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Charleston, SC, USA to Durham, NC, USA from $16: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from Charleston to Durham: 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.

$16 by trainBest price
372 kmDistance
5h 3m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Charleston to Durham 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
6h  34m
Estimated price
$16-186
Recommended
Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
6h  34m
Estimated price
$16-163
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 372 km
Duration: 5h 3m

See more options

Company
Greyhound
Bus
Average Duration
9h  18m
Estimated price
$36-111
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
5h  3m
Estimated price
$55-80
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
6h 
Estimated price
$62-256
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
8h  40m
Estimated price
$161-162
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
7h  32m
Estimated price
$239-160
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Traveling From Charleston to Durham

Embark on a journey from Charleston’s charming, historic streets to Durham’s vibrant arts scene and thriving culinary landscape, experiencing a fascinating shift from coastal sophistication to Southern innovation.

Best Neighbourhoods in Durham

Durham offers diverse neighborhoods, each with its own distinct vibe and attractions.

Downtown Durham
• Vibrant arts and cultural scene attracts local artists.
• Diverse dining options from traditional to modern cuisine.
Northgate Park
• Family-friendly atmosphere with ample green spaces.
• Popular spot for weekend markets and community events.
Trinity Park
• Historic homes with charming architecture line the streets.
• Close proximity to Duke University and its scenic campus.

Best Times To Visit Durham's Attractions

Timing your visits to Durham's attractions enhances your experience and enjoyment.

Duke Gardens
Early mornings on weekdays offer a serene atmosphere without large crowds.
Durham Performing Arts Center (DPAC)
Weekday matinee shows provide a quieter experience and better seating options.
Museum of Life and Science
Visit during the late afternoon to avoid peak family visits and enjoy shorter lines.

Durham Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Durham experiences a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot summers and mild winters, making spring and fall the ideal times to explore lush landscapes and vibrant city life. Understanding the weather can help you plan your activities, ensuring comfortable outings regardless of the season.

Dining Recommendation in Durham

Experience the vibrant flavors of Duke's, where the signature dish, pickle-brined fried chicken, offers a crunchy, tangy contrast to Charleston's classic seafood dishes. The relaxed atmosphere and focus on local ingredients provide a distinct culinary journey, showcasing Durham's rich farm-to-table ethos.

Charleston - Durham operators

Explore transport companies operating between Charleston and Durham, 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 Charleston Amtrak Station to Selma

Average Duration
3h 54m
Estimated price
$361-1868

Train from Selma to Durham Amtrak Station

Average Duration
1h 28m
Estimated price
$16-1111
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
https://www.greyhound.com/

Bus from Charleston Bus Station to Raleigh Bus Station

Average Duration
5h 15m
Estimated price
$168-169

Bus from Greensboro Bus Stop to Durham

Average Duration
1h
Estimated price
$1118-164
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
https://www.flixbus.com

Bus from Greensboro Bus Stop to Durham

Average Duration
55m
Estimated price
$1119-362
Plane Show flights
Website
http://aa.com

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

Average Duration
3h 55m
Estimated price
$1860-1861
Website
http://delta.com

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

Average Duration
4h 4m
Estimated price
$165-1864
Website
http://southwest.com

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

Average Duration
4h 53m
Estimated price
$1868-1869
Website
http://united.com

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

Average Duration
3h 54m
Estimated price
$163-1690

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

Traveling between Charleston and Durham 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 journey from historic Charleston to vibrant Durham covering a distance of 306 miles. Enjoy the beauty of the Southern landscapes as you traverse through charming towns along the route. 💸 The cost of this road trip adventure ranges from $55 to $80, offering flexibility to suit your budget. Plan your pit stops wisely to explore local gems and sample delicious Southern cuisine along the way. 🌆 Arrive in Durham after approximately 5 hours and 3 minutes of driving, ready to explore this dynamic city known for its historic architecture, cultural attractions, and renowned universities. Discover the perfect blend of history and modernity in this exciting destination.
Average price
$55 - $80
🚆 Embark on a scenic train journey from Charleston to Durham with a travel time of approximately 6 hours and 34 minutes. 💰 Ticket prices for the train ride between Charleston and Durham can range from $16 to $186, offering affordable options for different budgets.
🛫 Traveling from Charleston to Durham by plane involves a 3-hour journey with one stopover. Popular airlines such as United, American, Delta, and Southwest offer flights between Charleston Airport and Raleigh/Durham Airport. 🌍 While there are no direct flights available for this route, passengers can choose from multiple airlines and flight options. The total duration of the trip from Charleston to Durham by plane is approximately 6 hours, including layovers. 💸 Flight prices between Charleston and Durham range from $62 to $256, providing travelers with a variety of options to suit their budget and preferences. Overall, flying is a convenient and efficient way to travel between these two vibrant cities in the Southeastern United States.
Departure Point
Charleston Airport
Arrival Point
Raleigh/Durham Airport. The quickest flight takes 3h and has one stopover
🛣️ The journey by bus from Charleston to Durham takes approximately 9 hours and 18 minutes, with services operated by Greyhound USA. 💰 Bus ticket prices between Durham and Charleston vary from $36 to $111, offering travelers different options for their budget and travel preferences.
Departure Point
Charleston Bus Station
Arrival Point
Raleigh Bus Station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Charleston to Durham.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Charleston and Durham is 231 miles by flight or 306 miles by road. The typical travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. It takes around 8 hours and 39 minutes by train, 7 hours and 2 minutes by driving to Hilton Head and then flying to Raleigh/Durham, 5 hours and 55 minutes by direct flight, 5 hours and 3 minutes by car, and 9 hours and 37 minutes by bus to travel between the two cities.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Charleston to Durham is by train, which ranges in price from $15 to $190. However, this option also takes the longest, at approximately 8 hours and 39 minutes. On the other hand, driving is the quickest way to reach Durham from Charleston, taking around 5 hours and 3 minutes and costing $55 to $80 in gas and tolls. Taking into consideration both time and cost, driving may be the most efficient option for this route.
The prices for a train ticket between Charleston and Durham range from $15 to $186. Bus tickets between Durham and Charleston typically cost between $36 and $111. Travelers can choose the mode of transportation that fits their budget and preferences. It is recommended to compare prices and book in advance to get the best deals.
To get from Charleston to Durham without using public transportation, driving is the most convenient option. The road distance between the two cities is approximately 306 miles, and it takes around 5 hours and 3 minutes to drive from Charleston to Durham. The cost of the trip can vary between $55 to $80, depending on factors such as fuel prices and tolls.
If you don't have a car, the best way to travel from Charleston to Durham is by train. The train journey takes approximately 8 hours and 39 minutes and the ticket prices range from $15 to $190. Another option is taking a bus, which takes about 9 hours and 37 minutes and costs between $35 and $120. If you prefer a quicker option, you can also fly from Charleston to Durham, with flights taking around 5 hours and 55 minutes and ticket prices ranging from $50 to $260.
No, there is no direct link between Charleston and Durham by bus. However, there are bus services available with transfers. The journey starts from Charleston Bus Station and includes transfers at N. Charleston SuperStop and Raleigh Bus Station. The total travel time for this route is approximately 9 hours and 37 minutes.
The flight duration between Charleston and Durham typically ranges from around 2 hours and 55 minutes to longer depending on the number of layovers. There is no direct flight available, so most flights have one stopover. The cost of a flight between the two cities can vary between $52 to $256, depending on factors such as airline, time of booking, and availability. It is recommended to check with different airlines and booking platforms to find the best price and itinerary for your travel.
There are plenty of options for accommodations near Durham. With 286+ hotels available, you are sure to find one that suits your needs and budget. Prices start at $53, so you have a range of options to choose from, whether you prefer a budget-friendly stay or a more luxurious experience. It is recommended to check online booking platforms or contact local tourist agencies to find the best accommodation that meets your preferences.

Trips from Charleston