- Must visit
Delaware Art Museum
Major art museum known for its Pre-Raphaelite collection, American illustration, and sculpture garden. A top cultural stop in Wilmington.
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Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Matthews, NC to Wilmington, NC
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Matthews, NC to Wilmington, NC among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $36. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 5h 20m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $36, and a flight costs an average of $376.
Distance: 169 miles (273 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$140 Average price | $49 Average price Cheapest | $492 Average price | $39 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
14h 35m Average total duration 14h 5m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 43m Average total duration 6h 13m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 20m Average total duration Fastest 5h 20m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 2h 56m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Matthews, NC to Wilmington, NC is a bus with an average price of $49 (€39).
This is compared to other travel options from Matthews, NC to Wilmington, NC:
A bus is $92 (€74) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Matthews, NC to Wilmington, NC costing on average $140 (€113).
A bus is $443 (€358) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Matthews, NC to Wilmington, NC costing on average $492 (€397).
The fastest way to travel from Matthews, NC to Wilmington, NC is by flight with an average journey time of 5h 20m.
Other travel options to Wilmington, NC take longer:
Bus takes on average 6h 13m.
Train takes on average 14h 5m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Matthews, NC and Wilmington, 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 $140 (€113) compared to roughly $39 (€32) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-100.88 (€-81.43). The journey takes 14h 5m versus 2h 56m 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 Matthews, NC to Wilmington, 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 Matthews, NC to Wilmington, NC
USAUSA
Trains from Matthews, NC to Wilmington, NC run on average 1 times per day, taking around 14h 5m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $140 (€113) but you can travel from only $36 (€29) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 10:45, the last at 10:45. The fastest train covers the 169 miles (273 km) distance in 14h 5m.
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 $36 (€29)
Distance 169 miles (273 km) |
Average train duration 14h 5m |
Cheapest ticket price $140 (€113) |
Trains per day 1 |
Fastest train 14h 5m |
First train 10:45 AM |
Last train 10:45 AM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
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 $36 (€29)
Complete guide to Wilmington
Things to do in Wilmington
Discover the best of Wilmington — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Wilmington trip today.
- Must visit
Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library
Renowned museum of American decorative arts set on a vast historic estate with gardens. One of the region's most important heritage attractions.
- Must visit
Hagley Museum and Library
Industrial history museum on the Brandywine, preserving the original DuPont gunpowder works, mills, and riverside grounds.
- Must visit
Wilmington Riverfront
Revitalized waterfront district with a scenic path, public art, and event spaces. One of the city's most popular walking areas.
- Must visit
Rockford Park
Hilltop park with open lawns and the iconic Rockford Tower, offering one of the best views over Wilmington.
- Recommended
Brandywine Park
Frederick Law Olmsted-designed park with river views, bridges, and trails. A classic Wilmington green space for walks and photos.
- Gluten-free
Carolina Pulled Pork
Slow-smoked pork shoulder, chopped or pulled and dressed with a tangy vinegar-based sauce. A staple of the Carolinas and a common regional favorite around Wilmington.
- Gluten-free
Eastern North Carolina Barbecue
Whole-hog style barbecue seasoned simply and finished with vinegar and pepper. It is one of the most traditional foods tied to coastal and eastern North Carolina.
- Gluten-free
Shrimp And Grits
Local shrimp served over creamy grits, often with bacon, gravy, or a light sauce. This coastal Southern dish is widely associated with Wilmington and nearby Cape Fear seafood culture.
Indochine Restaurant
Long-running Wilmington favorite for Thai and Vietnamese-inspired dishes, known for its large menu and distinctive garden atmosphere.
PinPoint Restaurant
Upscale downtown restaurant known for refined Southern cooking, North Carolina seafood, and local ingredients in a polished but relaxed setting.
Cape Fear Seafood Company
Reliable local favorite for fresh seafood, shrimp and grits, and oyster dishes in a comfortable casual setting.
United States Dollar
Prices are Moderate by U.S. standards. Casual dining is affordable, while hotels and fine dining cost more in peak seasons.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-18 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- 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 a regular coffee or latte.
Tipping culture
Tip 15-20% at restaurants before tax. USD 1-2 per drink at bars, round up taxis, and tip hotel staff USD 2-5 for helpful service.
FAQs: Trains from Matthews, NC to Wilmington, NC
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Matthews, NC to Wilmington, 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 Wilmington, NC, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Matthews, NC to Wilmington, NC can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $140 (€113), while the average price is around $140 (€113).
The train from Matthews, NC to Wilmington, NC runs once a day and takes approximately 14h 5m.
The first train from Matthews, NC to Wilmington, NC leaves at 10:45 AM.
The distance by train from Matthews, NC to Wilmington, NC is 169 miles (273 km).
The last train from Matthews, NC to Wilmington, NC leaves at 10:45 AM.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Matthews, NC to Wilmington, NC.
The cheapest way to get from Matthews, NC to Wilmington, NC is by bus, with a cost of around $36 (€29).
The train journey from Matthews, NC to Wilmington, NC offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, with sections highlighting North Carolina's natural landscapes such as forests and fields, though much of the route is not renowned specifically for its scenic views.
Spending 3 to 4 days in Wilmington, NC allows you to explore its historic downtown, visit local beaches, and enjoy cultural attractions like museums and gardens.
No, you cannot take the train from Matthews, NC to Wilmington, NC.
Since neither Matthews, NC nor Wilmington, 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.
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 Wilmington, NC, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and vehicle break-ins, especially in crowded areas like the Riverwalk and downtown. Common scams include overpriced taxi rides and unofficial parking attendants demanding fees. It's advised to use licensed transportation and keep valuables 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 Matthews, NC to Wilmington, NC
Matthews
Wilmington
Wilmington, Forden Station
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Most popular trains to and from Wilmington, NC and Matthews, NC
Most popular train connections to Wilmington, NC
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