- Must visit
National Civil Rights Museum
Major museum at the Lorraine Motel tracing the American civil rights movement. Powerful exhibits and one of Memphis’s most important cultural sites.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Charleston, SC to Memphis, TN
Showing times and prices for Jul 18
Cheapest price
$584
Average price
$584
Fastest journey
2 d 11 h 8 m
Average duration
2 d 11 h 8 m
Trains per day
1
Distance
969 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Charleston, SC to Memphis, TN is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Charleston, SC to Memphis, TN will cost around $584 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $584.
Fast trains
Of the 1 trains that leave Charleston, SC for Memphis, TN on Sat, Jul 18, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sat, Jul 18 the direct trains cover the 969 km distance in an average of 2 d 11 h 8 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 d 11 h 8 m .
On Sat, Jul 18 the slowest trains will take 2 d 11 h 8 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.
12:34 AM59h08Charleston, SC11:42 AMMemphis, TN$5841One-way0 transfers
- 12:34 AM59h08Charleston, SC11:42 AMMemphis, TN$5841One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Charleston, SC to Memphis, TN
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Charleston, SC to Memphis, TN among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $103. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 5h 54m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $103, and a train costs an average of $406.
Distance: 602 miles (969 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$796 Average price | $203 Average price Cheapest | $384 Average price | $135 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
44h 10m Average total duration 43h 40m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 21h 40m Average total duration 21h 10m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 54m Average total duration Fastest 5h 54m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 10h 27m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Charleston, SC to Memphis, TN is a bus with an average price of $203 (€167).
This is compared to other travel options from Charleston, SC to Memphis, TN:
A bus is $181 (€149) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Charleston, SC to Memphis, TN costing on average $384 (€316).
A bus is $593 (€488) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Charleston, SC to Memphis, TN costing on average $796 (€655).
The fastest way to travel from Charleston, SC to Memphis, TN is by flight with an average journey time of 5h 54m.
Other travel options to Memphis, TN take longer:
Bus takes on average 21h 10m.
Train takes on average 43h 40m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Charleston, SC and Memphis, TN including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Charleston, SC to Memphis, TN among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around $796 (€655) compared to roughly $135 (€111) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-661.39 (€-544.02). The journey takes 43h 40m versus 10h 27m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Charleston, SC to Memphis, TN train times
The table below shows live departures for Charleston, SC to Memphis, TN trains for today, Saturday, July 11. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 98 Silver Meteor · 40 Floridian · 59 City Of New Orleans | 8:34 PM Charleston Station, North Charleston, SC | 61h08 | 8:42 AM Memphis Central Station, Memphis, TN | 2 transfers | |
| 98 Silver Meteor · 51 Cardinal · 59 City Of New Orleans | 8:34 PM Charleston Station, North Charleston, SC | 61h08 | 8:42 AM Memphis Central Station, Memphis, TN | 2 transfers | |
| 98 Silver Meteor · 49 Lake Shore Limited · 59 City Of New Orleans | 8:34 PM Charleston Station, North Charleston, SC | 61h08 | 8:42 AM Memphis Central Station, Memphis, TN | 2 transfers | |
| Sunday, July 12 | |||||
| 12:34 AM Charleston, SC | 59h08 | 11:42 AM Memphis, TN | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Charleston, SC to Memphis, TN by bus, train, or flight
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.
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Charleston, SC to Memphis, TN
USAUSA
Trains from Charleston, SC to Memphis, TN run on average 2 times per day, taking around 43h 40m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $406 (€334) but you can travel from only $103 (€85) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 20:34, the last at 22:45. The fastest train covers the 602 miles (969 km) distance in 57h 8m.
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
Bus from $103 (€85)
Distance 602 miles (969 km) |
Average train duration 43h 40m |
Cheapest ticket price $406 (€334) |
Trains per day 2 |
Fastest train 57h 8m |
First train 8:34 PM |
Last train 10:45 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
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
Bus from $103 (€85)
Train companies: Amtrak from Charleston, SC to Memphis, TN trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Charleston, SC and Memphis, TN from $103 (€85). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Amtrak
About
Amtrak is the main passenger train operator in the United States, providing medium- and long-distance intercity services across 46 states and three Canadian provinces. Operating over 300 trains daily and serving more than 500 destinations, Amtrak connects cities and regions nationwide through routes such as the high-speed Acela in the Northeast Corridor, the scenic Coast Starlight along the West Coast, and the Empire Builder linking Chicago to the Midwest and the Pacific Northwest. Other notable services include the Northeast Regional, Keystone Service, and the unique Auto Train, which allows passengers to bring their cars onboard. Amtrak offers a variety of classes to suit different budgets and travel needs, including Coach, Business, First Class, and Sleeper Class with options like Roomettes, Bedrooms, and Bedroom Suites for overnight journeys. Ticket types include Saver, Value, Flexible, Business, and Premium. Onboard amenities vary by service but may include comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, power outlets, dining options, and lounge access on select trains. Popular routes include Washington, D.C.–Boston, San Diego–San Luis Obispo, San Jose–Sacramento, and Chicago–Seattle.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
57h 8m
Cheapest Price
$406 (€334)
Luggage included
2 personal items and 2 carry-on bags included free
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas at end of cars
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies depend on ticket type and timing
Refund
Full refund if train is canceled by Amtrak
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Café car with snacks, beverages, and light meals. Long-distance trains have full-service dining cars
Seat reservation
Included in ticket price for Business and First Class. Optional fee for Coach Class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible restrooms, Red Cap assistance service, accessible platforms and stations
Pets
Small pets under 20 pounds allowed for $26 fee. Must be in carrier. Service animals travel free
Quiet zone
Complete guide to Memphis
Things to do in Memphis
Discover the best of Memphis — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Memphis trip today.
- Must visit
Stax Museum Of American Soul Music
Museum on the original Stax Records site celebrating Memphis soul, artists, and recording history. A top stop for music fans.
- Must visit
Graceland Exhibition Center
Exhibits connected to Elvis Presley’s life and career at Graceland. A signature Memphis attraction for pop culture and music history.
- Must visit
Beale Street
Memphis’s most famous street, known for music history, neon signs, and a lively atmosphere day and night.
- Must visit
Shelby Farms Park
One of the largest urban parks in the United States, popular for lakes, trails, and outdoor recreation.
- Recommended
South Main Historic Arts District
Walkable downtown area with galleries, murals, historic buildings, and a local creative vibe.
- Gluten-free
Memphis-Style Dry-Rub Ribs
Pork ribs coated with a spice rub rather than heavy sauce, then slow-smoked. They are one of Memphis’s signature barbecue styles and a must-try local specialty.
Pulled Pork Barbecue Sandwich
Slow-smoked pork shoulder, chopped or pulled and piled on a bun, often topped with slaw. This is a classic everyday Memphis barbecue order.
Barbecue Spaghetti
A distinctly Memphis dish combining spaghetti with smoky barbecue sauce, pulled pork, and seasoning. It is closely associated with the city’s barbecue culture.
Flight Restaurant and Wine Bar
Downtown dining destination offering tasting flights of food and wine in an upscale setting. Good choice for a refined meal in Memphis.
The Beauty Shop
Stylish Midtown restaurant in a former salon space, known for creative American fare and cocktails. A more polished option with a distinctive atmosphere.
Central BBQ
Well-known local barbecue spot serving ribs, pulled pork, smoked wings, and barbecue nachos in a casual setting with strong local popularity.
United States Dollar
Memphis is generally affordable by U.S. city standards, with reasonable food and transport costs and a wide range of hotel prices.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-15 for fast food or a simple local meal.
- Mid-range
- USD 20-40 per person at a casual sit-down restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- USD 3-6 for drip coffee or a latte.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% in restaurants; 20%+ for great service. Tip bartenders USD 1-2 per drink, taxis about 10-15%, hotel staff USD 2-5, and round up for casual service.
FAQs: Trains from Charleston, SC to Memphis, TN
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Charleston, SC to Memphis, TN by train. 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 train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Memphis, TN, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Charleston, SC to Memphis, TN can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $406 (€334), while the average price is around $796 (€655).
The train from Charleston, SC to Memphis, TN takes 57h 8m and runs 2 per day.
The distance by train from Charleston, SC to Memphis, TN is 602 miles (969 km).
The first train from Charleston, SC to Memphis, TN leaves at 8:34 PM.
The last train from Charleston, SC to Memphis, TN leaves at 10:45 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Charleston, SC to Memphis, TN.
There is no direct train service currently available from Charleston, SC to Memphis, TN.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Charleston, SC to Memphis, TN.
The train station in Charleston, SC that goes to Memphis, TN is Charleston Station, North Charleston, SC, which connects to Memphis Central Station, Memphis, TN.
The cheapest way to get from Charleston, SC to Memphis, TN is by bus, with a cost of around $103 (€85).
The train journey from Charleston, SC to Memphis, TN offers scenic views of the Southern landscape, including lush forests and charming small towns, particularly as it passes through the rolling hills and picturesque countryside of the Appalachian region.
In Memphis, TN, you can visit Shelby Farms Park for outdoor activities like biking and paddle boating, explore the themed gardens at the Memphis Botanic Garden, or take a scenic riverboat cruise on the Mississippi River. Enjoy live performances at the historic Orpheum Theatre and discover fine art at the Dixon Gallery and Gardens. Don't miss touring Graceland, experiencing the vibrant nightlife on Beale Street, learning about civil rights history at the National Civil Rights Museum, exploring wildlife at the Memphis Zoo, and celebrating soul music at the Stax Museum of American Soul Music.
For a well-rounded experience in Memphis, TN, plan for 2 to 3 days to explore major attractions like Graceland, the National Civil Rights Museum, Beale Street, and Sun Studio.
Yes, you can take the train from Charleston, SC to Memphis, TN.
Since neither Charleston, SC nor Memphis, TN 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.
Popular day trips by train from Memphis, TN include Newbern, TN.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Charleston, SC to Memphis, TN among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
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 Memphis, TN, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like Beale Street and downtown. It's important to avoid walking alone at night in less populated neighborhoods. Common scams include overcharging by unofficial taxi or ride-share drivers and distraction techniques used to steal wallets or phones. Staying aware of surroundings and using reputable transportation services helps ensure 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.
More options for your journey from Charleston, SC to Memphis, TN
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Memphis, TN and Charleston, SC
Most popular train connections to Memphis, TN
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