Train from Philadelphia, PA, to Washington, DC
The train from Philadelphia, PA to Washington, DC, lasts on average 7 h 1 min. Around 3 trains depart a day between Philadelphia, PA, and Washington, DC, the average price is $ 76.84 and the lowest ticket pricing starts at around $ 15.37.
Amtrak, the largest passenger railroad service in the U.S., operates the train from Philadelphia to Washington. The good news is that all connections between Philadelphia and Washington are direct. There are several options, but it comes down to whether you need to get there fast with the speed train Acela or take your time with slightly slower lines like the Northeast Regional.
The Acela Express is a high-speed train between Boston, MA, and Washington, D.C. It is the fastest train in the Northeast Corridor, reaching 150 miles per hour, stopping at BWI Marshall Airport, Baltimore, and Wilmington before arriving in Philadelphia. Acela tickets are pricier due to their great speeds and comfort. Extra legroom, free Wi-Fi, and a power outlet under each seat are some of the perks you can expect on Amtrak Acela Express.
Northeast Regional is the most popular train due to its price and frequency. It runs around 15 times a day, unlike other lines, Carolinian, Crescent Vermonter, and Palmetto, which run only once daily. The Northeast Regional is slower, but it makes more stops along the way, making it a more convenient option for passengers who need to make connections.
In Philadelphia, you can board at these two Amtrak Intercity Stations:
- 30th Street Station, officially William H. Gray III, initially built in the 1930s, has since become a hub for transportation with access to Amtrak, SEPTA, and other forms of public transit.
- Another option is the North Philadelphia station. The station has a reputation for being unsafe, and it may be better to exit on the 30th Street Station, which is constantly monitored and protected by the police and Amtrak security.
You can end your journey in Washington at Union station, the main D.C. train terminal. Just a few blocks from the U.S. Capitol Building. Amtrak, MARC, VRE trains, and several bus lines serve Union Station. The best way to reach Union Station is by public transportation. The station is accessible by Metro Rail (Red Line) and several bus routes. If you are driving, there is a parking garage next to the station.
Besides Union Station, you can exit the train from Philadelphia, PA to Washington, D.C. to, at these stations:
- 55 Norfolk Ave SW
- 825 Kemper St
- 111 South Commerce St
- Train Station - 810 W Main St
- 110 Callahan Dr
- 9431 West St
- VRE Station - 10399 Premier Ct
So if you're planning to travel to Washington from Philadelphia by train, let us help you plan it. We check thousands of destinations across rail, bus, and flight to help you find the best price. Check out our handy price calendar below, where you can see the best prices across all modes of transport between Philadelphia and Washington.