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Raleigh, NC, USA to Columbia, SC, USA from $8: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

How to Get from Raleigh 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.

$8 by trainBest price
296 kmDistance
3h 46m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Raleigh 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
4h  31m
Estimated price
$8-110
Recommended
Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
4h  31m
Estimated price
$8-110
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 296 km
Duration: 3h 46m

See more options

Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
3h  46m
Estimated price
$40-60
Company
Southeastern Stages
Bus
Average Duration
6h  14m
Estimated price
$56-86
Company
Wanda Coach
Bus
Average Duration
4h  56m
Estimated price
$59-79
Company
Various
Plane
Average Duration
6h  5m
Estimated price
$162-394
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Raleigh to Columbia

The journey from Raleigh to Columbia offers an intriguing contrast, where Raleigh's vibrant urban landscape meets Columbia's charming Southern ambiance.

Best Neighbourhoods in Columbia

Columbia boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences for visitors.

Five Points
• Lively atmosphere with boutique shops and cafes.
• Popular nightlife spot for locals and travelers alike.
Devine Street
• Known for unique restaurants and local art galleries.
• Family-friendly vibe with parks and community events.
Downtown Columbia
• Hub of cultural attractions and historical sites.
• Vibrant festivals and markets throughout the year.

Best Times To Visit Columbia's Attractions

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

Riverbanks Zoo & Garden
Visit on weekdays early in the morning for smaller crowds and cooler temperatures.
South Carolina State Museum
Late afternoons on weekdays often mean fewer visitors and longer exploration time.
Columbia Museum of Art
Plan your visit during free admission days for a cost-effective, enriching experience.

Columbia Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Columbia experiences a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters, making spring and fall ideal for comfortable exploration. Weather conditions can influence outdoor activities, so planning ahead can enhance your travel experience.

Dining in Columbia: A Culinary Contrast

For a true taste of Columbia, try the shrimp and grits at a local favorite, where traditional Southern flavors blend beautifully with fresh, local ingredients. This dish, rich and comforting, presents a delightful contrast to the more diverse culinary scene in Raleigh, offering a warm, inviting atmosphere that reflects Southern hospitality.

Raleigh - Columbia operators

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

Average Duration
4h 31m
Estimated price
$8-110
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
646-630-7186
Website
https://www.wandacoach.gotobus.com/cgi-bin/ivyu.cgi?gid=657605&d=wanda-travel/

Bus from Saunders St, Raleigh, NC to Columbia, SC

Average Duration
4h 15m
Estimated price
$80-80
Contact phone
+1 404-591-2750
Website
https://southeasternstages.com

Bus from Raleigh to Columbia

Average Duration
5h 5m
Estimated price
$80-85
Plane Show flights
Website
aa.com

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

Average Duration
3h 55m
Estimated price
$82-83

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

Average Duration
3h 52m
Estimated price
$82-83

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

Average Duration
6h 6m
Estimated price
$82-83

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

Average Duration
6h 19m
Estimated price
$82-83
Website
delta.com

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

Average Duration
4h 18m
Estimated price
$84-800

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

Average Duration
5h 9m
Estimated price
$85-800
Website
united.com

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

Average Duration
4h 5m
Estimated price
$82-86

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

Traveling between Raleigh 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 spanning 227 miles from Raleigh to Columbia promising a smooth journey of approximately 3 hours and 46 minutes behind the wheel. 💸 Experience budget-friendly travel options with prices ranging from $40 to $60 for the car ride between Raleigh and Columbia, offering an economical way to explore the picturesque landscapes along the route.
Average price
$40 - $60
🚆 Depart from Raleigh Union Station and enjoy a scenic train journey to Columbia Amtrak Station in South Carolina. The direct train service operates once daily, with a travel time of approximately 4 hours and 31 minutes. 💰 Ticket prices for the Raleigh to Columbia train range from $8 to $110, making it an affordable and hassle-free transportation option for those looking to explore the cultural delights of South Carolina's capital city.
Departure Point
Raleigh Union Station
Arrival Point
Columbia Amtrak Station
Useful tips for train travellers
• The Amtrak Crescent is the primary operator for the Raleigh to Columbia route. Onboard, you can expect a cafe car offering a selection of snacks and beverages, including sandwiches, salads, and alcoholic drinks. The cafe typically accepts both cash and credit cards, making it convenient for grab-and-go dining.
• Amtrak provides different seating options on this route: Coach Class, Business Class, and First Class. Coach Class is the most economical choice, while Business Class offers wider seats and complimentary non-alcoholic beverages. First Class is usually not available on this route, but opt for Business Class if you seek a more spacious and premium experience.
• Upon your arrival in Columbia, you’ll disembark at the Columbia Amtrak Station. There are restroom facilities available on-site, and luggage storage services may vary, so it's best to check in advance. To navigate easily, familiarize yourself with the local transport options like the COMET bus service, which connects the train station to downtown. For the fastest route to the city center, you can take the COMET bus route 1 or 2 directly from the station.
🛫 The trip from Raleigh to Columbia by plane involves a journey with one stopover, typically lasting around 3 hours and 6 minutes. 💰 Depending on the specific flight and timing, the prices for traveling between Raleigh and Columbia by air can range from $162 to $394.
Departure Point
Raleigh/Durham Airport
Arrival Point
Columbia Airport. The quickest flight takes 3h 6m and has one stopover
🛤️ The bus journey from Raleigh to Columbia takes approximately 4 hours and 56 minutes, including transfers. 💰 Ticket prices for the bus ride between these two cities range from $59 to $79, making it a convenient and affordable travel option.
Departure Point
Saunders St, Raleigh, NC station
Arrival Point
Columbia, SC station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Raleigh to Columbia.

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The cheapest way to travel from Raleigh to Columbia is by train. Amtrak offers tickets for as low as $8, but prices can vary depending on the time of year and availability. The train journey takes approximately 4 hours and 31 minutes, providing a comfortable and affordable option for travel between these two cities.
The fastest way to travel from Raleigh to Columbia is by driving. The journey takes approximately 3 hours and 46 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The cost of driving can range between $40 to $60 for fuel expenses. It is recommended to use a navigation system or map to ensure a smooth and efficient route.
The distance between Raleigh and Columbia is approximately 184 miles. If you travel by road, the distance will be around 226.8 miles. This can vary depending on the route you choose and any detours you may take. It is important to plan your journey accordingly and be prepared for the road conditions and traffic along the way.
The best way to travel from Raleigh to Columbia without a car is by taking the train. Amtrak operates a train service between the two cities, with a journey time of approximately 4 hours and 31 minutes. Ticket prices can range from $8 to $110, depending on the type of ticket and travel class chosen. The train offers a convenient and affordable option for those who prefer not to drive between Raleigh and Columbia.
The train from Raleigh to Columbia takes approximately 4 hours and 31 minutes, including transfers. However, please note that trains depart once daily, so it is important to plan your trip accordingly. The convenience and comfort of train travel make it a popular choice for this route.
The cheapest way to travel from Raleigh to Columbia is by train, with prices ranging from $8 to $110 and a travel time of 4 hours and 31 minutes. Another option is to take a bus, which costs between $55 and $80 and takes approximately 4 hours and 56 minutes. Alternatively, you can choose to fly, but this is the most expensive option, with prices ranging from $160 to $400 and a travel time of around 6 hours and 3 minutes.
There are plenty of accommodation options available near Columbia. With over 211 hotels to choose from, you will have a wide range of choices depending on your budget and preferences. Prices for hotels in Columbia start at $51 per night. Whether you are looking for luxury hotels, budget-friendly options, or something in between, you will have no trouble finding a suitable place to stay near Columbia.
Yes, you can drive from Raleigh to Columbia. The driving distance is approximately 227 miles, and the journey takes around 3 hours and 46 minutes. This option gives you the flexibility to make stops along the way and explore any attractions or scenic routes you may come across. Please ensure to plan your route and consider traffic conditions before embarking on the trip.
Yes, there is no direct bus from Raleigh to Columbia. However, there are bus services available that take approximately 4 hours and 56 minutes with transfers. The journey starts at Saunders St in Raleigh and ends at Laurel Sumter EB via Broad Dutch SB. It is recommended to check the schedule and availability of these services before planning your trip.
To catch the bus from Raleigh to Columbia you will need to go to the Saunders St station in Raleigh. This is where the bus services operated by Wanda Coach depart. You can access the station by various means of transportation such as driving, taking a taxi, or using public transportation. It is recommended to check the bus schedule and arrive at the station a bit earlier to ensure a smooth departure.
The Raleigh to Columbia bus operated by Wanda Coach arrives at the Columbia station. The station is conveniently located in downtown Columbia, making it easily accessible for travelers. Upon arrival, passengers can easily find transportation options to continue on to their final destination within Columbia. The station is equipped with amenities such as seating, restrooms, and helpful staff to assist travelers with any inquiries they may have.
United Airlines, Delta, and American Airlines are the major airlines that fly between Raleigh and Columbia. These airlines offer flights from Raleigh/Durham Airport to Columbia Airport. It is recommended to check the websites of these airlines for available flights and prices as they may vary.
The fastest way to travel from Raleigh to Columbia by plane is to take a connecting flight. There is no direct flight from Raleigh/Durham Airport to Columbia Airport, so the quickest flight option typically takes around 3 hours and 5 minutes with one stopover. United Airlines, Delta, and American Airlines offer flights from Raleigh/Durham Airport to Columbia Airport. The total travel time by plane is approximately 6 hours and 3 minutes, and flight prices range from $162 to $394.
The flight from Raleigh to Columbia is not a direct route. The quickest flight option takes approximately 3 hours and 5 minutes, but it does require a stopover. The total travel time will depend on the duration of the layover at the connecting airport. It is recommended to check with airlines for the most up-to-date flight schedules and options.
Trains from Raleigh to Columbia arrive at Columbia Amtrak Station. This is the main station in Columbia for Amtrak train services. It is conveniently located in the heart of downtown Columbia, making it easily accessible for travelers. From there, you can easily explore the city or catch connecting transportation to your final destination.
Yes, there is a direct train between Raleigh and Columbia. The train departs from Raleigh Union Station and arrives at Columbia Amtrak Station. The train service operates once daily and runs every day. The journey takes approximately 4 hours and 31 minutes.
To catch the train from Raleigh to Columbia head to Raleigh Union Station. This is where the train services for this route, operated by Amtrak, depart from. Ensure you arrive at the station with enough time to check in and board the train. You can use various transportation options such as taxis, rideshares, or public transportation to reach the station conveniently.
The cost of a flight from Raleigh to Columbia can typically range between $162 and $394. The price variation depends on factors such as the airline, time of travel, and how far in advance the ticket is booked. It's recommended to compare prices from different airlines and book in advance to secure the best deal.
The cost of a train ticket from Raleigh to Columbia can range from $8 to $110. The exact price will depend on factors such as the type of ticket and how early you book. It is recommended to book in advance to secure the best fares and availability. Additionally, keep in mind that prices may vary depending on the season and any ongoing promotions.
The cost of a bus ticket from Raleigh to Columbia ranges from $59 to $79. The exact price may vary depending on factors such as the time of booking and the type of bus service chosen. It is recommended to check with different bus companies and compare prices to find the best deal. Additionally, some companies may offer discounts for students, seniors, or frequent travelers, so it's worth inquiring about any available promotions.
The cost of driving from Raleigh to Columbia will depend on factors such as the type of car, gas prices, and tolls. On average, it can cost around $40 to $60 for a one-way trip. Keep in mind that this estimate does not include additional expenses such as food, parking, or accommodation. It's essential to budget accordingly and consider any additional costs before embarking on the drive.

Trips from Raleigh

Trips to Columbia