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Jacksonville, FL, USA to Gainesville, GA, USA from $131: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from Jacksonville to Gainesville: 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.

$131 - Bus, TrainBest price
489 kmDistance
5h 8m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Jacksonville to Gainesville 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
various
Bus
Train
Average Duration
8h  33m
Estimated price
$13-152
Recommended
route map
Distance: 489 km
Duration: 5h 8m

See more options

Company
Greyhound
Bus
Average Duration
9h  8m
Estimated price
$58-144
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
6h  28m
Estimated price
$70-110
Company
various
Plane
Train
Average Duration
5h  43m
Estimated price
$106-409
Company
various
Drive
Plane
Train
Average Duration
5h  8m
Estimated price
$117-130
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Traveling From Jacksonville to Gainesville

The journey from Jacksonville to Gainesville offers a fascinating contrast between Jacksonville's bustling urban landscape and Gainesville's charming, laid-back atmosphere centered around nature and academia.

Best Neighborhoods in Gainesville

Gainesville boasts diverse neighborhoods offering a mix of culture and charm.

Duckpond
• Historic homes and tree-lined streets.
• Close to beautiful parks and local art galleries.
Haile Plantation
• Scenic walking trails and golf courses.
• Family-oriented atmosphere with plenty of amenities.
Midtown
• Vibrant nightlife near the University of Florida.
• Bustling atmosphere with shops and cafes.

Best Times To Visit Gainesville's Attractions

Discovering Gainesville's attractions can be even better with the right timing.

Florida Museum of Natural History
Visit on weekdays during the school year to avoid weekend crowds.
Devil's Millhopper Geological State Park
Early mornings or late afternoons feature cooler weather and fewer visitors.
Kanapaha Botanical Gardens
Spring mornings showcase blooming flowers with less foot traffic.

Gainesville Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Gainesville enjoys a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot summers and mild winters, making spring and fall the best seasons to explore. Understanding the weather helps in planning your activities, as heavy rains can impact outdoor adventures during the summer.

Dining Recommendation in Gainesville

Try the locally sourced Grits and Greens at The Hyppo, where the Southern flavors and vibrant atmosphere create a distinct dining experience that contrasts with Jacksonville's seafood-heavy offerings. This dish showcases Gainesville's commitment to fresh ingredients and regional specialties, giving you a taste of the area's culinary character.

Jacksonville - Gainesville operators

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

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1-877-462-6342
Website
https://us.megabus.com

Bus from Jacksonville, FL - JTA Intercity Bus Terminal Bay 6 to Atlanta, GA

Average Duration
6h 15m
Estimated price
$1524-1522
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
https://www.greyhound.com/

Bus from Jacksonville to Atlanta Bus Station

Average Duration
6h 45m
Estimated price
$1521-15205

Bus from Atlanta Bus Station to Gainesville

Average Duration
1h 20m
Estimated price
$1525-1365
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from Atlanta to Gainesville Amtrak Station

Average Duration
52m
Estimated price
$139-70
Plane Show flights
Website
delta.com

Plane from Jacksonville Airport (JAX) to Atlanta Airport (ATL)

Average Duration
1h 16m
Estimated price
$1310-137
Website
southwest.com

Plane from Jacksonville Airport (JAX) to Atlanta Airport (ATL)

Average Duration
1h 15m
Estimated price
$13500-13660

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

Traveling between Jacksonville and Gainesville 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 Jacksonville to Gainesville covering a distance of 397 miles. Enjoy the journey through picturesque landscapes and charming towns along the way. 💰 Experience affordable travel options with prices ranging from $70 to $110 for the trip by car. Plan ahead to secure the best deal and make the most of your budget while exploring the route. 🌳 Allow approximately 6 hours and 28 minutes for the drive from Jacksonville to Gainesville. Take breaks, savor local cuisines, and create unforgettable memories on this exciting journey through two distinct Southern cities.
Average price
$70 - $110
🚆 Embark on an exciting journey from Jacksonville to Gainesville by train. Route 1 offers a swift 2-hour, 13-minute ride covering 62.1 miles, with a convenient bus transfer in Winter Haven via the Amtrak Chartered Motorcoach service. 🌄 For a longer but scenic travel option, consider Route 2, taking 10 hours and 5 minutes to reach Gainesville. With two bus transfers first to Tallahassee and then to Miami via Greyhound, this route covers 110 miles of picturesque landscapes. 🌟 Alternatively, Route 3 provides a similar experience to Route 1, with a 2-hour, 44-minute journey covering 62.1 miles and a bus transfer in Winter Haven via the Amtrak Chartered Motorcoach.
🛫 The trip from Jacksonville to Gainesville begins with a quick and convenient flight from Jacksonville Airport to Atlanta Airport. The direct flight takes just 1 hour and 10 minutes.
Departure Point
Jacksonville Airport
Arrival Point
Atlanta Airport
🚌 Traveling from Jacksonville to Gainesville by bus takes approximately 9 hours and 8 minutes with prices ranging from $58 to $144. 🛣️ Route options include different travel times but all depart from Jacksonville and arrive at Gainesville Amtrak Bus Stop, covering a distance of 62.7 miles. 🎟️ Choose from various routes with different durations, such as a 2-hour 12-minute journey or longer trips of up to 3 hours 44 minutes, all operated by Amtrak Chartered Motorcoach agency.
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Consider using Amtrak's Thruway services for this journey, as they provide comfortable seating and often have amenities like Wi-Fi and power outlets; check out their offerings at amtrak.com
• For food options during your bus ride, plan ahead by picking up snacks or meals from local favorites like the Blue Fish Restaurant or 29 South Eats near the Jacksonville Amtrak Station before you depart to ensure you have plenty to eat on your 9-hour journey.
• Upon arriving at the Gainesville Amtrak Bus Stop, be prepared for a small, straightforward terminal with limited services; make sure to have a plan for local transport, as services like Gainesville RTS provide convenient bus routes to various parts of the city; check their schedules at go-gainseville.com

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Jacksonville to Gainesville.

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The distance between Jacksonville and Gainesville is approximately 304 miles by road. It takes about 6 hours and 28 minutes to drive from Gainesville to Jacksonville. If you prefer to take public transportation, it takes approximately 8 hours and 33 minutes to travel from Jacksonville to Gainesville by bus and train. However, the travel time may vary depending on traffic and other factors.
The most cost-effective way to travel from Jacksonville to Gainesville is by taking a bus and train. This option typically costs $12-$160 and takes about 8 hours and 33 minutes. However, if time efficiency is a priority, the quickest way to travel is by flying and then taking a train, which takes around 5 hours and 38 minutes but costs between $100-$340. Ultimately, the choice between cost-effectiveness and time-efficiency depends on the individual's priorities and budget.
The prices for a bus ticket between Gainesville and Jacksonville can range from $58 to $144. It is important to note that prices may vary depending on factors such as the time of travel, the type of bus service, and any promotional offers or discounts that may be available. It is advisable to check with different bus operators and websites to compare prices and find the best deal for your journey.
To travel from Jacksonville to Gainesville without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of 397 miles. It usually takes about 6 hours and 28 minutes by car, depending on traffic conditions. The cost of this journey can range from $70 to $110, considering factors such as gas prices and tolls along the route.
The most convenient way to travel from Jacksonville to Gainesville without a car is by taking a combination of bus and train. This journey takes approximately 8 hours and 33 minutes and can cost between $12 and $160, depending on the specific options chosen. The bus will take you to a train station where you can then continue your journey to Gainesville. This option provides a comfortable and hassle-free travel experience.
The flight between Jacksonville and Gainesville typically takes 1 hour and 10 minutes on a direct flight from Jacksonville Airport to Atlanta Airport. The cost of the flight can vary depending on the airline and time of booking, but it is typically affordable for this short domestic route. It is recommended to check with different airlines for pricing and availability to get the best deal for your travel.
There are numerous options for accommodations near Gainesville. With over 60 hotels to choose from, visitors can find a variety of options to meet their needs and budget. Prices for hotels in the area start at $46, ensuring there are affordable options available. Whether you're looking for a luxury hotel or a budget-friendly option, there is a wide range of choices to consider.

Trips from Jacksonville