1map logoGo to main page

Raleigh, NC, USA to Charleston, SC, USA from $15: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from Raleigh to Charleston: 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.

$15 by trainBest price
356 kmDistance
4h 38m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Raleigh to Charleston 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  53m
Estimated price
$15-178
Recommended
Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
5h  53m
Estimated price
$15-153
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 356 km
Duration: 4h 38m

See more options

Company
Greyhound
Bus
Average Duration
8h  43m
Estimated price
$35-88
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
4h  38m
Estimated price
$50-75
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
6h  35m
Estimated price
$62-255
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
7h  46m
Estimated price
$151-152
Company
various
Taxi
Average Duration
5h  55m
Estimated price
$331-150
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Raleigh to Charleston

Raleigh offers a vibrant blend of modern city life and southern charm, while Charleston entices visitors with its rich history, coastal beauty, and slower pace, creating a fascinating contrast for your journey.

Best Neighbourhoods in Charleston

Charleston's neighborhoods blend history, culture, and Southern hospitality for visitors.

French Quarter
• Home to charming cobblestone streets.
• Features art galleries and historic architecture.
Battery District
• Offers stunning views of Charleston Harbor.
• Showcases beautiful antebellum mansions.
King Street
• Vibrant shopping and dining destination.
• Hosts iconic festivals and events year-round.

Best Times To Visit Charleston's Attractions

Timing your visits can elevate your Charleston experience significantly.

Magnolia Plantation and Gardens
Visit early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and cooler temperatures.
The Battery
Weekday mornings are ideal, allowing for a peaceful stroll without heavy traffic.
Charleston City Market
Arrive just after opening during weekdays to enjoy a quieter shopping experience.

Charleston Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Charleston enjoys a humid subtropical climate, characterized by warm summers and mild winters, making it an attractive destination year-round. Spring and fall typically offer the most pleasant temperatures, enhancing your outdoor adventures and sightseeing.

Dining Recommendation in Charleston

A trip to Charleston isn’t complete without indulging in shrimp and grits at Poogan's Porch, where the dish features a creamy texture and rich flavors that blend local ingredients with a southern twist. The charming atmosphere of this historic restaurant adds a unique touch to your dining experience, setting it apart from the urban dining scene in Raleigh.

Raleigh - Charleston operators

Explore transport companies operating between Raleigh and Charleston, 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 Selma

Average Duration
33m
Estimated price
$15-178

Train from Selma to Charleston Amtrak Station

Average Duration
4h 8m
Estimated price
$15-178

Train from Raleigh Union Station to Charlotte Amtrak Station

Average Duration
3h 10m
Estimated price
$35-3585
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
https://www.greyhound.com/

Bus from Raleigh Bus Station to Charleston Bus Station

Average Duration
5h 45m
Estimated price
$35-88
Plane Show flights
Website
http://aa.com

Plane from Raleigh/Durham (RDU) to Charleston (CHS)

Average Duration
3h 29m
Estimated price
$62-255
Website
http://delta.com

Plane from Raleigh/Durham (RDU) to Charleston (CHS)

Average Duration
4h 37m
Estimated price
$1784-1785
Website
http://southwest.com

Plane from Raleigh/Durham (RDU) to Charleston (CHS)

Average Duration
4h 13m
Estimated price
$1786-1787
Website
http://united.com

Plane from Raleigh/Durham (RDU) to Charleston (CHS)

Average Duration
4h 13m
Estimated price
$1788-750
all-pages.other Show other routes
Contact phone
+1-919-840-7277
Website
http://rdutaxis.com

Other from Raleigh to Fayetteville Municipal

Average Duration
1h 11m
Estimated price
$178940-153

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

Traveling between Raleigh and Charleston 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 journey from Raleigh to Charleston by car, covering a scenic driving distance of 280 miles. The road trip offers a perfect blend of urban charm and coastal beauty. 💰 Prices for the road trip from Raleigh to Charleston range from $50 to $75, providing budget-friendly options for travelers seeking a leisurely drive southwards. Enjoy the flexibility and freedom of exploring these two vibrant cities at your own pace. 🏖️ Arrive in Charleston after approximately 4 hours and 38 minutes of driving, ready to soak up the historic charm, culinary delights, and southern hospitality that this enchanting destination has to offer.
Average price
$50 - $75
🚂 Hop on a train from Raleigh to Charleston for a scenic journey that takes approximately 5 hours and 53 minutes. Enjoy the relaxing ride as you traverse through the picturesque landscapes of the Carolinas. 💰 Ticket prices for the train between Raleigh and Charleston can range from $15 to $178, offering travelers a range of options to suit their budget. Whether you prefer a budget-friendly journey or a more luxurious experience, there's a ticket for every type of traveler.
🛫 Flying from Raleigh to Charleston involves a connecting flight as there are no direct flights available between the two cities. The quickest route with one stopover takes approximately 3 hours and 29 minutes. 🛬 Major airlines such as United, Southwest, Delta, and American Airlines operate flights from Raleigh/Durham Airport to Charleston Airport. The journey typically lasts around 6 hours and 35 minutes, providing travelers with various options for their trip. 💸 Flight ticket prices for the Raleigh to Charleston route can range from $62 to $255, offering a range of fare choices for passengers based on their budget and preferences. Booking in advance and comparing different airline options can help secure the best deal for a pleasant journey.
Departure Point
Raleigh/Durham Airport
Arrival Point
Charleston Airport. The quickest flight takes 3h 29m and has one stopover
🚌 Although there is no direct bus from Raleigh to Charleston, the journey can be completed in approximately 8 hours and 43 minutes with transfers. Greyhound USA operates the bus services for this route. 🛣️ Route options vary in duration and distance, with the shortest route taking about 9 hours and 22 minutes for the 376-mile journey. Passengers may need to make multiple transfers, depending on the chosen route and schedule. 💰 Ticket prices for the bus between Raleigh and Charleston range from $35 to $88, offering travelers an affordable and convenient way to explore these two vibrant cities in the South.
Departure Point
Raleigh Bus Station
Arrival Point
Charleston Bus Station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Raleigh to Charleston.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Raleigh and Charleston is approximately 221 miles. By car, it takes approximately 4 hours and 38 minutes to travel from Raleigh to Charleston. By plane, the travel time is around 5 hours and 23 minutes. Alternatively, taking a bus from Raleigh to Charleston would take around 8 hours and 46 minutes.
The most cost-effective transportation option for traveling from Raleigh to Charleston is by train. With prices ranging from $14 to $180, it offers a reasonable and budget-friendly choice. Although it takes around 7 hours and 13 minutes, it's a comfortable option for those who prefer to relax and enjoy the scenery. On the other hand, if time efficiency is a priority, driving is the quickest option. With an estimated travel time of 4 hours and 38 minutes, it allows for a faster arrival in Charleston. However, it is important to consider factors such as gas expenses and traffic conditions when deciding on the most suitable transportation option.
The prices for traveling from Raleigh to Charleston by train can range from $14 to $178. On the other hand, the prices for traveling by bus between Charleston and Raleigh can vary from $35 to $113. It is important to note that these prices are subject to change depending on factors such as time of travel, availability, and other factors, so it is advisable to check with the respective transportation providers for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.
To get from Raleigh to Charleston without using public transportation, you can drive. The distance between the two cities is approximately 280 miles, and it takes around 4 hours and 38 minutes to drive from Raleigh to Charleston. The cost of driving from Raleigh to Charleston can vary, but it typically ranges from $50 to $75, depending on factors such as fuel prices and vehicle efficiency.
To travel from Raleigh to Charleston without a car, the best option is by train, which takes approximately 7 hours and 13 minutes and costs between $14 and $180. Another option is to take a bus, which takes about 8 hours and 46 minutes and costs between $35 and $120. Lastly, you can also choose to fly, which only takes around 5 hours and 23 minutes, with ticket prices ranging from $65 to $270.
Yes, there is a bus connection between Raleigh and Charleston but it is not a direct link. The bus journey takes approximately 8 hours and 46 minutes, including transfers. The buses for this route are operated by Southeastern Stages and depart from Raleigh station, arriving at Charleston Bus Station.
The flight time between Raleigh and Charleston can vary depending on the number of stopovers. The quickest flight with one stopover takes approximately 3 hours and 5 minutes. The cost of a flight between the two cities ranges from $65 to $267, depending on factors such as the airline, time of booking, and availability.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near Charleston with over 890 hotels to choose from. Prices for hotels start at $50 and vary depending on the location and amenities. Some popular areas to stay in Charleston include Historic District, Mount Pleasant, and Folly Beach. It is recommended to book in advance to secure your preferred accommodation.

Trips from Raleigh

Trips to Charleston