- Must visit
Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
One of the world’s most visited natural history museums, famous for dinosaur fossils, gemstones, and major family-friendly exhibits on Earth and life sciences.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Columbus, OH to Washington, DC
Showing times and prices for May 27
Cheapest price
$100
Average price
$142
Fastest journey
9 h 35 m
Average duration
10 h 48 m
Buses per day
4
Distance
526 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Columbus, OH to Washington, DC is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Columbus, OH to Washington, DC will cost around $142 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $100.
Fast buses
Of the 4 buses that leave Columbus, OH for Washington, DC on Wed, May 27, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, May 27 the direct buses cover the 526 km distance in an average of 10 h 48 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 9 h 35 m .
On Wed, May 27 the slowest buses will take 12 h 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.
2:10 AM9h35Columbus, OH11:45 AMWashington, DC$1001One-way0 transfers
8:45 AM12h00Columbus, OH8:45 PMWashington, DC$1451One-way0 transfers- 7:45 AM12h00Columbus, OH7:45 PMWashington, DC$1601One-way0 transfers
- 1:10 AM9h35Columbus, OH10:45 AMWashington, DC$1611One-way0 transfers
- 2:10 AM9h35Columbus, OH11:45 AMWashington, DC$1001One-way0 transfers
- 1:10 AM9h35Columbus, OH10:45 AMWashington, DC$1611One-way0 transfers
- 8:45 AM12h00Columbus, OH8:45 PMWashington, DC$1451One-way0 transfers
- 7:45 AM12h00Columbus, OH7:45 PMWashington, DC$1601One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and flight for Columbus, OH to Washington, DC
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Columbus, OH to Washington, DC among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $72. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 25m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $72, and a flight costs an average of $54.
Distance: 326 miles (526 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$134 Average price Cheapest | $257 Average price | $92 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
11h 49m Average total duration 11h 19m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 25m Average total duration Fastest 1h 25m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 6h 29m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Columbus, OH to Washington, DC is a bus with an average price of $134 (€108).
This is compared to other travel options from Columbus, OH to Washington, DC:
A bus is $123 (€99) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Columbus, OH to Washington, DC costing on average $257 (€207).
The fastest way to travel from Columbus, OH to Washington, DC is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 25m.
Other travel options to Washington, DC take longer:
Bus takes on average 11h 19m.
Train takes on average 15h 52m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Columbus, OH and Washington, DC including taking a bus and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Columbus, OH to Washington, DC among Omio's users.
Take the bus. On this route, it's both cheaper and quicker than driving.
You'll arrive about {timeSavings} sooner ({durationInMinutes} by bus vs {drivingDurationInMinutes} by car) and save roughly {savingsAmount} compared to fuel and tolls ({cheapestPrice} vs {drivingPriceInCents}). You also skip the drive itself — no traffic stress, no parking, and you can use the time to work, nap, or catch up on a series with the onboard Wi-Fi.
Direct coaches are operated by {directProviders}.
Driving is still worth considering if you're travelling with bulky luggage, need flexibility on departure times, or plan to stop along the way.
Columbus, OH to Washington, DC Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 12:40AM | Arrival Time 11:35AM | Duration 10h55 | Departure days Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $108 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 01:10AM | Arrival Time 10:45AM | Duration 9h35 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $92 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 02:10AM | Arrival Time 11:45AM | Duration 9h35 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Sun | Cheapest price $100 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 03:45AM | Arrival Time 03:45PM | Duration 12h00 | Departure days Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $102 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 04:40AM | Arrival Time 03:35PM | Duration 10h55 | Departure days Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $104 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 05:40AM | Arrival Time 04:30PM | Duration 10h50 | Departure days Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $72 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:45AM | Arrival Time 07:45PM | Duration 12h00 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $96 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:45AM | Arrival Time 08:45PM | Duration 12h00 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Sat | Cheapest price $119 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 02:00PM | Arrival Time 02:25AM | Duration 12h25 | Departure days Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $103 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 05:20PM | Arrival Time 06:45AM | Duration 13h25 | Departure days Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $103 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 07:00PM | Arrival Time 07:25AM | Duration 12h25 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $208 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 09:10PM | Arrival Time 06:45AM | Duration 9h35 | Departure days Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $103 |
Live departures
Columbus, OH to Washington, DC bus times
The table below shows live departures for Columbus, OH to Washington, DC buses for today, Monday, May 25. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:45 AM Columbus, OH | 12h00 | 8:45 PM Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Tuesday, May 26 | |||||
| 1:10 AM Columbus, OH | 9h35 | 10:45 AM Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 2:10 AM Columbus, OH | 9h35 | 11:45 AM Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Columbus, OH to Washington, DC by bus or flight
Compare 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.
Tue
May 26
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May 27
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Jun 01
Jun 01
Why should you book Columbus, OH to Washington, DC buses with Omio?
Greyhound as well as FlixBus offer buses services from Columbus, OH to Washington, DC.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Columbus, OH to Washington, DC.
Why book with Omio vs Greyhound?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Greyhound, but also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Columbus, OH to Washington, DC.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Greyhound with all available travel options, which are bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Columbus, OH to Washington, DC.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Columbus, OH to Washington, DC.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Columbus, OH to Washington, DC.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Columbus, OH to Washington, DC
USAUSA
Buses from Columbus, OH to Washington, DC run on average 4 times per day, taking around 11h 19m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $72 (€58) but you can travel from only $54 (€43) by flight.
The earliest bus runs at 00:40, the last at 23:55. The fastest bus covers the 326 miles (526 km) distance in 9h 35m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $54 (€43)
Distance 326 miles (526 km) |
Average bus duration 11h 19m |
Cheapest ticket price $72 (€58) |
Buses per day 4 |
Fastest bus 9h 35m |
First bus 12:40 AM |
Last bus 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 14 days |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $54 (€43)
Bus providers: Greyhound, FlixBus from Columbus, OH to Washington, DCYou can travel by bus between Columbus, OH to Washington, DC with Greyhound, FlixBus for as low as $54 (€43). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
FlixBus
About
FlixBus is one of Europe’s leading low-cost bus companies, founded in Germany and now offering long-distance services across Europe and the United States. In addition to its extensive daytime network, FlixBus also operates overnight buses on select European routes. Standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, power outlets to charge devices, extra legroom, luggage space, and onboard toilets, with snacks and drinks available for purchase. FlixBus offers a single Standard ticket type for all routes, which includes one carry-on bag and one checked bag per passenger. Additional fees apply for extra luggage and for reserving specific seats, such as Extra Seats, Table Seats, or Panorama Seats. This combination of affordability, comfort, and wide coverage makes FlixBus a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
12h 0m
Cheapest Price
$75 (€60)
FlixBus frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed for a fee; must be booked.
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed; guide dogs travel for free.
Greyhound
About
Greyhound Lines, Inc. is a prominent American intercity bus transportation provider, established in 1914. It operates the largest intercity bus network in the United States, also extending services to Canada and Mexico. Greyhound is known for offering affordable and reliable long-distance travel, connecting major cities and rural communities across North America. The company's buses are equipped with amenities such as free Wi-Fi, power outlets, and extra legroom to enhance passenger comfort. Greyhound is a subsidiary of Flix SE, which also owns FlixBus, and together they offer an extensive network of over 1,600 destinations.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
9h 35m
Cheapest Price
$72 (€58)
Greyhound frequency
4 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 25 lbs (11 kg) and one checked bag up to 50 lbs (23 kg).
Additional luggage
$15 per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket for a refund or exchange up to 24 hours before departure, for a cancellation fee applied.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed.
Complete guide to Washington
Things to do in Washington
Discover the best of Washington — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Washington trip today.
- Must visit
National Gallery of Art
Premier art museum with masterworks from the Middle Ages to modern times, plus a celebrated sculpture garden and strong temporary exhibitions.
- Must visit
National Air and Space Museum
Iconic Smithsonian museum covering aviation and space exploration, with historic aircraft and spacecraft that make it a top draw in the city.
- Must visit
National Mall
Washington’s signature civic landscape lined with museums and monuments, ideal for walking and the city’s top first-time visitor area.
- Must visit
Georgetown
Historic waterfront neighborhood known for cobblestone streets, rowhouses, shopping, and scenic walks along the canal and river.
- Must visit
Tidal Basin
Scenic walking area around the water framed by major memorials, especially famous during cherry blossom season.
Half-Smoke
Washington’s signature sausage, usually a coarse smoked pork-and-beef link served on a bun with chili, mustard, and onions. It is one of the city’s most iconic street foods.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Mumbo Sauce
A sweet, tangy, slightly spicy sauce closely associated with Washington carryout culture, commonly served with fried chicken and fries. It is a distinctive local condiment.
- Vegetarian
Jumbo Slice Pizza
An oversized late-night pizza slice popular in nightlife areas of Washington, especially Adams Morgan. It is a recognizable local fast-food tradition.
Old Ebbitt Grill
An established, upscale-casual saloon near the White House known for oysters, crab cakes, and other classic Washington and Mid-Atlantic dishes.
Rasika
Acclaimed Indian restaurant known for refined cooking and a polished dining room. A standout for one of Washington’s most celebrated restaurant experiences.
Le Diplomate
One of Washington’s best-known restaurants, offering classic French bistro fare in an elegant, energetic space that is popular with locals and visitors.
United States Dollar
Prices are high by U.S. standards, especially for hotels and dining in central areas, though casual food is still manageable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-18 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- USD 25-45 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 80+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- USD 4-7 for a coffee drink.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants; 20%+ for great service. Tip bartenders USD 1-2 per drink, taxis about 10-15%, and hotel staff a few dollars.
DC Metro and Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- USD 2.25
- Day pass
- USD 13.00
To the city center
L'Enfant Plaza, Washington, DC -> Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
- Distance
- 3 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- SmarTrip is the official fare system for Metrorail and Metrobus, and it can be used in the DC Metro and Bus app.
- Metrobus accepts contactless card payment at the farebox, but Metrorail requires SmarTrip on a phone, card, or wearable.
FAQs: Bus from Columbus, OH to Washington, DC
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Columbus, OH to Washington, DC 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 Washington, DC, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Columbus, OH to Washington, DC can start from as little as $72 (€58) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Columbus, OH to Washington, DC is $134 (€108) ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by bus from Columbus, OH to Washington, DC is 9h 35m to travel the 326 miles (526 km) long journey. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest bus from Columbus, OH to Washington, DC leaves at 12:40 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Columbus, OH to Washington, DC leaves at 11:55 PM.
There are 4 buses a day from Columbus, OH to Washington, DC which require at least one change with Greyhound, FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Columbus, OH to Washington, DC, you can count on Greyhound, FlixBus for the best way to get you to Washington, DC. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Columbus, OH and Washington, DC and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Washington, DC from Columbus, OH is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 9h 35m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Columbus, OH to Washington, DC is September.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Columbus, OH and Washington, DC including taking a bus and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Columbus, OH to Washington, DC:
- Greyhound
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Columbus, OH to Washington, DC for bus company Greyhound, FlixBus.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Washington, DC are:
- The National Mall, a historic and iconic open-area national park featuring monuments and museums
- The White House, the official residence and workplace of the President of the United States
- The United States Capitol, the home of the United States Congress and a symbol of the American people and government
- The Smithsonian Institution, a group of museums and research institutions offering diverse exhibits and educational programs
- The Lincoln Memorial, a monument honoring the 16th President of the United States, Abraham Lincoln, known for its impressive architecture and historical significance.
The best things to do in Washington, DC include:
- Discover the National Gallery of Art, featuring an extensive collection of European and American art from the Middle Ages to the present
- Stroll through Georgetown, a historic neighborhood known for its cobblestone streets, upscale shops, and vibrant dining scene
- Visit the Library of Congress, the largest library in the world, offering a vast collection of books, recordings, and exhibits
- Explore the vibrant Eastern Market, a historic public market offering fresh food, local arts, and crafts
- Enjoy a performance at the Kennedy Center, a premier venue for the performing arts, featuring theater, dance, and music.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Columbus, OH to Washington, DC depends on the bus companies:
- Greyhound
- You can cancel your ticket for a refund or exchange up to 24 hours before departure, for a cancellation fee applied.
- FlixBus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company Greyhound, FlixBus.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Columbus, OH to Washington, DC.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Columbus, OH to Washington, DC:
- Greyhound
- One carry-on bag up to 25 lbs (11 kg) and one checked bag up to 50 lbs (23 kg).
- FlixBus
- One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Columbus, OH to Washington, DC:
- Greyhound
- $15 per additional bag.
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Columbus, OH to Washington, DC. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Columbus, OH to Washington, DC with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Columbus, OH to Washington, DC with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Columbus, OH to Washington, DC with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Since neither Columbus, OH nor Washington, DC are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of United States and United States. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Columbus, OH to Washington, DC among Omio's users.
The currency used in the United States is the US Dollar (USD). For travelers, using cards is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially credit and debit cards, while cash is useful for small purchases or places that do not accept cards.
In Washington, DC, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like the National Mall and Metro stations. Common scams include overpriced taxi rides and unofficial tour operators. It's advisable to use licensed transportation services and stay aware of surroundings, particularly at night or in less busy neighborhoods.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Columbus, OH to Washington, DC
Columbus
Washington
The major bus station for departures in Columbus is Columbus, E Town St (Bus Station). Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Columbus, E Town St (Bus Station) for your trip from Columbus to Washington.
Columbus, E Town St (Bus Station)
information
Columbus, N Wilson Rd (Shell)
information
The major bus station for arrivals in Washington is Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station for your trip to Washington from Columbus.
Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station
Amenities at bus station
WifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Officeinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 05:00-23:00
Distance to city center
2 km
Car connection
Massachusetts Ave NEWifi
- Free Wi-Fi
Dining
- McDonald's (in the station)
- Shake Shack (in the station)
Taxis
- Available outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps
WC
- Available in the station.
Public transit options for Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station
- Bus: 96, 97, D6 Metro: Red Train: Amtrak, MARC, VRE
Washington, DuPont Circle (Connecticut Ave. NW / 20th St. NW)
information
Most popular bus connections from Columbus, OH
More options for your journey from Columbus, OH to Washington, DC
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Washington, DC and Columbus, OH
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