Bus
- Companies: Greyhound, Megabus
- Duration: Approximately 11 hours
- Distance: 600 miles
- Costs: €60 - €100 [depending on the time of booking]
- Roads/Routes: Interstate 95 and Interstate 40
Pro Tip: Book your tickets in advance and choose night buses for a chance to save on accommodation.
Suggested route: Take the bus from Philadelphia to Raleigh, then a local bus or taxi to your final destination in Chapel Hill.
Train
- Companies: Amtrak (Northeast Regional, Carolinian)
- Duration: Approximately 12 hours
- Distance: 600 miles
- Costs: €70 - €150 [depending on seating class]
- Roads/Routes: Not applicable
Pro Tip: Consider booking a sleeper car for longer journeys for enhanced comfort.
Suggested route: Travel from Philadelphia to Washington, D.C., then transfer to a Carolinian train heading to Chapel Hill.
Flight
- Companies: American Airlines, Delta Airlines
- Duration: Approximately 3 hours (plus additional travel time to/from airports)
- Distance: 500 miles
- Costs: €100 - €250 [especially if booked last minute]
- Roads/Routes: Interstate 95 to Philadelphia International Airport
Pro Tip: Use fare comparison sites and set price alerts to secure the best deals on flights.
Suggested route: Fly from Philadelphia International Airport to Raleigh-Durham International Airport, then take a taxi or rideshare to Chapel Hill.
Overall Recommendation
For this journey, taking a bus with Greyhound or Megabus is the most economical option and offers a direct route at a reasonable cost. The travel time is comparable to that of a train or flight when considering additional transit times to airports. However, if you prioritize speed and direct comfort, flying would be your best bet, as it significantly reduces travel time despite higher costs. Ensure to plan your transfers smartly whether you choose bus, train, or air transport.