New Orleans, LA, USA to Columbia, SC, USA from $48: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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How to Get from New Orleans to Columbia: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$48 by trainBest price

969 kmDistance

5h 54m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from New Orleans to Columbia 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 New Orleans to Columbia

The journey from vibrant New Orleans, known for its lively music scene and rich culinary heritage, to the quiet charm of Columbia, offers a striking contrast in culture and ambiance.

Best Neighbourhoods in Columbia

Columbia offers diverse neighborhoods, each with its distinctive charm and attractions.

Downtown Columbia

• Home to local shops and restaurants.

• Great spot for arts and entertainment events.

Forest Acres

• Peaceful suburban vibe with parks.

• Family-friendly community with amenities.

Shandon

• Historic homes and tree-lined streets.

• Vibrant atmosphere with local eateries.

Best Times To Visit Columbia's Attractions

Timing your visit can significantly enhance your experience in Columbia.

Riverbanks Zoo & Garden

Early mornings on weekdays offer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.

South Carolina State Museum

Visit during weekdays to enjoy a quieter, more relaxed tour.

Congaree National Park

Fall is ideal for stunning foliage and fewer visitors on trails.

Columbia Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Columbia experiences a humid subtropical climate, with hot summers and mild winters, making spring and fall ideal times to visit for comfortable temperatures. Understanding the weather helps you plan activities and pack appropriately, ensuring a pleasant travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in Columbia

Try the smoked pork barbecue at a local favorite, the Squealin' Pig, where the focus is on slow-cooked meats infused with regional flavors. This casual dining experience offers a stark contrast to the vibrant, spice-heavy dishes of New Orleans, showcasing Columbia's emphasis on rich, smoky tastes and communal outdoor seating.

New Orleans - Columbia operators

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

Plane

Website

aa.com

Plane from New Orleans (MSY) to Columbia (CAE)

Average Duration

6h 35m

Estimated price

$68-504

Plane from New Orleans (MSY) to Columbia (CAE) via Charlotte

Average Duration

4h 52m

Estimated price

$5041-5042

Plane from New Orleans (MSY) to Columbia (CAE) via Dallas/Ft.Worth

Average Duration

5h 49m

Estimated price

$5043-5044

Plane from New Orleans (MSY) to Columbia (CAE) via Miami

Average Duration

6h 47m

Estimated price

$5045-5044

Website

delta.com

Plane from New Orleans (MSY) to Columbia (CAE)

Average Duration

6h 35m

Estimated price

$689-500

Plane from New Orleans (MSY) to Columbia (CAE) via Atlanta

Average Duration

3h 53m

Estimated price

$689-500

Website

united.com

Plane from New Orleans (MSY) to Columbia (CAE)

Average Duration

6h 35m

Estimated price

$5043-5044

Train

Contact phone

+1 800-872-7245

Website

amtrak.com

Train from New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal to Columbia Amtrak Station

Average Duration

27h 4m

Estimated price

$48-447

Train from New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal to Greensboro

Average Duration

19h 37m

Estimated price

$482-686

Train from Greensboro to Cary

Average Duration

1h 18m

Estimated price

$4475-685

Train from Cary to Columbia Amtrak Station

Average Duration

4h 9m

Estimated price

$764-4470

Bus

Contact phone

+1 214-849-8100

Website

greyhound.com

Bus from New Orleans Bus Station to Atlanta Bus Station

Average Duration

9h 15m

Estimated price

$50-683

Bus from Atlanta to Columbia

Average Duration

3h 55m

Estimated price

$50-685

Contact phone

+1 404-591-2750

Website

southeasternstages.com

Bus from Atlanta to Columbia

Average Duration

3h 55m

Estimated price

$50-685

New Orleans to Columbia: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between New Orleans and Columbia 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 lively New Orleans to charming Columbia, covering a distance of 679 miles and enjoying about 11 hours of driving time. 💰 Prices for the trip by car range from $120 to $180, offering flexibility for travelers seeking a budget-friendly or more luxurious experience on this cross-state adventure.

Average price

$120 - $180

🚆 Traveling from New Orleans to Columbia by train requires multiple transfers through Greensboro and Cary. The journey spans approximately 27 hours and 4 minutes in total. 🚆 Amtrak operates the train services from New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal to Columbia Amtrak Station, offering a range of prices from $48 to $447 for this excursion. Passengers can enjoy scenic views and a relaxed mode of transportation.

Departure Point

New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal station

Arrival Point

Columbia Amtrak Station

✈️ The quickest flight duration for this route is approximately 3 hours and 20 minutes, making it a convenient choice for travelers looking to reach Columbia efficiently. 🌎 With flight prices ranging from $68 to $504, this air journey from the vibrant city of New Orleans to the historical charm of Columbia takes around 6 hours and 35 minutes to complete.

Departure Point

New Orleans Airport

Arrival Point

Columbia Airport. The quickest flight takes 3h 20m and has one stopover

🚌 Although there is no direct bus from New Orleans to Columbia, the journey involves transfers at various stations including Atlanta and Koon Cody. The total travel time takes around 15 hours and 59 minutes. 🚌 The bus services from New Orleans to Columbia are operated by Greyhound USA and Southeastern Stages, making the trip convenient and affordable. The prices for a bus ticket range from $106 to $190, offering options for different budgets.

Departure Point

New Orleans Bus Station

Arrival Point

Columbia station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from New Orleans to Columbia.

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The distance between New Orleans and Columbia is approximately 602 miles or 678.9 miles by road. The typical travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. By train, it takes approximately 27 hours and 4 minutes to reach Columbia from New Orleans. By combining bus and air travel, it takes about 8 hours and 20 minutes, while by plane alone, it takes approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes. If traveling by car, it takes around 11 hours and 2 minutes, and by bus, it takes approximately 15 hours and 39 minutes to reach Columbia from New Orleans.

The most cost-effective option for traveling from New Orleans to Columbia is by train and bus, which costs $50-$250 and takes 18 hours and 50 minutes. This option is recommended for budget-conscious travelers who have more time to spare. However, for those looking for a quicker journey, flying is the most time-efficient option, taking 6 hours and 30 minutes and costing $180-$440. It is a convenient choice for those who prioritize saving time and are willing to spend a bit more on their travel.

The prices for traveling from New Orleans to Columbia can vary depending on the mode of transportation. For a train journey, the price can range from $48 to $447. Alternatively, taking a bus between the two cities can cost anywhere between $39 and $166. It's important to check for any discounts or promotions available when booking your travel.

To get from New Orleans to Columbia without using public transportation, you can drive. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 679 miles, and it takes around 11 hours and 2 minutes to drive from New Orleans to Columbia. It is advisable to budget for gas and toll fees, with the estimated cost ranging from $120 to $180.

To travel from New Orleans to Columbia without a car, there are a few options available. The quickest way is by plane, which takes approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes and costs between $180 and $440. Alternatively, you can take a bus via Atlanta, which takes around 15 hours and 39 minutes and costs between $35 and $170. Another option is to take a train, which takes approximately 27 hours and 4 minutes and costs between $45 and $450. Overall, these transportation options allow for convenient and efficient travel from New Orleans to Columbia.

There is no direct train or bus route between New Orleans and Columbia. The fastest way to travel between the two cities is by plane, which takes about 6 hours and 30 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a combination of bus and flight, with a total travel time of 8 hours and 20 minutes. If you prefer driving, it would take approximately 11 hours and 2 minutes by car to reach Columbia from New Orleans.

The flight between New Orleans and Columbia typically takes around 3 hours and 15 minutes with one stopover. However, there is no direct flight available. The cost of a flight between Columbia and New Orleans can vary between $183 and $434, depending on factors such as time of booking and airline choice. It is advisable to check with different airlines and book in advance to get the best price for your desired travel dates.

There are plenty of accommodation options near Columbia with over 211 hotels available to choose from. Prices for hotels start at $51 per night, offering a range of options to suit different budgets. Some popular areas to stay in Columbia include the downtown area, where you can find a variety of hotels, and the surrounding neighborhoods that offer a more relaxed atmosphere. It is recommended to book in advance to secure the best rates and availability.

New Orleans, LA, USA to Columbia, SC, USA from $48: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

How to Get from New Orleans to Columbia: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

See more options

Traveling From New Orleans to Columbia

Best Neighbourhoods in Columbia

Best Times To Visit Columbia's Attractions

Columbia Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Dining Recommendation in Columbia

New Orleans - Columbia operators

New Orleans to Columbia: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Frequently asked questions

Trips from New Orleans

Trips to Orange Beach

Popular routes