Detroit, MI, USA to Traverse City, MI, USA from $22: 9 ways by bus, train, flight or car
Compare Travel Options and Prices
How to Get from Detroit to Traverse 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.
$22 by trainBest price
343 kmDistance
4h 31m Fastest
Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options
Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Detroit to Traverse 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.
See more options
Sort by
Traveling From Detroit to Traverse City
The journey from Detroit’s vibrant urban landscape to Traverse City’s serene lakeside charm offers travelers a rich contrast of city life and natural beauty.
Best Neighbourhoods in Traverse City
Traverse City features diverse neighborhoods, each offering its own charm.
Downtown Traverse City
• Bustling shops and restaurants line the streets.
• Stunning views of Grand Traverse Bay.
Old Mission Peninsula
• Scenic vineyards and wineries abound.
• Peaceful countryside with waterfront access.
Riverside
• Close to the Boardman River trail.
• Family-friendly parks and outdoor activities.
Best Times To Visit Traverse City's Attractions
Timing your visit can significantly enhance your experience in Traverse City.
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Visit early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and stunning light.
Downtown Traverse City
Weekdays are ideal for exploring shops and dining without the weekend rush.
Mission Point Lighthouse
Spring and fall offer clearer views and a quieter atmosphere for pictures.
Traverse City Weather: What to Expect Year-Round
Traverse City experiences a temperate climate with warm summers and chilly winters, making it a year-round destination. Spring and fall offer mild weather for outdoor activities, while summer's warmth invites beachgoers and winter's snowfall creates perfect conditions for snow sports.
Dining Recommendation in Traverse City
For a taste of Traverse City, you can't miss the cherry-glazed duck at The Boathouse Restaurant, which features fresh, locally sourced ingredients and stunning views of the bay. This dish embraces the area's agricultural richness, offering a delightful contrast to the urban culinary scene in Detroit, where flavors often reflect a more diverse, fast-paced vibe.
Detroit - Traverse City operators
Explore transport companies operating between Detroit and Traverse City, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.
Contact phone
+1 800-292-3831Website
https://www.indiantrails.com/
Bus from Detroit, MI to Grand Rapids, MI
Average Duration
4h 25mEstimated price
$22-296Bus from Grand Rapids, MI to Traverse City, MI
Average Duration
4hEstimated price
$224-225Bus from Kalamazoo, MI - Amtrak to Hall St Transfer Station - Traverse City
Average Duration
5h 20mEstimated price
$0-0Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100Website
https://www.greyhound.com/
Bus from Detroit Bus Station to Kalamazoo Bus Stop
Average Duration
3h 40mEstimated price
$1748-17445Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html
Train from Dearborn to Kalamazoo
Average Duration
2h 29mEstimated price
$22-1749Train from Kalamazoo, MI - Amtrak to Hall St Transfer Station - Traverse City
Average Duration
5h 20mEstimated price
$0-0Train from Kalamazoo, MI - Amtrak to Vernon J Ehlers Station - Grand Rapids
Average Duration
1hEstimated price
$0-0Website
delta.com
Plane from Detroit (DTW) to Traverse City (TVC)
Average Duration
1h 6mEstimated price
$299-700Plane from Detroit (DTW) to Pellston (PLN)
Average Duration
1h 13mEstimated price
$1740-1741Plane from Detroit (DTW) to Saginaw (MBS)
Average Duration
51mEstimated price
$298-1742Plane from Detroit (DTW) to Alpena (APN)
Average Duration
1h 6mEstimated price
$1743-1741Other from Detroit to Traverse City
Average Duration
4h 32mEstimated price
$45-70Detroit to Traverse City: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips
Traveling between Detroit and Traverse 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 picturesque journey from Detroit to Traverse City, covering a distance of 257 miles. The road trip promises around 4 hours and 32 minutes of scenic driving through Michigan's diverse landscapes.
⛽️ Fuel your adventure with flexible pricing options to reach Traverse City from Detroit, ranging between $45 to $70 by car. Enjoy the convenience of exploring at your own pace and making memorable stops along the way.
Average price
$45 - $70
Useful tips for train travellers
• On your train trip from Detroit to Traverse City, you'll enjoy onboard catering services that typically include snack options and beverages. The Amtrak service in this region usually offers a selection of pre-packaged snacks and soft drinks, but it's advisable to check their menu on the Amtrak website beforehand. Consider bringing your own food as well, as you may have more options and can enjoy a meal during the trip.
• When traveling this route, you can choose from different seating options, including Economy Class and Business Class. Amtrak generally offers Economy seats that are comfortable and spacious, as well as Business Class for a more premium experience, which includes larger seats and additional amenities such as complimentary drinks. Check the Amtrak website to determine which seating arrangement suits your preferences: amtrak.com
• Upon arriving at the Traverse City station, note that there are limited facilities available. You can leave your luggage at the station for a few hours, which can be convenient if you want to explore the city before checking into your accommodation. However, there are no showers available. To navigate the station easily, familiarize yourself with the layout using the station map available on the website of the Michigan Department of Transportation: michigan.gov Also, expect there to be restrooms accessible in the station.
🛫 Flying from Detroit to Traverse City is a convenient option with a quick direct flight that takes just 1 hour and 5 minutes. Delta Airlines provides flights from Detroit Airport to Traverse City Airport.
🌄 The journey from Detroit to Traverse City by plane offers a scenic route and takes approximately 4 hours and 31 minutes to reach the destination.
💸 Ticket prices for flights between Traverse City and Detroit can range from $154 to $655, depending on the booking time and availability.
Departure Point
Detroit Airport
Arrival Point
Traverse City Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• To make the most of your direct flight with Delta from Detroit to Traverse City, arrive at Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW) at least 1.5 hours before your flight; this will give you ample time to navigate security and reach your gate, especially during busy travel seasons.
• Upon arrival at Traverse City Airport (TVC), keep in mind that navigating the airport is quite straightforward, but be sure to check the flight arrival information screens for your baggage claim area and any ground transport options as they are well-signposted and assistive.
• Expect taxi fares from Traverse City Airport to the city center to range between $15 and $25 depending on traffic; consider pre-booking rides with local services like 'Traverse City Taxi' or use app services like Uber for added convenience during your trip.
🚌 Despite there being no direct bus from Detroit to Traverse City, travelers can take a route with a transfer in Grand Rapids. The journey, including transfers, takes approximately 9 hours and 25 minutes.
🛣️ Route 1 involves a bus towards Kalamazoo as the first step, taking about 4 hours and 15 minutes from Detroit to Grand Rapids. The second step is a bus towards St. Ignace, totaling about 3 hours and 50 minutes from Grand Rapids to Traverse City.
💵 The prices for this bus trip between Traverse City and Detroit can vary from $29 to $174. Indian Trails operates the bus services departing from Detroit and arriving at Traverse City making it a convenient option for travelers looking to explore Michigan by bus.
Departure Point
Detroit, MI station
Arrival Point
Traverse City, MI station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Be sure to book your tickets in advance on the Indian Trails website, as services can fill up quickly, especially during weekends and holidays, and prices vary significantly from $29 to $174.
• When transferring in Grand Rapids, allow yourself some buffer time to navigate the Greyhound terminal; it can be a bit confusing with multiple bus operators, and you’ll need to locate the correct boarding area for your next bus to Traverse City.
• Upon arriving at the Traverse City Bay Area Transportation Authority station, take note of the local transportation options available, like the TC Trolley, which can take you to various destinations around the town, maximizing your exploration time.
Frequently asked questions
Find out more about the route from Detroit to Traverse City.
Or choose the category:
The distance between Detroit and Traverse City is 213 miles via road and 257 miles by car. Travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. It takes approximately 10 hours and 58 minutes to reach Traverse City from Detroit by train and bus, 4 hours and 30 minutes by plane, 4 hours and 32 minutes by car, and 8 hours and 55 minutes by bus to travel from Detroit to Traverse City.
The most cost-effective transportation option for traveling from Detroit to Traverse City is taking the night bus and bus, which can cost between $28 and $180. This option takes approximately 8 hours and 55 minutes. However, if time is a priority, the quickest way to travel between the two cities is by flying, which takes around 4 hours and 30 minutes and costs between $190 and $600.
The prices for a bus ticket between Traverse City and Detroit range from $29 to $174. The cost can be lower or higher depending on the type of bus service, seating options, and any discounts available. It is advisable to check with different bus operators or online platforms to find the best deals and compare prices before making a booking.
To travel from Detroit to Traverse City without using public transportation, you can drive the 257-mile distance. The drive takes approximately 4 hours and 32 minutes. The cost to rent a car for this journey can range from $45 to $70, depending on the rental company and any additional fees. Overall, driving is a convenient and flexible option for reaching Traverse City from Detroit.
To travel from Detroit to Traverse City without a car, the best option is to take a night bus and then a regular bus. This journey takes approximately 8 hours and 55 minutes and costs between $28 and $180. This is a convenient and affordable choice for those who do not have a car or prefer not to drive.
No, there is no direct bus link between Detroit and Traverse City. However, there is a bus service operated by Indian Trails that departs from Detroit and arrives in Traverse City via Grand Rapids. The journey, including transfers, takes approximately 8h 55m.
The flight duration between Detroit and Traverse City is typically 1 hour and 3 minutes on a direct flight. The cost of a flight between the two cities ranges from $194 to $555. Please note that the prices may vary depending on factors such as the time of year and the airline chosen. It is recommended to check with airlines for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.
There are plenty of options for accommodation in Traverse City. With over 328 hotels to choose from, there is something to fit every budget. Prices start at $42 per night, making it accessible for all travelers. Whether you prefer luxury resorts, charming bed and breakfasts, or budget-friendly motels, Traverse City has a wide range of options to ensure a comfortable stay.
Trips from Detroit
- Detroit to Montreal
- Detroit to London
- Detroit to Toronto
- Detroit to Seattle
- Detroit to Grand Rapids
- Detroit to Baltimore
- Detroit to Milwaukee
- Detroit to Chicago
- Detroit to Nashville
- Detroit to New York City
- Detroit to Kalamazoo
- Detroit to Cleveland
- Detroit to Las Vegas
- Detroit to Saginaw
- Detroit to Columbus
- Detroit to Cincinnati
- Detroit to Toledo
- Detroit to Green Bay
- Detroit to Miami
- Detroit to Phoenix
- Detroit to San Diego
- Detroit to Myrtle Beach
- Detroit to Destin
- Detroit to Mexico City
- Detroit to Austin
- Detroit to Vancouver
- Detroit to Newark
- Detroit to Fort Lauderdale
- Detroit to Fort Myers
- Detroit to Windsor
- Detroit to Lansing
- Detroit to Mackinac Island
- Detroit to Amsterdam
- Detroit to Tampa
- Detroit to Dublin
- Detroit to Salt Lake City
- Detroit to Paris
- Detroit to Niagara Falls
- Detroit to Charlotte
- Detroit to Honolulu
Trips to Traverse City
- Lansing to Traverse City
- Green Bay to Traverse City
- Chicago to Traverse City
- Ludington to Traverse City
- Milwaukee to Traverse City
- Ann Arbor to Traverse City
- Grand Rapids to Traverse City
- East Lansing to Traverse City
- Cleveland to Traverse City
- Saginaw to Traverse City
- Minneapolis to Traverse City
- Holland to Traverse City
- Gaylord to Traverse City
- Charlevoix to Traverse City
- Sault Ste. Marie to Traverse City
- Cincinnati to Traverse City
- Cadillac to Traverse City
- Columbus to Traverse City
- Denver to Traverse City
- Glen Arbor to Traverse City
- Mackinaw City to Traverse City
- Suttons Bay to Traverse City
- Bellaire to Traverse City
- Big Rapids to Traverse City
- Saint Ignace to Traverse City
- Harbor Springs to Traverse City
- Mancelona to Traverse City
- New York City to Traverse City
- Boston to Traverse City
- Leland to Traverse City
- Coldwater to Traverse City
- Frankfort to Traverse City
- Empire to Traverse City
- Petoskey to Traverse City
- Burlington to Traverse City
- Elk Rapids to Traverse City
- Williamsburg to Traverse City
- Berrien Springs to Traverse City
- Mackinac Island to Traverse City
- Phoenix to Traverse City