1map logoGo to main page

Charlotte, NC, USA to Columbia, SC, USA from $16: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from Charlotte to Columbia: 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.

$16 by carBest price
149 kmDistance
1h 36m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Charlotte 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.

Company
various
Train
Average Duration
8h 
Estimated price
$15-203
Recommended
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
1h  36m
Estimated price
$16-25
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 149 km
Duration: 1h 36m

See more options

Company
Greyhound USA
Bus
Average Duration
8h  25m
Estimated price
$60-114
Company
various
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
4h 
Estimated price
$236-150
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
3h  44m
Estimated price
$244-374

Traveling From Charlotte to Columbia

The journey from Charlotte to Columbia presents a delightful contrast between the bustling city life filled with cultural attractions in Charlotte and the serene, laid-back vibe of Columbia with its charming outdoor spaces and rich history.

Best Neighbourhoods in Columbia

Columbia boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering something special for visitors.

Five Points
• Vibrant nightlife with popular bars and restaurants.
• Eclectic shops and local markets abound.
Shandon
• Charming historic homes line the streets.
• Beautiful parks provide outdoor recreational opportunities.
Vista
• Modern dining experiences with a creative culinary scene.
• Thriving art district with galleries and street art.

Best Times To Visit Columbia's Attractions

Timing your visits can greatly enhance your experience in Columbia's attractions.

Riverbanks Zoo & Garden
Visit on weekdays during the late morning for smaller crowds and ample exploration.
South Carolina State Museum
Plan visits on Mondays or Tuesdays for a quieter and more relaxed ambiance.
Columbia Canal and Riverfront Park
Early mornings or late afternoons offer a peaceful setting and stunning views.

Columbia Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Columbia experiences a humid subtropical climate, featuring hot summers and mild winters, making spring and fall the most pleasant times for visitors. Being aware of seasonal weather variations can greatly enhance your travel experience by helping you pack appropriately and plan enjoyable outdoor activities.

Dining in Columbia: A Culinary Contrast

Consider trying the Shrimp and Grits at Motor Supply Co. Bistro, where Southern flavors shine through fresh local ingredients, offering a rustic charm that's distinct from Charlotte's urban dining scene. The inviting atmosphere and seasonal menus present a unique culinary experience, emphasizing farm-to-table freshness that sets Columbia apart.

Charlotte - Columbia operators

Explore transport companies operating between Charlotte and Columbia, 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 Charlotte Amtrak Station to Cary

Average Duration
2h 51m
Estimated price
$2032-2033

Train from Cary to Columbia Amtrak Station

Average Duration
4h 9m
Estimated price
$604-605
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
https://www.greyhound.com/

Bus from Charlotte Bus Station to Fayetteville Bus Station

Average Duration
3h 30m
Estimated price
$151-608

Bus from Fayetteville to Columbia

Average Duration
3h 55m
Estimated price
$600-20325
Plane Show flights
Website
http://aa.com

Plane from Charlotte (CLT) to Columbia (CAE)

Average Duration
1h 1m
Estimated price
$156-157

Plane from Charlotte (CLT) to Augusta (AGS)

Average Duration
1h 14m
Estimated price
$158-159
Website
http://delta.com

Plane from Charlotte (CLT) to Augusta (AGS)

Average Duration
3h 12m
Estimated price
$2030-2031
all-pages.other Show other routes
Contact phone
+1 404-591-2750
Website
https://southeasternstages.com/

Other from Fayetteville to Columbia

Average Duration
3h 55m
Estimated price
$600-20325

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

Traveling between Charlotte 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 Charlotte to Columbia covering a distance of 93 miles. The journey promises beautiful landscapes and a smooth drive of approximately 1 hour and 36 minutes. 💰 Prices for the road trip from Charlotte to Columbia by car range from $16 to $25, offering an affordable and convenient travel option. With flexible budgeting, travelers can choose the best route and enjoy the drive without breaking the bank.
Average price
$16 - $25
🚂 Traveling by train from Charlotte to Columbia takes approximately 8 hours with a transfer in Cary. There is no direct train service between the two cities. 🎟️ Train services operated by Amtrak depart from Charlotte Amtrak Station and arrive at Columbia Amtrak Station. The ticket prices for this journey can range from $15 to $203, depending on the class of service and time of booking.
Departure Point
Charlotte Amtrak Station
Arrival Point
Columbia Amtrak Station
🛫 Traveling from Charlotte to Columbia by plane is a convenient and quick option with a direct flight taking just 54 minutes. 💸 The cost of a flight between Charlotte and Columbia can range from $244 to $374, offering travelers flexibility in choosing a ticket that fits their budget.
Departure Point
Charlotte Airport
Arrival Point
Columbia Airport
🚌 Traveling from Charlotte to Columbia by bus involves a journey with a transfer in Fayetteville. The total travel time, including transfers, is approximately 8 hours and 25 minutes. 🚌 Bus fares between Columbia and Charlotte range from $60 to $114, providing a convenient and cost-effective transportation option for this route.
Departure Point
Charlotte Bus Station
Arrival Point
Columbia station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Before your trip, check the schedules of both Greyhound USA and Southeastern Stages, as their services may have different departure times and frequency; you can find schedules on their websites: Greyhound and Southeastern Stages.
• Pack snacks and drinks for the journey, especially since there might be limited dining options at layover points, particularly in Fayetteville, where the bus change occurs; consider checking out local dining options through Yelp for a quick meal during your transfer.
• Upon arriving at the Columbia Greyhound Station, take note of the local bus services, like the Midlands Regional Transit Authority (MRTA), which can help you navigate the city easily; you can find their routes and schedules here: MRTA.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Charlotte to Columbia.

Or choose the category:
The cheapest way to get from Charlotte to Columbia is by driving. The estimated cost of driving is between $16 and $25, depending on gas prices and vehicle efficiency. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 36 minutes. This option allows for flexibility and saves money compared to other modes of transportation.
The fastest way to travel from Charlotte to Columbia is by driving. It takes approximately 1 hour and 36 minutes to cover the distance of around 94 miles. The cost of the trip ranges from $16 to $25, depending on factors like gas prices and tolls. Other methods of transportation, such as taking a bus or train, may take longer due to additional stops and transfers.
It is approximately 86 miles from Charlotte to Columbia. The distance may vary depending on the specific route taken. If driving, the approximate distance is around 92.5 miles. It usually takes about 1 hour and 36 minutes to drive between the two cities, depending on traffic conditions and the chosen route.
The best way to travel from Charlotte to Columbia without a car is by train. Amtrak offers several daily routes between the two cities, with a travel time of approximately 8 hours. Prices for train tickets range from $14 to $210, depending on the class of service and the time of booking. Alternatively, you can also consider taking a bus, as there are multiple bus companies that operate between the two cities with prices starting at around $13.
The travel time from Charlotte to Columbia can vary depending on the mode of transportation. By car, the journey usually takes around 1 hour and 36 minutes, covering a distance of approximately 93 miles. Another option is to take a bus, which can take around 2 hours and 15 minutes, including any transfers or stops along the way. If you prefer to travel by train, the estimated travel time is around 2 hours and 30 minutes, factoring in any layovers or delays.
The cheapest way to travel from Charlotte to Columbia is by driving. It takes approximately 1 hour and 36 minutes and costs between $16 and $25. If you prefer public transportation, the train is the most affordable option. It takes 8 hours and costs between $14 and $210. Another alternative is taking the bus, which takes 8 hours and 25 minutes and costs between $35 and $100. Lastly, flying is the quickest option, taking 3 hours and 50 minutes, but it is also the most expensive, with prices ranging from $240 to $380.
There are numerous accommodation options available near Columbia. With over 211 hotels to choose from, travelers have a wide range of choices to suit their preferences and budgets. Prices for hotels in the area start at $51 per night, making it accessible for a variety of travelers. It is recommended to book in advance to secure the best deals and availability for your stay in Columbia.
Yes, you can drive from Charlotte to Columbia. The driving distance is approximately 93 miles and it takes about 1 hour and 36 minutes to reach Columbia by car. The route is mainly on Interstate 77 southbound, which offers a direct connection between the two cities.
Yes, there is a bus service available from Charlotte to Columbia but it requires a transfer. The bus journey begins at the Charlotte Bus Station and then transfers at Fayetteville before continuing to Columbia. The total travel time for this route is approximately 8 hours and 25 minutes, including the transfers. It is worth noting that the bus is not a direct option, so travelers should plan accordingly and check the specific schedules and availability of transfers.
To catch the bus from Charlotte to Columbia, you will need to go to the Charlotte Bus Station. The bus services are operated by Greyhound USA. Make sure to arrive at the station before the departure time to ensure a smooth journey. Remember to check the bus schedule in advance to plan your trip accordingly.
The bus service from Charlotte to Columbia arrives at the Columbia station. The Columbia station serves as a major transportation hub in the city, making it convenient for travelers to access various parts of Columbia and its surrounding areas. Once you arrive at the Columbia station, you can easily find taxis, ride-sharing services, or other forms of transportation to reach your final destination within the city. The station is also equipped with amenities such as seating areas, restrooms, and ticketing counters, providing a comfortable and convenient arrival experience for passengers.
To get to Columbia from Charlotte Airport, you can take a shuttle service, such as Columbia Cabs or Executive Transportation, which can cost around $100-$150, depending on the number of passengers. Another option is to take a direct flight from Charlotte Douglas International Airport to Columbia Metropolitan Airport, which takes approximately 40 minutes and can cost around $200-$300, depending on the airline and booking time. Additionally, you can rent a car from the airport and drive to Columbia, which takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes and costs approximately $20-$30 for gas and tolls.
American Airlines is the main airline that offers flights between Charlotte and Columbia. They operate regular flights from Charlotte Airport to Columbia Airport. Other airlines may have seasonal or limited service between the two cities, so it is recommended to check with individual carriers for availability and schedules.
The fastest way to get from Charlotte to Columbia is by taking a direct flight. The quickest flight from Charlotte Airport to Columbia Airport takes 1 hour. American Airlines offers flights between the two cities. The flight duration from Charlotte to Columbia is approximately 3 hours and 50 minutes. The prices for this flight range from $244 to $374.
The flight from Charlotte to Columbia takes approximately 1 hour. There are direct flights available from Charlotte Airport to Columbia Airport, which is the quickest option. It is important to note that flight durations may vary depending on factors such as weather conditions and air traffic.
Trains from Charlotte to Columbia arrive at the Columbia Amtrak Station. This is the main train station in Columbia and is conveniently located in the downtown area. It is easily accessible and provides a convenient transportation option for travelers heading to Columbia. Amtrak offers regular train services between Charlotte and Columbia, making it a convenient and reliable mode of transportation for this route.
No, there is no direct train between Charlotte and Columbia. However, there are train services available with transfers. The journey starts from Charlotte Amtrak Station and requires a transfer at Cary before reaching Columbia Amtrak Station. The total travel time including transfers takes approximately 8 hours.
To catch the train from Charlotte to Columbia you will need to go to the Charlotte Amtrak Station. This is where the Amtrak train services operate from. Make sure to check the train schedule in advance as departure times may vary. The journey by train typically takes around 2 hours, making it a convenient option for travel between the two cities.
The cost of a flight from Charlotte to Columbia can range from $244 to $374. Prices fluctuate depending on factors such as the airline, the time of travel, and the availability of seats. It is advisable to compare prices and book in advance to secure the best deal. Additionally, consider checking for any promotional offers or discounts that may further reduce the cost of your flight.
The cost of a train ticket from Charlotte to Columbia can vary depending on factors such as the type of train, the time of travel, and the class of service. Prices can range from $15 for a basic fare to $203 for a premium or first-class ticket. It is recommended to check the specific dates and times on the train operator's website or contact their customer service for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.
The cost of a bus ticket from Charlotte to Columbia can vary between $37 and $99. Prices can differ depending on factors such as the bus company, the date and time of travel, and the type of ticket you choose. It is recommended to check with different bus operators and compare prices to find the best deal. Additionally, booking your ticket in advance may help you secure a lower fare.
The cost to drive from Charlotte to Columbia typically ranges from $16 to $25. This estimate includes the potential expenses for fuel and tolls along the route. Additionally, the driving time between the two cities is approximately 1 hour and 36 minutes. It is important to note that these costs may vary depending on factors such as the fuel efficiency of the vehicle and current gas prices.

Trips from Charlotte

Trips to Columbia