Des Moines, IA, USA to Madison, WI, USA from $544: 8 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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How to Get from Des Moines to Madison: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$544 - OtherBest price

472 kmDistance

4h 9m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Des Moines to Madison 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 Des Moines to Madison

The journey from Des Moines to Madison offers a captivating contrast between the vibrant arts scene of Iowa's capital and the charming, outdoor-oriented lifestyle in Wisconsin's capital.

Best Neighbourhoods in Madison

Madison’s neighborhoods showcase diverse experiences for every traveler.

Downtown Madison

• Home to the State Capitol building.

• Vibrant dining and nightlife options.

University of Wisconsin-Madison

• Rich cultural activities and events.

• Beautiful lakeside views and parks.

Tenney-Lapham

• Historic homes and tree-lined streets.

• Close-knit community with local shops.

Best Times To Visit Madison's Attractions

Maximize your Madison experience by visiting attractions at the optimal times.

Wisconsin State Capitol

Weekdays in the early morning offer fewer crowds and a peaceful atmosphere.

Olbrich Botanical Gardens

Visiting on weekdays during the early spring showcases blooming flowers with fewer visitors.

Monona Terrace

Late afternoons during weekdays provide stunning views without the weekend rush.

Madison Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Madison experiences a mix of hot summers and cold winters, making seasonal planning essential for your trip. The best times to visit are spring and fall when temperatures are mild, enhancing your travel experience amid the city's outdoor attractions.

Dining Recommendation in Madison

Be sure to try the cheese curds at The Old Fashioned, which showcases Wisconsin's rich dairy heritage and offers a distinctly local flavor you won't find in Des Moines. The vibrant atmosphere, complete with regional beer selections and seasonal ingredients, creates a dining experience that celebrates the spirit of Madison.

Des Moines - Madison operators

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

Plane

Website

delta.com

Plane from Des Moines (DSM) to Madison (MSN)

Average Duration

4h 9m

Estimated price

$54-352

Plane from Des Moines (DSM) to Milwaukee (MKE)

Average Duration

4h 31m

Estimated price

$549-3525

Plane from Des Moines (DSM) to Madison via Minneapolis

Average Duration

4h 40m

Estimated price

$549-3520

Plane from Des Moines (DSM) to Madison via Detroit

Average Duration

5h 6m

Estimated price

$3521-3522

Plane from Des Moines (DSM) to Madison via Atlanta

Average Duration

6h 18m

Estimated price

$3523-3524

Website

aa.com

Plane from Des Moines (DSM) to Madison via Chicago O'Hare

Average Duration

Estimated price

$3527-3524

Plane from Des Moines (DSM) to Madison via Reagan Washington

Average Duration

5h 24m

Estimated price

$548-3528

Plane from Des Moines (DSM) to Madison via Dallas/Ft.Worth

Average Duration

6h 40m

Estimated price

$3529-610

Plane from Des Moines (DSM) to Milwaukee via Chicago O'Hare

Average Duration

4h 33m

Estimated price

$611-612

Plane from Des Moines (DSM) to Milwaukee via Charlotte

Average Duration

7h 6m

Estimated price

$3527-35210

Website

united.com

Plane from Des Moines (DSM) to Madison via Chicago O'Hare

Average Duration

3h 32m

Estimated price

$3527-3524

Plane from Des Moines (DSM) to Madison via Denver

Average Duration

6h 18m

Estimated price

$548-610

Plane from Des Moines (DSM) to Milwaukee via Chicago O'Hare

Average Duration

4h 1m

Estimated price

$611-613

Plane from Des Moines (DSM) to Milwaukee via Denver

Average Duration

6h 36m

Estimated price

$614-35210

Bus

Contact phone

+1-858-800-8898

Website

jeffersonlines.com

Bus from Des Moines, IA to St. Paul

Average Duration

11h 35m

Estimated price

$0-0

Bus from St. Paul to Madison, WI-Lake St.

Average Duration

Estimated price

$0-0

Contact phone

1(800) 992-4618

Website

burlingtontrailways.com

Bus from Des Moines, IA to Chicago, IL

Average Duration

Estimated price

$90-611

Contact phone

+1 800-872-7245

Website

amtrak.com

Bus from Chicago Union Station to Madison

Average Duration

3h 35m

Estimated price

$0-0

Contact phone

+1 (855) 626-8585

Website

flixbus.com

Bus from Milwaukee Mitchell Airport to Madison

Average Duration

2h 5m

Estimated price

$616-890

Bus from Chicago Bus Station to Madison

Average Duration

3h 40m

Estimated price

$898-899

Contact phone

+1 414-266-4409

Website

badgerbus.com

Bus from Mitchell Airport to Madison, WI-Lake St.

Average Duration

Estimated price

$895-3754

Train

Contact phone

+1 800-872-7245

Website

amtrak.com

Train from St. Paul-Minneapolis to Portage

Average Duration

4h 27m

Estimated price

$616-617

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Des Moines to Madison.

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The distance between Des Moines and Madison is approximately 239 miles. By plane, it takes about 4 hours and 24 minutes to travel between the two cities. If you prefer driving, it takes around 4 hours and 59 minutes by car. However, if you opt for a bus journey, the travel time can be longer, taking roughly 10 hours and 40 minutes.

The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Des Moines to Madison is by flying. It takes 4 hours and 24 minutes and costs between $130 and $490. If you prefer to drive, it is the cheapest option, costing between $50 and $80, and takes approximately 4 hours and 59 minutes. Overall, flying is the quicker option, but driving may be more economical depending on your budget.

The prices of a bus ticket between Madison and Des Moines can vary depending on a few factors. On average, prices range from $53 to $168 for a one-way ticket. Factors such as time of travel, day of the week, and how far in advance you book can affect the price. It is recommended to check different bus companies and compare prices to find the best deal for your travel needs.

To get from Des Moines to Madison without using public transportation, you can drive. The driving distance between the two cities is 293 miles, which typically takes around 4 hours and 59 minutes. The prices for a car rental or using your own vehicle may vary between $50 and $80, depending on factors such as gas prices and tolls.

To travel from Des Moines to Madison without a car, the best option is to take a bus via Saint Paul. This journey takes approximately 10 hours and 40 minutes and costs between $50 and $170. Taking a bus is a convenient and affordable way to travel between these cities without the need for a car.

No, there is no direct link between Des Moines and Madison. However, there are bus services available with transfers. The journey from Des Moines to Madison typically takes around 10 hours and 40 minutes, including transfers in St Paul, MN. The bus services are operated by Jefferson Lines and Megabus.

The flight between Des Moines and Madison typically takes around 3 hours and 21 minutes with one stopover. The prices for this route can vary, ranging from $139 to $482, depending on the airline and the time of booking. It is recommended to check with different airlines and compare prices to find the best option that suits your needs and budget.

There are numerous accommodation options available near Madison. There are over 97 hotels to choose from, with prices starting at $55 per night. These hotels vary in location, amenities, and price range, so travelers can find a suitable option to fit their needs and budget. Whether you prefer luxury hotels, budget accommodations, or something in between, there are plenty of options to consider for your stay near Madison.

Des Moines, IA, USA to Madison, WI, USA from $544: 8 ways by bus, train, flight or car

How to Get from Des Moines to Madison: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

See more options

Traveling From Des Moines to Madison

Best Neighbourhoods in Madison

Best Times To Visit Madison's Attractions

Madison Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Dining Recommendation in Madison

Des Moines - Madison operators

Frequently asked questions

Trips from Des Moines

Trips to Chicago

Popular routes