- Must visit
National Civil Rights Museum
World-class civil rights museum at the Lorraine Motel. Essential for understanding the movement, Dr. King, and the American struggle for justice.
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Carbondale, IL to Memphis, TN among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from €36. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 5h 15m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of €36, and a bus costs an average of €54.
Distance: 183 miles (296 km)
| Bus | Most popular Train |
|---|---|
€97 Average price | €45 Average price Cheapest |
9h 50m Average total duration 9h 20m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 45m Average total duration Fastest 5h 15m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
This is compared to other travel options from Carbondale, IL to Memphis, TN:
A train is €51 less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Carbondale, IL to Memphis, TN costing on average €97.
Other travel options to Memphis, TN take longer:
Bus takes on average 9h 20m.
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 06:40AM | Arrival Time 04:00PM | Duration 9h20 | Departure days Fri, Sat | Cheapest price €54 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 07:40AM | Arrival Time 05:00PM | Duration 9h20 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price €130 |
Compare bus and train prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Buses from Carbondale, IL to Memphis, TN run on average 1 times per day, taking around 9h 20m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at €54 but you can travel from only €36 by train.
The earliest bus runs at 01:40, the last at 21:30. The fastest bus covers the 183 miles (296 km) distance in 9h 20m.
Distance 183 miles (296 km) |
Average bus duration 9h 20m |
Cheapest ticket price €54 |
Buses per day 1 |
Fastest bus 9h 20m |
First bus 1:40 AM |
Last bus 9:30 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Best time to book 5 days |
Discover the best of Memphis, TN — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Memphis, TN trip today.
World-class civil rights museum at the Lorraine Motel. Essential for understanding the movement, Dr. King, and the American struggle for justice.
Major museum of Memphis music history inside a former recording studio. A must for soul, blues, and rock fans exploring the city's sound.
Interactive museum on Stax Records and Southern soul legends. Worth visiting for Otis Redding, Isaac Hayes, and immersive music storytelling.
Memphis's legendary entertainment street, famous for live music, neon, and history. A classic walk for atmosphere, nightlife, and cultural identity.
Mississippi riverfront park with broad lawns, monuments, and skyline views. Ideal for an easy walk and classic river scenery.
Large urban park with old-growth forest, trails, playgrounds, and zoo access. Excellent for nature, families, and a break from downtown.
Memphis-style pork ribs are slow-smoked over hardwood, usually served dry-rubbed or lightly sauced. They are the city’s most iconic barbecue tradition.
Pulled pork shoulder is smoked until tender, chopped or shredded, and often topped with slaw. It is a staple of Memphis barbecue joints.
Barbecue spaghetti mixes smoked pork, tomato-based sauce, and spaghetti. This quirky Memphis specialty reflects the city’s barbecue creativity.
Beloved traditional barbecue spot famous for pulled pork sandwiches, ribs, and barbecue spaghetti. Casual and deeply tied to Memphis food culture.
Historic fine dining destination serving refined Southern cuisine and an acclaimed brunch. Elegant setting inside a former mansion in Midtown.
Long-running Memphis institution for fried chicken and Southern sides. Bustling, family-friendly atmosphere with a strong local following.
Moderate for U.S. city breaks: hotels and dining are generally below New York or Miami, while car, rideshare, and attraction costs can add up.
Tip 18-20% in restaurants, more for great service. Taxis usually 10-15%. Cafes often have tip jars or card prompts; small tips are appreciated.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Carbondale, IL to Memphis, TN by bus. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest bus, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Memphis, TN, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most Carbondale, IL to Memphis, TN buses use the Carbondale, Amtrak Train Station to Memphis, Airways Transit Center station pair. Use this guide to compare Carbondale, IL and Memphis, TN bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
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