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Roanoke, VA, USA to Columbia, SC, USA from $50: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from Roanoke 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.

$50 by carBest price
468 kmDistance
4h 55m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Roanoke 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
Amtrak Northeast Regional
Train
Average Duration
11h  50m
Estimated price
$32-472
Recommended
Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
4h  55m
Estimated price
$50-80
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 468 km
Duration: 4h 55m

See more options

Company
American Airlines, Delta, United Airlines
Plane
Average Duration
5h  57m
Estimated price
$64-320
Company
Various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
13h  41m
Estimated price
$84-415
Company
Greyhound USA
Bus
Bus
Average Duration
13h  40m
Estimated price
$90-204
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Traveling From Roanoke to Columbia

Traveling from Roanoke to Columbia offers a fascinating contrast between the scenic mountain landscapes of Virginia and the vibrant, historic charm of South Carolina's capital.

Best Neighborhoods in Columbia

Columbia boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences for visitors.

Five Points
• Lively area filled with shops and restaurants.
• Home to vibrant nightlife and local events.
Shandon
• Noted for its historic architecture and tree-lined streets.
• Offers a family-friendly atmosphere with parks.
Downtown Columbia
• Features cultural attractions like museums and theaters.
• Hosts a variety of dining options and boutiques.

Best Times To Visit Columbia's Attractions

Timing your visits can greatly enhance your experience at Columbia's attractions.

South Carolina State House
Visit early on weekdays to appreciate the building's architecture without the crowds.
Riverbanks Zoo & Garden
Mornings during weekdays offer a quieter experience with active animals.
Cayce Riverwalk
Late afternoons or weekdays allow for peaceful strolls along the river.

Columbia Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Columbia enjoys a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot summers and mild winters, making it an appealing destination year-round. Spring and fall present the best times to visit, as the comfortable temperatures enhance outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Dining Recommendation

In Columbia, try the famous Shrimp and Grits at Motor Supply Co. Bistro, where the vibrant atmosphere and focus on local ingredients create a distinct flavor experience that differs greatly from Roanoke's traditional Southern fare. The combination of fresh seafood and creamy grits reflects the coastal influences of South Carolina, offering a delightful contrast to Roanoke's mountain-inspired cuisine.

Roanoke - Columbia operators

Explore transport companies operating between Roanoke and Columbia, 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 Roanoke to Lynchburg

Average Duration
1h 14m
Estimated price
$328-327

Train from Lynchburg to Greensboro

Average Duration
2h 9m
Estimated price
$4721-4722

Train from Greensboro to Cary

Average Duration
1h 18m
Estimated price
$4726-4727

Train from Cary to Columbia Amtrak Station

Average Duration
4h 9m
Estimated price
$902-4720
Bus
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
https://www.greyhound.com/

Bus from Roanoke Bus Stop to Richmond Bus Station

Average Duration
3h 55m
Estimated price
$3290-323

Bus from Richmond Bus Station to Raleigh Bus Station

Average Duration
2h 40m
Estimated price
$328-906

Bus from Greensboro Bus Stop to Durham

Average Duration
1h
Estimated price
$907-4724

Bus from Durham to Columbia, SC

Average Duration
5h
Estimated price
$906-4722
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
https://www.flixbus.com
Contact phone
+1 404-591-2750
Website
https://www.southeasternstages.com

Bus from Raleigh to Columbia

Average Duration
5h 5m
Estimated price
$906-4722
Plane
Website
http://www.aa.com

Plane from Roanoke (ROA) to Columbia (CAE)

Average Duration
3h 47m
Estimated price
$324-325
Website
http://www.delta.com

Plane from Roanoke (ROA) to Columbia (CAE)

Average Duration
4h 30m
Estimated price
$323-326
Website
http://www.united.com

Plane from Roanoke (ROA) to Columbia (CAE)

Average Duration
4h 31m
Estimated price
$327-800
Drive

Drive from Roanoke to Columbia

Average Duration
4h 55m
Estimated price
$50-80

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

Traveling between Roanoke 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 Roanoke to Columbia covering a distance of 291 miles. Enjoy the journey through picturesque countryside and charming small towns along the way. 💰 The cost of driving from Roanoke to Columbia ranges from $50 to $80, offering budget-friendly travel options for those looking to explore the Southeast by car. ⏱️ With an approximate travel time of 4 hours and 55 minutes, make the most of your road trip adventure by planning rest stops, enjoying local cuisine, and discovering hidden gems en route to vibrant Columbia.
Average price
$50 - $80
🌳 The train services for this route are operated by Amtrak Northeast Regional and provide a comfortable and relaxed way to travel between these two cities. The total travel time, including transfers, is approximately 11 hours and 50 minutes. 🎫 Ticket prices for the train from Roanoke to Columbia can range from $32 to $472, depending on factors such as the time of booking and class of service chosen. This trip offers a convenient and enjoyable way to experience the beauty of the journey through the Southeastern United States.
Departure Point
Roanoke station
Arrival Point
Columbia Amtrak Station
🌍 The total duration of the journey from Roanoke Airport to Columbia Airport is approximately 5 hours and 57 minutes. The quickest flight option takes 3 hours and 3 minutes. 💸 Ticket prices for flights between Roanoke and Columbia can range from $64 to $496.
Departure Point
Roanoke Airport
Arrival Point
Columbia Airport. The quickest flight takes 3h 3m and has one stopover
🌳 Enjoy a 13-hour and 40-minute ride through the picturesque landscapes as you make your way to Columbia. Greyhound USA and Southeastern Stages operate the bus services, ensuring a comfortable and safe travel experience. 💰 Ticket prices for the Roanoke to Columbia bus trip range from $90 to $204, offering budget-friendly options for travelers looking for an affordable and efficient mode of transportation between the two cities. Plan your journey and immerse yourself in the charming Southern hospitality of Columbia.
Departure Point
Roanoke Bus Stop station
Arrival Point
Columbia station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Roanoke to Columbia.

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The distance between Roanoke and Columbia is approximately 236 miles, or 290.8 miles if traveling by road. The typical travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation chosen. Taking a train from Roanoke to Columbia typically takes 11 hours and 50 minutes, while taking a train and then a bus can take 13 hours and 42 minutes. By plane, the journey can be completed in 6 hours and 13 minutes. If driving by car, it takes about 4 hours and 55 minutes to travel from Columbia to Roanoke. Taking a bus from Roanoke to Columbia usually takes around 13 hours and 40 minutes.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Roanoke to Columbia is to drive. Driving typically takes around 4 hours and 55 minutes and costs between $50 and $80. This option allows for flexibility in terms of departure and arrival times since there are no strict schedules to follow. Alternatively, taking a bus or train may be cheaper but will take significantly longer, with travel times ranging from 11 hours and 50 minutes to 13 hours and 40 minutes.
The prices for a train ticket between Roanoke and Columbia range from $32 to $472. Similarly, the prices for a bus ticket between Columbia and Roanoke vary from $64 to $179. It is important to check for any discounts or promotions that may be available, as prices can fluctuate depending on the time of year and demand.
To get from Roanoke to Columbia without using public transportation, the most convenient option would be to drive. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 291 miles and it takes around 4 hours and 55 minutes to make the journey. The cost of gas and tolls for the trip can vary, but the approximate range is between $50 and $80.
The best option for traveling from Roanoke to Columbia without a car is by train. The journey takes approximately 11 hours and 50 minutes. The cost of the train ticket ranges from $30 to $480. This mode of transportation offers a convenient and comfortable way to reach your destination without the need for a car.
There is no direct link between Roanoke and Columbia by train, as the journey requires transfers at Lynchburg, Greensboro, and Cary, taking approximately 11 hours and 50 minutes. Similarly, there is no direct bus service, but the journey can be made with transfers at Richmond Bus Station and Raleigh, taking approximately 13 hours and 40 minutes. For a quicker travel option, flying from Roanoke to Columbia takes approximately 6 hours and 13 minutes.
The flight duration between Roanoke and Columbia varies depending on the number of stops. The quickest flight with one stopover takes approximately 3 hours and 19 minutes. However, there are no direct flights available between the two cities. As for the cost, prices range from $184 to $706 for a one-way ticket from Columbia to Roanoke. It is important to note that flight prices can be subject to change based on factors such as demand and time of booking.
There are many options for accommodations near Columbia. There are 211+ hotels available, with prices starting at $51 per night. These hotels offer a range of amenities and locations to suit different preferences and budgets. Some popular hotel options include The Inn at USC, Hilton Columbia Center, and the Courtyard by Marriott Columbia Downtown.

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