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Minneapolis, MN, USA to Madison, WI, USA from $24: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from Minneapolis to Madison: 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.

$24 by busBest price
377 kmDistance
3h 1m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Minneapolis 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
Delta
Plane
Average Duration
3h  1m
Estimated price
$135-406
Recommended
Company
FlixBus
Bus
Average Duration
5h  35m
Estimated price
$24-120
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 377 km
Duration: 3h 1m

See more options

Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
7h  18m
Estimated price
$41-58
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
4h  32m
Estimated price
$45-75
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Traveling From Minneapolis to Madison

The journey from Minneapolis to Madison offers a fascinating contrast between the vibrant urban scene of Minneapolis and the charming, laid-back atmosphere of Madison.

Best Neighbourhoods in Madison

Madison boasts a variety of neighborhoods, each with distinct character and charm.

Downtown Madison
• Vibrant dining and nightlife options.
• Close proximity to the State Capitol.
State Street
• Bustling pedestrian thoroughfare with shops.
• Home to cultural events and street performers.
University Heights
• Tree-lined streets and historic homes.
• Near the University of Wisconsin-Madison campus.

Best Times To Visit Madison's Attractions

Maximize your Madison experience by timing your visits to popular spots right.

Wisconsin State Capitol
Arrive in the early morning for fewer visitors and stunning views.
Olbrich Botanical Gardens
Visit on weekdays in spring for blooming flowers and tranquility.
Monona Terrace
Go during sunset for breathtaking lake views and fewer crowds.

Madison Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Madison experiences a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons, making it essential for travelers to plan according to seasonal variations. Spring and fall offer mild temperatures perfect for outdoor activities, while summer is warm and lively, and winter brings snow, ideal for winter sports enthusiasts.

Dining Recommendation in Madison

For a true taste of Madison, try the iconic cheese curds at the Old Fashioned, where the atmosphere brims with local culture and warmth, setting it apart from the urban dining scene in Minneapolis. The use of Wisconsin's rich dairy products creates a flavor profile that's both comforting and distinct, reflecting the region's agricultural heritage.

Minneapolis - Madison operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
delta.com

Plane from Minneapolis (MSP) to Madison (MSN)

Average Duration
1h 4m
Estimated price
$1353-1354
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
flixbus.com

Bus from Minneapolis Bus Station to Madison

Average Duration
5h 35m
Estimated price
$24-1352
Contact phone
+1-858-800-8898
Website
jeffersonlines.com

Bus from Minneapolis Bus Depot to Madison, WI-Lake St.

Average Duration
5h 35m
Estimated price
$0-0
Contact phone
+1 414-266-4409
Website
badgerbus.com

Bus from Mall of America - IKEA - Bloomington to Madison, WI-Lake St.

Average Duration
5h 40m
Estimated price
$40-1355

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

Traveling between Minneapolis 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 picturesque road trip from Minneapolis to Madison spanning 271 miles, taking around 4 hours and 32 minutes of driving time through the heart of the Midwest. Enjoy the changing landscapes and charming towns along the way as you cruise towards your destination. 💵 Drive economically with prices ranging from $45 to $75 for the journey to Madison from Minneapolis by car. Plan accordingly and factor in gas and potential pit stops along the route to make the most of your travel budget while exploring the scenic beauty of the Midwest region.
Average price
$45 - $75
🚂 Experience a scenic train journey from Minneapolis to Madison with a total travel time of approximately 8 hours and 7 minutes covering a distance of 274 miles. Your trip includes a transfer with the first leg on a Greyhound bus headed towards Chicago—it's a 4-hour, 45-minute ride from Minneapolis to Wisconsin Dells. 🌆 The second part of your journey takes you from Wisconsin Dells to Madison UW Campus on a Megabus heading towards Milwaukee, a shorter leg of 1 hour and 35 minutes. Enjoy the convenience of these bus services and the comfort of the scenic route on your way to the capital city of Wisconsin. 📞 Don't forget to contact Greyhound at 1 231-2222 or check out their website at https://www.greyhound.com/transit for any assistance or further information on your Minneapolis to Madison travel plans. Megabus, the agency handling the second leg of your journey, provides an efficient and enjoyable way to complete your trip.
🛫 Flying from Minneapolis to Madison is a quick and convenient option with a direct flight taking just 1 hour and 3 minutes. Delta is one of the airlines that offer flights on this route. 🌆 The total travel time to reach Madison from Minneapolis by plane is about 3 hours and 1 minute, including check-in and security procedures. This makes flying a time-efficient choice for travelers between these two cities. 💸 The prices for flights between Minneapolis and Madison can range from $135 to $406, depending on factors such as the airline, time of booking, and availability.
Departure Point
Minneapolis Airport
Arrival Point
Madison Airport
🚌 Hop aboard the direct bus from Minneapolis Bus Station to Madison operated by Flixbus USA. Departing twice daily, this journey takes approximately 5 hours and 35 minutes. 🛣️ Covering a distance of 255 miles, the route from Minneapolis to Madison via Chicago with FlixBus offers a travel time of just 5 hours and 43 minutes. Enjoy a seamless ride with no transfers, arriving directly at Madison. 🌆 For a more scenic route with transfers, consider the Minneapolis to Madison trip via Chicago and Milwaukee with Greyhound and Megabus. While taking approximately 8 hours, this option allows for a diverse travel experience through multiple cities along the way.
Departure Point
Minneapolis Bus Station
Arrival Point
Madison station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Consider booking with Flixbus USA for a direct route from the Minneapolis Bus Station to Madison, which offers competitive pricing that ranges from $24 to $120, and ensure to reserve your seat in advance during peak travel times. Visit their website for more information: flixbus.com
• Make sure to pack snacks and entertainment for the approximately 5 hour and 35-minute journey, as options may be limited during transit; bringing a portable charger for your devices is also advisable, given the potential for extended stops.
• Upon arriving at the Madison bus station, familiarize yourself with the local transport options and schedules; the station is located at 15 E. Main St., making it convenient to connect with the Metro Transit bus services or explore the nearby dining options like The Old Fashioned for a taste of local cuisine. Check the schedules here: cityofmadison.com

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Minneapolis to Madison.

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The distance between Minneapolis and Madison is approximately 234 miles by air and 270.6 miles by road. The typical travel time from Minneapolis to Madison by plane is 3 hours and 9 minutes. If you choose to drive, the travel time is around 4 hours and 32 minutes. Finally, if you prefer taking the bus, it usually takes about 5 hours and 30 minutes to reach Madison from Minneapolis.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Minneapolis to Madison is taking a bus, with ticket prices ranging from $8 to $120. Although it is not the fastest mode of transportation, taking a bus will take approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes. For those looking for a faster travel time, flying is the most time-efficient option. With flight durations of around 3 hours and 9 minutes, travelers can expect to pay between $120 to $410 for this option.
The prices of a bus ticket between Madison and Minneapolis can vary greatly, ranging from $8 to $120. The exact price depends on factors such as the type of bus service, the time of travel, and any discounts or promotions available. It is advisable to check with different bus companies and compare prices to find the best deal for your journey.
To travel from Minneapolis to Madison without using public transportation, the best option is to drive. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 271 miles, and it usually takes around 4 hours and 32 minutes to complete the journey by car. Prices to rent a car can vary from $45 to $75, depending on the type of vehicle and rental company you choose.
The best way to travel from Minneapolis to Madison without a car is by taking a bus. The bus journey takes approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes. The cost of the bus ticket can range from $8 to $120 depending on the chosen bus company and the time of booking. Taking a bus is a convenient and affordable option for those who do not have a car.
Yes, there is a direct link between Minneapolis and Madison. Megabus operates a bus service that departs from Minneapolis and arrives at Madison - Langdon & N Park. The bus service operates four times a day and runs seven days a week, with a travel time of approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes.
The flight between Minneapolis and Madison typically takes around 58 minutes. The prices for flights between the two cities can range from $125 to $406, depending on factors such as airline, time of booking, and availability. It's recommended to check with different airlines and compare prices to find the best deal for your travel needs.
There are several options for accommodation near Madison. With 97+ hotels available, visitors have a wide range to choose from. Prices start at $55 per night, providing budget-friendly options for travelers. Whether you are looking for luxury accommodations or affordable lodging, there is a hotel that suits your needs near Madison.

Trips from Minneapolis

Trips to Madison