- Must visit
COSI
A major science museum with hands-on exhibits, a planetarium, and family-friendly programs that make science engaging for all ages.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Washington, DC to Columbus, OH
Showing times and prices for Jul 22
Cheapest price
$116
Average price
$128
Fastest journey
10 h
Average duration
12 h 11 m
Buses per day
6
Distance
526 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Washington, DC to Columbus, OH 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 Columbus, OH will cost around $128 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $116.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Washington, DC to Columbus, OH without transferring at least once.
· · 10:55 AM12h50Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station11:45 PMColumbus, E Mound St (Akili Christian High School), OH$1161One-way2 transfers
FlixBus++FlixBus6:30 PM16h10Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station10:40 AMColumbus, E Town St (Bus Station), OH$1181One-way2 transfers- · 1:50 AM12h25Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station2:15 PMColumbus, E Mound St (Akili Christian High School), OH$1211One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus · FlixBus1:20 PM10h00Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station11:20 PMColumbus, E Town St (Bus Station), OH$1331One-way1 transfer
- +FlixBus+11:30 PM14h45Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station2:15 PMColumbus, E Mound St (Akili Christian High School), OH$1341One-way2 transfers
- FlixBus · FlixBus1:20 PM10h00Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station11:20 PMColumbus, E Town St (Bus Station), OH$1331One-way1 transfer
- · 5:50 PM10h55Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station4:45 AMColumbus, E Mound St (Akili Christian High School), OH$1481One-way1 transfer
- · 1:50 AM12h25Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station2:15 PMColumbus, E Mound St (Akili Christian High School), OH$1211One-way1 transfer
- · · 10:55 AM12h50Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station11:45 PMColumbus, E Mound St (Akili Christian High School), OH$1161One-way2 transfers
- +FlixBus+11:30 PM14h45Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station2:15 PMColumbus, E Mound St (Akili Christian High School), OH$1341One-way2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and flight for Washington, DC to Columbus, OH
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Washington, DC to Columbus, OH among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $61. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 38m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $61, and a flight costs an average of $87.
Distance: 326 miles (526 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$111 Average price Cheapest | $239 Average price | $74 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
10h 16m Average total duration 9h 46m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 38m Average total duration Fastest 1h 38m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 6h 21m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Washington, DC to Columbus, OH is a bus with an average price of $111 (€111).
This is compared to other travel options from Washington, DC to Columbus, OH:
A bus is $128 (€128) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Washington, DC to Columbus, OH costing on average $239 (€239).
The fastest way to travel from Washington, DC to Columbus, OH is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 38m.
Other travel options to Columbus, OH take longer:
Bus takes on average 9h 46m.
Train takes on average 15h 33m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Washington, DC and Columbus, OH including taking a bus and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Washington, DC to Columbus, OH among Omio's users.
Take the bus. On this route, it's both cheaper and quicker than driving.
You'll arrive about {timeSavings} sooner ({durationInMinutes} by bus vs {drivingDurationInMinutes} by car) and save roughly {savingsAmount} compared to fuel and tolls ({cheapestPrice} vs {drivingPriceInCents}). 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 {directProviders}.
Driving is still worth considering if you're travelling with bulky luggage, need flexibility on departure times, or plan to stop along the way.
Washington, DC to Columbus, OH Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 01:50AM | Arrival Time 02:15PM | Duration 12h25 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $93 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 10:55AM | Arrival Time 11:45PM | Duration 12h50 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $80 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 01:20PM | Arrival Time 11:20PM | Duration 10h00 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $78 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 05:50PM | Arrival Time 04:45AM | Duration 10h55 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $88 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 06:30PM | Arrival Time 10:40AM | Duration 16h10 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $81 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 11:30PM | Arrival Time 02:15PM | Duration 14h45 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $92 |
Live departures
Washington, DC to Columbus, OH bus times
The table below shows live departures for Washington, DC to Columbus, OH buses for today, Tuesday, July 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| · | 5:50 PM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 10h55 | 4:45 AM Columbus, E Mound St (Akili Christian High School), OH | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus++FlixBus | 6:30 PM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 16h10 | 10:40 AM Columbus, E Town St (Bus Station), OH | 2 transfers | |
| +FlixBus+ | 11:30 PM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 14h45 | 2:15 PM Columbus, E Mound St (Akili Christian High School), OH | 2 transfers | |
| Wednesday, July 22 | |||||
| · | 1:50 AM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 12h25 | 2:15 PM Columbus, E Mound St (Akili Christian High School), OH | 1 transfer | |
| · · | 10:55 AM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 12h50 | 11:45 PM Columbus, E Mound St (Akili Christian High School), OH | 2 transfers | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Washington, DC to Columbus, OH 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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Why should you book Washington, DC to Columbus, OH buses with Omio?
Greyhound as well as FlixBus offer buses services from Washington, DC to Columbus, OH.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Washington, DC to Columbus, OH.
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 to find the best option for your trip from Washington, DC to Columbus, OH.
- 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 Washington, DC to Columbus, OH.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Washington, DC to Columbus, OH.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Washington, DC to Columbus, OH.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Washington, DC to Columbus, OH
USAUSA
Buses from Washington, DC to Columbus, OH run on average 5 times per day, taking around 9h 46m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $61 (€61) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 00:40, the last at 23:55. The fastest bus covers the 326 miles (526 km) distance in 9h 25m.
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 326 miles (526 km) |
Average bus duration 9h 46m |
Cheapest ticket price $61 (€61) |
Buses per day 5 |
Fastest bus 9h 25m |
First bus 12:40 AM |
Last bus 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 4 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 from Washington, DC to Columbus, OHYou can travel by bus between Washington, DC to Columbus, OH with Greyhound, FlixBus for as low as $61 (€61). 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
9h 45m
Cheapest Price
$62 (€62)
FlixBus frequency
1 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
9h 25m
Cheapest Price
$61 (€61)
Greyhound frequency
4 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.
Complete guide to Columbus, OH
Things to do in Columbus, OH
Discover the best of Columbus, OH — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Columbus, OH trip today.
- Must visit
Columbus Museum of Art
This leading art museum offers strong American and European collections, special exhibitions, and a notable sculpture garden.
- Recommended
Wexner Center for the Arts
Located on Ohio State's campus, this museum presents contemporary art and rotating exhibitions in an acclaimed modern building.
- Must visit
German Village
Columbus's best-known historic district has brick streets, restored homes, and a walkable atmosphere ideal for architecture lovers.
- Must visit
Scioto Mile
A scenic downtown riverfront park with fountains, trails, and skyline views, popular for walks, events, and photos.
- Must visit
Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
This large botanical park is famous for seasonal displays, glasshouses, and the iconic Chihuly installation in the conservatory.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Columbus-Style Slaw
A tangy, tomato-based slaw served on hot dogs or sandwiches. It is a long-running Columbus comfort food linked to old local chili and diner culture.
- Vegetarian
Schmidt's Cream Puff
A sweet, cinnamon-forward fried pastry sold at the Ohio State Fair since the early 1900s. It is one of central Ohio's most iconic fair treats.
Chicken And Noodles Casserole
A shredded chicken and cracker casserole common at Columbus-area potlucks and game days. It is a nostalgic Midwestern comfort dish in central Ohio.
Chapman's Eat Market
Refined tasting-menu restaurant in the Short North with inventive seasonal cooking and one of the city's strongest fine dining reputations.
Wolf's Ridge Brewing
Acclaimed local brewery and gastropub serving creative beers and polished comfort food in a stylish but relaxed setting.
Rubino's Pizza
Beloved local pizzeria known for thin crust, square-cut Columbus-style pies in a casual neighborhood setting.
United States dollar ($)
Moderate for a U.S. city: hotels, dining, and transit usually cost less than New York or Chicago, but more than smaller Midwest towns.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $10-15 for fast food or a casual meal.
- Mid-range
- $20-40 per person for a mid-range meal.
- Fine dining
- $60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- $3-6 for coffee or a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, 15-20% for taxis, and $1-2 per drink or coffee at cafes if service is provided.
FAQs: Bus from Washington, DC to Columbus, OH
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Washington, DC to Columbus, OH 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 Columbus, OH, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Washington, DC to Columbus, OH can start from as little as $61 (€61) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Washington, DC to Columbus, OH is $111 (€111) ; 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 Columbus, OH is 9h 25m to travel the 326 miles (526 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 Columbus, OH leaves at 12:40 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Washington, DC to Columbus, OH leaves at 11:55 PM.
There are 5 buses a day from Washington, DC to Columbus, OH which require at least one change with Greyhound, FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Washington, DC to Columbus, OH, you can count on Greyhound, FlixBus for the best way to get you to Columbus, OH. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Washington, DC and Columbus, OH and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Columbus, OH from Washington, DC is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 9h 25m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Washington, DC to Columbus, OH is May.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Washington, DC and Columbus, OH including taking a bus and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Washington, DC to Columbus, OH:
- Greyhound
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Washington, DC to Columbus, OH for bus company Greyhound, FlixBus.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Columbus, OH are:
- Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, a renowned zoo featuring diverse animal exhibits and conservation programs
- Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, a horticultural landmark with seasonal exhibitions and a stunning glasshouse
- Ohio Statehouse, a Greek Revival-style capitol building offering guided tours and historical insights
- Scioto Mile, a scenic urban oasis with parks, fountains, and trails along the Scioto River
- Wexner Center for the Arts, a contemporary art gallery showcasing innovative exhibitions and performances.
The best things to do in Columbus, OH include:
- COSI (Center of Science and Industry), an interactive science museum offering hands-on exhibits and educational programs
- Short North Arts District, a vibrant neighborhood known for its art galleries, boutiques, and dining options
- German Village, a historic area with charming brick streets, unique shops, and traditional German cuisine
- North Market, a bustling public market featuring diverse food vendors and local products
- Columbus Museum of Art, offering engaging exhibitions and a dynamic collection of American and European art.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Washington, DC to Columbus, OH 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 Washington, DC to Columbus, OH.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Washington, DC to Columbus, OH:
- 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 Washington, DC to Columbus, OH:
- Greyhound
- $15 per additional bag.
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Washington, DC to Columbus, OH. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Washington, DC to Columbus, OH with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Washington, DC to Columbus, OH with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Washington, DC to Columbus, OH with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Since neither Washington, DC nor Columbus, OH 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 Washington, DC to Columbus, OH 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 Columbus, OH, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and vehicle break-ins, especially in crowded areas and popular nightlife districts. Common scams include overcharging by unofficial taxi services and fake ticket sellers for events. It's advisable to use authorized transportation options and stay in well-lit, populated areas to enhance safety.
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 Columbus, OH
Most Washington, DC to Columbus, OH buses use the Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station to Columbus, E Town St (Bus Station) station pair. Use this guide to compare Washington, DC and Columbus, OH bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Washington
Arrival bus stations in Columbus
Which Washington, DC station do buses to Columbus, OH leave from?
Buses from Washington, DC to Columbus, OH leave from Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station. The station is 1 miles (3 km) from Washington, DC city centre at 50 Massachusetts Ave NE, Washington, DC 20002, USA.
Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station50 Massachusetts Ave NE, Washington, DC 20002, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station from Washington city centre
Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station is 2 km from Washington city centre. Public transport options include:
BusD30 · 15m · $3 · every ~10 min
281, 481, 483, 484, 486 · 19m · $2 · every ~1 min
SubwayR · 5m · $2 · every ~27 min
Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station bus station facilities and services
Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: McDonald's (in the station), Shake Shack (in the station)
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the main entrance and food court.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station: Elevators, ramps.
Columbus, E Town St (Bus Station)
More options for your journey from Washington, DC to Columbus, OH
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Columbus, OH and Washington, DC
Most popular bus connections to Columbus, OH
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