- Must visit
Philadelphia Museum of Art
World-class art museum famous for major collections and the Rocky Steps. A top cultural stop with strong city views.
Cheapest price on Sep 20
$67
Average ticket price on Sep 20
$81
Fastest journey on Sep 20
9 h 15 m
Average journey duration on Sep 20
12 h 23 m
Buses on Sep 20
2
Distance
561 km
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Cary, NC to Philadelphia, PA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cary, NC to Philadelphia, PA will cost around $81 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $67.
On Sun, Sep 20, we found 2 buses from Cary, NC to Philadelphia, PA, including 2 direct services.
On Sun, Sep 20 the direct buses cover the 561 km distance in an average of 12 h 23 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 9 h 15 m .
On Sun, Sep 20 the slowest buses will take 15 h 30 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.




Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Cary, NC to Philadelphia, PA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $112 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 6h 3m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $112, while a flight costs an average of $668.
Distance: 348 miles (561 km)
| Bus | Most popular Flight | Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$112 Average price Cheapest | $668 Average price | $196 Average price | $93 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
10h 41m Average total duration 10h 11m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 3m Average total duration Fastest 4h 3m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 9h 34m Average total duration 9h 4m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 8m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
![]() Most popular bus company | ![]() Most popular airline | ![]() Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
This is compared to other travel options from Cary, NC to Philadelphia, PA:
A bus is $84 (€69) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cary, NC to Philadelphia, PA costing on average $196 (€161).
A bus is $555 (€454) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Cary, NC to Philadelphia, PA costing on average $668 (€546).
Other travel options to Philadelphia, PA take longer:
Train takes on average 9h 4m.
Bus takes on average 10h 11m.
Tickets start at around $112 (€92) compared to roughly $93 (€76) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-19.47 (€-15.93). The journey takes 10h 11m versus 7h 8m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can use the time productively rather than spending it behind the wheel. No parking to sort, no fuel stops, and most coaches have Wi-Fi and power outlets.
Driving is worth considering if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), or want the flexibility to stop along the way.
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 09:50AM | Arrival Time 07:05PM | Duration 9h15 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $60 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 10:50AM | Arrival Time 08:05PM | Duration 9h15 | Departure days Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $81 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 05:00PM | Arrival Time 02:10AM | Duration 9h10 | Departure days Mon, Thu | Cheapest price $63 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 06:00PM | Arrival Time 03:10AM | Duration 9h10 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $137 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:15PM | Arrival Time 07:00AM | Duration 11h45 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $128 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:15PM | Arrival Time 11:45AM | Duration 15h30 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $95 |
The table below shows live departures for Cary, NC to Philadelphia, PA buses for tomorrow, Sunday, September 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() | 9:50 AM Cary, NC | 9h15 | 7:05 PM Philadelphia, PA | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 8:15 PM Cary, NC | 15h30 | 11:45 AM Philadelphia, PA | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare train, bus, and flight 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 Cary, NC to Philadelphia, PA run on average 13 times per day, taking around 10h 11m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $71 (€58) if you book in advance.
There are 1 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:50, the last at 23:15. The fastest bus covers the 348 miles (561 km) distance in 7h 35m.
Distance 348 miles (561 km) |
Average bus duration 10h 11m |
Cheapest ticket price $71 (€58) |
Buses per day 13 |
Direct buses 1 |
Fastest bus 7h 35m |
First bus 12:50 AM |
Last bus 11:15 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 7 days |
Discover the best of Philadelphia, PA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Philadelphia, PA trip today.
World-class art museum famous for major collections and the Rocky Steps. A top cultural stop with strong city views.
Hands-on science museum for all ages, known for interactive exhibits and the giant walk-through heart near the Parkway.
Celebrated collection of Impressionist, Post-Impressionist, and modern works in an intimate gallery setting on the Parkway.
Historic district packed with foundational sites, cobblestone streets, and museums. The best base for first-time visitors.
Beloved park atop a hill with skyline views, trails, and the Rocky Steps approach. Great for walking and photography.
Walkable district of rowhouses, boutiques, and small parks. A classic local neighborhood for architecture and relaxed city strolling.
A long roll packed with thin-sliced beef and melted cheese, often with fried onions. It is Philadelphia's signature street and comfort food.
A soft pretzel with a distinct figure-eight twist and chewy texture. Sold by street vendors and bakeries, it is a classic Philadelphia snack.
A roast pork sandwich with garlicky pork, sharp provolone, and broccoli rabe. Many locals consider it the city's best traditional sandwich.
Acclaimed fine dining restaurant by Chef Marc Vetri, known for refined Italian tasting menus and one of Philadelphia's top culinary experiences.
Historic roast pork and cheesesteak shop in South Philadelphia, known for hearty sandwiches and a no-frills local atmosphere.
Beloved local chain specializing in water ice and frozen custard. It is a go-to stop for a classic Philadelphia summer dessert.
Moderate for a major US city. Hotels can be pricey in Center City, but dining and transit are often cheaper than New York or Washington.
Tip 18-20% in restaurants, 15-20% for taxis, and $1-2 per drink or cafe order if service is provided.
Official public transport app
Philadelphia Bus Terminal -> Philadelphia City Hall, Philadelphia, PA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cary, NC to Philadelphia, PA 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 Philadelphia, PA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most Cary, NC to Philadelphia, PA buses use the Raleigh, Bus Station to Philadelphia, Greyhound Bus Station station pair, with some services arriving at Philadelphia, Spring Garden St / N 2nd St (Madison War Memorial Park). Use this guide to compare Cary, NC and Philadelphia, PA bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Philadelphia, Spring Garden St / N 2nd St (Madison War Memorial Park) is 2 km from Philadelphia city centre. Public transport options include:
Philadelphia, Spring Garden St / N 2nd St (Madison War Memorial Park) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi is available at Philadelphia, Spring Garden St / N 2nd St (Madison War Memorial Park). ATMs are available at Philadelphia, Spring Garden St / N 2nd St (Madison War Memorial Park).
Ticket office support is available at Philadelphia, Spring Garden St / N 2nd St (Madison War Memorial Park).
Available at Philadelphia, Spring Garden St / N 2nd St (Madison War Memorial Park): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Philadelphia, Spring Garden St / N 2nd St (Madison War Memorial Park): The bus stop is accessible with ramps.
Philadelphia, Greyhound Bus Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Snack bars and vending machines are available.
Free Wi-Fi available in the waiting area. ATMs are an ATM is available near the entrance.
Ticket office support is available at Philadelphia, Greyhound Bus Station.
Available at Philadelphia, Greyhound Bus Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Philadelphia, Greyhound Bus Station: The station is wheelchair accessible with ramps and elevators.
Philadelphia, Schuylkill Ave (Cira Centre South) is 1 km from Philadelphia city centre. Public transport options include:
Philadelphia, Schuylkill Ave (Cira Centre South) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Free Wi-Fi available in the waiting area. ATMs are available at Philadelphia, Schuylkill Ave (Cira Centre South).
Ticket office support is available at Philadelphia, Schuylkill Ave (Cira Centre South).
Available at Philadelphia, Schuylkill Ave (Cira Centre South): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Philadelphia, Schuylkill Ave (Cira Centre South): Wheelchair accessible area.
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