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Gainesville, FL, USA to Columbia, MO, USA from $122: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Gainesville, United States of America
to
Columbia, United States of America

How to Get from Gainesville to Columbia: 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.

$122 by busBest price
1390 kmDistance
8h 56m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Gainesville to Columbia 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
American Airlines
Plane
Average Duration
8h  56m
Estimated price
$346-1172
Recommended
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
28h 
Estimated price
$122-315
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 1390 km
Duration: 8h 56m

See more options

Company
various
Bus
Bus
Average Duration
28h  10m
Estimated price
$122-315
Company
various
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
10h  41m
Estimated price
$168-374
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
16h  44m
Estimated price
$180-270

Traveling From Gainesville to Columbia

Traveling from Gainesville to Columbia offers you a journey from Florida’s vibrant natural beauty and laid-back atmosphere to South Carolina’s historical charm and rich culture.

Best Neighbourhoods in Columbia

Columbia boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences for visitors.

The Vista
• Vibrant arts scene with galleries and boutiques.
• Numerous dining options with outdoor seating.
Five Points
• Lively nightlife with bars and music venues.
• Quaint shops in a walkable area.
Shandon
• Beautiful tree-lined streets with historic homes.
• Family-friendly parks and playgrounds nearby.

Best Times To Visit Columbia's Attractions

Timing your visits can greatly enhance your experience at Columbia’s attractions.

South Carolina State Museum
Weekdays in the early afternoon are quieter for exploring exhibits.
Riverbanks Zoo & Garden
Arrive early in the morning for fewer crowds and cooler temperatures.
Congaree National Park
Visit during weekdays in spring or fall for ideal weather and fewer visitors.

Columbia Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Columbia experiences a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot summers and mild winters, making spring and fall the ideal times to visit. Understanding the weather patterns can enhance your travel experience, allowing you to enjoy outdoor attractions with more comfort.

Dining Recommendation

Try the shrimp and grits at Motor Supply Co. Bistro, which showcases the rich flavors of Southern cuisine in a vibrant, eclectic atmosphere. This dish, featuring locally sourced ingredients, presents a unique culinary experience that contrasts with the lighter, more tropical fare often found in Gainesville.

Gainesville - Columbia operators

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

Plane
Website
aa.com

Plane from Gainesville (GNV) to Columbia (COU)

Average Duration
8h 56m
Estimated price
$346-1172

Plane from Gainesville (GNV) to St. Louis (STL)

Average Duration
7h 25m
Estimated price
$346-3470

Plane from Gainesville (GNV) to St. Louis (STL)

Average Duration
8h 46m
Estimated price
$346-3471

Plane from Gainesville (GNV) to St. Louis (STL)

Average Duration
10h 14m
Estimated price
$346-3472

Plane from Gainesville (GNV) to St. Louis (STL)

Average Duration
8h 6m
Estimated price
$346-3473
Bus
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
greyhound.com

Bus from Gainesville to Atlanta Bus Station

Average Duration
6h
Estimated price
$120-3460

Bus from Atlanta Bus Station to St Louis Bus Station

Average Duration
17h 20m
Estimated price
$122-315

Bus from St Louis Bus Station to Columbia

Average Duration
2h 40m
Estimated price
$3469-11720
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
flixbus.com

Bus from Gainesville to Atlanta Bus Station

Average Duration
6h
Estimated price
$11723-11724

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Gainesville to Columbia.

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The distance between Gainesville and Columbia is approximately 864 miles. The road distance is slightly longer at 1014 miles. Travel times can vary depending on the mode of transportation. By plane, it takes around 8 hours and 39 minutes to travel between the two cities. Taking a combination of flying to St. Louis and then a bus to Columbia takes about 9 hours and 36 minutes. Driving by car can take around 16 hours and 44 minutes, while taking a bus can take approximately 22 hours and 20 minutes.
The most cost-effective transportation option for traveling from Gainesville to Columbia is taking a night bus and bus via Gainesville, with prices ranging from $100 to $300. However, this option may take up to 24 hours for the entire journey. The quickest way to travel between the two cities is by flying, which takes approximately 8 hours and 39 minutes. Although this option is more expensive, with prices starting from $310 to $1,100, it significantly reduces travel time.
The prices for a bus ticket between Gainesville and Columbia can range from $100 to $300 depending on various factors such as time of booking, type of bus, and any promotional discounts available. It is recommended to check with different bus companies and compare prices to find the best deal. Additionally, prices may vary depending on the season or holidays, so it is advisable to book in advance for better rates.
To get from Gainesville to Columbia without using public transportation, you can consider driving. The road distance is approximately 1014 miles, and the journey can take around 16 hours and 44 minutes. You can estimate the cost of the trip to be between $180 and $270, depending on factors like fuel prices and vehicle efficiency. It's important to plan your route ahead, considering rest stops and accommodations if necessary, to ensure a comfortable and safe journey.
If you don't have access to a car, the best way to travel from Gainesville to Columbia is by taking a night bus and then a regular bus via Gainesville. This journey typically takes around 24 hours and costs between $100 to $300. It's important to note that prices and schedules may vary, so it's recommended to check with the transportation providers for the most accurate information.
Currently, there is no direct link between Gainesville and Columbia by bus. However, there are bus services available with transfers that can take approximately 24 hours. The journey typically involves transferring at stations such as Atlanta, Nashville, and St. Louis. It is recommended to check the schedules and availability of these services for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
The flight duration between Gainesville and Columbia usually takes around 7 hours and 8 minutes with one stopover. However, there are no direct flights available. The cost of a flight between Columbia and Gainesville ranges from $316 to $1072, depending on the airline and the time of booking. It is recommended to compare prices and book in advance to get the best deals.
There are several options available for accommodation near Columbia. There are 44+ hotels to choose from, offering a range of prices starting at $44. Some popular hotel options in Columbia include chains like Hilton, Marriott, and Holiday Inn, as well as independent boutique hotels. It is advisable to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons or events, to secure the best rates and availability.

Trips from Gainesville

Trips to Columbia