Indianapolis, IN, USA to Madison, WI, USA from $30: 9 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

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$30 - Train, Bus via MilwaukeeBest price

531 kmDistance

5h 34m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

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

The journey from Indianapolis to Madison offers a transition from the bustling urban life and vibrant cultural scene of Indiana's capital to the serene charm and natural beauty of Wisconsin's state capital.

Best Neighbourhoods in Madison

Madison boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering its own distinct vibe and attractions.

Downtown Madison

• Vibrant nightlife and dining options abound.

• Home to the iconic Wisconsin State Capitol.

University of Wisconsin-Madison Area

• Bustling atmosphere with students and events.

• Rich in cultural and educational opportunities.

Middleton

• Beautiful parks and bike trails for outdoor lovers.

• Known for charming shops and local eateries.

Best Times To Visit Madison's Attractions

Maximize your experience by visiting Madison's top attractions at the right time.

Wisconsin State Capitol

Visit early mornings or on weekdays for a quieter experience.

Olbrich Botanical Gardens

Spring and early summer weekends showcase vibrant blooms and fewer crowds.

Madison's Farmers' Market

Arrive at opening for the freshest produce and a more relaxed atmosphere.

Madison Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Madison experiences a humid continental climate, with cold winters and warm summers, making spring and fall the most pleasant times to visit; however, each season offers a unique backdrop that can greatly enhance your travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in Madison

In Madison, savor the iconic cheese curds at the Old Fashioned, where the rustic atmosphere and commitment to local ingredients create a culinary experience distinct from Indianapolis's urban fare; these deep-fried delights capture the essence of Wisconsin's dairy heritage, offering a flavor profile that resonates with the region's agricultural roots.

Indianapolis - Madison operators

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

Bus Show bus routes

Website

palmlandlines.com

Bus from Indianapolis IN to Chicago IL

Average Duration

3h 20m

Estimated price

$371-2318

Bus from Chicago Union Station to Madison

Average Duration

3h 35m

Estimated price

$0-0

Contact phone

+1 608-752-5407

Website

https://www.coachusa.com/van-galder-bus-company

Bus from Chicago Union Station to Madison, WI-Lake St.

Average Duration

3h 40m

Estimated price

$2316-372

Bus from O'Hare Multi-Modal Facility to Madison, WI-Lake St.

Average Duration

2h 50m

Estimated price

$2319-372

Contact phone

+1 214-849-8100

Website

https://www.greyhound.com/

Bus from Indianapolis Bus Station to Chicago Bus Station

Average Duration

3h 45m

Estimated price

$373-751

Bus from Chicago Bus Station to Madison

Average Duration

3h 40m

Estimated price

$374-2318

Contact phone

+1 (855) 626-8585

Website

flixbus.com

Bus from Milwaukee Mitchell Airport to Madison

Average Duration

2h 5m

Estimated price

$375-2310

Train Show train routes

Contact phone

+1 800-872-7245

Website

https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from Indianapolis to Chicago Union Station

Average Duration

Estimated price

$2315-1051

Train from Chicago Union Station to Milwaukee

Average Duration

1h 29m

Estimated price

$306-75

Train from Milwaukee to Madison

Average Duration

1h 45m

Estimated price

$0-0

Plane Show flights

Website

aa.com

Plane from Indianapolis Airport to Madison Airport

Average Duration

4h 18m

Estimated price

$300-301

Website

delta.com

Plane from Indianapolis Airport to Madison Airport

Average Duration

3h 44m

Estimated price

$1051-1053

Website

united.com

Plane from Indianapolis Airport to Madison Airport

Average Duration

4h 4m

Estimated price

$1051-1058

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

Traveling between Indianapolis 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 Indianapolis to Madison, covering a distance of 330 miles in approximately 5 hours and 34 minutes. Enjoy the picturesque landscapes as you journey through the heart of the Midwest. 💰 Indulge in budget-friendly travel with car prices ranging from $60 to $90 for the Indianapolis to Madison route. Experience the freedom of the open road while exploring charming towns and cities along the way.

Average price

$60 - $90

🚆 Traveling by train from Indianapolis to Madison is a scenic journey covering a distance of 338 miles. With a total travel time of approximately 7 hours and 35 minutes, this route involves a transfer along the way. 🚆 The first leg of the trip includes a 3-hour and 45-minute bus ride from Indianapolis to Chicago Bus Station with FlixBus. The second step is a 3-hour and 20-minute bus journey from Chicago to Madison with Van Galder, departing from Chicago Airport Shuttle. 🚆 Alternatively, another route takes around 7 hours and 55 minutes to reach Madison from Indianapolis with a transfer in Chicago. Greyhound operates the bus service from Indianapolis to Chicago Train Station before transferring to the Van Galder bus towards Madison, departing from Chicago Airport Shuttle.

🛫 When traveling from Indianapolis to Madison by plane, passengers can expect a journey with one stopover and a total duration of 3 hours and 15 minutes. 💸 Prices for flights between the two cities can range from $144 to $294, with a total travel time of approximately 5 hours and 35 minutes.

Departure Point

Indianapolis Airport

Arrival Point

Madison Airport. The quickest flight takes 3h 15m and has one stopover

🚌 The bus journey from Indianapolis to Madison involves a transfer at Chicago Union Station. The total travel time, including transfers, is approximately 7 hours and 25 minutes. 🚌 The prices for a bus ticket between Indianapolis and Madison range from $75 to $105. Plan your trip accordingly to enjoy the scenic journey between these two cities by bus.

Departure Point

Indianapolis Bus Station

Arrival Point

Madison station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Indianapolis to Madison.

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The distance between Indianapolis and Madison is approximately 285 miles by road. It takes around 5 hours and 34 minutes to drive between the two cities. By train and bus, the journey takes about 10 hours and 14 minutes, while by plane, the travel time is around 5 hours and 50 minutes. If you prefer to take a bus, it takes approximately 7 hours and 25 minutes to reach Madison from Indianapolis.

The most cost-effective option for traveling from Indianapolis to Madison is by taking a bus. The bus journey from the Indianapolis Bus Station to Madison typically costs between $35 and $130 and takes around 8 hours and 25 minutes. However, if time is a priority, driving is the fastest option, taking approximately 5 hours and 34 minutes and costing between $60 and $90. It's important to weigh the cost and time factors when deciding on the best transportation option for your trip.

The prices of a bus ticket between Madison and Indianapolis can range from $75 to $105. It is advisable to check with different bus operators or online booking platforms to find the best deals and compare prices. It is also recommended to book in advance to secure the best fares and ensure availability during peak travel times.

To get from Indianapolis to Madison without using public transportation, your best option would be to drive. The distance between the two cities is 330 miles, and the drive usually takes around 5 hours and 34 minutes. You can expect to spend approximately $60 to $90 on gas, depending on your vehicle's fuel efficiency and current gas prices. Driving allows for flexibility and the opportunity to enjoy the scenic route along the way.

To travel from Indianapolis to Madison without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The journey takes approximately 7 hours and 25 minutes, and ticket prices range from $75 to $110. This is a convenient and affordable way to travel between the two cities, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenery while someone else takes care of the driving.

Yes, there is a link between Indianapolis and Madison although it is not a direct one. The most convenient option is to take a bus from Indianapolis to Madison, which requires transferring at Chicago Union Station. The journey typically takes around 7 hours and 25 minutes, including the transfers. Both Greyhound USA and Flixbus USA operate bus services between these two cities.

The flight duration between Indianapolis and Madison varies depending on the number of stopovers. The quickest flight with one stopover takes approximately 3 hours and 17 minutes. However, there is no direct flight available between the two cities. The cost of a flight ticket typically ranges from $144 to $294, depending on the airline and the time of booking. It is advisable to check with different airlines for the most accurate and up-to-date prices.

There are plenty of accommodation options available near Madison. There are over 97 hotels to choose from, with prices starting at $55 per night. Some popular hotel chains in the area include Marriott, Hilton, and Holiday Inn. Whether you're looking for luxury or budget-friendly options, you're sure to find a place to stay that suits your preferences and budget near Madison.

Indianapolis, IN, USA to Madison, WI, USA from $30: 9 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

See more options

Traveling From Indianapolis to Madison

Best Neighbourhoods in Madison

Best Times To Visit Madison's Attractions

Madison Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Dining Recommendation in Madison

Indianapolis - Madison operators

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

Frequently asked questions

Trips from Indianapolis

Trips to Madison

Popular routes