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Richmond, VA, USA to Roanoke, VA, USA from $20: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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from
Richmond, United States of America
to
Roanoke, United States of America

How to Get from Richmond to Roanoke: 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.

$20 by busBest price
299 kmDistance
3h 7m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Richmond to Roanoke 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
Greyhound USA
Bus
Average Duration
4h 
Estimated price
$20-60
Recommended
Company
Greyhound USA
Bus
Average Duration
4h 
Estimated price
$20-60
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 299 km
Duration: 3h 7m

See more options

Company
Greyhound USA, Amtrak Northeast Regional
Bus
Train
Average Duration
4h  48m
Estimated price
$29-247
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
3h  7m
Estimated price
$30-50
Company
United Airlines, American Airlines, Delta
Plane
Average Duration
6h  22m
Estimated price
$111-454
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Richmond to Roanoke

Richmond offers vibrant urban culture and history, while Roanoke presents a charming mountain backdrop and outdoor adventures.

Best Neighbourhoods in Roanoke

Roanoke features diverse neighborhoods, each offering unique experiences for visitors.

Downtown Roanoke
• Vibrant arts scene with galleries and murals.
• Eclectic dining options along the historic streets.
Grandin Village
• Quaint shops and local markets abound.
• Known for its charming, walkable atmosphere.
Wasena
• Scenic views of the Roanoke River.
• Perfect for outdoor activities and biking trails.

Best Times To Visit Roanoke's Attractions

Choosing the right time to explore Roanoke's highlights can enhance your experience.

Mill Mountain Park
Visit early on weekdays for peaceful hikes and stunning sunrise views.
Virginia Museum of Transportation
Arrive during late mornings to avoid peak afternoon crowds.
Roanoke City Market
Explore in the early hours on Saturdays for a leisurely shopping experience.

Roanoke Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Roanoke experiences a temperate climate, with mild winters and warm summers, making it a great spot for year-round visits. The best times for travel typically fall in the spring and fall when the weather is pleasant and outdoor activities are at their peak.

Dining Recommendation in Roanoke

For a truly unique experience, try the locally sourced farm-to-table dishes at Local Roots, where you can savor a rich sweet potato gnocchi that embodies the heart of Appalachian flavors. This contrasts with Richmond’s urban culinary scene by emphasizing fresh, regional ingredients and a cozy, rustic atmosphere that invites you to savor every bite.

Richmond - Roanoke operators

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

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
https://www.greyhound.com/

Bus from Richmond Bus Station to Roanoke Bus Stop

Average Duration
4h
Estimated price
$20-60

Bus from Richmond Bus Station to Charlottesville Union Station

Average Duration
1h 20m
Estimated price
$209-600
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from Charlottesville to Roanoke

Average Duration
2h 28m
Estimated price
$205-206
Plane Show flights

Plane from Richmond (RIC) to Roanoke (ROA)

Average Duration
6h 22m
Estimated price
$111-454

Richmond to Roanoke: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Richmond and Roanoke 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 Richmond to Roanoke, covering a distance of 186 miles. Enjoy approximately 3 hours and 7 minutes of picturesque countryside views along the way. 💸 The cost of traveling by car from Richmond to Roanoke ranges from $30 to $50, offering budget-friendly options for a fulfilling journey through Virginia.
Average price
$30 - $50
🚆 Embark on a scenic train journey from Richmond to Roanoke! The route covers a distance of 354 miles and takes approximately 12 hours and 22 minutes with a transfer along the way. 🚉 Start your trip by boarding the train towards Boston at Richmond Main Street Station. This leg of the journey lasts about 3 hours and 29 minutes, with the train operated by Amtrak. Enjoy a comfortable ride to the NEW CARROLLTON MARC sb before transferring to the next train bound for Roanoke. 🌄 The final stretch of your train adventure takes you from NEW CARROLLTON MARC sb to Roanoke in approximately 6 hours. Sit back, relax, and admire the changing landscapes as you near your destination in Roanoke, all while traveling with Amtrak. 🌟
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services for the Amtrak Cardinal line include a cafe car where you can purchase snacks and beverages, including coffee, soft drinks, and light meals. Dining options may vary by time of day, so check the schedule for meal availability.
• The Amtrak service from Richmond to Roanoke offers multiple seating options, including Economy Class and Business Class. Economy Class features reclining seats with ample legroom, while Business Class provides larger seats and complimentary beverages, making it a comfortable option for a longer trip.
• For this route, Amtrak is the primary operator. You can plan your trip and check schedules on their website at Amtrak.com. Additionally, for local transport in Roanoke, the city bus schedules can be found on Valley Metro for quick navigations to popular spots.
🛫 Flying from Richmond to Roanoke involves a one-stop flight with a duration of around 3 hours and 24 minutes. Airlines such as United, American, and Delta operate flights on this route. 🌄 Despite no direct flights between the two cities, travelers can enjoy a scenic journey with a total travel time of approximately 6 hours and 22 minutes. Roanoke Airport serves as the final destination for this air route from Richmond. 💸 The cost of airfare for the Richmond to Roanoke journey typically ranges from $111 to $454, offering options for various budgets and preferences. Planes provide a convenient and efficient way to travel between these two cities in Virginia.
Departure Point
Richmond Airport
Arrival Point
Roanoke Airport. The quickest flight takes 3h 24m and has one stopover
🚌 The journey from Richmond to Roanoke by bus takes approximately 4 hours. Services operate daily with a direct route from Richmond Bus Station to Roanoke Bus Stop. 🚌 There are multiple routes available with varying durations and distances. The prices for a bus ticket range from $20 to $60, offering flexibility based on preferences and travel needs.
Departure Point
Richmond Bus Station
Arrival Point
Roanoke Bus Stop station
Useful tips for bus travellers
Before your trip, check the Greyhound schedule for any potential delays or changes, as the bus only departs once daily from Richmond Bus Station; you can find updates here: greyhound.com
Pack snacks and a refillable water bottle for your 4-hour journey; while the bus ride is relatively short, being prepared ensures you have a comfortable trip, especially since food options may be limited during travel.
Upon arriving at Roanoke Bus Stop, take a moment to review the local transportation options at the nearby Valley Metro station; you can find helpful information about routes and schedules here: valleymetro.com to help you navigate your next destination efficiently.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Richmond to Roanoke.

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The cheapest way to travel from Richmond to Roanoke is by bus. There are several bus companies that operate on this route, such as Greyhound and Megabus. The bus fare typically ranges from $20 to $60, depending on the time of day and how far in advance you book. The journey takes approximately 4 hours, offering a budget-friendly option for transportation between the two cities.
The fastest way to travel from Richmond to Roanoke is by driving. The estimated travel time is about 3 hours and 7 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The cost of the trip will vary depending on gas prices and the type of vehicle you are using, but it is usually around $30 to $50 for fuel. It's important to plan your route ahead of time and consider any tolls or road closures that may impact your journey.
The distance between Richmond and Roanoke is approximately 138 miles. The road distance is slightly longer at 185.8 miles. Traveling by car would typically take around 3-4 hours, depending on traffic and the chosen route. Keep in mind that these time estimates may vary due to road conditions or unforeseen circumstances.
The best way to travel from Richmond to Roanoke without a car is by bus. There are several bus companies that operate on this route, such as Greyhound and Megabus. The journey takes approximately 4 hours and ticket prices range from $20 to $60, depending on the time and date of travel. It is advisable to book your tickets in advance to secure the best prices and ensure availability.
The bus journey from Richmond to Roanoke takes approximately 4 hours. This includes any necessary transfers along the route. Buses from Richmond Bus Station to the Roanoke Bus Stop depart once daily, so it is important to check the schedule in advance and plan accordingly. It is recommended to arrive at the bus station early to ensure a smooth departure and allow ample time for any potential delays.
There are numerous accommodation options available in Roanoke. With over 75 hotels to choose from, visitors can find a place that suits their preferences and budget. Prices start at $49 per night, offering a range of affordable options. From well-known hotel chains to quaint bed and breakfasts, Roanoke has plenty of choices for visitors looking for a comfortable stay.
Yes, you can drive from Richmond to Roanoke. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 186 miles. It usually takes around 3 hours and 7 minutes to complete the drive, depending on traffic conditions. The route primarily follows Interstate 64 and Interstate 81, offering a convenient and scenic drive through the beautiful landscapes of Virginia.
Yes, there is a direct bus between Richmond and Roanoke. The bus departs from Richmond Bus Station and arrives at Roanoke Bus Stop. The bus service operates once daily and runs every day. The journey takes approximately 4 hours.
You can catch the bus from Richmond to Roanoke at the Richmond Bus Station. This is the main departure point for Greyhound USA bus services. The Richmond Bus Station is conveniently located in downtown Richmond and is easily accessible by public transportation or by car. Be sure to arrive at the station at least 15 minutes before your scheduled departure time to ensure a smooth journey.
The Richmond to Roanoke bus operated by Greyhound USA arrives at the Roanoke Bus Stop station. This station is conveniently located in downtown Roanoke, making it easy to access other parts of the city. Passengers can disembark at this station and continue their journey to their desired destination within Roanoke.
To get from Richmond Airport to Roanoke, you can take a flight with connecting flights in major cities like Charlotte or Atlanta. Alternatively, you can rent a car at the airport and drive to Roanoke, which takes around 3 hours. Another option is to take a taxi or a shared ride service like Uber or Lyft, which will take you directly to Roanoke. Public transportation options such as buses or trains may not be available directly from the airport to Roanoke, so it is best to plan ahead and consider the most convenient and efficient mode of transportation for your journey.
United Airlines, Delta, and American Airlines are the main airlines that fly between Richmond and Roanoke. These airlines offer regular flights from Richmond Airport to Roanoke Airport. It is recommended to check the airlines' websites or use a flight search engine to compare prices and schedules for the best option that suits your travel needs.
The fastest way to get from Richmond to Roanoke is by plane. However, there are no direct flights from Richmond Airport to Roanoke Airport. The quickest flight option has a duration of 3 hours and 10 minutes with one stopover. Airlines such as United Airlines, Delta, and American Airlines offer flights between Richmond and Roanoke. The prices for flights between the two cities range from $111 to $454.
The flight from Richmond to Roanoke typically has a duration of about 3 hours and 10 minutes. However, please note that there are no direct flights between these two cities. The quickest flights usually have one stopover, which can add some time to the overall journey. It is recommended to check with airlines and travel websites for the most up-to-date flight options and schedules.
The cost of a flight from Richmond to Roanoke typically ranges from $111 to $454. However, the prices may vary depending on factors such as the airline, date of travel, and how far in advance you book. It is recommended to compare prices from different airlines and use flight search engines to find the best deals.
The cost of a bus ticket from Richmond to Roanoke ranges from $20 to $60, depending on the specific bus company and the time of travel. It is recommended to book your ticket in advance to secure the best possible price. Additionally, some bus companies may offer discounted fares for students, seniors, or military personnel, so it's worth checking if you qualify for any discounts before purchasing your ticket.
The cost to drive from Richmond to Roanoke will depend on factors such as gas prices and the type of vehicle you are driving. On average, it can cost around $30 to $50 in gas for the round trip. This estimate is based on the distance of approximately 180 miles and an average car's gas mileage. However, it's important to consider additional expenses such as tolls or parking fees that may increase the overall cost.

Trips from Richmond

Trips to Roanoke