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Cary, NC, USA to Charlotte, NC, USA from $6: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Cary, United States of America
to
Charlotte, United States of America

How to Get from Cary to Charlotte: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$6 by trainBest price
198 kmDistance
2h 43m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Cary to Charlotte 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
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
2h  58m
Estimated price
$6-95
Recommended
Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
2h  58m
Estimated price
$6-95
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 198 km
Duration: 2h 43m

See more options

Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
2h  43m
Estimated price
$29-45
Company
Go Triangle / American Airlines
Plane
Average Duration
4h  2m
Estimated price
$78-286
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
3h  6m
Estimated price
$297-393
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Traveling From Cary to Charlotte

The journey from Cary to Charlotte offers a fascinating contrast between the serene, suburban charm of Cary and the vibrant, fast-paced atmosphere of Charlotte.

Best Neighbourhoods in Charlotte

Charlotte boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering unique experiences for visitors.

Uptown
• Home to major sports venues and entertainment districts.
• Bustling atmosphere with restaurants and cultural attractions.
NoDa
• Known for its vibrant arts scene and murals.
• Features eclectic bars and farm-to-table restaurants.
South End
• Trendy area with breweries and local shops.
• Beautiful rail trail ideal for walking and biking.

Best Times To Visit Charlotte's Attractions

Maximize your experience in Charlotte by visiting attractions at optimal times.

U.S. National Whitewater Center
Weekdays during the morning let you enjoy activities without long waits.
Carowinds Amusement Park
Visit in the late afternoon on weekdays for shorter ride lines.
Charlotte's Museums
Explore on Sundays or Mondays for a calmer, quieter visit.

Charlotte Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Charlotte experiences a humid subtropical climate, with hot summers and mild winters. The best times to visit are spring and fall, when the weather is pleasant and outdoor activities are most enjoyable.

Dining Recommendation in Charlotte

For a truly distinctive culinary experience, try the smoked brisket at Midwood Smokehouse, where the blend of Southern BBQ flavors stands out against Cary’s more understated dining scene. The lively atmosphere and focus on locally sourced ingredients create a dining experience that’s vibrant and full of character.

Cary - Charlotte operators

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

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

Train from Cary to Charlotte Amtrak Station

Average Duration
2h 58m
Estimated price
$6-95
Drive

Drive from Cary to Charlotte

Average Duration
2h 43m
Estimated price
$29-45
Plane Show flights
Website
aa.com

Plane from Fayetteville Municipal to Charlotte

Average Duration
1h 6m
Estimated price
$363-365

Plane from Raleigh/Durham to Charlotte

Average Duration
1h 9m
Estimated price
$60-61
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 919-485-7433
Website
gotriangle.org

Bus from Cary Depot to GoTriangle Regional Transit Center

Average Duration
25m
Estimated price
$952-952

Cary to Charlotte: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Cary and Charlotte 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 journey from Cary to Charlotte, covering a driving distance of 160 miles, with an estimated travel time of 2 hours and 43 minutes. Feel the excitement of hitting the road and exploring the beautiful landscapes along the way. 💰 Prices for the trip from Cary to Charlotte by car range from $29 to $45, offering flexibility to fit different budgets. Enjoy the cost-effective option of driving and witnessing the changing scenery as you make your way towards the vibrant city of Charlotte.
Average price
$29 - $45
🚂 Traveling from Cary to Charlotte by train is a convenient option with services departing four times a day, taking approximately 2 hours and 58 minutes. 🛤️ The direct train journey from Cary to Charlotte provided by Amtrak offers a smooth ride, covering a distance of 176 miles with prices ranging from $6 to $95.
Departure Point
Cary station
Arrival Point
Charlotte Amtrak Station
Useful tips for train travellers
• On your train trip from Cary to Charlotte, you will likely be traveling on Amtrak's Carolinian or Piedmont service. Amtrak provides onboard catering services, offering a café lounge car where you can purchase snacks, beverages, and light meals. Make sure to check the schedule as the café may not be open at all hours.
• For your journey, Amtrak offers various seating options: Standard Coach Class, Business Class, and First-Class seats. For more legroom and a quieter atmosphere, consider upgrading to Business Class. All seating options include comfortable reclining seats, but Business Class will provide complimentary drinks and a more spacious seating arrangement.
• For this route, you can travel with Amtrak (amtrak.com) or NC By Train (ncbytrain.org). These sites are excellent resources for schedules, fares, and additional travel tips. Upon arrival in Charlotte, expect to disembark at the Charlotte Amtrak Station (CLT), where you can find local transport schedules and information.
🛫 Flying from Cary to Charlotte is a quick and convenient journey via a direct flight from Fayetteville Municipal Airport. The flight duration is just 1 hour and 6 minutes.
Departure Point
Fayetteville Municipal Airport
Arrival Point
Charlotte Airport
🚌 Route 1: The journey from Cary to Charlotte by bus takes approximately 4 hours and 36 minutes to cover a distance of 180 miles with a transfer. The first step involves taking a bus from Cary Depot to Raleigh via GoTriangle before boarding a Greyhound bus towards Atlanta Bus Station, ultimately reaching Charlotte. 🚌 Route 2: Traveling from Cary to Charlotte by bus also lasts 4 hours and 36 minutes, spanning 182 miles and including a transfer. Commence your trip by catching a bus from Cary Depot to Raleigh with GoTriangle, then switch to a Greyhound bus heading towards Atlanta Bus Station, connecting you to Charlotte. 🚌 Route 3: Opting for this route from Cary to Charlotte yields a quicker travel time of 3 hours and 46 minutes across 181 miles with a transfer. Begin by taking a bus to Raleigh via GoTriangle before transitioning to a Greyhound bus bound for Atlanta, proceeding to your final destination in Charlotte.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Cary to Charlotte.

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The distance between Cary and Charlotte is 123 miles or 159.6 miles by road. If you prefer to travel by train, it takes approximately 2 hours and 58 minutes to reach Charlotte from Cary. Alternatively, taking the Line 310 bus and then flying will take around 4 hours. Driving by car is the fastest option, with a travel time of 2 hours and 43 minutes from Charlotte to Cary.
The most cost-effective transportation option for traveling from Cary to Charlotte is by train. With ticket prices ranging from $6 to $95, it offers a budget-friendly choice. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 58 minutes, making it a time-efficient option as well. However, if time is of the essence, the quickest way to travel between the two cities is by car. With a travel time of 2 hours and 43 minutes, driving provides a speedy and convenient option, although it may come with additional expenses such as fuel and tolls.
The prices of train tickets between Cary and Charlotte range from $6 to $95, depending on factors such as class of service, time of travel, and booking in advance. It is recommended to check with the specific train service provider for the most up-to-date and accurate pricing information.
To get from Cary to Charlotte without using public transportation, you can choose to drive. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 160 miles, and it takes around 2 hours and 43 minutes to drive from Cary to Charlotte. The prices for a car journey from Cary to Charlotte can vary between $29 to $45, depending on factors such as fuel costs and tolls. Simply hop in a car and enjoy a comfortable and convenient journey to Charlotte.
One option to travel from Cary to Charlotte without a car is by taking a train. The train journey takes approximately 2 hours and 58 minutes, and the ticket prices can range from $6 to $95. This mode of transportation is convenient and comfortable, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenery during the trip. Another alternative would be to take a bus from Cary to a nearby airport, and then fly to Charlotte. However, this option would involve longer travel times and potentially higher costs.
Yes, there is a direct train link between Cary and Charlotte. The train services, operated by Amtrak, depart from Cary station and arrive at Charlotte Amtrak Station. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 58 minutes and there are four departures daily. This provides a convenient and efficient mode of transportation between the two cities.
The flight from Raleigh/Durham Airport to Charlotte Airport typically takes 1 hour and 7 minutes. The cost of the flight can vary depending on the airline and time of booking, but it generally ranges from $100 to $300. Once you arrive at Charlotte Airport, there are several options to get to Charlotte. You can take a taxi, which usually costs around $25 to $40, or you can use rideshare services like Uber or Lyft. Public transportation options include taking a bus or the light rail, both of which are accessible from the airport.
There are plenty of options for accommodations near Charlotte with over 583 hotels available. Prices start at $52 per night, offering a range of options to suit different budgets. Some popular areas to stay in Charlotte include the Uptown area, which is close to many attractions and dining options, and the South End district which offers a trendy and vibrant atmosphere. It is recommended to research and compare different hotels to find the best fit for your preferences and needs.

Trips to Charlotte