1map logoGo to main page

Durham, NC, USA to Columbia, SC, USA from $9: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from Durham 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.

$9 by trainBest price
379 kmDistance
4h 1m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Durham 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
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
5h  27m
Estimated price
$9-168
Recommended
Company
Various
Train
Average Duration
5h  27m
Estimated price
$91-92
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 379 km
Duration: 4h 1m

See more options

Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
4h  1m
Estimated price
$40-65
Company
Various
Bus
Average Duration
7h  28m
Estimated price
$57-87
Company
Wanda Coach
Bus
Average Duration
5h  41m
Estimated price
$62-83
Company
Various
Plane
Average Duration
6h  41m
Estimated price
$72-90
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Durham to Columbia

Traveling from Durham to Columbia offers a shift from the vibrant cultural scene and historic charm of Durham to the laid-back charm and scenic beauty of Columbia.

Best Neighbourhoods in Columbia

Columbia features diverse neighborhoods, each offering a distinct character and charm.

Five Points
• Vibrant nightlife with bars and restaurants.
• Boutique shops and local markets abound.
Shandon
• Historic homes with beautiful architecture.
• Tree-lined streets perfect for leisurely walks.
Vista
• Arts district featuring galleries and street art.
• Diverse dining options from casual to upscale.

Best Times To Visit Columbia's Attractions

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

Riverbanks Zoo & Garden
Visit on weekdays in the early morning for fewer crowds and cooler temperatures.
South Carolina State Museum
Explore during late afternoons on weekdays for a quieter atmosphere.
Congaree National Park
Optimal visits occur in spring or fall, avoiding summer humidity while enjoying stunning foliage.

Columbia Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Columbia experiences a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot summers and mild winters, making spring and fall the ideal times for comfortable travel. Understanding the weather helps you pack appropriately and plan outdoor activities to make the most of your visit.

Dining Recommendation in Columbia

Try the fried catfish at The Whig, a local favorite that brings a taste of Southern comfort food that's distinct from the farm-to-table options in Durham. The lively atmosphere and focus on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients offer a vibrant dining experience that showcases the flavors of the region.

Durham - Columbia operators

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

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

Train from Cary to Columbia Amtrak Station

Average Duration
4h 9m
Estimated price
$91-95
Bus
Contact phone
646-630-7186
Website
https://www.wandacoach.gotobus.com/cgi-bin/ivyu.cgi?gid=657605&d=wanda-travel/

Bus from Durham to Columbia, SC

Average Duration
5h
Estimated price
$96-915
Plane
Website
aa.com

Plane from Raleigh/Durham (RDU) to Columbia (CAE)

Average Duration
3h 55m
Estimated price
$97-900
Website
delta.com

Plane from Raleigh/Durham (RDU) to Columbia (CAE)

Average Duration
4h 18m
Estimated price
$94-930
Website
united.com

Plane from Raleigh/Durham (RDU) to Columbia (CAE)

Average Duration
4h 26m
Estimated price
$98-950

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

Traveling between Durham 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 Durham to Columbia covering a distance of 236 miles. Enjoy the journey through the heart of the Carolinas. 💰 Explore budget-friendly options with prices ranging from $40 to $65 for a road trip from Durham to Columbia by car. Plan your trip according to your preferences and travel style. ⏱️ Spend approximately 4 hours and 1 minute behind the wheel as you drive from Durham to Columbia. Enjoy the drive, make some stops along the way, and soak in the charm of these two Southern cities.
Average price
$40 - $65
🛤️ The train services operated by Amtrak take approximately 5 hours and 27 minutes to reach Columbia from Durham. 💰 Tickets for the train between Durham and Columbia can range in price from $9 to $168, offering a convenient and cost-effective way to travel between the two cities.
Departure Point
Cary station
Arrival Point
Columbia Amtrak Station
🛫 To travel from Durham to Columbia by plane, you will need to take a flight with one stopover. The quickest route typically takes around 3 hours and 6 minutes to reach your destination. 🌐 United Airlines, Delta, and American Airlines are among the top carriers offering flights from Raleigh/Durham Airport to Columbia Airport. The total duration of the journey usually spans approximately 6 hours and 41 minutes. 💸 Flight prices between Columbia and Durham can range from $72 to $605, depending on various factors such as the time of booking, availability, and airline you choose. It's advisable to check for the best deals to make the most of your travel budget.
Departure Point
Raleigh/Durham Airport
Arrival Point
Columbia Airport. The quickest flight takes 3h 6m and has one stopover
🚌 Traveling from Durham to Columbia by bus requires a transfer, with services departing from Durham and arriving at Laurel Sumter EB via Broad Dutch SB. The journey, including transfers, takes approximately 5 hours and 41 minutes. 🚌 The prices for a bus ticket between Columbia and Durham range from $62 to $83, offering affordability for those looking to explore the journey by bus. With a total travel time of 5 hours and 41 minutes, passengers can experience a scenic ride through North Carolina and South Carolina landscapes.
Departure Point
Durham station
Arrival Point
Columbia, SC station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Durham to Columbia.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Durham and Columbia is approximately 184 miles by road. If traveling by train, it takes about 5 hours and 27 minutes to reach Columbia from Durham. By plane, the travel time is around 6 hours and 40 minutes. Finally, driving by car takes approximately 4 hours and 1 minute, while taking the bus takes about 5 hours and 41 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Durham to Columbia is by taking a bus via Raleigh. This option can cost between $29 to $70 and takes approximately 7 hours and 28 minutes. However, if time is a priority, the fastest way to get from Durham to Columbia is by driving. This option costs between $40 to $65 and takes approximately 4 hours and 1 minute.
The prices for traveling from Durham to Columbia by train can range from $9 to $168. If you choose to travel by bus, the prices can range from $62 to $83. It is important to check for any discounts or promotions available, as prices may vary depending on the time of year and booking method. Ultimately, the price you pay will depend on your chosen mode of transportation and any additional factors such as time of travel and ticket availability.
To get from Durham to Columbia without using public transportation, you can drive. The road distance is approximately 236 miles, and it takes around 4 hours and 1 minute to drive from Durham to Columbia. The cost of driving varies, with prices ranging from $40 to $65 for the trip.
The best way to travel from Durham to Columbia without a car is by train. The train journey takes approximately 5 hours and 27 minutes and ticket prices range from $8 to $170. Another option is to take a bus, which takes around 5 hours and 41 minutes and costs between $60 and $85. Alternatively, you could consider flying, which takes 6 hours and 40 minutes and prices for flights range from $160 to $400.
Yes, there is a direct link between Durham and Columbia via train. The journey takes approximately 5 hours and 27 minutes, including transfers at Cary station. However, there is no direct bus between the two cities, but there are bus services available that take approximately 5 hours and 41 minutes, including transfers. It's important to note that there is no direct flight between Durham and Columbia.
The flight duration from Durham to Columbia typically takes around 3 hours and 5 minutes, including a single stopover. However, it's important to note that there are no direct flights between Raleigh/Durham Airport and Columbia Airport. The cost of a flight between the two cities can vary, with prices ranging from $162 to $395, depending on factors such as the airline, time of booking, and availability.
There are numerous options for accommodation near Columbia. With over 211 hotels to choose from, travelers can find a range of choices to suit their preferences and budget. Prices start at $51, allowing visitors to find affordable options. Some popular areas to consider for accommodation in Columbia include Downtown, The Vista, and Harbison, which offer convenient access to attractions, dining, and shopping.

Trips from Durham

Trips to Myrtle Beach