this mode of transportation can range from $30 to $50, depending on factors such as fuel prices and tolls.
If you are looking to travel from Columbus to Indianapolis without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The bus journey takes approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes and can cost between $16 and $65, depending on the bus operator and the type of ticket.
Yes, there is a direct link between Columbus and Indianapolis. Flixbus USA operates a bus service that departs from Columbus and arrives in Indianapolis. The bus service runs six times a week and operates every day, with a journey time of approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes.
The flight from Columbus to Indianapolis typically takes around 3 hours and 42 minutes with one stopover. However, it is important to note that there is no direct flight available between the two cities. The cost of a flight between Indianapolis and Columbus usually ranges from $119 to $272, depending on factors such as airline, booking time, and availability.
There are plenty of accommodation options near Indianapolis with over 659 hotels to choose from. Prices start at $53 per night, catering to a range of budgets.