- Must visit
Columbia Museum of Art
Major art museum with American, European, and Asian works plus rotating exhibitions in a central downtown setting.
Cheapest price on Sep 20
$139
Average ticket price on Sep 20
$139
Fastest journey on Sep 20
9 h 30 m
Average journey duration on Sep 20
9 h 30 m
Buses on Sep 20
1
Distance
651 km
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.
On Sun, Sep 20, we found 1 buses from Washington, DC to Columbia, SC, including 1 direct services.
On Sun, Sep 20 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, Sep 20 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.


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 train, with an average ticket price of $176 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 6h 6m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $176, while a flight costs an average of $509.
Distance: 404 miles (651 km)
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight |
|---|---|---|
$176 Average price Cheapest | $509 Average price | |
11h 7m Average total duration 10h 37m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 6m Average total duration Fastest 4h 6m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
This is compared to other travel options from Washington, DC to Columbia, SC:
A train is $333 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Washington, DC to Columbia, SC costing on average $509.
Other travel options to Columbia, SC take longer:
Train takes on average 10h 37m.
| 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 |
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.
Take a bus from Washington, DC to Columbia, SC and enjoy the approximately 404 miles (651 km) long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.
The earliest bus runs at 02:45, the last at 07:50.
Distance 404 miles (651 km) |
First bus 2:45 AM |
Last bus 7:50 AM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Discover the best of Columbia, SC — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Columbia, SC trip today.
Major art museum with American, European, and Asian works plus rotating exhibitions in a central downtown setting.
State museum covering art, history, science, and technology with immersive galleries and family-friendly exhibits.
Military history museum with artifacts, uniforms, and exhibits on South Carolina service members across multiple conflicts.
Popular riverside green space with trails, historic canal views, and shaded walks near downtown and the river confluence.
Revived warehouse district with galleries, public art, shops, and event spaces that showcase Columbia's creative scene.
Lively university district with boutiques, murals, nightlife, and walkable blocks popular with locals and students.
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.

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