Raleigh, NC, USA to Charleston, WV, USA from $21: 8 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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How to Get from Raleigh to Charleston: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$21 by trainBest price

393 kmDistance

5h 11m 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.

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Traveling From Raleigh to Charleston

The route from Raleigh to Charleston offers a delightful contrast between Raleigh's vibrant urban energy and Charleston's charming coastal allure.

Best Neighborhoods in Charleston

Charleston's neighborhoods each offer distinct atmospheres and attractions for visitors.

Downtown Charleston

• Historic architecture and charming cobblestone streets.

• Vibrant dining and shopping options abound.

French Quarter

• Home to art galleries and historic churches.

• Breathtaking views of the waterfront.

West Ashley

• A blend of suburban comfort and urban accessibility.

• Great parks and outdoor activities for families.

Best Times To Visit Charleston's Attractions

Maximize your enjoyment of Charleston by visiting attractions at optimal times.

Rainbow Row

Explore the vibrant historic houses early in the morning to avoid crowds.

The Battery

Visit during sunrise or sunset for stunning views and fewer visitors.

Charleston City Market

Weekdays are ideal for a relaxed shopping experience without the hustle.

Charleston Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Charleston enjoys a humid subtropical climate, with warm summers and mild winters, making it a destination you can enjoy year-round. Spring and fall provide the best conditions for outdoor activities, while summers can bring heat and occasional storms that may influence your travel plans.

Dining Recommendation

For an authentic taste of Charleston, try the Lowcountry classic shrimp and grits at Husk, where local ingredients redefine Southern cuisine with bold flavors and modern techniques. The laid-back atmosphere combined with the rich culinary heritage offers a distinct experience that contrasts with Raleigh's more contemporary dining scene.

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.

Bus

Contact phone

+1 214-849-8100

Website

https://www.greyhound.com/

Bus from Raleigh Bus Station to Winston Salem(Trans Center)

Average Duration

2h 5m

Estimated price

$21-2887

Bus from Greensboro Bus Stop to Winston Salem(Trans Center)

Average Duration

40m

Estimated price

$212-1630

Bus from Winston Salem(Trans Center) to Charleston, WV

Average Duration

4h 10m

Estimated price

$21-2887

Train

Contact phone

+1 800-872-7245

Website

https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from Raleigh Union Station to Greensboro

Average Duration

1h 31m

Estimated price

$212-213

Train from Greensboro to Charlottesville

Average Duration

3h 20m

Estimated price

$2884-2885

Train from Charlottesville to Charleston

Average Duration

6h 31m

Estimated price

$2883-2150

Train from Raleigh Union Station to Charlottesville

Average Duration

13h 22m

Estimated price

$21-2885

Train from Raleigh Union Station to Charlotte Amtrak Station

Average Duration

3h 10m

Estimated price

$2884-2885

Plane

Website

https://aa.com

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

Average Duration

3h 31m

Estimated price

$1633-1634

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

Average Duration

4h 14m

Estimated price

$1633-1634

Website

https://delta.com

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

Average Duration

4h 33m

Estimated price

$55-1639

Website

https://united.com

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

Average Duration

6h 57m

Estimated price

$279-2770

Other Show other routes

Contact phone

+1-919-840-7277

Website

https://rdutaxis.com

Other from Raleigh to Fayetteville Municipal

Average Duration

1h 11m

Estimated price

$2180-1638

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 scenic road trip from Raleigh to Charleston, covering a distance of 320 miles. The journey offers a mix of cityscape and countryside views, making for a delightful drive. 💵 Indulge in budget-friendly travel with prices ranging from $55 to $85 for the journey by car. Enjoy the flexibility and freedom of a road trip while exploring the diverse landscapes along the route. ⏰ Spend around 5 hours and 27 minutes on the road, immersing yourself in the adventure from Raleigh to Charleston. Create lasting memories and enjoy the sights and sounds of both cities along the way.

Average price

$55 - $85

🚆 Although there is no direct train from Raleigh to Charleston, you can take a route that includes transfers at Greensboro and Charlottesville. The journey by train takes approximately 13 hours and 22 minutes. 🎫 Ticket prices for the Raleigh to Charleston train can range from $21 to $288, depending on the class of service and the time of booking. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the journey as the train takes you from Raleigh to Charleston.

Departure Point

Raleigh Union Station

Arrival Point

Charleston station

🛫 Flying from Raleigh to Charleston involves a journey with a minimum duration of 3 hours and 31 minutes, including one layover. 💸 The cost of airfare between Raleigh and Charleston can range from as low as $67 to as high as $417, depending on the airline and time of booking.

Departure Point

Raleigh/Durham Airport

Arrival Point

Charleston Airport. The quickest flight takes 3h 31m and has one stopover

🚌 The bus journey from Raleigh to Charleston involves transfers and takes approximately 8 hours and 24 minutes. 🚌 Bus services operated by Greyhound USA and Barons Bus offer travel from Raleigh to Charleston, with ticket prices ranging from $33 to $106 for the journey.

Departure Point

Raleigh Bus Station

Arrival Point

Charleston, WV station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Raleigh to Charleston.

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The distance between Raleigh and Charleston is approximately 244 miles. The typical travel times by various modes of transportation are as follows: by train, it takes approximately 13 hours and 22 minutes; by train and bus, it takes around 9 hours and 6 minutes; by plane, it takes about 5 hours and 26 minutes. If traveling from Charleston to Raleigh, it takes around 5 hours and 27 minutes by car or approximately 9 hours and 24 minutes by bus.

The most cost-effective option for traveling from Raleigh to Charleston is by bus. Taking a bus via Chapel Hill is the cheapest option, with prices ranging from $30 to $80. However, this option does take a longer time, approximately 10 hours and 48 minutes. If time efficiency is a priority, flying is the quickest option, taking around 5 hours and 26 minutes. However, it is important to note that flying can be more expensive, with prices ranging from $190 to $650.

When traveling from Raleigh to Charleston the prices of a train ticket range from $21 to $288. Alternatively, the prices of a bus ticket between Charleston and Raleigh can vary from $38 to $116. It is worth considering these price ranges when planning your travel budget for the journey between the two cities.

To travel from Raleigh to Charleston without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of 320 miles. The journey typically takes around 5 hours and 27 minutes by car. The cost of driving varies between $55 and $85, depending on factors such as gas prices and tolls.

To travel from Raleigh to Charleston without a car, the best option is to take a combination of train and bus. This journey takes approximately 9 hours and 6 minutes and costs between $30 and $180. Another option is to take a direct bus, which takes slightly longer at 9 hours and 24 minutes and costs between $35 and $120. If you prefer a longer journey, you can also take a train which takes 13 hours and 22 minutes and costs between $21 and $290, or opt to fly which takes 5 hours and 26 minutes and costs between $190 and $650.

There is no direct train or bus link between Raleigh and Charleston. However, you can reach Charleston by taking a combination of train and bus. The train journey from Raleigh to Charleston takes approximately 13 hours and 22 minutes, with transfers in Greensboro and Charlottesville. The bus journey from Raleigh to Charleston takes approximately 9 hours and 24 minutes, with transfers in Raleigh and Winston Salem. It is also possible to travel between Raleigh and Charleston by car, which takes around 5 hours and 27 minutes.

The flight between Raleigh and Charleston typically takes around 3 hours and 47 minutes with one stopover. However, please note that there is no direct flight available between Raleigh/Durham Airport and Charleston Airport. The prices for a flight between the two cities vary and can range from $192 to $617. It is advisable to check with different airlines and booking websites to find the best deals and options for your travel.

There are many hotel options available near Charleston with over 50 choices to choose from. Prices for hotels in the area start at $53. You can find a wide range of accommodations to suit your budget and preferences. It is recommended to check for availability and book in advance to secure your preferred choice of stay near Charleston.

Raleigh, NC, USA to Charleston, WV, USA from $21: 8 ways by bus, train, flight or car

How to Get from Raleigh to Charleston: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

See more options

Traveling From Raleigh to Charleston

Best Neighborhoods in Charleston

Best Times To Visit Charleston's Attractions

Charleston Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Dining Recommendation

Raleigh - Charleston operators

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

Frequently asked questions

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