Salem Junction railway station is the city's main transport hub, well connected on the Chennai–Coimbatore main line. Trains run frequently to Chennai (around 5 hours), Coimbatore (2.5 hours), Bengaluru (5–6 hours), and Erode. The station also has services to Mumbai and other northern cities via the Kongu Express and Salem–Mysuru trains.
The Bharat Ratna Dr. M.G.R. Central Bus Stand on Omalur Road is Salem's long-distance bus terminus, with state-run TNSTC and private buses to Chennai (5–6 hours), Coimbatore, Trichy, and Bengaluru. City buses and share autos run from here to various parts of town.
Salem Airport (SXV) has limited services — primarily to Chennai. Most travellers use the train, which is more reliable and connects to more destinations. Coimbatore International Airport (3 hours by road or rail) is the nearest hub with broader flight options.
By road, Salem sits at the junction of NH-44 (Chennai–Coimbatore) and NH-79 (to Erode and Bengaluru), making it easy to reach by long-distance bus or car. The drive from Chennai takes around 4.5 hours.