How to get to Raleigh

If you have decided to travel to Raleigh, get ready to become acquainted with the cosy and modern capital of North Carolina, located in the eastern part of the USA. This "City of Oaks" attracts travellers with a combination of Southern hospitality and developed infrastructure, making it easy to plan your route. There are several convenient ways to reach this lively metropolis: from quick flights to comfortable journeys by train, bus, or car.

The main air gateway to the region is Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU), which receives flights from all corners of the continent. It is a modern and spacious aviation hub with high passenger traffic, offering excellent facilities for the comfort of travellers. The airport is conveniently located, ensuring that the journey to the central districts will not take much time.

If direct tickets are unavailable, it is worth checking flights to neighbouring cities: Charlotte, Fayetteville, or Greensboro. Charlotte is a major aviation hub and often serves as an excellent alternative for those planning a complex route, although it is located at a distance of about 260 kilometres. Greensboro and Fayetteville are situated significantly closer — within 100–120 kilometres. Transport connections between these locations and the state capital are well-established, so reaching your final destination will be straightforward.

Travelling by rail is one of the most comfortable and scenic ways to get to Raleigh. Unlike many American cities where rail connections can be limited, the capital of North Carolina boasts the modern Raleigh Union Station. This new transport hub is located in the lively Warehouse District, providing arriving tourists with quick access to the city centre, hotels, and restaurants.

The city is served by the national rail corporation, Amtrak. Several popular routes pass through the station, linking the region with key points on the East Coast of the USA. The Carolinian and Piedmont trains run daily, connecting the state capital with Charlotte, Greensboro, and New York. For those travelling long distances, the Silver Star route, running from New York to Miami, is a convenient option.

A train journey allows you to avoid traffic jams on the highways and enjoy views of American nature from the carriage window. Modern carriages are equipped with everything necessary for a pleasant journey, including Wi-Fi and spacious seats, making this mode of transport an excellent alternative to driving or flying.

Bus services connect the state capital with neighbouring cities, offering tourists a convenient and budget-friendly alternative to private transport. A trip from Fayetteville will take about 1.5 hours, during which the bus covers approximately 110 kilometres. A similar amount of time will be required to get there from the city of Goldsboro, located to the southeast.

If you are departing from Greensboro, expect to spend approximately 1.5–2 hours on the road, enjoying the views of North Carolina. Intercity services on these routes allow you to travel comfortably across the USA without worrying about parking or navigation in an unfamiliar area upon arrival in Raleigh.

Travelling by car is an excellent way to reach the capital of North Carolina while enjoying picturesque landscapes and high-quality highways. The fastest route leads from the city of Goldsboro: the distance of 89 kilometres can be covered in less than an hour. A trip from neighbouring Fayetteville will take approximately the same time, as the cities are separated by just 103 kilometres.

If you are making your way from Greensboro, the 123-kilometre road will take about 1 hour and 20 minutes. Renting a car in the region is very simple, but if necessary, you can use taxi services or popular ride-hailing apps, although the cost of such an intercity transfer usually starts from 100–120 dollars.

Preparing for a trip to Raleigh requires attention to detail to ensure your journey goes smoothly and leaves only pleasant impressions. We have gathered useful recommendations for you that will help you adapt faster in the capital of North Carolina and feel confident in the USA.

1. Clothing and Essentials. The climate here is humid subtropical. Summers can be hot and humid, so pack light clothing made of natural fabrics, headwear, and sunglasses. Winters are mild but changeable: you will need a jacket, a sweater, and comfortable waterproof shoes. If you plan to walk a lot in the parks, be sure to bring trainers.
2. Transport. Raleigh is a city oriented towards motorists. Although the GoRaleigh bus network operates here, the schedule may not always match a tourist's plans, and routes do not cover all districts. The optimal option is renting a car or using taxi apps (Uber, Lyft).
3. Finances. The official currency is the US Dollar. Bank cards are accepted almost everywhere: in hotels, restaurants, museums, and shops. However, it is recommended to carry some cash in small denominations (1, 5, 10 dollars) for tips to valets or purchases at small kiosks.
4. Health and Safety. Healthcare here is expensive, so be sure to arrange full medical insurance before your trip. The city is considered quite safe, but standard precautions are advisable: keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. The emergency number is 911.
5. Communication. The main language of communication is English. Locals are known for their friendliness and "Southern hospitality", so do not hesitate to ask for directions or advice. English here may have a specific Southern accent, but you will quickly get used to it.
6. Local Etiquette. In North Carolina, it is customary to be polite: greet shop assistants and hold doors open. An important point is tipping. In restaurants and taxis, it is customary to leave 18–20% of the bill amount, as service is usually not included in the cheque.
7. What to Avoid. Do not cross the road in unauthorised places — fines can be high, and traffic is intense. Also, avoid walking alone in unlit, remote areas at night; it is better to stick to central streets and tourist zones.
8. Additional Tip. Raleigh is often called the "Smithsonian of the South" due to the abundance of free museums. Be sure to visit the Museum of Natural Sciences or the North Carolina Museum of History — entry to them is free, which will help save your budget and allow you to learn many new things.

By following these simple tips, you can avoid practical difficulties and focus on the main thing — exploring the sights and relaxing. May your acquaintance with the "City of Oaks" be comfortable and memorable!