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Charleston, SC, USA to Athens, GA, USA from $45: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

How to Get from Charleston to Athens: 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.

$45 - OtherBest price
348 kmDistance
4h 50m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Charleston to Athens 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
Bus
Average Duration
8h  32m
Estimated price
$90-142
Recommended
Company
Various
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
5h  4m
Estimated price
$87-351
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 348 km
Duration: 4h 50m

See more options

Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
4h  50m
Estimated price
$45-70
Company
Various
Drive
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
5h  59m
Estimated price
$224-765
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Traveling From Charleston to Athens

Your journey from Charleston to Athens reveals a delightful contrast between Charleston's historic charm and vibrant coastal life, and Athens’ eclectic arts scene and youthful energy.

Best Neighborhoods in Athens

Athens, United States boasts vibrant neighborhoods that each offer their own unique experiences.

Downtown Athens
• Home to live music and nightlife.
• Diverse dining options for all tastes.
Normaltown
• Known for its local shops and cafes.
• A relaxed atmosphere with artistic flair.
Five Points
• Charming residential area with historic homes.
• Close to parks and outdoor recreation.

Best Times To Visit Athens's Attractions

Explore Athens's attractions at optimal times for a memorable experience.

The Georgia Museum of Art
Visit on weekdays in the morning for fewer crowds and peaceful exploration.
Downtown Athens
Evenings from Wednesday to Saturday offer vibrant nightlife with a local vibe.
State Botanical Garden of Georgia
Early spring on weekdays showcases blooming flowers without the hustle.

Athens Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Athens experiences a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters, making spring and fall ideal times to visit for comfortable temperatures. Understanding seasonal weather helps you pack appropriately and plan outdoor activities to fully enjoy your experience.

Dining Recommendation in Athens

Try the fried green tomatoes with pimento cheese at The National, where the casual yet vibrant atmosphere showcases a fusion of Southern ingredients with a creative twist. Unlike Charleston's seafood-centric fare, Athens offers a fresh approach to classic Southern dishes, highlighting local produce and bold flavors that create a distinct dining experience.

Charleston - Athens operators

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

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 404-591-2750
Website
southeasternstages.com

Bus from Charleston Amtrak Station to Columbia

Average Duration
2h 45m
Estimated price
$9020-906

Bus from Columbia to Augusta

Average Duration
1h 20m
Estimated price
$9015-907

Bus from Augusta to Athens

Average Duration
2h 15m
Estimated price
$9020-45

Bus from Atlanta, GA to Athens

Average Duration
1h 10m
Estimated price
$9014-9025
Plane Show flights
Website
delta.com

Plane from Charleston Airport (CHS) to Atlanta Airport (ATL)

Average Duration
1h 12m
Estimated price
$903-904

Plane from Hilton Head (HHH) to Atlanta (ATL)

Average Duration
1h 11m
Estimated price
$150-905

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

Traveling between Charleston and Athens 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 Charleston to Athens covering a distance of 263 miles. Enjoy the smooth highways and picturesque landscapes along the way. 💰 Indulge in a budget-friendly journey with prices ranging from $45 to $70 for the drive to Athens from Charleston. Make the most of your trip without breaking the bank. 🌟 Arrive in Athens after a 4-hour and 50-minute drive, ready to explore the historic charm and vibrant culture this city has to offer. Start your adventure in this college town known for its Southern hospitality and rich history.
Average price
$45 - $70
🛫 Flying from Charleston to Athens typically involves a short connecting flight through Atlanta. The quickest route is a direct flight from Charleston Airport to Atlanta Airport with a duration of 1 hour and 12 minutes, offered by Delta. ✈️ Once you land in Atlanta, you will then catch a connecting flight to Athens. The overall journey from Charleston to Athens usually takes around 3-4 hours, depending on layover times and flight schedules.
Departure Point
Charleston Airport
Arrival Point
Atlanta Airport
🚌 Embark on a scenic bus journey from Charleston to Athens spanning a travel time of approximately 8 hours and 32 minutes through picturesque Southern landscapes. 💰 The cost of a bus ticket between Charleston and Athens can fluctuate between $90 to $142, offering budget-friendly options for travelers seeking an affordable mode of transportation.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Charleston to Athens.

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The distance between Charleston and Athens is approximately 216 miles, or 262.9 miles by road. The typical travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation chosen. By flying from Charleston and then taking a bus, it takes around 4 hours and 58 minutes to reach Athens. By car, it takes about 4 hours and 50 minutes to travel from Athens to Charleston. Taking a bus directly from Charleston to Athens takes around 10 hours and 37 minutes.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Charleston to Athens is to drive. It takes approximately 4 hours and 50 minutes and costs around $45-$70 for fuel and tolls. This is the quickest and most convenient way to reach Athens from Charleston, as other options, such as flying and taking a bus, are more time-consuming and may require transfers or additional travel time.
The prices for a bus between Athens and Charleston vary from $52 to $103. Prices can vary depending on factors such as the time of travel, the company operating the bus service, and any discounts or promotions that may be available. It is recommended to check with different bus companies or booking platforms to compare prices and find the best deal for your travel needs.
To get from Charleston to Athens without using public transportation, the most convenient option is to drive. The distance between the two cities is approximately 263 miles, and it takes around 4 hours and 50 minutes to drive from Charleston to Athens. The cost of the drive can vary, but you can expect to spend between $45 and $70 on gas and tolls.
The best option to travel from Charleston to Athens without a car is by taking a bus. The bus journey takes approximately 10 hours and 37 minutes. The cost for the bus ticket ranges from $50 to $110. This is a convenient and affordable way to reach Athens from Charleston if you don't have access to a car.
There is no direct bus link between Charleston and Athens. However, there are bus services available that involve transfers. The journey typically takes around 10 hours and 37 minutes, including transfers at N. Charleston SuperStop, Charleston Amtrak Station, Columbia, and Augusta. The bus services are operated by Southeastern Stages, and the final stop is Athens station in Athens.
The flight time between Charleston and Athens is not available as there are no direct flights between the two cities. However, the quickest flight option is to fly from Charleston Airport to Atlanta Airport, which takes approximately 1 hour and 6 minutes. From Atlanta, you can then take a bus or drive to reach Athens, which would take a few hours. The cost of the flight varies depending on the airline and time of booking, but generally, you can expect prices to range from around $100 to $300 roundtrip.
There are plenty of options for accommodations in Athens. There are over 55 hotels available, offering a range of prices starting at $37 per night. Some popular hotel chains in the area include Hilton, Marriott, and Holiday Inn, while there are also independent boutique hotels and bed and breakfasts to choose from. It is recommended to check online booking platforms or contact the hotels directly for availability and to find the best option that suits your preferences and budget.

Trips from Charleston