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Charleston, SC, USA to Wilmington, NC, USA from $30: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from Charleston to Wilmington: 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.

$30 by carBest price
274 kmDistance
3h 46m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Charleston to Wilmington 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
Average Duration
7h  46m
Estimated price
$26-158
Recommended
Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
3h  46m
Estimated price
$30-45
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 274 km
Duration: 3h 46m

See more options

Company
Greyhound USA
Bus
Average Duration
10h  10m
Estimated price
$49-133
Company
Various
Plane
Average Duration
4h  42m
Estimated price
$156-430
Company
Various
Plane
Taxi
Average Duration
6h  6m
Estimated price
$260-372
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Traveling From Charleston to Wilmington

The journey from Charleston to Wilmington offers a transition from the historic charm and vibrant nightlife of Charleston to the laid-back coastal vibes and rich arts scene of Wilmington.

Best Neighbourhoods in Wilmington

Wilmington features diverse neighborhoods that cater to various tastes and interests.

Downtown Wilmington
• Explore vibrant shops and restaurants.
• Enjoy scenic riverfront views.
Carolina Beach
• Relax on beautiful sandy shores.
• Experience lively boardwalk entertainment.
Wilmington Historic District
• Discover well-preserved antebellum architecture.
• Stroll through charming cobblestone streets.

Best Times To Visit Wilmington's Attractions

Planning your visit around peak times can enhance your Wilmington experience.

Battleship North Carolina
Visit early in the morning on weekdays for fewer crowds and stunning views.
Wilmington Riverwalk
Evenings during weekdays are quieter, perfect for a leisurely stroll and sunset.
Airlie Gardens
Spring mornings offer fewer visitors and vibrant seasonal blooms for a peaceful visit.

Wilmington Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Wilmington enjoys a humid subtropical climate, featuring warm summers and mild winters, making it a year-round destination. The best times to visit are spring and fall, when the weather is pleasant, enhancing your outdoor adventures and enjoyment of local attractions.

Dining Recommendation in Wilmington

For a delightful contrast to Charleston's traditional Lowcountry cuisine, sample the fresh seafood at Catch, where the atmosphere is vibrant and modern. Their innovative dishes, featuring local ingredients like freshly caught flounder and creative sauces, provide a refreshing take that showcases Wilmington's coastal flair.

Charleston - Wilmington operators

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

Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from Charleston Amtrak Station to Fayetteville Amtrak Station

Average Duration
3h
Estimated price
$1581-1582
Bus
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
https://www.greyhound.com/

Bus from Fayetteville Bus Station to Wilmington Cape Fear Public Transit

Average Duration
2h 20m
Estimated price
$494-1589

Bus from Charleston Bus Station to Florence Bus Station

Average Duration
2h 10m
Estimated price
$494-1589

Bus from Lumberton to Wilmington Cape Fear Public Transit

Average Duration
1h 35m
Estimated price
$495-491
Plane
Website
aa.com

Plane from Charleston (CHS) to Wilmington (ILM)

Average Duration
3h 51m
Estimated price
$264-265
Website
delta.com

Plane from Charleston (CHS) to Wilmington (ILM)

Average Duration
4h 32m
Estimated price
$263-268
Other Show other routes

Other from Jacksonville to Wilmington

Average Duration
1h 12m
Estimated price
$262-269

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

Traveling between Charleston and Wilmington 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 Wilmington covering a distance of 171 miles in approximately 3 hours and 46 minutes of driving time. 💵 Enjoy the flexibility of costing between $30 to $45 for the journey by car, providing a budget-friendly option for travelers exploring the charming route from Charleston to Wilmington.
Average price
$30 - $45
✈️ Prepare for a journey with a minimum duration of 3 hours and 11 minutes, including one stopover, as there are no direct flights between the two cities. 🌐 Choose from flights offered by Delta and American Airlines departing from Charleston Airport and arriving at Wilmington Airport. Enjoy a comfortable flight experience that lasts around 4 hours and 42 minutes, providing you ample time to relax or catch up on reading. 💸 The cost of flights between Charleston and Wilmington can range from $156 to $430, offering flexibility in selecting a fare that fits your budget and travel preferences.
Departure Point
Charleston Airport
Arrival Point
Wilmington Airport. The quickest flight takes 3h 11m and has one stopover
🚌 Despite there being no direct bus from Charleston to Wilmington, the journey can be completed in approximately 10 hours and 10 minutes with several transfers along the way. 🛤️ Route 1 involves a total travel time of 21 hours and 59 minutes covering a distance of 521 miles with 3 transfers at designated stations. 💵 Prices for the bus trip between Wilmington and Charleston typically range from $49 to $133, making it a cost-effective mode of transportation for this route.
Departure Point
Charleston Bus Station
Arrival Point
Wilmington Cape Fear Public Transit station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Charleston to Wilmington.

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The distance between Charleston and Wilmington is 153 miles. The road distance is slightly longer at 170.5 miles. If you prefer public transportation, it takes 9 hours and 27 minutes to travel from Charleston to Wilmington by train and bus, while a flight takes approximately 4 hours and 40 minutes. However, if you choose to drive, it only takes 3 hours and 46 minutes. Taking a bus from Charleston to Wilmington is the longest option, with a travel time of 10 hours and 2 minutes.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Charleston to Wilmington is by driving. It takes approximately 3 hours and 46 minutes to drive the 170.5-mile distance between the two cities. The cost of fuel and tolls is estimated to be around $30-$45 round trip, making it a budget-friendly choice. Additionally, driving allows for flexibility in terms of departure and arrival times.
The prices of a bus ticket between Wilmington and Charleston range from $40 to $123. The exact price may vary depending on factors such as the date and time of travel, as well as the specific bus company chosen. It is recommended to check with different bus operators or online travel agencies to find the best deals and compare prices for this route.
To travel from Charleston to Wilmington without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of 171 miles. The journey usually takes around 3 hours and 46 minutes by car. The price of a car rental or gas may vary, but it is typically between $30 and $45 for a one-way trip.
To travel from Charleston to Wilmington without a car, the best option is to take a train and bus combination. This journey will take approximately 9 hours and 27 minutes and can cost between $25 and $160. By taking a train and bus, you can enjoy a comfortable and convenient way to reach your destination without the need for a private vehicle.
Yes, there is a connection between Charleston and Wilmington but there is no direct bus route. Travelers would need to take a series of buses, with transfers at N. Charleston SuperStop, Charleston Bus Station, Florence, Lumberton, and Forden Station, which takes approximately 10 hours and 2 minutes. The bus services are operated by Greyhound USA and depart from Charleston Bus Station and arrive at Wilmington Cape Fear Public Transit station.
The flight between Charleston and Wilmington typically takes around 3 hours and 9 minutes with one stopover. However, there are no direct flights available between Charleston Airport and Wilmington Airport. The cost of a flight between the two cities can range from $156 to $570. It is important to note that prices may vary depending on factors such as the airline, time of booking, and availability.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near Wilmington. With over 459 hotels to choose from, travelers can find a lodging option that suits their preferences and budget. Prices for hotels start as low as $53 per night, providing affordable options for visitors. Whether you're looking for luxury, convenience, or something more budget-friendly, there is a range of accommodations in Wilmington to choose from.

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