- Must visit
The Children's Museum of Indianapolis
The world's largest children's museum, known for large-scale interactive exhibits spanning science, culture, dinosaurs, and space. A top family attraction in the city.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Columbus, OH to Indianapolis, IN
Showing times and prices for May 19
Cheapest price
$41
Average price
$44
Fastest journey
3 h 30 m
Average duration
3 h 47 m
Buses per day
3
Distance
270 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Columbus, OH to Indianapolis, IN 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 Indianapolis, IN will cost around $44 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $41.
Fast buses
Of the 3 buses that leave Columbus, OH for Indianapolis, IN on Tue, May 19, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Tue, May 19 the direct buses cover the 270 km distance in an average of 3 h 47 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 3 h 30 m .
On Tue, May 19 the slowest buses will take 4 h 20 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.
3:50 AM4h20Columbus, OH8:10 AMIndianapolis, IN$411One-way0 transfers
3:30 AM3h30Columbus, OH7:00 AMIndianapolis, IN$451One-way0 transfers- 4:30 AM3h30Columbus, OH8:00 AMIndianapolis, IN$461One-way0 transfers
- 4:30 AM3h30Columbus, OH8:00 AMIndianapolis, IN$461One-way0 transfers
- 3:30 AM3h30Columbus, OH7:00 AMIndianapolis, IN$451One-way0 transfers
- 3:50 AM4h20Columbus, OH8:10 AMIndianapolis, IN$411One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and flight for Columbus, OH to Indianapolis, IN
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Columbus, OH to Indianapolis, IN among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $33. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 3h 56m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $33, and a flight costs an average of $137.
Distance: 167 miles (270 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$44 Average price Cheapest | $388 Average price | $36 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 26m Average total duration Fastest 3h 56m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 46m Average total duration 5h 46m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 2h 46m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Columbus, OH to Indianapolis, IN is a bus with an average price of $44 (€35).
This is compared to other travel options from Columbus, OH to Indianapolis, IN:
A bus is $344 (€278) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Columbus, OH to Indianapolis, IN costing on average $388 (€313).
The fastest way to travel from Columbus, OH to Indianapolis, IN is by bus with an average journey time of 3h 56m.
Other travel options to Indianapolis, IN take longer:
Flight takes on average 5h 46m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Columbus, OH and Indianapolis, IN including taking a bus and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Columbus, OH to Indianapolis, IN among Omio's users.
Take the bus. On this route, it's both cheaper and quicker than driving.
You'll arrive about -2h -10m sooner (3h 56m by bus vs 2h 46m by car) and save roughly $-8.00 (€-6.46) compared to fuel and tolls ($44 (€35) vs $36 (€29)). 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 Greyhound, FlixBus.
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 Indianapolis, IN Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 03:30AM | Arrival Time 07:00AM | Duration 3h30 | Departure days Tue, Thu, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $45 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 03:50AM | Arrival Time 08:10AM | Duration 4h20 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $33 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 04:30AM | Arrival Time 08:00AM | Duration 3h30 | Departure days Tue, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $41 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 04:40AM | Arrival Time 09:20AM | Duration 4h40 | Departure days Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $45 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 04:50AM | Arrival Time 09:10AM | Duration 4h20 | Departure days Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $37 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:45AM | Arrival Time 01:15PM | Duration 3h30 | Departure days Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $51 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 09:50AM | Arrival Time 02:45PM | Duration 4h55 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $38 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:00AM | Arrival Time 04:00PM | Duration 5h00 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $56 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 02:00PM | Arrival Time 06:10PM | Duration 4h10 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $75 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 02:30PM | Arrival Time 06:40PM | Duration 4h10 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $70 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 06:30PM | Arrival Time 10:40PM | Duration 4h10 | Departure days Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $44 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 07:30PM | Arrival Time 11:40PM | Duration 4h10 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $35 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:30PM | Arrival Time 03:00AM | Duration 3h30 | Departure days Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $45 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 11:50PM | Arrival Time 04:10AM | Duration 4h20 | Departure days Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $45 |
Live departures
Columbus, OH to Indianapolis, IN bus times
The table below shows live departures for Columbus, OH to Indianapolis, IN buses for today, Sunday, May 17. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2:30 PM Columbus, E Mound St (Akili Christian High School), OH | 4h10 | 6:40 PM Indianapolis, Illinois St (Greyhound Bus Station) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| FlixBus | 11:30 PM Columbus, E Town St (Bus Station), OH | 3h30 | 3:00 AM Indianapolis, E Washington St / N Delaware St (City/County Building), IN | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Monday, May 18 | |||||
| 3:30 AM Columbus, OH | 3h30 | 7:00 AM Indianapolis, IN | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Sunday, May 17 | |||||
| 11:50 PM Columbus, E Mound St (Akili Christian High School), OH | 4h20 | 4:10 AM Indianapolis, Illinois St (Greyhound Bus Station) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Monday, May 18 | |||||
| 3:50 AM Columbus, OH | 4h20 | 8:10 AM Indianapolis, IN | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 4:30 AM Columbus, OH | 3h30 | 8:00 AM Indianapolis, IN | 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 Indianapolis, IN 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.
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May 24
Why should you book Columbus, OH to Indianapolis, IN buses with Omio?
Greyhound as well as FlixBus or Barons Bus offer buses services from Columbus, OH to Indianapolis, IN.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Columbus, OH to Indianapolis, IN.
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 or Barons Bus to find the best option for your trip from Columbus, OH to Indianapolis, IN.
- 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 Indianapolis, IN.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus or Barons Bus to find the best option for your trip from Columbus, OH to Indianapolis, IN.
- 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 Indianapolis, IN.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Columbus, OH to Indianapolis, IN
USAUSA
Buses from Columbus, OH to Indianapolis, IN run on average 5 times per day, taking around 3h 56m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $33 (€27) if you book in advance.
There are 5 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:15, the last at 23:55. The fastest bus covers the 167 miles (270 km) distance in 3h 30m.
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
Distance 167 miles (270 km) |
Average bus duration 3h 56m |
Cheapest ticket price $33 (€27) |
Buses per day 5 |
Direct buses 5 |
Fastest bus 3h 30m |
First bus 12:15 AM |
Last bus 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Wed |
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
Bus providers: Greyhound, FlixBus, Barons Bus from Columbus, OH to Indianapolis, INYou can travel by bus between Columbus, OH to Indianapolis, IN with Greyhound, FlixBus, Barons Bus for as low as $33 (€27). 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
3h 30m
Cheapest Price
$41 (€33)
FlixBus frequency
2 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
4h 10m
Cheapest Price
$33 (€27)
Greyhound frequency
3 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.
Barons Bus
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 0m
Cheapest Price
$88 (€71)
Barons Bus frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to Indianapolis
Things to do in Indianapolis
Discover the best of Indianapolis — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Indianapolis trip today.
- Must visit
Newfields: Indianapolis Museum of Art
A major art museum with broad collections, rotating exhibitions, and landscaped grounds. One of Indianapolis's most important cultural institutions.
- Recommended
Eiteljorg Museum
Celebrated museum of Native American and Western art, with strong permanent collections and thoughtful interpretation. Distinctive and highly regarded downtown stop.
- Must visit
Monument Circle
Indianapolis's signature central circle and public gathering place, surrounded by historic buildings and anchored by the Soldiers and Sailors Monument.
- Must visit
Massachusetts Avenue
Popular cultural corridor lined with theaters, public art, nightlife, and independent shops. One of the city's trendiest walking areas.
- Must visit
Canal Walk
Scenic downtown promenade along the Central Canal, popular for walking, photos, and skyline views. Widely featured in visitor guides and social media.
Pork Tenderloin Sandwich
A Hoosier classic: a breaded and fried pork cutlet served on a bun, often comically larger than the bread. It is one of Central Indiana’s most iconic comfort foods.
- Vegetarian
Sugar Cream Pie
Indiana’s unofficial state pie, made with a rich custard-like filling of cream, sugar, and vanilla, often with a caramelized top. It is a long-standing regional dessert tradition.
- Gluten-free
St. Elmo Shrimp Cocktail
Indianapolis is famous for this fiery shrimp cocktail served with an exceptionally hot horseradish sauce, popularized by the historic St. Elmo Steak House.
Bluebeard
Well-regarded modern American restaurant in Fletcher Place with a creative seasonal menu, strong local following, and stylish yet relaxed setting.
St. Elmo Steak House
Historic downtown steakhouse best known for its shrimp cocktail, steaks, and classic old-school atmosphere. One of Indianapolis’s most famous dining institutions.
Harry & Izzy's
Established upscale-casual spot related to St. Elmo, known for steaks, seafood, and the famous shrimp cocktail in a polished but approachable atmosphere.
United States Dollar
Generally moderate by U.S. standards. Hotels vary by events, while casual dining, coffee, and local transport are fairly affordable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-15 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- USD 20-40 per person at a casual sit-down restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- USD 3-6 for drip coffee or a latte.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, 15-20% for taxis and rideshares, USD 1-2 per bag for hotel staff, and USD 1-2 per drink at bars. Tipping is expected for table service.
FAQs: Bus from Columbus, OH to Indianapolis, IN
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Columbus, OH to Indianapolis, IN 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 Indianapolis, IN, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Columbus, OH to Indianapolis, IN can start from as little as $33 (€27) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Columbus, OH to Indianapolis, IN is $44 (€35) ; 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 Indianapolis, IN is 3h 30m to travel the 167 miles (270 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 Indianapolis, IN leaves at 12:15 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Columbus, OH to Indianapolis, IN leaves at 11:55 PM.
Yes, there are 5 direct buses a day from Columbus, OH to Indianapolis, IN with Greyhound, FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Columbus, OH to Indianapolis, IN, you can count on Greyhound, FlixBus, Barons Bus for the best way to get you to Indianapolis, IN. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Columbus, OH and Indianapolis, IN and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Indianapolis, IN from Columbus, OH is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 3h 30m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Columbus, OH to Indianapolis, IN is September.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Columbus, OH and Indianapolis, IN including taking a bus and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Columbus, OH to Indianapolis, IN:
- 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 Indianapolis, IN for bus company Greyhound, FlixBus.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Indianapolis, IN are:
- Indianapolis Motor Speedway, a historic racing circuit known for hosting the Indianapolis 500
- The Children's Museum of Indianapolis, the world's largest children's museum featuring interactive exhibits
- Indianapolis Zoo, a popular attraction with diverse animal exhibits and a botanical garden
- Indiana State Museum, showcasing the state's history, art, and science through various exhibits
- White River State Park, a sprawling urban park offering trails, gardens, and cultural attractions.
The best things to do in Indianapolis, IN include:
- Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields, a vast art museum with extensive collections and beautiful gardens
- Attend a race at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, home of the iconic Indy 500
- Explore the interactive exhibits and educational programs at The Children's Museum of Indianapolis
- Visit the dolphin pavilion and animal habitats at the Indianapolis Zoo
- Enjoy a walk along the canal and cultural attractions at White River State Park.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Columbus, OH to Indianapolis, IN 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 Indianapolis, IN.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Columbus, OH to Indianapolis, IN:
- 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 Indianapolis, IN:
- 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 Indianapolis, IN. 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 Indianapolis, IN with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Columbus, OH to Indianapolis, IN with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Columbus, OH to Indianapolis, IN with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Since neither Columbus, OH nor Indianapolis, IN 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 Indianapolis, IN 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 Indianapolis, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and vehicle break-ins, especially in busy areas like downtown and near major event venues. Common scams include overcharging by unofficial taxi or rideshare drivers and distraction tactics used to steal belongings. It's advised to use authorized transportation services, avoid poorly lit or unfamiliar areas at night, and keep valuables secure.
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 Indianapolis, IN
Columbus
Indianapolis
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 Indianapolis.
Columbus, E Town St (Bus Station)
information
Columbus, N Wilson Rd (Shell)
information
The major bus station for arrivals in Indianapolis is Indianapolis, Illinois St (Greyhound Bus Station). Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Indianapolis, Illinois St (Greyhound Bus Station) for your trip to Indianapolis from Columbus.
Indianapolis, Illinois St (Greyhound Bus Station)
information
Indianapolis, E Washington St / N Delaware St (City/County Building)
information
Most popular bus connections from Columbus, OH
More options for your journey from Columbus, OH to Indianapolis, IN
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Indianapolis, IN and Columbus, OH
Most popular bus connections to Indianapolis, IN
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