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Seattle, WA, USA to Madison, WI, USA from $98: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Seattle, United States of America
to
Madison, United States of America

How to Get from Seattle to Madison: 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.

$98 - Train, BusBest price
2617 kmDistance
7h 46m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Seattle to Madison 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  46m
Estimated price
$155-415
Recommended
Company
Amtrak, Badger Bus
Train
Bus
Average Duration
44h  12m
Estimated price
$98-545
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 2617 km
Duration: 7h 46m

See more options

Company
various
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
8h  28m
Estimated price
$122-598
Company
various
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
9h  46m
Estimated price
$179-478
Company
various
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
8h  58m
Estimated price
$202-1550
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
30h  5m
Estimated price
$1551-1552
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Seattle to Madison

Traveling from Seattle to Madison reveals a shift from the bustling, coffee-kissed streets of the Pacific Northwest to the charming, Midwestern college town vibrancy, offering you two contrasting cultural experiences.

Best Neighbourhoods in Madison

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

Downtown Madison
• Home to the vibrant State Street.
• Great restaurants and shops all within walking distance.
University of Wisconsin Campus
• Rich in history and educational atmosphere.
• Beautiful landscapes and iconic Memorial Union.
Capitol Square
• Spectacular views of the State Capitol building.
• Hosts farmers' markets and various cultural events.

Best Times To Visit Madison's Attractions

Maximize your experience in Madison by choosing the right times to visit its top attractions.

Olbrich Botanical Gardens
Visit in early spring for vibrant blooms and fewer visitors.
Wisconsin State Capitol
Go on a weekday morning to enjoy quiet exploration and guided tours.
Henry Vilas Zoo
Visit during mid-week for a more relaxed atmosphere, especially in summer.

Madison Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Madison experiences a humid continental climate, with warm summers and cold winters, making it essential to plan your visit according to the season. Late spring and early fall provide pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, enhancing your travel experience while avoiding the extreme weather conditions.

Dining in Madison: A Flavorful Contrast

In Madison, don’t miss trying the iconic cheese curds at the Great Dane Pub & Brewing Co., where local dairy shines in this beloved dish. The warm, inviting atmosphere and focus on Midwest flavors deliver a dining experience that feels distinct from Seattle’s seafood-centric and coffee-rich culinary scene.

Seattle - Madison operators

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

Plane
Website
delta.com

Plane from Seattle (SEA) to Madison

Average Duration
7h 11m
Estimated price
$1554-1557

Plane from Seattle (SEA) to Madison

Average Duration
8h 5m
Estimated price
$1558-1557

Plane from Seattle (SEA) to Madison

Average Duration
8h 49m
Estimated price
$1559-1557

Plane from Seattle (SEA) to Milwaukee

Average Duration
6h 42m
Estimated price
$4150-4151

Plane from Seattle (SEA) to Milwaukee

Average Duration
6h 1m
Estimated price
$1558-4151

Plane from Seattle (SEA) to Milwaukee

Average Duration
7h 24m
Estimated price
$4152-4151

Plane from Seattle (SEA) to Chicago O'Hare

Average Duration
4h 1m
Estimated price
$1554-4153

Plane from Seattle (SEA) to Chicago O'Hare

Average Duration
6h 32m
Estimated price
$1554-4153

Plane from Seattle (SEA) to Appleton

Average Duration
7h 16m
Estimated price
$1558-4154

Plane from Seattle (SEA) to Appleton

Average Duration
9h 7m
Estimated price
$1559-4154
Website
united.com

Plane from Seattle (SEA) to Madison

Average Duration
6h 5m
Estimated price
$4155-1555

Plane from Seattle (SEA) to Madison

Average Duration
5h 59m
Estimated price
$4155-1555

Plane from Seattle (SEA) to Milwaukee

Average Duration
6h 8m
Estimated price
$4156-4157

Plane from Seattle (SEA) to Milwaukee

Average Duration
6h 6m
Estimated price
$4156-4157

Plane from Seattle (SEA) to Chicago O'Hare

Average Duration
4h 4m
Estimated price
$4158-4159

Plane from Seattle (SEA) to Chicago O'Hare

Average Duration
6h 10m
Estimated price
$980-981

Plane from Seattle (SEA) to Appleton

Average Duration
10h 28m
Estimated price
$980-981
Website
aa.com

Plane from Seattle (SEA) to Madison

Average Duration
8h 44m
Estimated price
$4155-1555

Plane from Seattle (SEA) to Madison

Average Duration
7h 38m
Estimated price
$4155-1555

Plane from Seattle (SEA) to Milwaukee

Average Duration
3h 55m
Estimated price
$4152-982

Plane from Seattle (SEA) to Chicago O'Hare

Average Duration
4h 5m
Estimated price
$983-984

Plane from Seattle (SEA) to Appleton

Average Duration
9h 13m
Estimated price
$4152-985
Website
alaskaair.com

Plane from Seattle (SEA) to Madison

Average Duration
7h 20m
Estimated price
$986-984

Plane from Seattle (SEA) to Milwaukee

Average Duration
3h 55m
Estimated price
$4152-982

Plane from Seattle (SEA) to Chicago O'Hare

Average Duration
4h 3m
Estimated price
$4158-984
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Seattle to Portage

Average Duration
42h 22m
Estimated price
$987-1552
Bus
Contact phone
+1 414-266-4409
Website
badgerbus.com

Bus from Mitchell Airport to Madison, WI-Lake St.

Average Duration
2h
Estimated price
$5452-5453
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
flixbus.com

Bus from Milwaukee Mitchell Airport to Madison

Average Duration
2h 5m
Estimated price
$5454-5455
Contact phone
+1 608-752-5407
Website
https://www.coachusa.com/van-galder-bus-company

Bus from O'Hare Multi-Modal Facility to Madison, WI-Lake St.

Average Duration
2h 50m
Estimated price
$5456-5457
Contact phone
+1 800-236-1240
Website
golamers.com

Bus from Portage to Madison

Average Duration
50m
Estimated price
$5458-5459

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Seattle to Madison.

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The distance between Seattle and Madison is approximately 1800 miles. If traveling by airplane, direct flights typically take around 4 to 5 hours, while considering layovers may increase this time significantly. Driving the distance would take roughly 27 to 30 hours of non-stop travel, depending on traffic and road conditions. For train or bus travel, the journey can take anywhere from 35 to 45 hours, emphasizing the convenience of flying for such a long distance.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient option for traveling from Seattle to Madison is typically by air, as budget airlines often offer competitive fares for direct and connecting flights. Booking in advance can further reduce costs and provide options for quicker travel times, usually around 4 to 6 hours depending on layovers. Alternatively, if you're looking for a more scenic route, a bus or train can be more affordable but will take significantly longer, ranging from 35 to 45 hours. Ultimately, flying remains the best choice for balancing both cost and time efficiency.
Prices for traveling from Seattle to Madison can vary significantly depending on the mode of transportation. Airfare typically ranges from $150 to $500 for a round-trip ticket, depending on the time of booking, season, and airline. If you choose to drive, costs will include gas and potential overnight stays, which could total between $200 and $300, depending on your vehicle's fuel efficiency and travel style. Bus and train tickets can be more economical, often ranging from $100 to $250, but they also involve much longer travel times.
To get from Seattle to Madison without using public transportation, you can drive your own vehicle or rent a car for the journey. The drive will take approximately 27 to 30 hours, covering around 1800 miles, so it's advisable to plan for rest stops and possible overnight accommodations along the way. Alternatively, you could consider booking a rideshare service or arranging for a friend or family member to drive you. For a more leisurely option, some travelers might also choose to take a personal camper van or RV for a road trip experience.
To travel from Seattle to Madison without a car, you can consider flying, which is the fastest option. Direct flights typically take around 4 to 5 hours, while connecting flights may take longer. If you prefer a land-based journey, you can utilize ride-sharing services or hire a private driver for a more comfortable travel experience. Additionally, looking into options like renting a van with friends or family can also be a great way to share the travel with others while enjoying the scenery along the way.
There are generally no direct flights between Seattle and Madison due to the smaller size of Madison's airport. Most travelers fly with at least one stop, commonly in larger hub cities such as Chicago or Minneapolis. Additionally, if you choose to travel by bus or train, there are multiple routes, but these options will also require transfers and may take significantly longer than flying. Therefore, it's essential to plan your connections carefully when traveling between these two cities.
The flight time between Seattle and Madison is typically around 4 to 5 hours for direct flights, but most flights usually involve at least one layover, which can extend travel time significantly. In terms of cost, one-way tickets can range from approximately $150 to $400, depending on the season, how far in advance you book, and the airline. It's advisable to compare prices across different airlines and booking platforms to find the best deal. Additionally, prices may fluctuate based on demand, so flexibility in travel dates can also lead to savings.
Near Madison there are a variety of accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets. For a central location, you might consider staying at hotels like The Edgewater or the Hilton Madison Monona Terrace, which offer great amenities and views of the lake. If you prefer a more home-like atmosphere, there are plenty of vacation rentals and charming bed-and-breakfasts in the area. Additionally, the University of Wisconsin-Madison campus has options like dormitory stays during the summer months, providing a unique experience.

Trips from Seattle

Trips to Madison