- Must visit
National Air and Space Museum
This world-class museum presents aviation and space history through iconic aircraft, spacecraft, and hands-on science exhibits.
Cheapest price on Sep 19
$91
Average ticket price on Sep 19
$98
Fastest journey on Sep 19
20 h 50 m
Average journey duration on Sep 19
1 d 1 h 13 m
Buses on Sep 19
7
Distance
1136 km
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Madison, WI 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 Madison, WI to Washington, DC will cost around $98 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $91.
It's difficult to get from Madison, WI to Washington, DC without transferring at least once.
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· · · Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Madison, WI to Washington, DC among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $142 For those with little time, consider booking a bus, which has an average total journey time of 24h 41m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $142, while a bus costs an average of $142.
Distance: 705 miles (1136 km)
Most popular Bus | Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$142 Average price Cheapest | $172 Average price (fuel + tolls) | |
24h 41m Average total duration Fastest 24h 11m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 12h 54m Average total duration (door-to-door) | |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Tickets start at around $142 compared to roughly $172 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $30. The journey takes 24h 11m versus 12h 54m 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 FlixBus | Departure Time 06:45AM | Arrival Time 06:45AM | Duration 23h00 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $85 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:00AM | Arrival Time 06:45AM | Duration 22h45 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $85 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 01:25PM | Arrival Time 01:40AM | Duration 35h15 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $87 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 01:25PM | Arrival Time 11:35AM | Duration 21h10 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $83 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 01:45PM | Arrival Time 11:35AM | Duration 20h50 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $85 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 01:45PM | Arrival Time 01:40AM | Duration 34h55 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $87 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 06:00PM | Arrival Time 12:45AM | Duration 29h45 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $84 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 07:00PM | Arrival Time 12:50AM | Duration 28h50 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $90 |
The table below shows live departures for Madison, WI to Washington, DC buses for today, Friday, September 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
FlixBus · FlixBus+![]() | 6:45 AM Madison, North Lake Street (UW- Madison), WI | 27h45 | 11:30 AM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 2 transfers | |
FlixBus · FlixBus+![]() | 7:00 AM Madison, Collins Ct (Dutch Mill Park and Ride) | 27h30 | 11:30 AM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 2 transfers | |
FlixBus+![]() | 1:25 PM Madison, North Lake Street (UW- Madison), WI | 21h10 | 11:35 AM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus | 1:25 PM Madison, North Lake Street (UW- Madison), WI | 35h10 | 1:35 AM Washington, DuPont Circle (Connecticut Ave. NW / 20th St. NW) | 2 transfers | |
FlixBus+![]() | 1:45 PM Madison, Collins Ct (Dutch Mill Park and Ride) | 20h50 | 11:35 AM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus | 1:45 PM Madison, Collins Ct (Dutch Mill Park and Ride) | 34h50 | 1:35 AM Washington, DuPont Circle (Connecticut Ave. NW / 20th St. NW) | 2 transfers | |
· · · | 7:00 PM Madison, North Lake Street (UW- Madison), WI | 28h50 | 12:50 AM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 3 transfers | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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 Madison, WI to Washington, DC run on average 7 times per day, taking around 24h 11m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $87 if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 05:00, the last at 23:30. The fastest bus covers the 705 miles (1136 km) distance in 19h 55m.
Distance 705 miles (1136 km) |
Average bus duration 24h 11m |
Cheapest ticket price $87 |
Buses per day 7 |
Fastest bus 19h 55m |
First bus 5:00 AM |
Last bus 11:30 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 28 days |
Discover the best of Washington, DC — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Washington, DC trip today.
This world-class museum presents aviation and space history through iconic aircraft, spacecraft, and hands-on science exhibits.
Housed in a Beaux-Arts building, this museum explores natural wonders with dinosaurs, gems, fossils, and global biodiversity.
A landmark museum documenting African American history and culture through powerful exhibitions, artifacts, and storytelling.
The National Mall is Washington's grand civic promenade, lined with museums, memorials, and classic views ideal for first-time visitors.
Georgetown charms with historic streets, rowhouses, waterfront paths, and independent shops that make it one of the city's best walking areas.
The Tidal Basin loop offers famous cherry blossoms, water views, and easy access to several of Washington's most iconic memorials.
Half-smoke sausage, usually smoked pork and beef, served on a bun with chili, mustard, and onions. It is DC's signature street food, strongly tied to Ben's Chili Bowl.
Jumbo slice is an oversized late-night pizza slice popular in Adams Morgan. It is a recognizable DC nightlife food known for its huge foldable portions.
Mumbo sauce is a sweet tangy red sauce commonly served with fried chicken and wings at DC carryouts. It is a beloved local condiment with roots in Black DC food culture.
Acclaimed fine-dining restaurant focused on Mid-Atlantic ingredients and refined tasting menus in an elegant, contemporary dining room.
Polished seafood institution at the municipal fish market, best known for regional oysters, crab cakes, and classic Chesapeake flavors.
Historic casual landmark famous for half-smokes, chili, and a classic diner feel. A must for trying DC's best-known street food tradition.
DC is pricier than many US cities. Hotels and dining run high in central areas, but Metro and many free museums help balance daily travel costs.
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, more for great service. Taxis usually 10-15%. Cafes: round up or add $1-2.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Madison, WI 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.

Most Madison, WI to Washington, DC buses use the Madison, North Lake Street (UW- Madison) to Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station station pair, with some services arriving at Washington, DuPont Circle (Connecticut Ave. NW / 20th St. NW). Use this guide to compare Madison, WI and Washington, DC bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Madison, North Lake Street (UW- Madison) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi is available at Madison, North Lake Street (UW- Madison). ATMs are available at Madison, North Lake Street (UW- Madison).
Ticket office support is available at Madison, North Lake Street (UW- Madison).
Available at Madison, North Lake Street (UW- Madison): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Madison, North Lake Street (UW- Madison): Bus station is accessible for wheelchairs.
Madison, Collins Ct (Dutch Mill Park and Ride) is 8 km from Madison city centre. Public transport options include:
Madison, Collins Ct (Dutch Mill Park and Ride) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi is available at Madison, Collins Ct (Dutch Mill Park and Ride). ATMs are available at Madison, Collins Ct (Dutch Mill Park and Ride).
Ticket office support is available at Madison, Collins Ct (Dutch Mill Park and Ride).
Available at Madison, Collins Ct (Dutch Mill Park and Ride): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Madison, Collins Ct (Dutch Mill Park and Ride): Accessible for individuals with disabilities.
Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station is 2 km from Washington city centre. Public transport options include:
Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: McDonald's (in the station), Shake Shack (in the station)
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the main entrance and food court.
Ticket office support is available at Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station.
Available at Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station: Elevators, ramps.
Washington, DuPont Circle (Connecticut Ave. NW / 20th St. NW) is 1 km from Washington city centre. Public transport options include:
Washington, DuPont Circle (Connecticut Ave. NW / 20th St. NW) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi is available at Washington, DuPont Circle (Connecticut Ave. NW / 20th St. NW). ATMs are available at Washington, DuPont Circle (Connecticut Ave. NW / 20th St. NW).
Ticket office support is available at Washington, DuPont Circle (Connecticut Ave. NW / 20th St. NW).
Available at Washington, DuPont Circle (Connecticut Ave. NW / 20th St. NW): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Washington, DuPont Circle (Connecticut Ave. NW / 20th St. NW): Sidewalks and crosswalks are wheelchair accessible.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need