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Madison, WI, USA to Columbus, OH, USA from $54: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from Madison to Columbus: 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.

$54 by busBest price
639 kmDistance
6h 5m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Madison to Columbus 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
6h  5m
Estimated price
$134-375
Recommended
Company
Amtrak Thruway/FlixBus
Bus
Average Duration
12h  29m
Estimated price
$54-149
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 639 km
Duration: 6h 5m

See more options

Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
12h  46m
Estimated price
$57-1340
Company
various
Bus
Train
Bus
Average Duration
12h  24m
Estimated price
$88-258
Company
various
Bus
Plane
Average Duration
6h  59m
Estimated price
$114-271
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
8h  24m
Estimated price
$1341-1342
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Traveling From Madison to Columbus

The route from Madison to Columbus offers a fascinating shift from Wisconsin's charming lakeside culture to Ohio's vibrant urban scene.

Best Neighborhoods in Columbus

Columbus offers diverse neighborhoods, each with its own charm and character.

Short North
• Renowned for its art galleries and boutiques.
• Vibrant nightlife with numerous bars and restaurants.
German Village
• Historic charm with brick streets and lush gardens.
• Famous for its delicious German cuisine and breweries.
Downtown
• Bustling area with shopping, dining, and entertainment options.
• Home to cultural attractions like The Ohio Theatre.

Best Times To Visit Columbus's Attractions

Timing your visits to Columbus attractions can lead to a more enjoyable experience.

Columbus Zoo and Aquarium
Visit in the early morning during weekdays for fewer crowds.
Franklin Park Conservatory
Weekday afternoons offer a serene atmosphere with fewer visitors.
COSI (Center of Science and Industry)
Opt for weekdays during school hours to explore exhibits comfortably.

Columbus Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Columbus experiences a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons, making each visit unique. Spring and fall are particularly pleasant times to explore, while summer’s warmth and winter’s chill can shape your travel plans and outdoor activities.

Dining Recommendation

Try the famous Cincinnati-style chili at Skyline Chili, where the rich flavor and unique blend of spices contrast with the farm-to-table offerings often found in Madison. The casual atmosphere and distinctive toppings, including shredded cheese and onions, create a dining experience that showcases a different side of Ohio’s culinary landscape.

Madison - Columbus operators

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

Plane
Website
delta.com

Plane from Madison Airport (MSN) to Columbus Airport (CMH)

Average Duration
3h 35m
Estimated price
$1345-3753
Website
aa.com

Plane from Madison Airport (MSN) to Columbus Airport (CMH)

Average Duration
4h 43m
Estimated price
$3751-13470
Website
united.com

Plane from Chicago O'Hare (ORD) to Columbus Airport (CMH)

Average Duration
1h 23m
Estimated price
$1342-3750
Bus
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Bus from Madison to Chicago Union Station

Average Duration
4h
Estimated price
$548-547

Bus from Milwaukee to Chicago Union Station

Average Duration
1h 29m
Estimated price
$3757-3758
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
flixbus.com

Bus from Chicago Bus Station to Columbus

Average Duration
7h 20m
Estimated price
$37570-3755

Bus from Indianapolis to Columbus

Average Duration
3h 30m
Estimated price
$1492-1491
Contact phone
+1 608-752-5407
Website
https://www.coachusa.com/van-galder-bus-company

Bus from Madison, WI-Lake St. to O'Hare International Terminal 2

Average Duration
3h 10m
Estimated price
$3759-547

Bus from Madison to Chicago Union Station to Chicago Union Station

Average Duration
4h
Estimated price
$548-547
Contact phone
+1 414-266-4409
Website
badgerbus.com

Bus from Madison, WI-Lake St. to Milwaukee Intermodal

Average Duration
1h 35m
Estimated price
$549-1490
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Milwaukee to Chicago Union Station

Average Duration
1h 29m
Estimated price
$3757-3758

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

Traveling between Madison and Columbus 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 Madison to Columbus spanning 503 miles of open highways and countryside views. The journey typically takes around 8 hours and 24 minutes, offering a chance to explore the heartland of America at your own pace. 💰 Budget-conscious travelers can expect to spend anywhere from $90 to $140 on gas and tolls for the round trip between Madison and Columbus by car. Factor in additional costs for meals, accommodations, and any roadside attractions you may encounter along the way.
Average price
$90 - $140
🚆 An adventurous journey awaits you from Madison to Columbus by train. Covering a distance of 522 miles, this route will take you approximately 11 hours and 30 minutes with a transfer along the way. 🚌 The first leg of your trip involves a 3-hour 40-minute bus ride towards Chicago via the Van Galder agency. Depart from 4545 E Broadway - Dutch Mill Park and Ride and arrive at W Jackson Blvd, across from Union Station. A quick transfer here sets the stage for the next part of your adventure. 🌆 Continuing on, you will board a bus towards Columbus with FlixBus. This 7-hour 20-minute journey will take you from Chicago to Columbus Downtown, completing your picturesque train trip from Madison to Columbus
🛫 Your journey from Madison to Columbus will typically involve one stopover, with the quickest flight lasting around 3 hours and 5 minutes. The airlines that operate this route include American, United, and Delta. 🌐 Despite there being no direct flights, you can still expect a total travel time of approximately 6 hours and 5 minutes from Madison to Columbus by air. This route offers a convenient and efficient way to reach your destination. 💸 Flight prices between Columbus and Madison can range from $134 to $375, providing travelers with a variety of options to suit their budget and preferences. Prepare for a smooth and comfortable flying experience as you journey from Wisconsin to Ohio.
Departure Point
Madison Airport
Arrival Point
Columbus Airport. The quickest flight takes 3h 5m and has one stopover
🚌 There is no direct bus from Madison to Columbus, but you can take a route with transfers at Chicago Bus Station. The journey, with transfers, takes approximately 12 hours and 29 minutes. 🛣️ Route options vary in duration and number of transfers, ranging from 11 to 19 hours of travel time. Prices for the bus trip between Columbus and Madison typically range from $54 to $149.
Departure Point
Madison station
Arrival Point
Columbus station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Madison to Columbus.

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The distance between Madison and Columbus is 397 miles by air and 503 miles by road. The typical travel time by plane is 6 hours and 32 minutes, while by bus it takes 12 hours and 29 minutes. If you choose to drive, the travel time is approximately 8 hours and 24 minutes. Please note that these times are estimates and can vary depending on traffic and other factors.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Madison to Columbus is by bus, with prices ranging from $50 to $150. However, this option also takes the longest time, approximately 12 hours and 29 minutes. On the other hand, the quickest way to reach Columbus is by flying, which takes around 6 hours and 32 minutes and costs between $130 and $430. Overall, if time is a priority, flying would be the most time-efficient option, but if budget is a concern, taking the bus would be the more cost-effective choice.
The prices for a bus ticket between Columbus and Madison range from $54 to $149. The exact cost may vary depending on factors such as the date of travel and the specific bus company. It is recommended to check with different bus operators or online travel portals to find the best deals and compare ticket prices.
To get from Madison to Columbus without using public transportation, you can drive. The distance is approximately 503 miles, and it takes around 8 hours and 24 minutes. The prices for car rentals vary, ranging from $90 to $140.
To travel from Madison to Columbus without a car, the best option is to take a combination of bus and train. The journey takes approximately 12 hours and 24 minutes, and costs between $85 and $260. There are several routes available, with various stops and transfers, so it's recommended to check the specific schedules and prices according to your travel preferences.
No, there is no direct bus link between Madison and Columbus. However, there are bus services available with transfers. The journey takes approximately 12h 29m, including transfers at the Chicago Bus Station. The bus services are operated by Amtrak and Flixbus USA.
The flight duration between Madison and Columbus with one stopover, typically takes around 3 hours and 37 minutes. However, there are no direct flights available between the two cities. The cost of a flight between Columbus and Madison can range from $134 to $425, depending on various factors such as the airline, time of booking, and availability. It is recommended to check with different airlines and compare prices to get the best deal for your travel.
There are plenty of accommodation options near Columbus. With over 433 hotels to choose from, you can find something to suit your preferences and budget. Prices start at $50, offering a range of options for travelers. Whether you prefer luxury hotels, budget-friendly options, or cozy bed and breakfasts, there are plenty of choices available in the Columbus area.

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