- Must visit
Columbia Museum of Art
Major art museum with American, European, and Asian works plus rotating exhibitions in a central downtown setting.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Durham, NC to Columbia, SC
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 19
Cheapest price on Sep 19
€55
Average ticket price on Sep 19
€55
Fastest journey on Sep 19
7 h 24 m
Average journey duration on Sep 19
7 h 24 m
Trains on Sep 19
1
Distance
295 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Durham, NC 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 Durham, NC to Columbia, SC will cost around €55 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €55.
Fast trains
On Sat, Sep 19, we found 1 trains from Durham, NC to Columbia, SC, including 1 direct services.
On Sat, Sep 19 the direct trains cover the 295 km distance in an average of 7 h 24 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 7 h 24 m .
On Sat, Sep 19 the slowest trains will take 7 h 24 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.
9:01 PM7h24Durham, NC4:25 AMColumbia, SC€551One-way0 transfers
- 9:01 PM7h24Durham, NC4:25 AMColumbia, SC€551One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Durham, NC to Columbia, SC
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Durham, NC to Columbia, SC among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of €80 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 4h 52m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of €80, while a flight costs an average of €507.
Distance: 183 miles (295 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|
€80 Average price Cheapest | €507 Average price | €35 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 25m Average total duration 4h 55m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 52m Average total duration Fastest 2h 52m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 3h 37m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular train company |  Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Durham, NC to Columbia, SC is a train with an average price of €80.
This is compared to other travel options from Durham, NC to Columbia, SC:
A train is €428 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Durham, NC to Columbia, SC costing on average €507.
The fastest way to travel from Durham, NC to Columbia, SC is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 52m.
Other travel options to Columbia, SC take longer:
Train takes on average 4h 55m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Durham, NC and Columbia, SC including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Durham, NC to Columbia, SC 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 €80 compared to roughly €35 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about €-44.93. The journey takes 4h 55m versus 3h 37m 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
Durham, NC to Columbia, SC train times
The table below shows live departures for Durham, NC to Columbia, SC trains for today, Friday, September 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9:01 PM Durham, NC | 7h24 | 4:25 AM Columbia, SC | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 10:01 PM Durham, NC | 7h24 | 5:25 AM Columbia, SC | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Durham, NC to Columbia, SC by train, bus, or flight
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.
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Durham, NC to Columbia, SC
USAUSA
Trains from Durham, NC to Columbia, SC run on average 2 times per day, taking around 4h 55m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €46 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 04:13, the last at 17:26. The fastest train covers the 183 miles (295 km) distance in 4h 28m.
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 183 miles (295 km) |
Average train duration 4h 55m |
Cheapest ticket price €46 |
Trains per day 2 |
Fastest train 4h 28m |
First train 4:13 AM |
Last train 5:26 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Best time to book 7 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
Train companies: Amtrak from Durham, NC to Columbia, SC trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Durham, NC and Columbia, SC from €46. 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 Amtrak Duration
4h 28m
Cheapest Amtrak Price
€46
Amtrak frequency
2 a day
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 Columbia, SC
Things to do in Columbia, SC
Discover the best of Columbia, SC — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Columbia, SC trip today.
- Must visit
South Carolina State Museum
State museum covering art, history, science, and technology with immersive galleries and family-friendly exhibits.
- Recommended
South Carolina Confederate Relic Room and Military Museum
Military history museum with artifacts, uniforms, and exhibits on South Carolina service members across multiple conflicts.
- Must visit
Riverfront Park
Popular riverside green space with trails, historic canal views, and shaded walks near downtown and the river confluence.
- Recommended
The Vista
Revived warehouse district with galleries, public art, shops, and event spaces that showcase Columbia's creative scene.
- Recommended
Five Points
Lively university district with boutiques, murals, nightlife, and walkable blocks popular with locals and students.
FAQs: Trains from Durham, NC to Columbia, SC
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Durham, NC to Columbia, SC 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 Columbia, SC, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Durham, NC to Columbia, SC can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €46, while the average price is around €80.
The train from Durham, NC to Columbia, SC takes 4h 28m and runs 2 per day.
The distance by train from Durham, NC to Columbia, SC is 183 miles (295 km).
The first train from Durham, NC to Columbia, SC leaves at 4:13 AM.
The last train from Durham, NC to Columbia, SC leaves at 5:26 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Durham, NC to Columbia, SC.
There is no direct train service currently available from Durham, NC to Columbia, SC.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Durham, NC to Columbia, SC.
The train station in Durham, NC that goes to Columbia, SC is Durham Station, Durham, NC, which connects to Columbia Station, Columbia, SC.
The cheapest way to get from Durham, NC to Columbia, SC is by train, with a cost of around €46.
The train journey from Durham, NC to Columbia, SC offers scenic views featuring the rolling landscapes of the Piedmont region, charming small towns, and glimpses of lush forests and rivers, providing a pleasant and relaxing travel experience.
A day trip from Durham, NC to Columbia, SC is not feasible, as the journey takes 4h 28m. The distance is 183 miles (295 km), and there are 2 trains per day.
To fully explore Columbia, SC, including its attractions like Riverbanks Zoo & Garden, South Carolina State Museum, and Congaree National Park, spending 2 to 3 days is recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Durham, NC to Columbia, SC.
Since neither Durham, NC nor Columbia, SC 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 Columbia, SC include Camden, SC, Denmark, SC.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Durham, NC to Columbia, SC 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 Columbia, SC, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and vehicle break-ins, especially in crowded or tourist-heavy areas. Common scams include overcharging by unofficial taxi or rideshare drivers and fraudulent ticket sales for local events. It's advisable to use licensed transportation services and avoid displaying valuables openly to reduce risk.
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 Durham, NC to Columbia, SC
Most Durham, NC to Columbia, SC trains use the Durham Station to Columbia Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Durham, NC and Columbia, SC train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Durham
Arrival train stations in Columbia
Which Durham, NC station do trains to Columbia, SC leave from?
Trains from Durham, NC to Columbia, SC leave from Durham Station. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Durham, NC city centre at 601 West Main Street, Durham, NC 27701, USA.
Durham Station601 West Main Street, Durham, NC 27701, USA1-800-USA-RAIL
City-centre transport
Getting to Durham Station from Durham city centre
Bus2, 9, 12, 12B · 3m · €1 · every ~12 min
Durham Station train station facilities and services
Durham Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Parker and Otis, Dame's Chicken & Waffles
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Durham Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Durham Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Durham Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Durham Station: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Durham Station: Ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Durham Marriott City Center, 21c Museum Hotel Durham, Aloft Durham Downtown.
Which Columbia, SC station do trains from Durham, NC arrive at?
Trains from Durham, NC to Columbia, SC arrive at Columbia Station. Columbia Station is 0 miles (1 km) from Columbia, SC city centre.
Columbia Station850 Pulaski St, Columbia, SC 29201, USA+1 800-872-7245
City-centre transport
Getting to Columbia Station from Columbia city centre
BusSeveral local bus lines available
Columbia Station train station facilities and services
Columbia Station has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Ticket Office, Bike Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Columbia Station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Columbia Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Columbia Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Columbia Station: Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Columbia Station: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
More options for your journey from Durham, NC to Columbia, SC
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Columbia, SC and Durham, NC
Most popular train connections to Columbia, SC
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