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Philadelphia, PA, USA to Columbus, OH, USA from $37: 9 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from Philadelphia 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.

$37 - Train, BusBest price
758 kmDistance
4h 40m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Philadelphia 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
Plane
Average Duration
4h  40m
Estimated price
$93-310
Recommended
Company
Amtrak, Greyhound
Train
Bus
Average Duration
12h  51m
Estimated price
$37-200
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 758 km
Duration: 4h 40m

See more options

Company
various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
9h  33m
Estimated price
$93-933
Company
various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
6h  37m
Estimated price
$94-930
Company
various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
5h  33m
Estimated price
$100-657
Company
various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
5h  19m
Estimated price
$146-666
Company
various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
6h  31m
Estimated price
$931-932
Company
Greyhound
Bus
Average Duration
11h  54m
Estimated price
$934-935
Company
self-drive
Drive
Average Duration
7h  58m
Estimated price
$936-937
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Philadelphia to Columbus

Traveling from Philadelphia to Columbus offers you a blend of vibrant city life and Midwestern charm, where the historic streets of Philadelphia contrast with the inviting parks and growing arts scene of Columbus.

Best Neighbourhoods in Columbus

Columbus features diverse neighborhoods, each with its own character and attractions.

Short North Arts District
• Renowned for its vibrant art galleries.
• Offers eclectic dining and nightlife options.
German Village
• Characterized by charming brick streets and historic architecture.
• Features excellent cafés and breweries to explore.
Arena District
• Home to major sports arenas and entertainment venues.
• Bustling atmosphere with shops and eateries nearby.

Best Times To Visit Columbus's Attractions

Timing your visit to Columbus's attractions can greatly enhance your experience.

Franklin Park Conservatory
Mornings on weekdays offer a peaceful stroll among the gardens.
Columbus Zoo and Aquarium
Visit on weekdays in early spring to enjoy fewer crowds.
Scioto Mile
Evenings in late summer provide a lively atmosphere with fewer visitors.

Columbus Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Columbus experiences a humid continental climate, featuring four distinct seasons with hot summers and cold winters, making spring and fall the ideal times to visit for mild temperatures. Understanding the weather patterns can help you plan activities, ensuring that outdoor excursions are enjoyable and comfortable.

Dining Recommendation in Columbus

Try the famed Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams, where the creative flavor combinations and use of local ingredients offer a refreshing contrast to the cheesesteaks and hoagies of Philadelphia. The bright and welcoming atmosphere of Jeni's makes indulging in a scoop of uniquely crafted ice cream an experience that captures the spirit of Columbus.

Philadelphia - Columbus operators

Explore transport companies operating between Philadelphia and Columbus, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Plane Show flights
Website
aa.com

Plane from Philadelphia, PA (PHL) to Columbus, OH (CMH)

Average Duration
1h 40m
Estimated price
$372-31010
Website
flyfrontier.com

Plane from Philadelphia, PA (PHL) to Columbus, OH (CMH)

Average Duration
1h 39m
Estimated price
$3102-3100
Website
delta.com

Plane from Philadelphia, PA (PHL) to Columbus, OH (CMH) via Detroit

Average Duration
3h 51m
Estimated price
$3108-3100
Website
united.com

Plane from Philadelphia, PA (PHL) to Columbus, OH (CMH) via Washington Dulles

Average Duration
3h 36m
Estimated price
$200-3104
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from 30th Street Station, Philadelphia to Pittsburgh Amtrak Station

Average Duration
7h 17m
Estimated price
$1001-3108

Train from 30th Street Station, Philadelphia to Newark Liberty International Airport

Average Duration
1h 2m
Estimated price
$2006-2003

Train from 30th Street Station, Philadelphia to BWI Thurgood Marshall

Average Duration
1h 18m
Estimated price
$20060-37800

Train from 30th Street Station, Philadelphia to New York Penn Station

Average Duration
1h 32m
Estimated price
$2006-1006
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
greyhound.com

Bus from Philadelphia to Columbus Bus Station

Average Duration
10h 35m
Estimated price
$3103-3102

Bus from Pittsburgh Intermodal Station to Columbus Bus Station

Average Duration
3h 20m
Estimated price
$2004-6573
all-pages.other Show other routes

Other from Philadelphia to Columbus

Average Duration
7h 58m
Estimated price
$936-937

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

Traveling between Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia to Columbus, covering a distance of 471 miles through charming landscapes and historic towns. The journey offers a perfect blend of urban exploration and natural beauty, making it an ideal getaway by car. 💰 Indulge in budget-friendly travel options with prices ranging from $85 to $130 for the trip from Philadelphia to Columbus by car. This affordable yet enriching adventure allows you to experience the heartland of America at your own pace, without breaking the bank.
Average price
$85 - $130
Traveling by train from Philadelphia to Columbus offers a scenic and convenient way to explore the beautiful landscapes in between. With a distance of 448-531 miles depending on the route, the journey takes approximately 14-15 hours including a bus transfer. Greyhound is the main transportation agency, offering reliable and comfortable bus services. The transfer involves taking a bus towards the St. Louis Bus Station, with a travel time ranging from 5 to 11 hours, depending on the route chosen. The bus route passes through cities like New York, Pittsburgh, and St. Louis, creating opportunities to witness diverse cityscapes along the way.
Useful tips for train travellers
• Check out Amtrak's onboard catering services on the Cardinal and the Capitol Limited trains, which both serve the Philadelphia to Columbus route. You can enjoy a dining car experience featuring meals made from fresh ingredients. Meals are available for purchase, along with snack options and beverages, including local craft beers and wines.
• Amtrak offers various seating options for your trip to Columbus: First Class, Business Class, and Coach (Economy). First Class provides extra legroom and complimentary meals, while Business Class features more spacious seating and a quieter atmosphere. Coach Class is the most economical but still comfortable, with the possibility of upgrading at the station if seats are available.
• On your trip from Philadelphia to Columbus, you’ll be traveling with Amtrak, which you can check out at Amtrak's Official Website. Upon arrival at the Columbus station, note that the terminal offers limited luggage services and restrooms. To navigate to the city center quickly, catch the COTA bus #1, which runs directly from the station to downtown Columbus. You can also find schedules and routes on the COTA Website.
🛫 Flying from Philadelphia to Columbus is convenient with several airlines like Frontier, Delta, American, and United offering direct flights that take around 1 hour and 39 minutes. 🌆 Once you arrive in Columbus Airport, you can expect a seamless travel experience with a total flight time of approximately 4 hours and 40 minutes from Philadelphia, allowing you to explore the vibrant city of Columbus. 💸 The cost of a flight from Philadelphia to Columbus can range from $93 to $310, offering budget-friendly options for travelers looking to visit the capital of Ohio.
Departure Point
Philadelphia Airport
Arrival Point
Columbus Airport
🚌 Despite there being no direct bus from Philadelphia to Columbus, travelers can still make the journey via a route that includes transfers. The total travel time, including transfers, is approximately 11 hours and 54 minutes. 🚌 The ticket prices for the bus between Columbus and Philadelphia range from $56 to $118. The route spans a distance of 543 miles and involves a transfer during the journey. 🚌 To embark on this bus journey, travelers can catch a Greyhound USA bus departing from Philadelphia station, ultimately arriving at Columbus Bus Station. For further information or assistance, individuals can contact Greyhound at 1 231-2222 or visit their website at https://www.greyhound.com/transit.
Departure Point
Philadelphia station
Arrival Point
Columbus Bus Station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Be sure to check the Greyhound schedule for potential delays and transfer times, as the journey from Philadelphia to Columbus involves a transfer and can take nearly 12 hours, so arrive at the station at least 30 minutes early; you can find the schedule here: greyhound.com
• After arriving at the Columbus Bus Station, familiarize yourself with local transport options, particularly the GoBus service which connects to Columbus Airport; their bus (Cap 378) leaves frequently and takes about 30 minutes, you can check the GoBus schedule at ridegobus.com
• Along the way, consider packing snacks for the journey since the bus may not have frequent stops; you can expect a brief transfer in your trip, so plan to grab food or drinks during that small window to ensure you keep your energy up for the full 12-hour ride.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Philadelphia to Columbus.

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The cheapest way to travel from Philadelphia to Columbus is by taking a combination of train and bus. You can take a train from Philadelphia to Pittsburgh, which usually costs around $21-$100, and then take a bus from Pittsburgh to Columbus, which costs approximately $10-$100. The total travel time is around 12 hours and 7 minutes. However, prices may vary depending on the time of booking and availability.
The fastest way to travel from Philadelphia to Columbus is by flying. There are multiple airlines that operate direct flights between the two cities, with a flight time of approximately 4 hours and 37 minutes. The cost of flights can vary depending on the airline and time of booking, ranging from $75 to $310. It is recommended to compare prices and book in advance to secure the best deal for your travel.
The distance between Philadelphia and Columbus is approximately 417 miles. If you prefer to drive, the road distance is approximately 471 miles. However, please note that actual distances may vary depending on the route you choose and road conditions. It is always a good idea to check a reliable map or GPS for the most accurate distance and driving directions.
The best way to travel from Philadelphia to Columbus without a car is by taking a combination of train and bus. You can catch an Amtrak train from Philadelphia to Pittsburgh, which takes around 6 hours. From Pittsburgh, you can transfer to a Greyhound bus that will take you the remaining distance to Columbus, which takes about 3.5 hours. The total travel time is approximately 9 hours and 33 minutes. The cost of this journey ranges from $90 to $480, depending on the specific train and bus options chosen.
The travel time from Philadelphia to Columbus is approximately 4 hours and 37 minutes. This includes any transfers that may be required during the journey. It is important to check the specific schedules and routes of transportation options like flights, trains, or buses to get the most accurate travel time for your chosen method of transportation. Factors such as traffic, weather, and any delays or disruptions can also affect the overall travel time.
You can stay near Columbus at one of the 433+ hotels available in the area. Prices for these hotels start at around $50 per night. Some popular options for accommodation in Columbus include chain hotels, boutique hotels, and bed and breakfast establishments. It is recommended to book your stay in advance to ensure availability and secure the best rates.
Yes, you can definitely drive from Philadelphia to Columbus. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 471 miles. It takes about 7 hours and 58 minutes to drive from Philadelphia to Columbus, depending on traffic conditions and your driving speed. It's recommended to plan for breaks during the long journey to ensure your safety and comfort.
Yes, there is no direct bus between Philadelphia and Columbus. However, you can take a bus from Philadelphia Bus Station to Dayton Trotwood Bus Station and then transfer to another bus that will take you to Columbus. The total journey time, including transfers, typically takes around 15 hours and 30 minutes.
To catch the bus from Philadelphia to Columbus you will need to go to the Philadelphia Bus Station. This is where Greyhound USA operates their bus services for this route. Make sure to check the schedule and be at the station ahead of the departure time to ensure a smooth journey.
The Philadelphia to Columbus bus operated by Flixbus USA arrives at the Columbus station. This station is conveniently located in downtown Columbus, allowing easy access to various attractions and accommodations. Upon arrival, passengers can choose from various transportation options such as taxis, ride-sharing services, or public transportation to reach their final destination in Columbus.
Delta, American Airlines, and United Airlines are the major airlines that offer flights from Philadelphia to Columbus. Philadelphia Airport is well connected to Columbus Airport with multiple daily flights operated by these airlines. It is recommended to check with each airline for current schedules and fares as they may vary. Travelers can book their flights directly with the respective airline or through online travel agencies for convenience.
The fastest way to travel from Philadelphia to Columbus is by plane. Direct flights from Philadelphia Airport to Columbus Airport take approximately 1 hour and 36 minutes. Delta, American Airlines, and United Airlines operate flights between the two cities. The total travel time by plane is around 4 hours and 37 minutes. The fares for flights between Columbus and Philadelphia range from $78 to $310.
The flight from Philadelphia to Columbus typically takes around 1 hour and 36 minutes. There are direct flights available between the two cities, which can make the journey more convenient and faster. However, it's always advisable to check with the airlines for the most up-to-date flight schedules and durations. Additionally, factors such as weather conditions and air traffic can impact the total duration of the flight.
The price of a flight from Philadelphia to Columbus can range from $78 to $310. The cost can vary depending on factors such as the airline, time of booking, and availability. It is advisable to compare prices from different airlines and book in advance to secure the best deals on flights between these two cities. Additionally, consider checking for any promotions or discounts that may be available to further reduce the cost of your flight.
The cost of a bus ticket from Philadelphia to Columbus typically ranges from $70 to $173. However, prices can vary depending on factors such as the date and time of travel, as well as the bus company you choose. It is recommended to check with different bus providers for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.
The cost of driving from Philadelphia to Columbus can vary depending on several factors such as the type of vehicle, fuel prices, tolls, and distance. On average, the cost is estimated to be between $85 and $130 for a one-way trip. It is important to consider additional expenses like parking fees and maintenance costs. Additionally, it is recommended to check for the most up-to-date prices and plan accordingly.

Trips from Philadelphia

Trips to Columbus