- Must visit
Detroit Institute of Arts
Major fine arts museum known for its encyclopedic collection and Diego Rivera’s Detroit Industry Murals.
Cheapest price
$65
Average price
$100
Fastest journey
11 h 50 m
Average duration
13 h 23 m
Buses per day
4
Distance
526 km
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Madison, WI to Detroit, MI is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Madison, WI to Detroit, MI will cost around $100 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $65.
It's difficult to get from Madison, WI to Detroit, MI without transferring at least once.
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Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Madison, WI to Detroit, MI among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $59. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 6h 51m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $59, and a flight costs an average of $475.
Distance: 326 miles (526 km)
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight |
|---|---|---|
$86 Average price Cheapest | $124 Average price | $543 Average price |
9h 0m Average total duration 8h 30m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 54m Average total duration 9h 24m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 51m Average total duration Fastest 6h 51m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
This is compared to other travel options from Madison, WI to Detroit, MI:
A bus is $38 (€31) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Madison, WI to Detroit, MI costing on average $124 (€101).
A bus is $457 (€374) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Madison, WI to Detroit, MI costing on average $543 (€445).
Other travel options to Detroit, MI take longer:
Bus takes on average 8h 30m.
Train takes on average 9h 24m.
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 06:45AM | Arrival Time 08:40PM | Duration 12h55 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $63 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:00AM | Arrival Time 08:40PM | Duration 12h40 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $63 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 01:45PM | Arrival Time 06:50AM | Duration 16h05 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $59 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 04:00PM | Arrival Time 07:35AM | Duration 14h35 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $182 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 06:00PM | Arrival Time 06:50AM | Duration 11h50 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $59 |
The table below shows live departures for Madison, WI to Detroit, MI buses for today, Friday, June 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
· | 6:00 PM Madison, North Lake Street (UW- Madison), WI | 11h50 | 6:50 AM Detroit, Greyhound Terminal | 1 transfer | |
| Saturday, June 20 | |||||
FlixBus · FlixBus | 6:45 AM Madison, North Lake Street (UW- Madison), WI | 12h55 | 8:40 PM Detroit, Greyhound Terminal | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus · FlixBus | 7:00 AM Madison, Collins Ct (Dutch Mill Park and Ride) | 12h40 | 8:40 PM Detroit, Greyhound Terminal | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus+![]() | 1:45 PM Madison, Collins Ct (Dutch Mill Park and Ride) | 16h05 | 6:50 AM Detroit, Greyhound Terminal | 1 transfer | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare bus, train, 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 Madison, WI to Detroit, MI run on average 7 times per day, taking around 8h 30m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $59 (€48) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 05:00, the last at 23:55. The fastest bus covers the 326 miles (526 km) distance in 11h 5m.
Distance 326 miles (526 km) |
Average bus duration 8h 30m |
Cheapest ticket price $59 (€48) |
Buses per day 7 |
Fastest bus 11h 5m |
First bus 5:00 AM |
Last bus 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Discover the best of Detroit — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Detroit trip today.
Major fine arts museum known for its encyclopedic collection and Diego Rivera’s Detroit Industry Murals.
Large museum in the Detroit area showcasing transportation, industry, design, and iconic American artifacts.
Historic Hitsville U.S.A. museum preserving the story of Motown Records and its legendary artists.
Popular waterfront promenade with skyline views, public art, and easy walking between downtown and riverfront parks.
Island park with gardens, trails, water views, and several cultural attractions, popular with locals and visitors.
Historic market district famous for murals, weekend markets, and one of Detroit’s strongest local atmospheres.
A rectangular, deep-pan pizza with a thick yet airy crust, caramelized cheese edges, and sauce layered on top. It is one of Detroit’s most iconic local foods.
A hot dog in a bun topped with chili, mustard, and chopped onions. The Detroit coney is a classic local fast-food staple tied to the city’s Greek-American diner tradition.
A traditional Detroit float made with Vernors ginger ale and vanilla ice cream. Despite the name, it is a distinctly Detroit dessert drink.
A long-running Hamtramck favorite for hearty Polish dishes in a warm, traditional basement setting near Detroit.
A respected modern Detroit restaurant known for seasonal small plates, strong cocktails, and an upscale but relaxed atmosphere.
A polished downtown dining room in the Detroit Foundation Hotel, known for contemporary American cooking and stylish surroundings.
Moderate for U.S. city travel. Hotels vary widely, while casual dining, coffee, and local transport are usually manageable for most visitors.
Tip 18-20% in restaurants before tax. Bartenders: USD 1-2 per drink. Taxis/rideshares: 10-15%. Hotel staff: USD 1-5. Not usually expected for counter service, but appreciated.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Madison, WI to Detroit, MI 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 Detroit, MI, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

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