Madison, WI, USA to Champaign, IL, USA from $27: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

How to Get from Madison to Champaign: 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.

$27 - Bus, Train via MilwaukeeBest price

344 kmDistance

4h 7m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Madison to Champaign 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.

See more options

Sort by

Browse car rentals Explore flights

Traveling From Madison to Champaign

The journey from Madison to Champaign offers a fascinating contrast between Madison's vibrant arts scene and Champaign's charming college-town atmosphere.

Best Neighbourhoods in Champaign

Champaign boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering its own charm and attractions.

Campustown

• Vibrant atmosphere with shops and eateries.

• Close proximity to the University of Illinois.

Downtown Champaign

• Bustling scene with bars and restaurants.

• Hosts various festivals and events year-round.

West Champaign

• Family-friendly environment with parks and schools.

• Shopping centers and local businesses abound.

Best Times To Visit Champaign's Attractions

Maximize your experience in Champaign by knowing the best times to explore its attractions.

Krannert Art Museum

Visit on weekday mornings for a quieter atmosphere and fewer visitors.

William M. Staerkel Planetarium

Catch shows during weekday afternoons for a more intimate experience.

Champaign-Urbana Farmers Market

Arrive early on Saturdays to enjoy fresh produce before crowds build.

Champaign Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Champaign experiences a humid continental climate, featuring warm summers and cold winters, making spring and fall the ideal times for comfortable exploration. Weather conditions can influence your travel plans, so packing accordingly ensures a more enjoyable visit regardless of the season.

Dining Recommendation in Champaign

For a delightful contrast to Madison's culinary offerings, try the deep-dish pizza at Papa Del's in Champaign, where the rich flavors and gooey cheese create a comforting experience. The casual atmosphere, blended with local ingredients and a focus on classic Chicago-style pizza, sets it apart from Madison’s more eclectic dining scene.

Madison - Champaign operators

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

Bus

Contact phone

+1 800-872-7245

Website

https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Bus from Madison to Chicago Union Station

Average Duration

Estimated price

$278-279

Bus from Madison to Milwaukee

Average Duration

1h 35m

Estimated price

$2130-2131

Contact phone

+1 (855) 626-8585

Website

https://www.flixbus.com

Bus from Madison to Chicago Bus Station

Average Duration

3h 40m

Estimated price

$272-2132

Contact phone

+1 214-849-8100

Website

https://www.greyhound.com/

Bus from Chicago Bus Station to Champaign Intermodal Trans Ctr

Average Duration

2h 50m

Estimated price

$2133-12430

Train

Contact phone

+1 800-872-7245

Website

https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from Chicago Union Station to Champaign-Urbana

Average Duration

2h 24m

Estimated price

$1243-1244

Train from Milwaukee to Chicago Union Station

Average Duration

1h 29m

Estimated price

$273-274

Plane

Website

https://www.aa.com

Plane from Madison (MSN) to Champaign (CMI)

Average Duration

5h 55m

Estimated price

$296-299

Plane from Madison (MSN) to Champaign (CMI)

Average Duration

7h 56m

Estimated price

$291-1240

Plane from Madison (MSN) to Champaign (CMI)

Average Duration

5h 44m

Estimated price

$291-1240

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

Traveling between Madison and Champaign 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 journey from Madison to Champaign covering a distance of 251 miles. Enjoy the Midwest landscapes as you cruise along the highways. ⛽️ Gas up your vehicle for this 4-hour and 7-minute road trip, where prices for the journey can range from $45 to $70. Plan for some rest stops and maybe a quick snack along the way.

Average price

$45 - $70

🛫 Flying from Madison to Champaign involves taking a connecting flight as there is no direct route available between the two cities. The quickest option with one stopover typically takes around 5 hours and 44 minutes. ✈️ Both United Airlines and American Airlines operate flights from Madison Airport to Champaign Airport, providing travelers with options for their journey. The total travel time from Madison to Champaign by plane is approximately 5 hours and 37 minutes. 💸 Depending on various factors such as booking time and seat availability, the cost of a flight ticket between Champaign and Madison ranges from $150 to $495.

Departure Point

Madison Airport

Arrival Point

Champaign Airport. The quickest flight takes 5h 44m and has one stopover

🚌 Traveling from Madison to Champaign by bus may not offer a direct route, but transfers can be made in Chicago. The journey, lasting approximately 7 hours and 30 minutes, provides a scenic ride between the two Midwestern cities. 🚌 Tickets for this bus route between Madison and Champaign range from $31 to $112, offering an affordable and convenient way to travel between these two bustling college towns in the heart of the Midwest.

Departure Point

Madison station

Arrival Point

Champaign Intermodal Trans Ctr station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Madison to Champaign.

Or choose the category:

The distance between Madison and Champaign is 214 miles or 251.4 miles by road. The typical travel time can vary depending on the mode of transportation. If you take a combination of bus and train via Milwaukee, it will take approximately 7 hours and 13 minutes. By plane, it takes about 4 hours and 32 minutes. If you choose to drive, the travel time is around 4 hours and 7 minutes. Taking a bus directly from Madison to Champaign usually takes about 7 hours and 10 minutes.

The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Madison to Champaign is to drive. It is both the cheapest and fastest way to reach Champaign, with a travel time of 4 hours and 7 minutes. The cost of driving is estimated to be around $45 to $70. This option allows for flexibility and convenience, making it the best choice for travelers.

The prices for a bus ticket between Champaign and Madison can vary depending on the bus company, time of travel, and availability. On average, the ticket prices range from $31 to $112. It is recommended to book in advance and compare prices from different bus companies to find the best deal. Additionally, prices may also vary depending on any promotions or discounts offered during the time of travel.

To get from Madison to Champaign without public transportation, you can drive. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 251 miles, which takes about 4 hours and 7 minutes. The cost of driving can vary depending on factors such as fuel prices, tolls, and the type of vehicle, but it typically ranges from $45 to $70.

The best way to travel from Madison to Champaign without a car is by taking a bus and night bus. This journey typically takes around 7 hours and 10 minutes and can cost anywhere from $30 to $120. It is a convenient and affordable option for those who do not have access to a car.

There is no direct link between Madison and Champaign by bus. However, there are bus services available that require a transfer in Chicago. The journey, including transfers, takes approximately 7 hours and 10 minutes. These services are operated by companies such as Flixbus USA and Greyhound USA.

The flight duration from Madison to Champaign can vary depending on the route and stopovers. The quickest option with one stopover takes approximately 4 hours and 18 minutes. However, it's important to note that there are no direct flights between the two cities, so travel time may vary. The cost of a flight between Champaign and Madison can range from $240 to $525, depending on factors such as the airline, time of booking, and availability.

There are numerous options for accommodations near Champaign with over 58 hotels to choose from. Prices for these hotels start at $37, offering a range of options to suit different budgets and preferences. Whether you're looking for a luxury hotel or a more budget-friendly option, you should have no trouble finding a suitable place to stay in the area.

Madison, WI, USA to Champaign, IL, USA from $27: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

How to Get from Madison to Champaign: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

See more options

Traveling From Madison to Champaign

Best Neighbourhoods in Champaign

Best Times To Visit Champaign's Attractions

Champaign Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Dining Recommendation in Champaign

Madison - Champaign operators

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

Frequently asked questions

Trips from Madison

Trips to Waukesha

Popular routes