1map logoGo to main page

Cleveland, OH, USA to Columbus, IN, USA from $60: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Cleveland, United States of America
to
Columbus, United States of America

How to Get from Cleveland to Columbus: 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.

$60 - DriveBest price
532 kmDistance
5h 29m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Cleveland to Columbus 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
various
Train
Bus
Taxi
Average Duration
8h 
Estimated price
$145-294
Recommended
Company
various
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
6h  22m
Estimated price
$88-278
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 532 km
Duration: 5h 29m

See more options

Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
5h  38m
Estimated price
$60-1450
Company
various
Bus
Taxi
Average Duration
9h  16m
Estimated price
$134-242
Company
various
Bus
Taxi
Average Duration
10h  8m
Estimated price
$137-247
Company
various
Plane
Taxi
Average Duration
5h  29m
Estimated price
$1451-1452

Traveling From Cleveland to Columbus

The journey from Cleveland to Columbus offers a delightful contrast, with Cleveland's vibrant cultural scene and waterfront views giving way to Columbus's lively arts district and eclectic neighborhoods.

Best Neighbourhoods in Columbus

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

Short North Arts District
• Home to vibrant art galleries and boutiques.
• Features a lively dining and nightlife scene.
German Village
• Known for charming brick streets and historic homes.
• Offers excellent German cuisine and local breweries.
Ohio State University Area
• Bustling atmosphere filled with students and activities.
• Variety of shops, cafes, and sports events nearby.

Best Times To Visit Columbus's Attractions

Maximize your Columbus experience by timing your visits to popular attractions just right.

Columbus Zoo and Aquarium
Visit early on weekdays in spring or fall for fewer crowds and pleasant weather.
Franklin Park Conservatory
Go on a weekday morning to enjoy the peaceful gardens and fewer visitors.
COSI (Center of Science and Industry)
Plan your visit during school hours on weekdays to avoid family crowds.

Columbus Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Columbus experiences a humid continental climate, leading to hot summers and cold winters, with optimal visiting times in spring and fall for mild temperatures. Understanding the weather patterns can greatly enhance your travel experience, allowing for outdoor activities and comfortable sightseeing.

Dining Recommendation in Columbus

Try the iconic Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams for a refreshing treat, showcasing unique flavors made from local ingredients that set it apart from Cleveland’s more traditional dessert scene. The vibrant, artisanal atmosphere and inventive flavor combinations create a dining experience that invites you to savor the local creativity.

Cleveland - Columbus operators

Explore transport companies operating between Cleveland and Columbus, 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 Cleveland to Toledo

Average Duration
2h 9m
Estimated price
$2947-2948
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 888-378-3823
Website
https://baronsbus.com/

Bus from Cleveland to Toledo

Average Duration
1h 50m
Estimated price
$14581-29475

Bus from Toledo to Indianapolis, IN

Average Duration
4h 5m
Estimated price
$884-885
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
https://www.greyhound.com/

Bus from Cleveland Bus Station to Toledo Bus Stop

Average Duration
2h
Estimated price
$14582-881

Bus from Cleveland Bus Station to Dayton Trotwood Bus Station

Average Duration
5h 20m
Estimated price
$886-885
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
https://flixbus.com/

Bus from Dayton Trotwood Bus Station to Indianapolis

Average Duration
1h 50m
Estimated price
$14581-881
Plane Show flights
Website
aa.com

Plane from Cleveland (CLE) to Indianapolis (IND)

Average Duration
4h 42m
Estimated price
$145850-2940

Plane from Cleveland (CLE) to Covington (CVG)

Average Duration
4h 18m
Estimated price
$2941-2940
Website
united.com

Plane from Cleveland (CLE) to Indianapolis (IND)

Average Duration
4h 32m
Estimated price
$145880-2942

Plane from Cleveland (CLE) to Covington (CVG)

Average Duration
4h 14m
Estimated price
$2941-2943
Website
southwest.com

Plane from Cleveland (CLE) to Indianapolis (IND)

Average Duration
4h 52m
Estimated price
$145820-2944

Plane from Cleveland (CLE) to Covington (CVG)

Average Duration
4h 17m
Estimated price
$145810-145990
Website
delta.com

Plane from Cleveland (CLE) to Indianapolis (IND)

Average Duration
3h 28m
Estimated price
$145810-2945

Plane from Cleveland (CLE) to Covington (CVG)

Average Duration
3h 23m
Estimated price
$145820-2946
all-pages.other Show other routes
Contact phone
+1 317-487-7777
Website
ztrip.com

Other from Indianapolis, IN to Columbus

Average Duration
46m
Estimated price
$145820-145850

Cleveland to Columbus: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Cleveland and Columbus 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 Cleveland to Columbus covering a distance of 330 miles. Enjoy the journey through picturesque landscapes and charming Midwest towns along the way. 💰 The cost of traveling by car from Cleveland to Columbus ranges from $60 to $90, offering a budget-friendly option for exploring the region at your own pace. Take advantage of the freedom to stop at interesting landmarks and eateries en route. 🕒 Plan for a leisurely drive lasting approximately 5 hours and 38 minutes, allowing plenty of time to soak in the beauty of the changing scenery and make unforgettable memories on this exciting adventure from one vibrant city to another.
Average price
$60 - $90
🚆 Traveling from Cleveland to Columbus by train offers several route options with transfers. One route takes about 8 hours and 40 minutes covering a distance of 177 miles with a transfer at Louisville, KY. Passengers can enjoy the journey on Barons Bus and GoBus services. 🚌 For a longer journey of approximately 9 hours and 5 minutes over 315 miles, there is another route with transfers. This option includes a stop at Athens OU before heading to Columbus Airport. Travelers can board GoBus services for a comfortable ride between the destinations. 🌆 A faster route, taking around 4 hours and 55 minutes to cover 152 miles, involves a transfer at Atlanta. Greyhound and GoBus services are available for this route, providing a convenient and efficient travel experience to reach Columbus from Cleveland.
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services on Amtrak's Cardinal route offer a selection of snacks and beverages for purchase. You can enjoy light meals, warm entrees, and various drinks in its Café Car, which is a great option for travelers looking to savor some local flavors during the ride.
• For your trip, you can choose between Economy Class and Business Class on Amtrak trains. Economy Class provides standard seating with more limited legroom, while Business Class offers wider seats, extra legroom, and complimentary non-alcoholic beverages.
• Amtrak operates the Cleveland to Columbus route primarily, and you can find more information about your journey on their website: Amtrak. Additionally, check local transportation options in Columbus on COTA for transit schedules and routes.
🛫 Flying from Cleveland to Columbus will require a connecting flight through Indianapolis Airport. The journey typically takes around 3 hours and 3 minutes, including the layover.
Departure Point
Cleveland Airport
Arrival Point
Indianapolis Airport. The quickest flight takes 3h 3m and has one stopover
🚌 Route 1: Traveling from Cleveland to Columbus by bus involves a 9-hour journey covering 315 miles with one transfer. The first step includes a 4-hour 40-minute bus ride with GoBus from Cleveland to Athens Community Center. 🚌 Route 2: Another option to reach Columbus from Cleveland is an 8-hour 40-minute bus trip spanning 177 miles. This route includes a transfer at Columbus GH/COTA before continuing on to Columbus Airport with GoBus. 🚌 Route 3: For a quicker option, a 4-hour 55-minute bus journey covering 152 miles can take you from Cleveland to Columbus. Catch a Greyhound bus to Atlanta and transfer to GoBus at Parkersburg for a convenient ride to Columbus Airport.
Useful tips for bus travellers
• When using the GoBus services, plan ahead and check for seat availability, especially during peak travel times, by visiting ridegobus.com
• Be prepared for the transfer at Athens Community Center; it's a good idea to familiarize yourself with the schedule of the next bus and allow extra time to navigate, which you can check at ridegobus.com
• Upon arriving at the Columbus Airport, look out for the helpful signage regarding connecting transportation options like taxis and rideshares, or visit the airport's website for updated transport schedules and maps.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Cleveland to Columbus.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Cleveland and Columbus is approximately 275 miles or 330 miles by road. Traveling by train and bus, it takes about 8 hours to reach Columbus from Cleveland. On the other hand, driving by car takes approximately 5 hours and 38 minutes to travel from Columbus to Cleveland.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Cleveland to Columbus is to drive. It takes approximately 5 hours and 38 minutes to travel the 275-mile distance. The cost of driving is around $60 to $90, depending on factors such as fuel prices and vehicle efficiency. Alternative modes of transportation, such as taking a train and then a bus, may take longer and potentially cost more. Driving provides the convenience of flexibility and autonomy in terms of timing and route choices.
To travel from Cleveland to Columbus without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of 330 miles. The journey usually takes around 5 hours and 38 minutes by car. The cost of driving from Cleveland to Columbus ranges from $60 to $90, depending on factors like fuel prices and vehicle efficiency.
To travel from Cleveland to Columbus without a car, the best option is to take a train and then a bus. The journey takes approximately 8 hours and can cost between $140 and $300. From Cleveland, you can catch a train to a nearby city such as Indianapolis, and then transfer to a bus that will take you to Columbus. Alternatively, you can also take a taxi from the train station to your destination in Columbus.
The flight between Cleveland and Columbus typically requires a stopover, with the quickest flight taking approximately 3 hours and 26 minutes. However, there is no direct flight from Cleveland Airport to Indianapolis Airport. The cost of the flight can vary depending on the airline, the time of booking, and other factors.
There are more than 20 hotels available in Columbus. Prices for these hotels start at $58 per night. Some popular hotel options in Columbus include the Hotel Indigo Columbus Architectural Center, the Courtyard by Marriott Columbus Tipton Lakes, and the Residence Inn Columbus. Visitors have a variety of options to choose from when it comes to finding accommodations in the area.