- Must visit
Columbia Museum Of Art
The city’s leading art museum, known for European, American, Asian, and contemporary works, plus rotating exhibitions and public programs in the downtown arts district.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest buses from Washington, DC to Columbia, SC
Showing times and prices for Jun 21
Cheapest price
$139
Average price
$139
Fastest journey
9 h 30 m
Average duration
9 h 30 m
Buses per day
1
Distance
651 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Washington, DC to Columbia, SC is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Washington, DC to Columbia, SC will cost around $139 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $139.
Fast buses
Of the 1 buses that leave Washington, DC for Columbia, SC on Sun, Jun 21, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sun, Jun 21 the direct buses cover the 651 km distance in an average of 9 h 30 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 9 h 30 m .
On Sun, Jun 21 the slowest buses will take 9 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.
7:40 AM9h30Washington, DC5:10 PMColumbia, SC$1391One-way0 transfers
- 7:40 AM9h30Washington, DC5:10 PMColumbia, SC$1391One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Washington, DC to Columbia, SC
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Washington, DC to Columbia, SC among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $75. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 35m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $75, and a flight costs an average of $203.
Distance: 404 miles (651 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight |
|---|---|---|
$108 Average price Cheapest | $151 Average price | $393 Average price |
12h 44m Average total duration 12h 14m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 11h 7m Average total duration 10h 37m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 35m Average total duration Fastest 3h 35m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Washington, DC to Columbia, SC is a bus with an average price of $108 (€89).
This is compared to other travel options from Washington, DC to Columbia, SC:
A bus is $43 (€35) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Washington, DC to Columbia, SC costing on average $151 (€124).
A bus is $285 (€233) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Washington, DC to Columbia, SC costing on average $393 (€322).
The fastest way to travel from Washington, DC to Columbia, SC is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 35m.
Other travel options to Columbia, SC take longer:
Train takes on average 10h 37m.
Bus takes on average 12h 14m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Washington, DC and Columbia, SC including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Washington, DC to Columbia, SC among Omio's users.
Washington, DC to Columbia, SC Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 02:45AM | Arrival Time 04:35PM | Duration 13h50 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $79 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 05:35AM | Arrival Time 04:35PM | Duration 11h00 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $116 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 07:40AM | Arrival Time 05:10PM | Duration 9h30 | Departure days Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $125 |
Live departures
Washington, DC to Columbia, SC bus times
The table below shows live departures for Washington, DC to Columbia, SC buses for tomorrow, Sunday, June 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:40 AM Washington, DC | 9h30 | 5:10 PM Columbia, SC | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Washington, DC to Columbia, SC by train, bus, or flight
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.
Sun
Jun 21
Jun 21
Mon
Jun 22
Jun 22
Tue
Jun 23
Jun 23
Wed
Jun 24
Jun 24
Thu
Jun 25
Jun 25
Fri
Jun 26
Jun 26
Sat
Jun 27
Jun 27
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Washington, DC to Columbia, SC
USAUSA
Buses from Washington, DC to Columbia, SC run on average 3 times per day, taking around 12h 14m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $75 (€62) but you can travel from only $74 (€61) by train.
The earliest bus runs at 02:45, the last at 07:40. The fastest bus covers the 404 miles (651 km) distance in 9h 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from $74 (€61)
Distance 404 miles (651 km) |
Average bus duration 12h 14m |
Cheapest ticket price $75 (€62) |
Buses per day 3 |
Fastest bus 9h 30m |
First bus 2:45 AM |
Last bus 7:40 AM |
Cheapest Month Apr |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Sat |
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
Train from $74 (€61)
Bus providers: Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority from Washington, DC to Columbia, SCYou can travel by bus between Washington, DC to Columbia, SC with Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority for as low as $74 (€61). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
11h 23m
Cheapest Price
$121 (€99)
Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to Columbia
Things to do in Columbia
Discover the best of Columbia — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Columbia trip today.
- Must visit
South Carolina State Museum
South Carolina’s largest museum, covering art, history, natural history, science, and technology in a large converted mill on the Congaree riverfront.
- Recommended
McKissick Museum
A university museum focusing on Southern culture, folk traditions, and regional history through compact but thoughtful exhibitions on the University of South Carolina campus.
- Must visit
Main Street District
Columbia’s most active downtown corridor, lined with shops, public art, event spaces, and restored buildings. A top area for walking and urban atmosphere.
- Must visit
Riverfront Park
A scenic riverside park with paved walking paths, canal views, industrial heritage features, and some of the city’s most photogenic outdoor scenery.
- Must visit
University Of South Carolina Horseshoe
The historic heart of the university campus, featuring mature trees, brick paths, and some of Columbia’s most graceful academic architecture.
- Gluten-free
South Carolina Barbecue
Slow-smoked pork, often chopped or pulled, traditionally served with the state’s distinctive mustard-based barbecue sauce known as Carolina Gold.
- Gluten-free
Shrimp And Grits
A Lowcountry classic of sautéed shrimp served over creamy grits, reflecting coastal South Carolina cooking and regional seafood traditions.
- Gluten-free
Chicken Bog
A traditional South Carolina one-pot dish of rice, chicken, sausage, and spices, especially associated with central and coastal parts of the state.
Halls Chophouse Columbia
An upscale steakhouse popular for prime steaks, seafood, and Southern hospitality in an elegant dining room.
Motor Supply Company Bistro
A long-running downtown restaurant known for seasonal New American cuisine, polished service, and a lively but refined atmosphere.
Mr. Friendly's New Southern Cafe
An established neighborhood restaurant serving creative Southern fare with a relaxed, intimate atmosphere.
United States Dollar
Costs are moderate by U.S. standards. Casual dining is affordable, while hotels and upscale dining vary by area and season.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-15 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- USD 18-35 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 50+ per person before drinks and tip.
- Coffee
- USD 3-6 for drip coffee or a latte.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at sit-down restaurants before tax. Bars: USD 1-2 per drink. Taxis/rideshares: 10-15% or round up. Hotel housekeeping: USD 2-5 per night. No tip needed for fast food.
FAQs: Bus from Washington, DC to Columbia, SC
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Washington, DC to Columbia, SC 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 Columbia, SC, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Washington, DC to Columbia, SC can start from as little as $75 (€62) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Washington, DC to Columbia, SC is $108 (€89) ; 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 Washington, DC to Columbia, SC is 9h 30m to travel the 404 miles (651 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 Washington, DC to Columbia, SC leaves at 2:45 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Washington, DC to Columbia, SC leaves at 7:40 AM.
There are 3 buses a day from Washington, DC to Columbia, SC which require at least one change with Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Washington, DC to Columbia, SC, you can count on Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority for the best way to get you to Columbia, SC. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Washington, DC and Columbia, SC and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Columbia, SC from Washington, DC is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 9h 30m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Washington, DC to Columbia, SC is April.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Washington, DC and Columbia, SC including taking a train, bus, and flight.
No, the bus from Washington, DC to Columbia, SC has no accessibility options.
No, there are no bathrooms on board the bus from Washington, DC to Columbia, SC.
No, bikes are not allowed on board the bus from Washington, DC to Columbia, SC.
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.
No, there is no food available to purchase on board the bus from Washington, DC to Columbia, SC.
No, luggage for the bus from Washington, DC to Columbia, SC needs to be booked in addition.
No, there are no additional luggage options for the bus from Washington, DC to Columbia, SC.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Washington, DC to Columbia, SC.
No, there are no USB plugs on board the bus from Washington, DC to Columbia, SC.
No, there is no WiFi on board the bus from Washington, DC to Columbia, SC.
Since neither Washington, DC nor Columbia, SC 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 train as it is the most popular way to get from Washington, DC to Columbia, SC 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 Columbia, SC, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and vehicle break-ins, especially in crowded or tourist-heavy areas. Common scams include overcharging by unofficial taxi or rideshare drivers and fraudulent ticket sales for local events. It's advisable to use licensed transportation services and avoid displaying valuables openly to reduce risk.
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 Washington, DC to Columbia, SC
Washington
Columbia
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
More options for your journey from Washington, DC to Columbia, SC
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Columbia, SC and Washington, DC
Most popular bus connections to Columbia, SC
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
