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Champaign, IL, USA to Iowa City, IA, USA from $40: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Champaign, United States of America
to
Iowa City, United States of America

How to Get from Champaign to Iowa City: 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.

$40 by carBest price
391 kmDistance
4h Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Champaign to Iowa City 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
Burlington Trailways
Bus
Average Duration
6h  50m
Estimated price
$73-142
Recommended
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
4h 
Estimated price
$40-65
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 391 km
Duration: 4h

See more options

Company
American Airlines
Plane
Average Duration
7h  28m
Estimated price
$154-508
Company
various
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
8h  47m
Estimated price
$177-730
Company
various
Taxi
Plane
Average Duration
8h  43m
Estimated price
$258-620
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Champaign to Iowa City

This journey from Champaign to Iowa City offers a striking contrast between the bustling university town vibe of Champaign and the vibrant cultural scene of Iowa City.

Best Neighborhoods in Iowa City

Iowa City features diverse neighborhoods, each with its own charm and attractions.

Downtown Iowa City
• Home to a vibrant arts scene.
• Plenty of dining and shopping options.
Northside Neighborhood
• Known for its historic architecture.
• Hosts local festivals and events.
West Iowa City
• Offers quieter residential areas.
• Nearby parks and outdoor activities.

Best Times To Visit Iowa City's Attractions

Timing your visits can enhance your experience at Iowa City's highlights.

University of Iowa Museum of Art
Weekdays in the morning offer a quieter atmosphere for art lovers.
Iowa City Public Library
Mid-afternoons during weekdays attract fewer visitors, allowing for relaxation.
Devonian Fossil Gorge
Early morning or late afternoons during spring bring fewer crowds and stunning views.

Iowa City Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Iowa City experiences four distinct seasons, with hot summers and cold winters influencing outdoor activities and local events. The best times to visit are spring and fall, as mild temperatures and vibrant foliage enhance the travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in Iowa City

Try the fried chicken at The Public Space One, which showcases a crispy, seasoned crust paired with local farm-fresh sides, a delightful contrast to the more casual dining scene in Champaign. The atmosphere here, infused with community art and live music, elevates your meal into a vibrant local experience that truly captures Iowa City's spirit.

Champaign - Iowa City operators

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

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
1(800) 992-4618
Website
burlingtontrailways.com

Bus from Champaign, Il to Davenport, Ia

Average Duration
6h 50m
Estimated price
$73-142

Bus from Davenport, Ia to Iowa City, Ia

Average Duration
Estimated price
$40-40
Plane Show flights
Website
aa.com

Plane from Champaign (CMI) to Cedar Rapids (CID)

Average Duration
7h 28m
Estimated price
$154-508

Plane from Champaign to Cedar Rapids via Chicago O'Hare to Cedar Rapids Airport

Average Duration
7h 18m
Estimated price
$734-735

Plane from Champaign to Cedar Rapids via Dallas/Ft.Worth to Cedar Rapids Airport

Average Duration
6h 42m
Estimated price
$732-736

Plane from Champaign to Moline via Chicago O'Hare to Moline Airport

Average Duration
6h 43m
Estimated price
$734-735

Plane from Champaign to Moline via Dallas/Ft.Worth to Moline Airport

Average Duration
6h 53m
Estimated price
$732-736
Taxi
Contact phone
+1 217-355-3553
Website
yellowcheckercabchampaign.com

Taxi from Champaign to Decatur

Average Duration
54m
Estimated price
$258-620

Champaign to Iowa City: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Champaign and Iowa City 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 Champaign to Iowa City, covering a distance of 243 miles through the heart of the Midwest. 💰 Enjoy the flexibility of pricing, ranging from $40 to $65, offering budget-friendly options for your journey between these vibrant college towns. 🌿 Take in the rolling countryside and charming small towns along the way, as you make the approximately 4-hour drive from Champaign to Iowa City.
Average price
$40 - $65
🛫 Traveling from Champaign to Iowa City by plane requires a stopover since there are no direct flights available. The quickest option with one stop takes approximately 4 hours and 32 minutes. 🌍 American Airlines operates flights from Champaign Airport to Cedar Rapids Airport, the closest airport to Iowa City. The total travel time from Champaign to Iowa City by plane is around 7 hours and 28 minutes. 💸 The prices for flights between Iowa City and Champaign can range from $154 to $508, depending on various factors such as the time of booking and availability of seats.
Departure Point
Champaign Airport
Arrival Point
Cedar Rapids Airport. The quickest flight takes 4h 32m and has one stopover
🚌 The journey, with transfers included, typically takes around 6 hours and 50 minutes. Burlington Trailways operates the bus services departing and arriving at the respective stations. 🚌 Prices for the bus trip between Iowa City and Champaign range from $73 to $142, offering travelers an affordable transportation option for this route.
Departure Point
Champaign, Il station
Arrival Point
Iowa City, Ia station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Champaign to Iowa City.

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The distance between Champaign and Iowa City is approximately 203 miles, or 243.1 miles by road. The typical travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. It takes 8 hours and 50 minutes to travel from Champaign to Iowa City by taking a taxi to Decatur and then flying to Cedar Rapids. Alternatively, it takes 7 hours and 13 minutes to fly directly from Champaign to Iowa City. If traveling by car, the journey takes approximately 4 hours, while taking a bus takes around 6 hours and 50 minutes.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Champaign to Iowa City is to drive. It takes approximately 4 hours to cover the distance of 243.1 miles by car, and the cost ranges from $40 to $65. Alternatively, taking a taxi to Decatur and then flying to Cedar Rapids can be faster, with a travel time of 8 hours and 50 minutes, but it may not be as cost-effective. Overall, driving is the recommended option for this journey.
The prices for a bus ticket between Iowa City and Champaign can range from $73 to $142, depending on the specific bus carrier and any promotional deals that may be available. It is advisable to check with different bus companies and compare prices to get the best deal. Additionally, prices may vary depending on the time of year and day of the week, so it is recommended to book in advance to secure the most affordable price.
To get from Champaign to Iowa City without using public transportation, you can drive. The driving distance is approximately 243 miles and it takes about 4 hours to reach Iowa City by car. Prices for renting a car or using a ridesharing service vary, but can range from $40 to $65.
To travel from Champaign to Iowa City without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The journey takes approximately 6 hours and 50 minutes and tickets can cost between $70 and $150. Buses provide a convenient and affordable mode of transportation, allowing you to enjoy the scenic views during the journey without the hassle of driving. It is advisable to check the bus schedule and book your ticket in advance to ensure a smooth and comfortable journey.
Yes, there is a link between Champaign and Iowa City. Although there is no direct bus, there are bus services operated by Burlington Trailways that depart from Champaign and arrive at Iowa City via Davenport. The journey takes approximately 6 hours and 50 minutes, including transfers.
The flight between Champaign and Iowa City typically takes about 4 hours with one stopover. However, there is no direct flight available between Champaign Airport and Cedar Rapids Airport. The cost of a flight between the two cities can vary between $254 and $628, depending on factors such as the airline and the time of booking. Overall, flying is a convenient and reasonably quick option for traveling between Champaign and Iowa City.
There are plenty of accommodation options near Iowa City. With over 41 hotels to choose from, you will have a variety of choices that suit your preferences and budget. Prices start at $47 per night, ensuring that there are options available for every traveler. Whether you prefer luxury accommodations or budget-friendly options, you can find a suitable place to stay near Iowa City.

Trips from Champaign

Trips to Iowa City