- Must visit
Military Aviation Museum
Large aviation museum displaying restored World War I and World War II aircraft, with one of the country's best historic flying collections.
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Travel Information
Compare train and flight for Columbia, SC to Virginia Beach, VA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Columbia, SC to Virginia Beach, VA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $128. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 5h 43m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $128, and a flight costs an average of $394.
Distance: 346 miles (557 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$171 Average price Cheapest | $422 Average price | $79 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
17h 47m Average total duration 17h 17m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 43m Average total duration Fastest 5h 43m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 6h 2m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Columbia, SC to Virginia Beach, VA is a train with an average price of $171 (€140).
This is compared to other travel options from Columbia, SC to Virginia Beach, VA:
A train is $252 (€206) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Columbia, SC to Virginia Beach, VA costing on average $422 (€346).
The fastest way to travel from Columbia, SC to Virginia Beach, VA is by flight with an average journey time of 5h 43m.
Other travel options to Virginia Beach, VA take longer:
Train takes on average 17h 17m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Columbia, SC and Virginia Beach, VA including taking a train and flight.
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 $171 (€140) compared to roughly $79 (€64) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-91.82 (€-75.15). The journey takes 17h 17m versus 6h 2m 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.
Compare prices and tickets Columbia, SC to Virginia Beach, VA by train or flight
Compare 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 Columbia, SC to Virginia Beach, VA
USAUSA
Trains from Columbia, SC to Virginia Beach, VA run on average 2 times per day, taking around 17h 17m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $128 (€104) if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 04:22, the last at 07:55. The fastest train covers the 346 miles (557 km) distance in 17h 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
Distance 346 miles (557 km) |
Average train duration 17h 17m |
Cheapest ticket price $128 (€104) |
Trains per day 2 |
Fastest train 17h 8m |
First train 4:22 AM |
Last train 7:55 AM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
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
Complete guide to Virginia Beach
Things to do in Virginia Beach
Discover the best of Virginia Beach — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Virginia Beach trip today.
- Recommended
Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art
Contemporary art museum with rotating exhibitions, education programs, and a strong local cultural role near the Oceanfront.
- Recommended
Surf and Rescue Museum
Seasonal museum in a historic Coast Guard station telling the story of shipwreck rescue, surfing, and life-saving services on the coast.
- Must visit
Virginia Beach Boardwalk
Three-mile oceanfront promenade lined with public art, beach access, events, and classic coastal energy; the city's essential walking area.
- Must visit
First Landing State Park
Major coastal park with beaches, forested trails, cypress swamp scenery, and strong historical significance tied to early English landing narratives.
- Must visit
Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge
Protected coastal refuge with trails, marshes, dunes, and birdwatching opportunities, popular with nature photographers and locals.
Chesapeake Bay Blue Crab Cakes
Pan-seared cakes made with sweet local blue crab and minimal filler. A Tidewater staple that highlights the region’s seafood heritage.
She-Crab Soup
A rich coastal soup made with crab meat, crab roe, cream, and sherry. Popular across Hampton Roads and closely associated with the local seafood tradition.
- Gluten-free
Virginia Oysters
Fresh oysters from nearby Virginia waters, often served raw, roasted, or grilled. They are a signature local delicacy tied to the state’s oyster-growing regions.
Blue Seafood & Spirits
Well-regarded casual seafood spot praised for refined plates, fresh fish, and a polished but relaxed neighborhood feel.
Doc Taylor's Restaurant
A well-known casual breakfast and lunch venue in a converted beach cottage, loved for Southern comfort food and local character.
Tautog's Restaurant
A long-running cottage restaurant near the oceanfront known for fresh local seafood, crab cakes, and a cozy coastal atmosphere.
United States Dollar
Moderate by U.S. beach-city standards. Hotels rise in summer, but casual dining and everyday transport stay fairly reasonable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-18 for fast food or a casual lunch.
- Mid-range
- USD 20-40 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 60-120 per person at upscale seafood or steak spots.
- 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 10-15%, hotel staff a few USD, and round up for cafés.
FAQs: Trains from Columbia, SC to Virginia Beach, VA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Columbia, SC to Virginia Beach, VA 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 Virginia Beach, VA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Columbia, SC to Virginia Beach, VA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $128 (€104), while the average price is around $171 (€140).
The train from Columbia, SC to Virginia Beach, VA takes 17h 8m and runs 2 per day.
The distance by train from Columbia, SC to Virginia Beach, VA is 346 miles (557 km).
The first train from Columbia, SC to Virginia Beach, VA leaves at 4:22 AM.
The last train from Columbia, SC to Virginia Beach, VA leaves at 7:55 AM.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Columbia, SC to Virginia Beach, VA.
The cheapest way to get from Columbia, SC to Virginia Beach, VA is by train, with a cost of around $128 (€104).
The train journey from Columbia, SC to Virginia Beach, VA offers a mix of urban and natural scenery. As you travel, you can enjoy views of the lush Southern landscape, including forests and rivers, along with glimpses of charming small towns, making it a pleasant and varied experience.
A day trip from Columbia, SC to Virginia Beach, VA is not feasible as the journey takes 17h 8m with only 2 trains per day, covering a distance of 346 miles (557 km).
In Virginia Beach, VA, visitors can explore the Military Aviation Museum for vintage aircraft and aviation history, enjoy family fun at Ocean Breeze Waterpark, and observe wildlife at Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge. Adventurers can tackle zip lines at the Adventure Park at Virginia Aquarium, while anglers and ocean view enthusiasts can visit the Virginia Beach Fishing Pier. For scenic sights, stroll along the Virginia Beach Boardwalk, hike the trails at First Landing State Park, or learn about marine life at the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center. History buffs can visit Cape Henry Lighthouse, and those seeking a peaceful beach day can relax at Sandbridge Beach.
For a fulfilling experience in Virginia Beach, VA, plan for at least three to four days. This allows time to enjoy the beaches, explore attractions like the Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center, and visit First Landing State Park.
No, you cannot take the train from Columbia, SC to Virginia Beach, VA.
Since neither Columbia, SC nor Virginia Beach, VA 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.
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 Virginia Beach, VA, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded beach areas and popular attractions. Common scams include overpriced parking and unofficial vendors selling counterfeit tickets or tours. It is advisable to use official transportation and ticket vendors, stay in well-lit areas at night, and keep personal belongings secure to ensure a safe visit.
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 train stations
Popular train stations from Columbia, SC to Virginia Beach, VA
Columbia
Virginia Beach
The major train station for departures in Columbia is Columbia Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Columbia Station for your trip from Columbia to Virginia Beach.
Columbia Station
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket OfficeBike RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 11:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Number of platforms
1Parking
- Parking is available at the station
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms
WC
- Free
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- The station has an enclosed waiting area.
Public transit options for Columbia Station
- Bus: Several local bus lines available
The major train station for arrivals in Virginia Beach is Virginia Beach, Parks Avenue / 19th Street. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Virginia Beach, Parks Avenue / 19th Street for your journey to Virginia Beach from Columbia.
Virginia Beach, Parks Avenue / 19th Street
information
Most popular train connections from Columbia, SC
More options for your journey from Columbia, SC to Virginia Beach, VA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Virginia Beach, VA and Columbia, SC
Most popular train connections to Virginia Beach, VA
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