Columbia, SC, USA to New Orleans, LA, USA from $46: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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How to Get from Columbia to New Orleans: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$46 by trainBest price

969 kmDistance

6h 10m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Columbia to New Orleans 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.

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Traveling From Columbia to New Orleans

The journey from Columbia to New Orleans offers a fascinating transition from the charming, laid-back vibe of South Carolina's capital to the vibrant, festive energy of Louisiana's cultural hub.

Best Neighbourhoods in New Orleans

New Orleans boasts diverse neighborhoods, each with its own distinct character.

French Quarter

• Iconic for its lively streets and jazz music.

• Home to historic architecture and local cuisine.

Garden District

• Known for its stunning mansions and oak-lined streets.

• Offers a quieter, residential vibe away from the bustle.

Marigny

• Features vibrant art scenes and trendy bars.

• Close to the French Quarter but offers a local feel.

Best Times To Visit New Orleans's Attractions

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

French Quarter

Explore early mornings or weekdays to enjoy a leisurely stroll without heavy crowds.

Garden District

Visit in the late afternoon for beautiful light and fewer tourists during tours.

Bourbon Street

Evenings on weekdays provide a lively atmosphere without overwhelming crowds.

New Orleans Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

New Orleans experiences a humid subtropical climate with warm summers and mild winters, making spring and fall the ideal seasons for comfortable travel. Understanding the weather patterns can help you plan activities and enjoy the city's vibrant culture without unnecessary interruptions.

Dining Recommendation

Experience the bold flavors of gumbo at Commander's Palace, a culinary landmark that showcases the rich Creole heritage of New Orleans and contrasts sharply with the more traditional Southern fare found in Columbia. The lively atmosphere, combined with locally sourced ingredients and a vibrant menu, creates a dining experience that immerses you in the cultural tapestry of the city.

Columbia - New Orleans operators

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

Plane Show flights

Website

delta.com

Plane from Columbia (CAE) to New Orleans (MSY)

Average Duration

6h 25m

Estimated price

$282-434

Plane from Columbia (CAE) to New Orleans (MSY) via Atlanta

Average Duration

4h 37m

Estimated price

$4342-4343

Plane from Augusta (AGS) to New Orleans (MSY) via Atlanta

Average Duration

3h 58m

Estimated price

$4342-4344

Plane from Augusta (AGS) to New Orleans (MSY) via Detroit

Average Duration

6h 2m

Estimated price

$4345-4344

Plane from Columbia (CAE) to Gulfport/Biloxi (GPT) via Atlanta

Average Duration

4h 57m

Estimated price

$4346-4347

Website

aa.com

Plane from Columbia (CAE) to New Orleans (MSY) via Charlotte

Average Duration

4h 22m

Estimated price

$4348-4349

Plane from Columbia (CAE) to New Orleans (MSY) via Miami

Average Duration

5h 24m

Estimated price

$4348-4349

Plane from Columbia (CAE) to New Orleans (MSY) via Dallas/Ft.Worth

Average Duration

6h 42m

Estimated price

$4348-4349

Plane from Columbia (CAE) to New Orleans (MSY) via Reagan Washington

Average Duration

7h 48m

Estimated price

$4348-4349

Plane from Augusta (AGS) to New Orleans (MSY) via Charlotte

Average Duration

5h 18m

Estimated price

$460-461

Website

united.com

Plane from Columbia (CAE) to New Orleans (MSY) via Washington Dulles

Average Duration

5h 35m

Estimated price

$464-4343

Plane from Columbia (CAE) to New Orleans (MSY) via Chicago O'Hare

Average Duration

6h 49m

Estimated price

$464-4343

Train Show train routes

Contact phone

+1 800-872-7245

Website

amtrak.com

Train from Columbia Amtrak Station to New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal

Average Duration

28h 51m

Estimated price

$46-446

Train from Columbia Amtrak Station to Cary

Average Duration

4h 2m

Estimated price

$4464-4465

Train from Cary to Greensboro

Average Duration

1h 19m

Estimated price

$1850-2825

Train from Greensboro to New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal

Average Duration

21h 30m

Estimated price

$468-44690

Bus Show bus routes

Contact phone

+1 404-591-2750

Website

southeasternstages.com

Bus from Columbia to Atlanta, GA

Average Duration

3h 55m

Estimated price

$469-2825

Contact phone

+1 214-849-8100

Website

greyhound.com

Bus from Atlanta Bus Station to New Orleans Bus Station

Average Duration

8h 55m

Estimated price

$469-2823

Columbia to New Orleans: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Columbia and New Orleans 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 an exciting road trip from Columbia to vibrant New Orleans covering a picturesque driving distance of 680 miles. 🌟 🛣️ Enjoy the scenic journey through the Southern landscapes, quaint towns, and charming cities along the route, totaling approximately 11 hours and 4 minutes of driving time. 🌞 ⛽️ With car travel costs ranging from $120 to $180, immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry, delicious cuisine, and lively music scene that await you in the enchanting city of New Orleans. 🎷

Average price

$120 - $180

🚆 Traveling by train from Columbia to New Orleans involves a journey with transfers in Cary and Greensboro, taking approximately 28 hours and 51 minutes. 💰 The ticket prices for this train ride range from $46 to $446, providing a convenient and scenic way to travel between these two vibrant cities.

Departure Point

Columbia Amtrak Station

Arrival Point

New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal station

🛫 Flying from Columbia to New Orleans involves a journey with one stopover, typically lasting about 3 hours and 50 minutes. 💸 The cost of a flight between Columbia and New Orleans can range from $282 to $434, depending on the airline and time of booking. The total travel time by plane from Columbia to New Orleans is approximately 6 hours and 25 minutes.

Departure Point

Columbia Airport

Arrival Point

New Orleans Airport. The quickest flight takes 3h 50m and has one stopover

Useful tips for plane travellers

• Given that there are no direct flights from Columbia to New Orleans, consider booking early to secure the best connections; look for flights with layovers in major hubs like Atlanta (Delta) or Dallas (American Airlines) to minimize travel time.

• Upon arriving at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY), prepare for a potentially busy atmosphere; use the Airport Shuttle service, which is a convenient option for navigating to the city center, and be ready for a quick check-in at the shuttle counter just outside the baggage claim.

• Taxi fares from MSY to downtown New Orleans are approximately $36 for a standard cab; alternatively, you can use rideshare services like Uber or Lyft, which may be slightly cheaper depending on demand; for up-to-date transport schedules, check the airport website: flymsy.com

🚌 Although there is no direct bus from Columbia to New Orleans, travelers can take a bus from Columbia, with a transfer at Atlanta Bus Station, on their way to the vibrant city of New Orleans 🌆. The journey, with transfers, typically takes around 13 hours and 50 minutes ⏱️. 💰 Ticket prices for the Columbia to New Orleans bus route range from $104 to $194, providing travelers with affordable options to reach the lively streets and rich culture of New Orleans 🎷. Whether it's for a leisurely vacation or a business trip, taking a bus from Columbia to New Orleans offers a budget-friendly and enjoyable travel experience 🚌.

Departure Point

Columbia station

Arrival Point

New Orleans Bus Station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Columbia to New Orleans.

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The distance between Columbia and New Orleans is approximately 602 miles by air. By plane, the typical travel time is around 6 hours and 42 minutes. If traveling by car, it takes around 11 hours and 4 minutes. For those preferring to take the bus, the travel time is approximately 13 hours and 50 minutes.

The most cost-effective and time-efficient option for traveling from Columbia to New Orleans is to fly. It takes approximately 6 hours and 42 minutes to reach New Orleans by plane. While it may be more expensive compared to other modes of transportation, the convenience and time savings make it a preferred choice. However, if cost is a concern, taking a bus and train combination is a cheaper alternative, although it does take longer, with an average travel time of 18 hours and 20 minutes.

The prices for traveling from Columbia to New Orleans can vary depending on the mode of transportation. The train ticket prices range from $46 to $446, while the bus ticket prices range from $35 to $159. It's important to check for any promotions or discounts that may be available and to book in advance to secure the best deals.

To travel from Columbia to New Orleans without using public transportation, the best option is to drive. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 680 miles, and it would take around 11 hours and 4 minutes to reach New Orleans by car. The cost of the trip would depend on factors such as gas prices and tolls, but it is estimated to range from $120 to $180.

To travel from Columbia to New Orleans without a car, the best options are by bus or by plane. The bus journey takes approximately 13 hours and 50 minutes, with prices ranging from $75 to $180. Another option is to fly, which takes about 6 hours and 42 minutes, with prices ranging from $180 to $440. Additionally, there is a train option, which takes longer at 28 hours and 51 minutes, with ticket prices ranging from $45 to $450. Consider these options based on your preferences and budget.

There is no direct link between Columbia and New Orleans by train. The journey requires transfers in Cary and Greensboro and takes approximately 28 hours and 51 minutes. Similarly, there is no direct bus connection between the two cities, but a journey with transfers in Atlanta takes approximately 13 hours and 50 minutes. It is recommended to consider alternative modes of transportation, such as flying, which takes around 6 hours and 42 minutes.

The flight duration from Columbia to New Orleans typically takes around 4 hours and 7 minutes, with one stopover. However, there is no direct flight available between the two cities. The cost of a flight between New Orleans and Columbia can vary between $182 and $434, depending on the airline and the time of booking. It is recommended to check with various airlines and compare prices to find the best deal for your travel.

There are numerous options for accommodation near New Orleans. With over 762 hotels to choose from, travelers have a wide range of choices to suit their preferences and budget. Prices start at $60 per night, making it affordable for different travelers. Whether you prefer luxury hotels, budget-friendly options, or boutique accommodations, there are plenty of options available to ensure a comfortable stay in New Orleans.

Columbia, SC, USA to New Orleans, LA, USA from $46: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

How to Get from Columbia to New Orleans: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

See more options

Traveling From Columbia to New Orleans

Best Neighbourhoods in New Orleans

Best Times To Visit New Orleans's Attractions

New Orleans Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Dining Recommendation

Columbia - New Orleans operators

Columbia to New Orleans: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Useful tips for plane travellers

Frequently asked questions

Trips from Columbia

Trips to New Orleans

Popular routes