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Eau Claire, WI, USA to Madison, WI, USA from $29: 3 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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from
Eau Claire, United States of America
to
Madison, United States of America

How to Get from Eau Claire 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.

$29 by busBest price
288 kmDistance
3h Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Eau Claire 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
Badger Bus
Bus
Average Duration
3h 
Estimated price
$29-40
Recommended
route map
Distance: 288 km
Duration: 3h

See more options

Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
3h  1m
Estimated price
$30-50
Company
various
Bus
Plane
Average Duration
5h  6m
Estimated price
$155-434
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Traveling From Eau Claire to Madison

The journey from Eau Claire to Madison presents a rich tapestry of small-town charm in Eau Claire contrasting with the vibrant cultural scene and dynamic atmosphere of Wisconsin's capital.

Best Neighborhoods in Madison

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

Downtown Madison
• Home to numerous restaurants and nightlife options.
• Close to the Wisconsin State Capitol and lakefront parks.
Shorewood Hills
• Offers beautiful homes with picturesque lake views.
• Quaint, family-friendly atmosphere with local parks.
Monona Terrace
• Famous for its stunning Frank Lloyd Wright architecture.
• Hosts events and boasts scenic views of Lake Monona.

Best Times To Visit Madison's Attractions

Timing your visits can significantly enhance your experience of Madison's attractions.

Wisconsin State Capitol
Visit early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and stunning light.
Olbrich Botanical Gardens
Weekdays in spring and early summer offer a peaceful, colorful escape.
Madison Farmers Market
Early Saturday mornings provide the freshest selections and a lively atmosphere.

Madison Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Madison experiences a humid continental climate with cold winters and warm summers, making seasonal planning essential for an enjoyable visit. Spring and fall offer mild weather and vibrant scenery, while summer provides lively events, and winter presents opportunities for snow sports and cozy indoor activities.

Dining Recommendation in Madison

For an unforgettable experience, try the adventurous farm-to-table offerings at the renowned restaurant L'Etoile, where seasonal ingredients take center stage, showcasing the vibrant flavors of the region. This contrasts with Eau Claire's more classic comfort food scene, as L'Etoile's innovative dishes and lively atmosphere create a distinct culinary adventure.

Eau Claire - Madison operators

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

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 414-266-4409
Website
http://www.badgerbus.badgerbus.com/tickets

Bus from Eau Claire Amtrak Bus Stop to Madison, WI-Lake St.

Average Duration
3h
Estimated price
$29-40

Bus from Eau Claire Amtrak Bus Stop to Mall of America - IKEA - Bloomington

Average Duration
1h 50m
Estimated price
$21-290
Plane Show flights
Website
delta.com

Plane from Minneapolis Airport (MSP) to Madison Airport (MSN)

Average Duration
1h 4m
Estimated price
$110-430

Eau Claire to Madison: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Eau Claire and Madison 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 picturesque journey from Eau Claire to Madison, covering a distance of 179 miles. The scenic route offers a mix of urban landscapes and charming countryside views. 💰 Experience budget-friendly travel with car rental prices ranging from $30 to $50 for the Eau Claire to Madison trip. Enjoy the convenience and flexibility of exploring at your own pace. 🌆 As you reach Madison after approximately 3 hours and 1 minute of driving, be ready to immerse yourself in the vibrant capital city of Wisconsin, known for its cultural attractions, lively events, and beautiful lakeside scenery.
Average price
$30 - $50
🚂 Embark on a scenic train journey from Eau Claire to Madison spanning a distance of 404 miles. The route involves a bus transfer in Milwaukee before continuing on through lush landscapes. 🌆 Arrive in vibrant Madison after a total travel time of approximately 9 hours, where you can explore this lively city known for its cultural attractions and picturesque views. Let the convenience of train travel enhance your journey through Wisconsin's charming towns and cities.
🛫 Starting from Eau Claire travelers can easily catch a connecting flight from Minneapolis Airport to Madison Airport, with Delta offering a convenient option. The direct flight takes just 1 hour and 3 minutes, making it a quick journey for those wanting to reach their destination efficiently.
Departure Point
Minneapolis Airport
Arrival Point
Madison Airport
🚌 Traveling from Eau Claire to Madison by bus is a convenient option. The direct Badger Bus service operates twice a week on Fridays and Sundays, with the journey taking approximately 3 hours. 🛣️ The route from Eau Claire to Madison spans a distance of 404 miles. There is a transfer involved, with the first step being a 6-hour, 40-minute bus ride towards Milwaukee on the Megabus. The second step is a 1-hour, 35-minute ride towards Madison on the Badger Bus. 💰 Prices for the bus ticket between Eau Claire and Madison can vary from $29 to $40. For a longer, alternative route with transfers, travelers can opt for routes that take around 9 to 10 hours to reach Madison from Eau Claire via Milwaukee.
Departure Point
Eau Claire Amtrak Bus Stop station
Arrival Point
Madison, WI-Lake St. station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Make sure to check the specific Badger Bus schedule for your travel date at badgerbus.com, as service only operates twice a week on Friday and Sunday.
• If you need a bite to eat before or after your trip, explore the nearby dining options around the Eau Claire Amtrak Bus Stop; the area has several restaurants and cafés that can enhance your travel experience.
• Upon arrival at Madison's Lake St. station, look for local transit options like buses or bike rentals to easily navigate to downtown or your final destination; the station is well-connected and has clear signage to help you find your way.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Eau Claire to Madison.

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The cheapest way to get from Eau Claire to Madison is by taking a bus. Various bus companies operate routes between the two cities, with ticket prices typically ranging from $29 to $40. The bus journey takes approximately 3 hours, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenic views along the way. It is recommended to check the schedules and prices of different bus companies in order to find the most affordable option for your travel.
The fastest way to travel from Eau Claire to Madison is by bus, which generally takes around 3 hours. There are several bus companies that provide direct routes between the two cities, offering a convenient and efficient mode of transportation. The cost of a bus ticket typically ranges from $29 to $40, making it a relatively affordable option compared to other modes of travel.
Eau Claire and Madison are approximately 160 miles apart. The road distance between the two cities is about 179.2 miles. Depending on traffic and the route taken, the travel time can vary, but it is generally a 3-4 hour drive. It's always a good idea to check road conditions and plan for any potential delays before embarking on your journey.
The best way to travel from Eau Claire to Madison without a car is by taking a bus. There are several bus operators that provide direct routes between the two cities, with prices ranging from $29 to $40. The journey takes approximately 3 hours, offering a comfortable and convenient option for non-drivers. It is recommended to book your bus tickets in advance to secure your seat and ensure a smooth trip from Eau Claire to Madison.
The journey from Eau Claire to Madison takes approximately 3 hours by bus. The bus service, which includes transfers, operates twice a week. It's important to note that travel times may vary depending on traffic and other factors, so it's recommended to plan your trip accordingly. Additionally, it's advisable to book your tickets in advance to secure your seat on the bus.
There are plenty of accommodation options near Madison. A quick search reveals that there are over 97 hotels available with a wide range of prices. Prices start at $55 and vary depending on the location, amenities, and star rating of the hotel. You can easily find hotels near popular attractions or the city center, depending on your preferences. It is advisable to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons or major events.
Yes, you can definitely drive from Eau Claire to Madison. The driving distance between the two cities is about 179 miles, and it usually takes around 3 hours and 1 minute to complete the journey by car. The route primarily involves traveling on I-94 East, which is a direct and convenient highway for this trip.
Yes, there is a direct bus between Eau Claire and Madison. The bus departs from Eau Claire Amtrak Bus Stop and arrives at Madison-Lake St. The service operates twice a week, specifically on Fridays and Sundays. The journey takes approximately 3 hours.
To catch the bus from Eau Claire to Madison you need to go to the Eau Claire Amtrak Bus Stop station. This is where the bus services operated by Badger Bus depart from. Make sure to arrive at the station a little early to ensure a smooth boarding process for your journey to Madison.
The Eau Claire to Madison bus operated by Badger Bus arrives at Madison-Lake St. station. This station is conveniently located in downtown Madison, making it easy to access many of the city's popular attractions. From Madison-Lake St. station, visitors can easily navigate to the University of Wisconsin-Madison and more.
Delta is the only airline that offers direct flights between Eau Claire and Madison. However, these flights usually have a layover in Minneapolis. The airlines that operate the flights from Eau Claire to Madison are operated by Delta and they depart from the Minneapolis Airport.
The fastest way to travel from Eau Claire to Madison is by plane. You can catch a direct flight from Minneapolis Airport to Madison Airport which takes approximately 58 minutes. Delta Airlines offers flights between these two airports. It is recommended to check for flight availability and book tickets in advance for a seamless travel experience.
The flight from Eau Claire to Madison typically requires a layover in Minneapolis. The quickest option is to fly directly from Minneapolis Airport to Madison Airport, which takes around 58 minutes. However, it is important to note that total travel time may vary depending on factors such as flight schedules and layover duration. It is advisable to check with airlines for the most accurate and up-to-date information on flight durations.
The cost of a bus ticket from Eau Claire to Madison can range from $29 to $40 depending on the bus company and time of travel. Prices may also vary based on factors such as the type of ticket purchased and any applicable discounts. It is advisable to check with different bus operators to compare prices and find the best deal for your trip.
The cost to drive from Eau Claire to Madison can vary depending on factors like the type of vehicle and current gas prices. On average, you can expect to spend around $30 to $50 for the one-way trip. This estimate includes the cost of fuel and any tolls that may be encountered along the route. Additionally, it's worth considering other expenses such as parking fees once you arrive in Madison.

Trips to Madison