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Raleigh, NC, USA to Charlotte, NC, USA from $14: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from Raleigh to Charlotte: 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.

$14 by busBest price
209.2 kmDistance
2h 51m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Raleigh 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
3h  10m
Estimated price
$7-95
Recommended
route map
Distance: 209.2 km
Duration: 2h 51m

See more options

Company
Flixbus
Bus
Average Duration
4h  45m
Estimated price
$14-60
Company
Greyhound
Bus
Average Duration
4h  14m
Estimated price
$16-61
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
2h  51m
Estimated price
$30-45
Company
American Airlines
Plane
Average Duration
3h  23m
Estimated price
$78-285
Company
various
Taxi
Plane
Average Duration
2h  57m
Estimated price
$432-549
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Traveling From Raleigh to Charlotte

Traveling from Raleigh to Charlotte offers a striking juxtaposition between Raleigh's historic charm and Charlotte's vibrant urban energy.

Best Neighbourhoods in Charlotte

Charlotte boasts diverse neighborhoods, each with its own charm and appeal.

Uptown
• Bustling business district with skyscrapers and nightlife.
• Home to cultural attractions like the NASCAR Hall of Fame.
NoDa
• Arts district known for its vibrant murals and galleries.
• Offers eclectic dining options and live music venues.
Dilworth
• Charming historic area with beautiful tree-lined streets.
• Features local shops and parks, perfect for leisurely strolls.

Best Times To Visit Charlotte's Attractions

Knowing the best times to explore Charlotte's attractions can enhance your experience.

Carowinds
Visit on weekdays during May or September for smaller crowds.
U.S. National Whitewater Center
Early morning sessions on weekdays provide quieter adventures and cooler weather.
NASCAR Hall of Fame
Go during the offseason, particularly in January or February, for a more relaxed visit.

Charlotte Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Charlotte experiences a humid subtropical climate, featuring hot summers and mild winters, making spring and fall ideal for visits. Understanding the seasonal variations in weather can enhance your travel experience, as pleasant conditions allow for outdoor activities and events.

Dining Recommendation in Charlotte

For a flavorful contrast to Raleigh’s classic Southern dishes, try the smoked brisket at Midwood Smokehouse, where the blend of rich flavors and casual, lively atmosphere captures the essence of Charlotte’s vibrant food scene. The use of local ingredients and innovative techniques sets this dining experience apart, showcasing the city’s culinary creativity.

Raleigh - Charlotte operators

Explore transport companies operating between Raleigh 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 Raleigh Union Station to Charlotte Amtrak Station

Average Duration
3h 10m
Estimated price
$7-95
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
https://www.greyhound.com/

Bus from Raleigh Bus Station to Charlotte Bus Station

Average Duration
3h 5m
Estimated price
$18-55
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
https://www.flixbus.com/

Bus from Raleigh Bus Station to Charlotte Bus Station

Average Duration
3h 5m
Estimated price
$15-60

Bus from GoRaleigh Station to Durham Station

Average Duration
55m
Estimated price
$0-0

Bus from Durham to Charlotte

Average Duration
2h 50m
Estimated price
$14-60
all-pages.other Show other routes
Contact phone
+1-919-840-7277

Other from Raleigh to Fayetteville Municipal

Average Duration
1h 11m
Estimated price
$140-180
Plane Show flights
Website
http://aa.com

Plane from Raleigh/Durham (RDU) to Charlotte (CLT)

Average Duration
1h 9m
Estimated price
$260-550

Plane from Fayetteville Municipal (FAY) to Charlotte (CLT)

Average Duration
1h 16m
Estimated price
$363-365

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

Traveling between Raleigh 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 Raleigh to Charlotte, covering a distance of 165 miles in approximately 2 hours and 51 minutes by car. ⛽️ Fuel up your vehicle, budgeting between $30 to $45 for the round trip, and experience the convenience and flexibility of exploring these two vibrant North Carolina cities at your own pace.
Average price
$30 - $45
🚆 Traveling from Raleigh to Charlotte by train is a convenient and scenic journey. With trains departing four times a day, passengers have flexibility in choosing a suitable travel time for the 3-hour, 10-minute ride. 📍 The direct train route covers a distance of 173 miles, providing a comfortable and efficient mode of transportation between these two North Carolina cities. Amtrak operates the train services, ensuring a smooth and reliable travel experience for passengers. 💸 Ticket prices for the Raleigh to Charlotte train vary between $7 and $95, offering budget-friendly options for travelers looking to explore the beautiful landscapes and attractions of Charlotte from the starting point in Raleigh.
Departure Point
Raleigh Union Station
Arrival Point
Charlotte Amtrak Station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard Services: On the Amtrak Carolinian service from Raleigh to Charlotte, you can expect a café car offering a variety of snacks, beverages, and light meals. Breakfast options may include sandwiches and pastries, while lunch and dinner options often feature boxed meals such as sandwiches, salads, and chips. Plan ahead if you have dietary restrictions, as selections can vary based on time of day and demand.
• Seating Options: The Amtrak Carolinian offers several seating options. In First Class, you'll enjoy larger seats with more legroom and complimentary beverages. Business Class also offers enhanced seating with additional space and a quieter environment. Economy Class is available for budget travelers but comes with standard seating arrangements. If you're looking for a more comfortable journey, consider upgrading to Business or First Class.
• Arrival Station Tip: When you arrive at Charlotte's Amtrak station, be prepared for a smaller facility. While there are no dedicated luggage storage services, you can temporarily leave small bags at the customer service desk, subject to availability. Restrooms are available; however, showers are not provided within the station. Be sure to utilize the nearby dining options if you have time to spare.
• Fastest Way to City Center: To get from Charlotte's Amtrak station to the city center, take the CATS Gold Line light rail, which is just a short walk from the station. The light rail operates frequently and will take you directly to the center of Charlotte in approximately 15-20 minutes. The closest light rail stop is the '9th St' stop, where you can catch the train heading towards 'I485'.
🛫 Flying from Raleigh to Charlotte is a convenient option with American Airlines offering direct flights that take only 1 hour and 9 minutes. 🌆 Once you land in Charlotte, it will take approximately 3 hours and 23 minutes to complete the journey from Raleigh to Charlotte by plane. 💸 The cost of a flight between Charlotte and Raleigh can range from $78 to $285, providing travelers with a variety of price options to suit their budget.
Departure Point
Raleigh/Durham Airport
Arrival Point
Charlotte Airport
🚌 The bus journey from Raleigh to Charlotte takes approximately 4 hours and 14 minutes with transfers along the way. 🛣️ The distance covered on the route is about 168 miles, with various bus service options available for travelers to choose from. 💰 Prices for a bus ticket between Raleigh and Charlotte can range from $16 to $61, offering affordable travel options for those looking to explore North Carolina by bus.
Departure Point
Raleigh Bus Station
Arrival Point
Charlotte Bus Station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Make sure to check the Greyhound schedule in advance as there are multiple routes available that vary in travel time from 2 hours 40 minutes to over 4 hours; it’s best to find one that fits your timing to avoid long waits or mismatched connections. Visit greyhound.com for schedules.
• When you arrive at Charlotte Bus Station, be prepared for local transport options like the CATS bus or Light Rail; familiarize yourself with the transit system by visiting charlottenc.gov for maps and schedules to plan your next steps.
• Since you're traveling from Raleigh via Greyhound, consider packing snacks and drinks for the trip, as bus snacks can be limited, and bring a power bank to keep your devices charged for the duration of the journey.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Raleigh to Charlotte.

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The distance between Raleigh and Charlotte is approximately 130 miles by road. By train, it takes about 3 hours and 10 minutes to travel between the two cities. If you choose to take a bus, the journey can take around 3 hours and 49 minutes. Flying is the fastest option, with a flight time of about 3 hours and 20 minutes.
Based on the given information, the most cost-effective transportation option to travel from Raleigh to Charlotte is by train, with fares ranging from $7 to $95. This mode of transportation takes approximately 3 hours and 10 minutes. However, if time efficiency is a priority, then driving would be the quickest option, taking around 2 hours and 51 minutes, with estimated costs of $30 to $45. Both options provide convenient and reliable ways to travel between these two cities.
The prices for traveling from Raleigh to Charlotte vary depending on the mode of transportation. The cost of a train ticket ranges from $7 to $95. Meanwhile, the price of a bus ticket between the two cities can vary from $19 to $56. It is important to check for any discounts or promotions available when booking a ticket.
To get from Raleigh to Charlotte without using public transportation, you can drive by car. The distance between the two cities is around 165 miles, and it takes about 2 hours and 51 minutes to drive. The cost of the trip by car can range from $30 to $45, depending on factors such as gas prices and tolls.
To travel from Raleigh to Charlotte without a car, the best option is to take a train, which takes approximately 3 hours and 10 minutes and costs between $7 and $95. Alternatively, you can choose to take a bus, which takes around 3 hours and 49 minutes and costs between $19 and $60. Another option is to fly, which takes about 3 hours and 20 minutes and costs between $85 and $290.
Yes, there is a direct train link between Raleigh and Charlotte. The train services operate four times a day, every day, and the journey takes approximately 3 hours and 10 minutes. Additionally, there are no direct bus services between the two cities, but there are buses that depart from Raleigh Bus Station and arrive at Charlotte Bus Station with a transfer, taking around 3 hours and 49 minutes.
The flight between Raleigh and Charlotte typically takes around 1 hour and 7 minutes. The prices for a flight between these two cities can vary, with ticket prices ranging from $88 to $285. It is important to note that prices may change depending on factors such as the airline, time of booking, and time of travel. It is recommended to check with different airlines and compare prices to find the best deal for your trip.
There are several options for accommodation near Charlotte. With over 583 hotels to choose from, there is something to suit every budget. Prices for hotels in the area start at $52 per night. Whether you are looking for a luxury hotel or a more affordable option, there are plenty of choices available for your stay in Charlotte.

Trips from Raleigh

Trips to Charlotte