- Must visit
North Carolina Museum of Art
Major art museum with a broad collection from ancient to contemporary works, plus a large outdoor Museum Park. One of Raleigh’s signature cultural stops.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Madison, WI to Raleigh, NC
Showing times and prices for Jun 22
Cheapest price
$267
Average price
$267
Fastest journey
1 d 5 h 41 m
Average duration
1 d 5 h 41 m
Trains per day
1
Distance
1228 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Madison, WI to Raleigh, NC is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Madison, WI to Raleigh, NC will cost around $267 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $267.
Fast trains
Of the 1 trains that leave Madison, WI for Raleigh, NC on Mon, Jun 22, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Mon, Jun 22 the direct trains cover the 1228 km distance in an average of 1 d 5 h 41 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 d 5 h 41 m .
On Mon, Jun 22 the slowest trains will take 1 d 5 h 41 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.
6:00 PM29h41Madison, WI11:41 PMRaleigh, NC$2671One-way0 transfers
- 6:00 PM29h41Madison, WI11:41 PMRaleigh, NC$2671One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Madison, WI to Raleigh, NC
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Madison, WI to Raleigh, NC among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $147. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 6h 8m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $147, and a train costs an average of $267.
Distance: 763 miles (1228 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$375 Average price | $222 Average price Cheapest | $347 Average price | $187 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
30h 11m Average total duration 29h 41m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 32h 0m Average total duration 31h 30m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 8m Average total duration Fastest 6h 8m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 14h 39m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Madison, WI to Raleigh, NC is a bus with an average price of $222 (€181).
This is compared to other travel options from Madison, WI to Raleigh, NC:
A bus is $125 (€103) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Madison, WI to Raleigh, NC costing on average $347 (€284).
A bus is $153 (€125) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Madison, WI to Raleigh, NC costing on average $375 (€307).
The fastest way to travel from Madison, WI to Raleigh, NC is by flight with an average journey time of 6h 8m.
Other travel options to Raleigh, NC take longer:
Train takes on average 29h 41m.
Bus takes on average 31h 30m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Madison, WI and Raleigh, NC including taking a bus, 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 $375 (€307) compared to roughly $187 (€153) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-187.39 (€-153.37). The journey takes 29h 41m versus 14h 39m 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 Madison, WI to Raleigh, NC 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 Madison, WI to Raleigh, NC
USAUSA
Trains from Madison, WI to Raleigh, NC run on average 4 times per day, taking around 29h 41m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $267 (€219) but you can travel from only $147 (€120) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 09:17, the last at 19:15. The fastest train covers the 763 miles (1228 km) distance in 29h 41m.
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 $147 (€120)
Distance 763 miles (1228 km) |
Average train duration 29h 41m |
Cheapest ticket price $267 (€219) |
Trains per day 4 |
Fastest train 29h 41m |
First train 9:17 AM |
Last train 7:15 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Sat |
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 $147 (€120)
Complete guide to Raleigh
Things to do in Raleigh
Discover the best of Raleigh — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Raleigh trip today.
- Must visit
North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences
The Southeast’s largest natural history museum, known for dinosaur exhibits, live animals, and strong family-friendly science displays in downtown Raleigh.
- Recommended
Marbles Kids Museum
Popular interactive children’s museum with hands-on exhibits focused on play, learning, and imagination. Best for families with younger children.
- Must visit
Pullen Park
Historic public park with walking paths, rides, a lake, and broad appeal for both families and casual visitors. One of Raleigh’s best-known green spaces.
- Must visit
Dorothea Dix Park
Large urban park with skyline views, open fields, seasonal events, and highly photographed areas that have become very popular with locals and visitors.
- Recommended
Fayetteville Street
Main downtown street lined with civic buildings, event spaces, and restaurants nearby, serving as a central axis for festivals and city life.
- Gluten-free
Eastern North Carolina Barbecue
Whole-hog pork chopped and dressed with a tangy vinegar-pepper sauce. It is one of North Carolina’s most iconic regional foods and widely loved around Raleigh.
Lexington-Style Barbecue
Slow-smoked pork shoulder or pork with a red slaw and a ketchup-vinegar dip. This Piedmont style is another classic North Carolina barbecue tradition often found in the Raleigh area.
Biscuits With Country Ham
A flaky Southern biscuit filled with salty cured ham, often served at breakfast. It reflects the strong Southern food heritage of Raleigh and the wider state.
Brewery Bhavana
A highly regarded venue combining dim sum, beer, and a distinctive floral dining room. It is one of Raleigh’s best-known upscale dining experiences.
Poole's Diner
An established downtown restaurant known for elevated Southern comfort food, seasonal cooking, and a stylish diner setting.
Beasley's Chicken + Honey
A popular casual spot recognized for fried chicken, biscuits, and modern Southern flavors in a lively central location.
United States Dollar
Moderate by U.S. standards. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than New York or San Francisco, but costs rise in downtown and during major events.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-15 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- USD 20-35 per person at a casual sit-down restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 60-100+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- USD 3-6 for drip coffee or a latte.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants; 20%+ for excellent service. Tip bartenders USD 1-2 per drink, taxis/rideshares 10-15%, hotel staff a few USD, and round up for coffee only if desired.
FAQs: Trains from Madison, WI to Raleigh, NC
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Madison, WI to Raleigh, NC 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 Raleigh, NC, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Madison, WI to Raleigh, NC can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $267 (€219), while the average price is around $375 (€307).
The train from Madison, WI to Raleigh, NC takes 29h 41m and runs 4 per day.
The distance by train from Madison, WI to Raleigh, NC is 763 miles (1228 km).
The first train from Madison, WI to Raleigh, NC leaves at 9:17 AM.
The last train from Madison, WI to Raleigh, NC leaves at 7:15 PM.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Madison, WI to Raleigh, NC.
The cheapest way to get from Madison, WI to Raleigh, NC is by bus, with a cost of around $147 (€120).
The train journey from Madison, WI to Raleigh, NC offers a variety of scenic views, including rolling hills, charming small towns, and parts of the Appalachian Mountains, providing a pleasant and picturesque experience, especially during the fall when the foliage is vibrant.
A day trip from Madison, WI to Raleigh, NC is not feasible as the travel duration is 29h 41m. There are 4 train trips per day, but the journey covers a distance of 763 miles (1228 km).
In Raleigh, NC, visitors can explore Raleigh City Market for shopping and dining, enjoy diverse plant collections at JC Raulston Arboretum, and engage in interactive fun at Marbles Kids Museum. Music lovers can attend concerts at Red Hat Amphitheater, while families can have fun at Adventure Landing with mini-golf and go-karts. Art enthusiasts will appreciate the North Carolina Museum of Art, and outdoor lovers can visit Pullen Park for playgrounds and pedal boats or hike through William B. Umstead State Park. For a mix of history and nature, Historic Yates Mill County Park offers scenic trails and a glimpse into the past with a restored gristmill. The North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences provides educational exhibits on natural history.
To explore Raleigh, NC, three days is ideal to visit key attractions such as the North Carolina Museum of Art, Pullen Park, and the State Capitol, while also enjoying the local dining scene and vibrant neighborhoods.
No, you cannot take the train from Madison, WI to Raleigh, NC.
Since neither Madison, WI nor Raleigh, NC 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 Raleigh, NC include Greensboro, NC, Durham, NC, High Point, NC, Burlington, NC, Rocky Mount, NC.
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 Raleigh, NC, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and vehicle break-ins, especially in crowded areas and parking lots. Common scams include overcharging by unofficial taxi or ride-share drivers and fake ticket sellers near popular attractions. Staying aware of surroundings and using authorized 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.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Madison, WI to Raleigh, NC
Most Madison, WI to Raleigh, NC trains use the Madison, 700 University Ave (Greyhound Bus Stop) to Raleigh Union Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Madison, WI and Raleigh, NC train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Madison
Arrival train stations in Raleigh
Madison, 700 University Ave (Greyhound Bus Stop)
Madison, Greyhound Bus Stop
Which Raleigh, NC station do trains from Madison, WI arrive at?
Trains from Madison, WI to Raleigh, NC arrive at Raleigh Union Station. Raleigh Union Station is 0 miles (1 km) from Raleigh, NC city centre.
Raleigh Union Station510 W Martin St, Raleigh, NC 27601, USA+1 800-872-7245
City-centre transport
Getting to Raleigh Union Station from Raleigh city centre
Bus300, 305 · 5m · every ~5 min
Raleigh Union Station train station facilities and services
Raleigh Union Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: The Pit Authentic BBQ, Humble Pie, Whiskey Kitchen
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Raleigh Union Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Raleigh Union Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Raleigh Union Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Raleigh Union Station: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Raleigh Union Station: Elevators, ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include The Raleigh Marriott City Center, Sheraton Raleigh Hotel, Residence Inn Raleigh Downtown.
More options for your journey from Madison, WI to Raleigh, NC
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Raleigh, NC and Madison, WI
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