Denver, CO, USA to Vail, CO, USA from $8: 3 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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How to Get from Denver to Vail: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$8 by busBest price

157 kmDistance

1h 44m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Denver to Vail 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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Traveling From Denver to Vail

The journey from Denver, bustling with urban energy and vibrant culture, to Vail, where serene mountain landscapes and outdoor adventures await, offers travelers a striking contrast in experiences.

Best Neighborhoods in Vail

Vail boasts charming neighborhoods each offering distinct experiences for visitors.

Vail Village

• Vibrant shops and eateries lining cobblestone streets.

• Easy access to ski lifts and mountain activities.

Lionhead

• Family-friendly with a relaxed atmosphere.

• Home to the Eagle Bahn Gondola for stunning views.

Golden Peak

• Offers some of the best skiing and snowboarding terrain.

• Close proximity to children's ski school and beginner slopes.

Best Times To Visit Vail's Attractions

Finding the right time to explore Vail's attractions can enhance your experience.

Vail Ski Resort

Visit on weekdays during January and February for fewer crowds.

Betty Ford Alpine Gardens

Spring mornings offer blooming flowers and fewer visitors.

Vail Village

Evenings in the off-peak seasons, like late fall, provide a charming atmosphere.

Vail Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Vail experiences a mountain climate with cold, snowy winters ideal for skiing and warm summers perfect for outdoor activities. Understanding seasonal variations helps you plan your trip around the best times to enjoy skiing, hiking, or simply savoring the stunning scenery.

Dining in Vail: A Culinary Escape

Try the locally sourced elk tenderloin at Sweet Basil, a renowned restaurant in Vail that combines fine dining with a cozy, mountain ambiance. This dish showcases the distinct flavors of Colorado’s game meats, offering a refreshing contrast to the diverse culinary scene of Denver, where a mix of global influences prevails.

Denver - Vail operators

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

Bus Show bus routes

Contact phone

+1 800-900-3011

Website

https://ridebustang.com/

Bus from Wewatta St & 17th St to Vail Transportation Center

Average Duration

2h 10m

Estimated price

$8-26

Contact phone

+1 214-849-8100

Website

https://www.greyhound.com/

Bus from Denver Union Station to Vail

Average Duration

2h 15m

Estimated price

$11-45

Denver to Vail: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Denver and Vail 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 journey from Denver to Vail, spanning a picturesque driving distance of 98 miles. The route promises an enjoyable drive of approximately 1 hour and 44 minutes through the stunning Colorado landscape. 💸 Explore budget-friendly options with car travel costs ranging from $17 to $26 for the Denver to Vail route. Whether solo or with others, the flexibility of driving allows for a cost-effective and convenient way to reach the charming mountain town of Vail.

Average price

$17 - $26

🚆 Traveling from Denver to Vail by train is a convenient and picturesque journey. With a distance of 101 miles, the route offers breathtaking views of the Colorado landscape. 🚌 Opting for Route 1, you can take the Bustang West Line departing from Union Station in Denver towards Grand Junction. This 2-hour and 25-minute bus ride will lead you directly to the Vail Transportation Center in Vail. 🌄 Arriving in Vail after a relaxing train journey, you will have a total travel time of 2 hours and 31 minutes. Whether you choose Route 1, Route 2, or Route 3, your adventure to Vail promises to be a scenic and hassle-free experience.

⛰️ Experience the scenic journey from Denver to Vail by bus, with services departing every four hours for a convenient travel schedule. The trip takes approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes, offering a comfortable and efficient way to reach your destination. 🚌 Sit back and relax as you depart from Wewatta St & 17th St in Denver and arrive at the Vail Transportation Center. Bustang operates these reliable bus services, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable ride through the picturesque Colorado landscape. 🎿 Whether you're heading for a day of skiing or exploring the charming town of Vail, the bus ride offers an affordable and stress-free transportation option. With prices ranging from $8 to $45, you can reach Vail from Denver easily and affordably by bus.

Departure Point

Wewatta St & 17th St station

Arrival Point

Vail Transportation Center station

Useful tips for bus travellers

• Be sure to arrive at Wewatta St & 17th St station at least 15 minutes early, as Bustang and Pegasus may occasionally have slight schedule variations; you can check live schedules at ridebustang.com

• On your journey, keep an eye out for picturesque mountain views as the bus travels along I-70; it's a prime opportunity for stunning photos, especially as you approach Vail.

• Upon arriving at Vail Transportation Center, be prepared for a bustling area; familiarize yourself with the station layout and nearby transportation options, such as shuttles to local resorts, by visiting their website at vailgov.com

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Denver to Vail.

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The distance between Denver and Vail is approximately 75 miles, with a road distance of 98 miles. Typically, it takes around 1 hour and 44 minutes to travel by car from Denver to Vail. Alternatively, the journey by bus usually takes around 2 hours and 10 minutes. Both options provide convenient transportation choices for travelers in this region.

The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation options for traveling from Denver to Vail are by bus or car. Taking the bus is the cheapest option, with fares ranging from $8 to $45, and the journey takes approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes. However, driving is the quickest way to reach Vail, taking only 1 hour and 44 minutes and costing between $17 and $26 in fuel expenses. Both options provide convenient transportation between the two cities, allowing travelers to choose based on their priorities of affordability or speed.

When traveling from Denver to Vail the prices for a bus ticket range from $8 to $45. The exact price will depend on the bus company, time of travel, and any discounts or promotions available. It is recommended to check with different bus operators and compare prices to find the best deal for your journey.

To travel from Denver to Vail without using public transportation, the recommended mode of transportation is by car. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 98 miles and can be completed in about 1 hour and 44 minutes. Driving allows for flexibility in terms of stops and exploration along the scenic route. The cost of the journey can vary but typically falls between $17 to $26 for gasoline and tolls.

The best way to travel from Denver to Vail without a car is by taking a bus, which typically takes about 2 hours and 10 minutes. This is a convenient and affordable option, with ticket prices ranging from $8 to $45. Buses operate on a regular schedule and provide a comfortable and reliable mode of transportation for travelers.

Yes, there is a direct link between Denver and Vail. Bustang operates a bus service that departs from Wewatta St & 17th St in Denver and arrives at Vail Transportation Center in Vail. The bus service operates hourly and runs every day, with a travel time of approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes. This provides a convenient and direct transportation option for travelers between Denver and Vail.

There are several options for accommodation near Vail. With over 1102 hotels available, visitors have a wide selection to choose from. Prices for hotels in Vail start at around $152 and vary depending on the location, amenities, and season. From luxury resorts and boutique hotels to cozy cabins and budget-friendly options, there is something to suit every traveler's preferences and budget near Vail.