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Champaign, IL, USA to Madison, WI, USA from $27: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Champaign, United States of America
to
Madison, United States of America

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

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$27 - Train, bus via MilwaukeeBest price
344 kmDistance
4h 8m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Champaign 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.

Company
various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
6h  41m
Estimated price
$28-124
Recommended
Company
various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
7h  50m
Estimated price
$27-214
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 344 km
Duration: 4h 8m

See more options

Company
Greyhound US0130, FlixBus
Bus
Bus
Average Duration
7h  10m
Estimated price
$31-114
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
4h  8m
Estimated price
$45-280
Company
Amtrak Thruway Connecting Service
Bus
Average Duration
7h  13m
Estimated price
$73-90
Company
American Airlines
Plane
Average Duration
5h  53m
Estimated price
$281-282
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Traveling From Champaign to Madison

The journey from Champaign to Madison showcases a delightful contrast between Champaign's charming college-town vibe and Madison's vibrant cultural scene alongside stunning natural beauty.

Best Neighborhoods in Madison

Madison offers diverse neighborhoods, each with unique attractions and atmosphere.

Downtown Madison
• Lively dining and shopping scene
• Home to vibrant festivals and events
State-Langdon
• Close proximity to the University of Wisconsin
• Historic architecture and lively nightlife
Monona Bay
• Beautiful waterfront views and parks
• Ideal for outdoor activities and relaxation

Best Times To Visit Madison's Attractions

Discover the optimal times to explore Madison's must-see spots for an enjoyable experience.

Olbrich Botanical Gardens
Visit in early spring for blooming flowers and fewer visitors.
Wisconsin State Capitol
Go on weekdays in the morning to enjoy a quieter atmosphere.
Monona Terrace
Visit during sunrise or sunset for stunning views and fewer crowds.

Madison Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Madison experiences four distinct seasons, with warm summers ideal for outdoor activities and snowy winters perfect for winter sports. Planning your visit around spring and fall offers mild temperatures and vibrant scenery, enhancing your overall travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in Madison

For a standout dining experience, try the cheese curds at the Old Fashioned, where local ingredients bring a taste of Wisconsin to life through a nostalgic Midwestern atmosphere. This culinary adventure offers a rich contrast to Champaign's eateries, showcasing bold flavors and a lively vibe that reflects Madison's unique food culture.

Champaign - Madison operators

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

Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from Champaign-Urbana to Chicago Union Station

Average Duration
2h 36m
Estimated price
$287-288

Train from Chicago Union Station to Milwaukee

Average Duration
1h 29m
Estimated price
$1247-1248

Train from Chicago Union Station to Madison

Average Duration
3h 35m
Estimated price
$272-273
Bus
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
https://www.greyhound.com/

Bus from Champaign Intermodal Trans Ctr to Chicago Bus Station

Average Duration
2h 30m
Estimated price
$274-2870

Bus from Chicago Bus Station to Madison

Average Duration
3h 40m
Estimated price
$1246-275
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
https://www.flixbus.com/

Bus from Chicago Bus Station to Madison

Average Duration
3h 40m
Estimated price
$1246-275
Contact phone
+1 800-448-0572
Website
https://www.peoriacharter.com/

Bus from Champaign, IL - ISR to Downtown Chicago

Average Duration
3h
Estimated price
$2870-0
Contact phone
+1 608-752-5407
Website
https://www.coachusa.com/van-galder-bus-company

Bus from Chicago Union Station to Madison

Average Duration
3h 40m
Estimated price
$272-273
Plane
Website
http://aa.com

Plane from Champaign (CMI) to Madison (MSN)

Average Duration
6h 36m
Estimated price
$285-286

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

Traveling between Champaign and Madison 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 Madison covering a distance of 252 miles in approximately 4 hours and 8 minutes. 💰 Enjoy the flexibility of choosing between different price ranges, with car travel costs ranging from $45 to $70 for the journey from Champaign to Madison.
Average price
$45 - $70
🛫 Traveling from Champaign to Madison by plane involves a connecting flight due to no direct route between the two airports. The quickest option with one stopover takes approximately 5 hours and 3 minutes. ✈️ American Airlines operates flights from Champaign Airport to Madison Airport, with a total travel time of around 5 hours and 53 minutes. This allows travelers to reach their destination efficiently and comfortably. 💸 The cost of a flight between Madison and Champaign typically ranges from $240 to $524, providing travelers with flexibility in choosing a fare that best suits their budget and travel preferences.
Departure Point
Champaign Airport
Arrival Point
Madison Airport. The quickest flight takes 5h 3m and has one stopover
🚌 The bus services from Champaign to Madison are operated by Greyhound USA and Flixbus USA, with a total travel time of approximately 7 hours and 10 minutes. 🚌 The prices for a bus ticket between Champaign and Madison can range from $31 to $114, offering a budget-friendly travel option for this route.
Departure Point
Champaign Intermodal Trans Ctr station
Arrival Point
Madison station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Champaign to Madison.

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The distance between Champaign and Madison is 214 miles. The road distance is slightly longer at 252 miles. The typical travel times by various modes of transportation are as follows: 7 hours and 50 minutes by train and then bus via Milwaukee, 4 hours and 29 minutes by plane, 4 hours and 8 minutes by car, and 6 hours and 34 minutes by bus. These times may vary depending on factors such as road conditions, traffic, and flight schedules.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Champaign to Madison is by driving. It takes approximately 4 hours and 8 minutes, and the cost ranges from $45 to $70. This is both the cheapest and quickest way to reach Madison, as compared to other modes of transportation such as train or bus.
When traveling from Champaign to Madison there are different prices for bus tickets. The prices for a bus ticket between Madison and Champaign range from $38 to $89. The cost may vary depending on the bus company, the time of travel, and the availability of seats. It is recommended to check with the bus companies or online ticket booking platforms for the most accurate and up-to-date prices.
To travel from Champaign to Madison without using public transportation, you can drive the 252-mile distance. It takes approximately 4 hours and 8 minutes to drive between the two cities. The cost of driving from Champaign to Madison can vary between $45 and $70, depending on factors such as fuel prices and vehicle efficiency.
To travel from Champaign to Madison without a car, the best option is to take a night bus followed by a bus. This journey typically takes around 6 hours and 34 minutes and costs between $35 and $90. The specific details and schedules can be obtained from the bus operators servicing this route.
No, there is no direct link between Champaign and Madison. However, there are bus services available with transfers. The bus departs from Champaign Intermodal Trans Ctr and arrives at Madison via Chicago Union Station, with a journey time of approximately 6h 34m. The bus services are operated by Greyhound USA and Amtrak.
The flight duration between Champaign and Madison with one stopover is typically around 3 hours and 26 minutes. However, there are no direct flights available. The cost of a flight ticket between Madison and Champaign can vary between $240 and $524, depending on factors such as the airline, time of booking, and availability. It is advisable to check with different airlines and book in advance to find the best prices for this route.
There are several options for places to stay near Madison. There are over 97 hotels available, with prices starting at $55 per night. Some popular hotel chains in the area include Hilton, Marriott, and Holiday Inn. Additionally, there are also bed and breakfasts, motels, and vacation rentals that offer alternative accommodations for travelers. With a range of options available, travelers can choose the type of accommodation that best suits their needs and budget.

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