Gainesville, FL, USA to Chapel Hill, NC, USA from $38: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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How to Get from Gainesville to Chapel Hill: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$38 - Bus, FlyBest price

764 kmDistance

6h 33m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Gainesville to Chapel Hill 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 Gainesville to Chapel Hill

Traveling from Gainesville to Chapel Hill reveals a striking contrast between Gainesville's laid-back, sunny lifestyle and Chapel Hill's vibrant college town atmosphere, rich with arts and culture.

Best Neighbourhoods in Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill features vibrant neighborhoods that reflect its diverse community and charm.

Downtown Chapel Hill

• Bustling area with shops and cafes.

• Frequent live music and cultural events.

University District

• Home to the prestigious University of North Carolina.

• Lively atmosphere with students and academics.

Southern Village

• Picturesque community with a mix of homes and shops.

• Scenic trails and parks for outdoor activities.

Best Times To Visit Chapel Hill's Attractions

Enjoying Chapel Hill's attractions is all about timing your visit right.

North Carolina Botanical Garden

Visit early in the morning on weekdays for peaceful strolls and fewer visitors.

University of North Carolina Campus

Explore during the late afternoon or early evening when campus tours are less busy.

Franklin Street

Come on Sundays for a relaxed vibe, perfect for wandering shops and cafes.

Chapel Hill Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Chapel Hill experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, where summers can be hot and humid, while winters tend to be cool and occasional snowfall is possible. The best times to enjoy the area are during the mild spring and fall months, as pleasant weather enhances outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Dining Recommendation in Chapel Hill

For a delightful change from Gainesville's casual fare, visit Crook’s Corner and indulge in their famous shrimp and grits, featuring locally sourced ingredients that showcase the essence of Southern cuisine. The restaurant's cozy, eclectic ambiance and commitment to traditional flavors provide a unique dining experience that highlights Chapel Hill's rich culinary heritage.

Gainesville - Chapel Hill operators

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

Plane Show flights

Website

aa.com

Plane from Gainesville (GNV) to Raleigh/Durham (RDU)

Average Duration

3h 40m

Estimated price

$4940-20280

Plane from Gainesville to Raleigh/Durham via Charlotte

Average Duration

3h 55m

Estimated price

$4940-20280

Plane from Gainesville to Raleigh/Durham via Dallas/Ft.Worth

Average Duration

6h 30m

Estimated price

$4940-20280

Plane from Gainesville to Raleigh/Durham via Miami

Average Duration

7h 54m

Estimated price

$4940-20280

Website

delta.com

Plane from Gainesville (GNV) to Raleigh/Durham (RDU)

Average Duration

4h 22m

Estimated price

$4944-20280

Plane from Gainesville to Raleigh/Durham via Atlanta

Average Duration

4h 22m

Estimated price

$4944-20280

Plane from Gainesville to Greensboro/High Point via Atlanta

Average Duration

4h 28m

Estimated price

$4946-4947

Bus Show bus routes

Contact phone

+1 (855) 626-8585

Website

flixbus.com

Bus from Gainesville to Orlando

Average Duration

2h 40m

Estimated price

$2151-2028

Bus from Gainesville to Atlanta Bus Station

Average Duration

Estimated price

$2152-2022

Bus from Atlanta Bus Station to Durham

Average Duration

8h 5m

Estimated price

$2153-4945

Bus from Gainesville to Orlando Bus Station (Night bus)

Average Duration

2h 10m

Estimated price

$2154-2155

Contact phone

+1 214-849-8100

Website

greyhound.com

Bus from Gainesville Bus Stop to Atlanta Bus Station

Average Duration

6h 5m

Estimated price

$2024-383

Bus from Atlanta Bus Station to Durham

Average Duration

8h 45m

Estimated price

$2020-4948

Contact phone

+1-877-462-6342

Website

us.megabus.com

Bus from Atlanta to Durham

Average Duration

7h 30m

Estimated price

$2157-383

Train

Contact phone

+1 800-872-7245

Website

amtrak.com

Train from Winter Park Amtrak Station to Cary

Average Duration

12h 29m

Estimated price

$382-2029

Gainesville to Chapel Hill: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Gainesville and Chapel Hill 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 Gainesville to Chapel Hill covering a distance of 530 miles and taking roughly 9 hours and 10 minutes to reach your destination. 💰 Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate the cost-effective options to drive from Gainesville to Chapel Hill, with prices ranging between $95 to $140 for the journey by car.

Average price

$95 - $140

🛫 Flying from Gainesville to Chapel Hill involves a layover since there are no direct flights between the two cities. The quickest option with one stopover takes approximately 3 hours and 40 minutes. 💸 The costs for flights between Chapel Hill and Gainesville can range from $202 to $494, depending on the airline, time of booking, and other factors. The total duration of the journey by plane to reach Chapel Hill from Gainesville is around 6 hours and 33 minutes.

Departure Point

Gainesville Airport

Arrival Point

Raleigh/Durham Airport. The quickest flight takes 3h 40m and has one stopover

🚌 The trip from Gainesville to Chapel Hill by bus involves no direct route but requires transfers in Atlanta and Durham. The total journey time, with transfers, is approximately 16 hours and 2 minutes. 🛣️ Flixbus USA operates the bus services from Gainesville to Chapel Hill, with the departure from Gainesville station and the arrival at Durham station. The varying prices for this bus journey range from $59 to $205.

Departure Point

Gainesville station

Arrival Point

Durham station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Gainesville to Chapel Hill.

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The distance between Gainesville and Chapel Hill is 475 miles or 530.1 miles by road. Typical travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. By taking a night bus to Orlando and then flying to Raleigh/Durham, it would take approximately 8 hours and 5 minutes. Alternatively, flying directly from Gainesville to Chapel Hill would take around 6 hours and 25 minutes. Driving by car would take approximately 9 hours and 10 minutes, while taking a bus would take about 16 hours and 7 minutes.

The most cost-effective option for traveling from Gainesville to Chapel Hill is to take a night bus from Gainesville to Orlando and then fly from Orlando to Raleigh/Durham. This option takes approximately 8 hours and 5 minutes and costs between $35 and $240. However, if time efficiency is a priority, it is recommended to fly directly from Gainesville to Raleigh/Durham, which takes about 6 hours and 25 minutes and costs between $140 and $500.

The prices for a bus ticket between Gainesville and Chapel Hill can range from $59 to $201. The exact price will depend on factors such as the time of booking, the type of bus service, and any discounts or promotions available. It is recommended to compare different bus companies and book in advance to secure the best fare for your travel.

To travel from Gainesville to Chapel Hill without using public transportation, you can opt to drive. The distance is approximately 530 miles, and it takes around 9 hours and 10 minutes to drive from Gainesville to Chapel Hill. The cost of gas and tolls can range from $95 to $140, depending on factors such as vehicle type and gas prices.

To travel from Gainesville to Chapel Hill without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The journey takes approximately 16 hours and 7 minutes and can cost between $55 and $210. The bus route provides a convenient and affordable alternative for those who do not have access to a car or prefer not to drive.

No, there is no direct bus link between Gainesville and Chapel Hill. However, it is possible to travel between the two cities by transferring buses. The journey takes approximately 16 hours and 7 minutes, including transfers. The buses depart from Gainesville and arrive at N Columbia St at Rosemary St via Orlando Bus Station, New Bern Ave at Trawick Rd, and GoRaleigh Station.

The flight duration between Gainesville and Chapel Hill varies depending on the specific itinerary and layovers. The quickest flight option takes approximately 3 hours and 32 minutes, with one stopover. However, it's important to note that there are no direct flights available from Gainesville Airport to Raleigh/Durham Airport. The cost of the flight typically ranges from $142 to $494, but this can vary based on factors such as the airline, time of booking, and availability.

There are numerous accommodation options available near Chapel Hill. With over 289 hotels to choose from, travelers can find a range of options to suit their preferences and budget. Prices for hotels in Chapel Hill start at $53 per night, offering affordable options for those on a budget. Whether you prefer luxury hotels, boutique accommodations, or budget-friendly motels, there are plenty of choices available to make your stay in Chapel Hill comfortable and enjoyable.