Madison, WI, USA to Appleton, WI, USA from $19: 3 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

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$19 - OtherBest price

171 kmDistance

1h 58m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

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

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Traveling From Madison to Appleton

Traveling from Madison to Appleton offers a thrilling contrast: enjoy Madison's vibrant city life and cultural scene before immersing yourself in the charming, small-town atmosphere of Appleton.

Best Neighbourhoods in Appleton

Appleton boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering a unique flavor to explore.

Downtown Appleton

• Vibrant dining and shopping options.

• Home to lively events and festivals.

Historic Old Town

• Charming architecture and rich history.

• Quaint shops and local art galleries.

Fox River Waterfront

• Scenic views perfect for leisurely walks.

• Great access to outdoor activities.

Best Times To Visit Appleton's Attractions

Timing your visits to Appleton's attractions can elevate your experience.

Appleton's Paper Discovery Center

Visit mid-week in the morning for smaller crowds and better access.

Fox Cities Performing Arts Center

Aim for weekday shows to enjoy more intimate performances.

Lawrence University

Explore the campus during fall for stunning foliage and fewer tourists.

Appleton Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Appleton experiences four distinct seasons, with warm summers perfect for outdoor activities and chilly winters ideal for cozy indoor experiences. Planning your visit during spring and fall can enhance your travel experience, offering milder weather and beautiful scenery.

Dining Recommendation

In Appleton, don’t miss out on trying the locally sourced cheese curds at Beefeaters Steak and Seafood, where the rustic, cozy atmosphere sets it apart from Madison's more eclectic dining scene. This dish embodies the flavors of Wisconsin, offering a genuine taste of the region that brings a unique charm to your culinary exploration.

Madison - Appleton operators

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

Bus Show bus routes

Contact phone

+1 800-872-7245

Website

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

Bus from Madison to Appleton Amtrak Station

Average Duration

3h 10m

Estimated price

$26-30

Contact phone

+1 800-236-1240

Website

https://www.golamers.com/

Bus from Madison to Appleton

Average Duration

3h 15m

Estimated price

$26-30

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

Traveling between Madison and Appleton 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 Madison to Appleton, covering a driving distance of 106 miles. Enjoy the scenic route through charming Wisconsin towns and lush countryside. 💰 Indulge in a budget-friendly road trip with car travel prices ranging from $19 to $28 for the journey from Madison to Appleton. Experience the convenience and flexibility of traveling by car at affordable rates. 🍎 Arrive in Appleton in just under 2 hours, relishing the smooth drive and the anticipation of exploring this vibrant city. Take in the sights and sounds of Appleton, known for its cultural attractions and lively downtown scene.

Average price

$19 - $28

🚆 Traveling from Madison to Appleton by train is a scenic journey spanning 170 miles and taking approximately 6 hours and 58 minutes. The trip involves a transfer at Milwaukee for a more convenient route. 🚌 The first step of the journey includes a bus ride towards Milwaukee, lasting about 1 hour and 35 minutes. This leg of the trip is operated by Badger Bus as part of the Amtrak Thruway Connecting Service, offering a seamless connection between Madison and Milwaukee Intermodal Station. 🚌 The second part of the route involves another bus ride, this time towards Green Bay Amtrak Station, with a duration of approximately 2 hours and 24 minutes. The bus, operated by Amtrak Chartered Motorcoach under the San Francisco Shuttle service, will take you from Milwaukee Intermodal Station to the final destination of Appleton Amtrak Station.

🚌 If you're traveling from Madison to Appleton by bus, there are convenient services departing twice daily, operated by Amtrak. The journey duration is approximately 3 hours and 10 minutes. 🛤️ The route from Madison to Appleton covers a distance of 170 miles and involves 1 transfer. The first step is a bus towards Milwaukee with a duration of about 1 hour and 35 minutes. The second step is a bus towards Green Bay Amtrak Station, taking approximately 2 hours and 24 minutes. 💰 The prices for the bus journey between Appleton and Madison range from $26 to $30. For detailed schedules and booking information, you can visit the websites of the bus operators: Badger Bus for the first leg and Amtrak Chartered Motorcoach for the second part of the journey.

Departure Point

Madison station

Arrival Point

Appleton Amtrak Station

Useful tips for bus travellers

• Make sure to check the Amtrak Thruway Connecting Services schedule ahead of your trip, as services from Madison to Appleton operate twice daily, and timing can vary slightly; you can find the schedule here: amtrak.com

• Bring snacks and water for the approximately 3h 10m journey; while the bus is comfortable, having your favorite refreshments can make the trip more enjoyable, especially since there are limited dining options along the route.

• Upon arriving at the Appleton Amtrak Station, use the station map (amtrak.com) provided at the entrance, as it will help you locate local transport options like taxis and rideshares, which can make your transition out of the station much smoother.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Madison to Appleton.

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The distance between Madison and Appleton is approximately 96 miles by air, and 106.2 miles by road. If you are traveling by car, it typically takes around 1 hour and 58 minutes to reach Madison from Appleton. However, if you prefer to take the bus, the travel time increases to approximately 3 hours and 10 minutes.

The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Madison to Appleton is by driving. It costs $19-$28 and takes approximately 1 hour and 58 minutes, making it the cheapest and fastest option available. By choosing to drive, you can enjoy the convenience and flexibility of having your own transportation while also saving money and minimizing travel time.

The prices for a bus ticket between Madison and Appleton vary between $24 and $35. It is advisable to check with different bus companies to see the current prices and availability. Additionally, discounts may be available for students, seniors, or advance bookings. It is always recommended to compare prices and book in advance to secure the best deal.

To travel from Madison to Appleton without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of 106 miles, which takes approximately 1 hour and 58 minutes. The cost of driving from Madison to Appleton by car can range from $19 to $28, depending on factors such as fuel prices and tolls. This option provides flexibility and allows you to have control over your travel schedule.

To travel from Madison to Appleton without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The journey takes approximately 3 hours and 10 minutes and tickets cost between $24 and $35. Buses provide a convenient and cost-effective mode of transportation between the two cities. There are several options available, so it is advisable to check the schedules and fares in advance.

Yes, there is a direct bus link between Madison and Appleton. The bus service, operated by Amtrak, departs from Madison station and arrives at Appleton Amtrak Station. The journey takes approximately 3 hours and 10 minutes. The bus service operates twice daily and runs every day.

There are plenty of accommodation options available near Appleton. With over 92 hotels to choose from, you can find one that suits your budget and preferences. Prices start at $43 per night, offering affordable options for travelers. Whether you are looking for luxury or budget-friendly accommodation, there are plenty of hotels to choose from in Appleton.