- Must visit
Florida Museum of Natural History
Natural history museum with Florida fossils, butterfly exhibits, and family-friendly science displays on the University of Florida campus.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Columbia, SC to Gainesville, FL
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20
Cheapest price on Sep 20
$138
Average ticket price on Sep 20
$138
Fastest journey on Sep 20
8 h 15 m
Average journey duration on Sep 20
8 h 15 m
Trains on Sep 20
1
Distance
499 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Columbia, SC to Gainesville, FL is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Columbia, SC to Gainesville, FL will cost around $138 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $138.
Fast trains
On Sun, Sep 20, we found 1 trains from Columbia, SC to Gainesville, FL, including 1 direct services.
On Sun, Sep 20 the direct trains cover the 499 km distance in an average of 8 h 15 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 8 h 15 m .
On Sun, Sep 20 the slowest trains will take 8 h 15 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.
4:35 AM8h15Columbia, SC12:50 PMGainesville, FL$1381One-way0 transfers
- 4:35 AM8h15Columbia, SC12:50 PMGainesville, FL$1381One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and flight for Columbia, SC to Gainesville, FL
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Columbia, SC to Gainesville, FL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the flight, with an average ticket price of $738 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 5h 30m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a flight costs an average of $738, while a flight costs an average of $738.
Distance: 310 miles (499 km)
Compare flight with
Most popular Flight | Driving |
|---|---|
$738 Average price Cheapest | $73 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 30m Average total duration Fastest 3h 30m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 5h 28m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
 Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Columbia, SC to Gainesville, FL is a flight with an average price of $738.
The fastest way to travel from Columbia, SC to Gainesville, FL is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 30m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Columbia, SC and Gainesville, FL including taking a train and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Columbia, SC to Gainesville, FL among Omio's users.
Live departures
Columbia, SC to Gainesville, FL train times
The table below shows live departures for Columbia, SC to Gainesville, FL trains for tomorrow, Sunday, September 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4:35 AM Columbia, SC | 8h15 | 12:50 PM Gainesville, FL | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Columbia, SC to Gainesville, FL 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 Gainesville, FL
USAUSA
Take a train from Columbia, SC to Gainesville, FL and enjoy the approximately 310 miles (499 km) long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.
The earliest train runs at 00:28, the last at 20:40.
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
Flight from $410
Distance 310 miles (499 km) |
First train 12:28 AM |
Last train 8:40 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
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
Flight from $410
Complete guide to Gainesville, FL
Things to do in Gainesville, FL
Discover the best of Gainesville, FL — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Gainesville, FL trip today.
- Must visit
Harn Museum of Art
University art museum featuring global collections, rotating exhibitions, and strong photography and modern art presentations.
- Must visit
Downtown Gainesville
Tree-lined downtown district with historic buildings, murals, music venues, and an easy walk to shops, theaters, and public art.
- Must visit
Downtown Gainesville
Tree-lined downtown district with historic buildings, murals, music venues, and an easy walk to shops, theaters, and public art.
- Must visit
Sweetwater Wetlands Park
Large wetlands park with boardwalks, wildlife viewing, and broad views over marshes that attract birds, alligators, and photographers.
- Recommended
Midtown Gainesville
Lively student-centered district near UF with shops, nightlife, murals, and walkable streets that capture the city's college-town energy.
FAQs: Trains from Columbia, SC to Gainesville, FL
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Columbia, SC to Gainesville, FL 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 Gainesville, FL, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The distance by train from Columbia, SC to Gainesville, FL is 310 miles (499 km).
The first train from Columbia, SC to Gainesville, FL leaves at 12:28 AM.
The last train from Columbia, SC to Gainesville, FL leaves at 8:40 PM.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Columbia, SC to Gainesville, FL.
The cheapest way to get from Columbia, SC to Gainesville, FL is by flight, with a cost of around $410.
The train journey from Columbia, SC to Gainesville, FL offers a mix of urban and rural views, passing through charming Southern towns, lush green landscapes, and the scenic Savannah River area, providing a pleasant travel experience.
In Gainesville, FL, you can explore the vibrant local art scene at the Gainesville Artwalk, enjoy the Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo, or spend a day at Lake Wauburg with activities like boating and picnicking. Discover history at the Haile Homestead and catch a performance at the Hippodrome Theatre. For sightseeing, visit the Florida Museum of Natural History, Kanapaha Botanical Gardens, Devil's Millhopper Geological State Park, Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park, and the Samuel P. Harn Museum of Art.
To fully experience Gainesville, FL, including its attractions like the University of Florida campus, the Florida Museum of Natural History, and Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park, plan for a 2 to 3-day visit.
No, you cannot take the train from Columbia, SC to Gainesville, FL.
Since neither Columbia, SC nor Gainesville, FL 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 flight as it is the most popular way to get from Columbia, SC to Gainesville, FL 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 Gainesville, FL, travelers should be cautious of petty theft, especially in crowded areas like downtown and near the University of Florida campus. Common scams include overcharging by unofficial taxi or ride-share drivers and ticket scams for local events. It's important to use authorized transportation services and stay in well-lit, populated areas at night to enhance personal 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.
Most popular train connections from Columbia, SC
More options for your journey from Columbia, SC to Gainesville, FL
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Most popular trains to and from Gainesville, FL and Columbia, SC
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