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Houston, TX, USA to Columbia, SC, USA from $61: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Houston, United States of America
to
Columbia, United States of America

How to Get from Houston to Columbia: 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.

$61 by trainBest price
1439 kmDistance
5h 57m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Houston to Columbia 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
7h  16m
Estimated price
$99-604
Recommended
Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
37h  34m
Estimated price
$61-596
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 1439 km
Duration: 5h 57m

See more options

Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
5h  57m
Estimated price
$70-359
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
7h  31m
Estimated price
$88-553
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
22h  22m
Estimated price
$185-990
Company
Greyhound
Bus
Average Duration
24h  5m
Estimated price
$991-992
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
16h  21m
Estimated price
$993-994
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Houston to Columbia

Your journey from Houston, with its bustling urban vibe and diverse attractions, to Columbia, offering charming small-town ambiance and rich historical experiences, presents a fascinating contrast.

Best Neighborhoods in Columbia

Columbia’s neighborhoods offer diverse experiences and vibrant local culture.

Downtown Columbia
• Home to trendy restaurants and shops.
• Rich in historical landmarks and art galleries.
Forest Acres
• Known for its beautiful parks and green spaces.
• Features a family-friendly atmosphere with great schools.
Shandon
• Famous for picturesque tree-lined streets.
• Offers unique boutique shopping and local dining options.

Best Times To Visit Columbia's Attractions

Timing your visits can help you enjoy Columbia to the fullest.

South Carolina State Museum
Visit on weekdays in the morning for a quieter experience.
Riverbanks Zoo & Garden
Go early in the spring or late afternoon in summer to avoid crowds.
Columbia Museum of Art
Visit during the first Sunday of each month for free admissions and fewer visitors.

Columbia Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Columbia experiences a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters, making spring and fall the ideal times to visit for comfortable temperatures. Checking the weather can enhance your travel experience by helping you plan outdoor excursions or find cozy indoor activities.

Dining Recommendation in Columbia

Try the Shrimp and Grits at Motor Supply Co. Bistro, where traditional Southern flavors and locally sourced ingredients create a delightful contrast to Houston's vibrant Tex-Mex scene. The relaxed yet inviting atmosphere combined with a focus on seasonal dishes offers a refreshing dining experience that celebrates local culinary heritage.

Houston - Columbia operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
aa.com

Plane from Houston Hobby Apt (HOU) to Columbia (CAE)

Average Duration
7h 16m
Estimated price
$99-604

Plane from Houston (IAH) to Columbia (CAE)

Average Duration
7h 31m
Estimated price
$88-553

Plane from Houston (IAH) to Greenville/Spartanburg (GSP)

Average Duration
5h 57m
Estimated price
$70-359

Plane from Houston (IAH) to Columbia (CAE)

Average Duration
5h 35m
Estimated price
$6040-6041
Website
delta.com

Plane from Houston Hobby Apt (HOU) to Columbia (CAE)

Average Duration
4h 41m
Estimated price
$6048-998

Plane from Houston (IAH) to Columbia (CAE)

Average Duration
5h 18m
Estimated price
$6049-610
Website
united.com

Plane from Houston (IAH) to Columbia (CAE)

Average Duration
6h
Estimated price
$6040-6044
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Houston to New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal

Average Duration
9h 30m
Estimated price
$616-6160

Train from New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal to Greensboro

Average Duration
19h 37m
Estimated price
$5961-994

Train from Greensboro to Cary

Average Duration
1h 18m
Estimated price
$5967-5968

Train from Cary to Columbia Amtrak Station

Average Duration
4h 9m
Estimated price
$887-5962
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
greyhound.com

Bus from Houston Bus Station to Atlanta Bus Station

Average Duration
16h
Estimated price
$613-993

Bus from Atlanta to Columbia

Average Duration
3h 55m
Estimated price
$611-5968
Contact phone
+1 800-923-1799
Website
omnibusexpress.com

Bus from Houston to Atlanta

Average Duration
13h 20m
Estimated price
$6046-6160
Contact phone
+1 404-591-2750
Website
southeasternstages.com

Bus from Atlanta to Columbia

Average Duration
3h 55m
Estimated price
$611-5968

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

Traveling between Houston and Columbia 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 Houston to Columbia covering a distance of 1004 miles. The journey offers diverse landscapes and unique attractions along the way. 💰 The cost of driving from Houston to Columbia ranges from $180 to $270, providing flexibility for different budget preferences. Enjoy the freedom of the open road while experiencing the charm of both cities. ⏱️ Plan for approximately 16 hours and 21 minutes of travel time to reach your destination. Pack your essentials, grab some snacks, and set off on an unforgettable adventure from the heart of Texas to the historic streets of South Carolina.
Average price
$180 - $270
🚂 Traveling from Houston to Columbia by train is a scenic journey with a duration of approximately 37 hours and 34 minutes. Despite not having a direct route, the trip involves transfers at New Orleans, Greensboro, and Cary before arriving at the Columbia Amtrak Station. 🎫 Ticket prices for the train ride from Houston to Columbia can range from $61 to $596, offering various options to suit your budget and preferences. Whether you opt for a coach seat or a roomier accommodation, the train journey presents a unique way to experience the beauty of the Southern United States.
Departure Point
Houston station
Arrival Point
Columbia Amtrak Station
🛫 Flying from Houston Hobby Apt Airport to Columbia Airport involves a connecting flight, with the quickest option lasting 4 hours and 9 minutes with one stopover. Airlines such as Southwest, American, and Delta operate these routes. 🧳 The total duration of the journey from Houston to Columbia by plane is approximately 7 hours and 16 minutes. Travelers can expect a smooth and efficient flight experience with various airline options available. 💸 Prices for flights between Columbia and Houston can range from $99 to $604, providing flexibility for travelers with different budget preferences. It's important to compare prices and offerings to secure the best deal for your trip.
Departure Point
Houston Hobby Apt Airport
Arrival Point
Columbia Airport. The quickest flight takes 4h 9m and has one stopover
🚌 The journey from Houston to Columbia by bus takes approximately 22 hours and 22 minutes, offering a scenic cross-country experience for travelers. 💰 Prices for bus tickets between Columbia and Houston can range between $185 and $231, providing affordable transportation options for those looking to explore different regions of the United States.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Houston to Columbia.

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The cheapest way to travel from Houston to Columbia is by taking a bus. You can catch a bus from Houston to Sandy Springs, and then transfer to another bus to Columbia. This option typically costs between $160 and $220 and takes around 22 hours and 20 minutes. While it may not be the fastest option, it offers a more budget-friendly alternative for travelers.
The fastest way to travel from Houston to Columbia is by taking a combination of a flight and a drive. You can book a flight from Houston to Columbia Metropolitan Airport, which takes around 2 hours and 15 minutes. From there, you can rent a car and drive to your destination in approximately 2 hours and 37 minutes. Overall, the total travel time would be around 5 hours and 52 minutes, depending on traffic and flight availability.
Houston and Columbia are approximately 894 miles apart. The road distance between the two cities is 1004.4 miles. The distance can be covered by car in around 15 hours, depending on traffic and route choice. Alternatively, there are also direct flights available between the two cities, with a flight duration of around 2.5 hours.
The best way to travel from Houston to Columbia without a car is by taking a bus via Sandy Springs. The journey takes approximately 22 hours and 20 minutes, and the fares range from $160 to $220. There are several bus companies that operate this route, providing a comfortable and affordable option for travelers. It's recommended to book your tickets in advance to secure your seat and to check the bus schedule for the most convenient departure times.
The travel time from Houston to Columbia depends on the mode of transportation. Flying is the quickest option, taking around 2 hours and 30 minutes including transfer time. Driving takes about 12 hours, depending on traffic and rest stops. Taking a bus is another option, which typically takes around 18-20 hours including transfers. It's important to consider these travel times when planning your trip and choose the option that best suits your needs.
The cheapest way to get from Houston to Columbia is by bus via Sandy Springs, with prices ranging from $160 to $220. This option takes approximately 22 hours and 20 minutes. Alternatively, you can fly, which is the quickest option, taking around 7 hours and 38 minutes and costing between $130 and $370. There is also the option to take a train, which takes the longest at 37 hours and 34 minutes, with prices ranging from $60 to $600.
There is a wide range of accommodations available near Columbia. There are more than 211 hotels to choose from in the area. Prices for hotels start at $51 per night, depending on the location and amenities offered. It is recommended to book your stay in advance to secure the best rates and availability.
Yes, you can drive from Houston to Columbia. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 1004 miles. The journey typically takes around 16 hours and 21 minutes, depending on traffic and the route taken. It is advisable to plan for rest stops and breaks along the way to ensure a safe and comfortable journey.
Yes, there is no direct bus between Houston and Columbia. However, there are bus services available that require transfers. The journey starts at Houston Bus Station and involves transfers in Atlanta, Buckner Cort EB, and Koon Cody SB. The total travel time, including transfers, is approximately 22 hours and 44 minutes.
You can catch the bus from Houston to Columbia at the Houston Bus Station. The bus services are operated by Greyhound USA. The Houston Bus Station is located at 2121 Main St, Houston 77002.
The bus from Houston to Columbia arrives at Columbia station, operated by Southeastern Stages. Columbia station is located in downtown Columbia, making it a convenient arrival point for travelers. From there, you can easily access various transportation options to reach your destination in Columbia or continue your journey to other parts of the city. Be sure to check the schedules and arrivals at Columbia station for any updates or changes to your bus service.
To get from Houston to Columbia from the airport, you can take a taxi or use a ridesharing service such as Uber or Lyft. There are also several car rental agencies available at the airport if you prefer to drive yourself. Alternatively, you can check if there are any shuttle services offered by hotels or companies that transport passengers between the airport and Columbia. Additionally, you can inquire about public transportation options such as buses or trains that may connect the airport to Columbia.
United Airlines, Delta, and American Airlines are the major airlines that offer flights between Houston and Columbia. These airlines provide regular flights from Houston Airport to Columbia Airport, making it convenient for travelers to choose the most suitable schedule for their journey. It is recommended to check the airlines' websites or use travel search engines to compare prices and book the most affordable and convenient flight option.
The fastest way to get from Houston to Columbia by plane is to take a flight with a stopover. United Airlines, Delta, and American Airlines offer flights from Houston Airport to Columbia Airport. The quickest flight takes approximately 4 hours and 20 minutes, but the overall travel time can be around 7 hours and 38 minutes. Flight prices for this route range from $133 to $363.
The flight from Houston to Columbia does not have a direct route. The fastest option available with one stopover takes approximately 4 hours and 20 minutes. However, the overall duration of the flight can vary depending on the length of the layover. It is recommended to check with airlines for the most up-to-date and accurate flight times.
Trains from Houston to Columbia arrive at Columbia Amtrak Station. This station is conveniently located downtown and offers easy access to the city's attractions and amenities. Amtrak operates multiple train services to Columbia, providing travelers with a comfortable and scenic option for their journey. Upon arrival at Columbia Amtrak Station, visitors can easily explore the city or connect to other transportation options to reach their final destination.
Yes, there is no direct train from Houston to Columbia. However, there are train services available with transfers. The journey involves taking a train from Houston to New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal, then transferring to another train to Greensboro, and finally to Columbia Amtrak Station. The total travel time, including transfers, is approximately 37 hours and 34 minutes.
To catch the train from Houston to Columbia you will need to go to the Houston station. The train services for this route are operated by Amtrak. Make sure to check the train schedule and arrive at the station early to ensure a smooth departure.
The cost of a flight from Houston to Columbia can range from $133 to $363. The prices may vary depending on the airline, time of booking, and availability of seats. It is recommended to compare prices from different airlines and booking platforms to find the best deal. Additionally, booking in advance or being flexible with travel dates can help in finding lower fares.
The cost of a train ticket from Houston to Columbia can vary depending on the type of ticket and the class you choose. On average, prices can range from $61 to $596. The price difference is typically due to factors such as the availability of seats, train class, and if you book in advance or last minute. It is recommended to check with the specific train operator for the most up-to-date pricing information and to consider booking in advance for potential discounts.
The cost of a bus ticket from Houston to Columbia ranges from $160 to $216. The price may vary depending on factors such as the day and time of travel, as well as the bus company you choose. It is advisable to book your ticket in advance to secure the best possible fare.
The cost of driving from Houston to Columbia can vary depending on factors such as the make and model of the car, the distance traveled, and the current gas prices. However, on average, the cost can range from $180 to $270 for a one-way trip. This estimate includes expenses such as fuel, tolls, and potential overnight stays. It's always recommended to calculate the exact cost based on your specific car's fuel efficiency and other individual factors.

Trips from Houston

Trips to Columbia