Train Philadelphia, PA - Washington, DC prices from $15.56

Start From
$15.56
Discover

Philadelphia, PA to Washington, DC by train

The journey from Philadelphia, PA to Washington, DC by train is 123.8 mi and takes 1 h 38 min. There are 5 connections per day, with the first departure at 8:08am and the last at 12:40am. It is possible to travel from Philadelphia, PA to Washington, DC by train for as little as $15.56 or as much as $93.37. The best price for this journey is $15.56.

Best Price $15.56
Journey Duration 1 h 38 min
Connection per Day 5
Lowest Price $15.56
Highest Price $93.37
First Departure 8:08am
Last Departure 12:40am
Distance 123.8 mi
Departure Philadelphia, PA
Arrival Washington, DC
Carriers Amtrak

Philadelphia, PA to Washington, DC Train Times

    Dec 04
    More
    10°
    Dec 05
    More
    Dec 06
    More
    Dec 07
    More
    Dec 08
    More
    Dec 09
    More
    Dec 10
    More
    Dec 11
    More
    Dec 12
    More
    Dec 13
    More
    Dec 14
    More
    Dec 15
    More
    11°
    Dec 16
    More
    17°
    Dec 17
    More
    17°
    Dec 18
    More
Departure date
Monday,Dec 04 2023
10°

Train from Philadelphia, PA, to Washington, DC

The train from Philadelphia, PA to Washington, DC, lasts on average 16 h 28 min. Around 2 trains depart a day between Philadelphia, PA, and Washington, DC, the average price is $42.42 and the lowest ticket pricing starts at around $14.55.

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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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:

  1. 55 Norfolk Ave SW
  2. 825 Kemper St
  3. 111 South Commerce St
  4. Train Station - 810 W Main St
  5. 110 Callahan Dr
  6. 9431 West St
  7. 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.

Show full description Hide full description

Compare prices and tickets from Philadelphia, PA to Washington, DC

 
Dec 04
Monday
10°
$15.43
Dec 05
Tuesday
$14.90
Dec 06
Wednesday
$14.37
Dec 07
Thursday
$14.37
Dec 08
Friday
$14.37
Dec 09
Saturday
$14.37
Dec 10
Sunday
$14.37
Cheap tickets from Philadelphia, PA to Washington, DC
Looking for the best deal on a train ticket for your trip? Here are 4 ways to get cheap train tickets from Philadelphia, PA to Washington, DC.

Book in advance and save

If you're looking for the best deal for your trip from Philadelphia, PA to Washington, DC, booking train tickets in advance is a great way to save money, but keep in mind that advance tickets are usually not available until 3 months before your travel date.

Stay flexible with your travel time and explore off-peak journeys

Planning your trips around off-peak travel times not only means that you'll be able to avoid the crowds, but can also end up saving you money. Being flexible with your schedule and considering alternative routes or times will significantly impact the amount of money you spend on getting from Philadelphia, PA to Washington, DC.

Always check special offers

Checking on the latest deals can help save a lot of money, making it worth taking the time to browse and compare prices. So make sure you get the best deal on your ticket and take advantage of special fares for children, youth and seniors as well as discounts for groups.

Unlock the potential of slower trains or connecting trains

If you're planning a trip with some flexible time, why not opt for the scenic route? Taking slower trains or connecting trains that make more stops may save you money on your ticket – definitely worth considering if it fits in your schedule.

Show tickets by

Price as departure date approaches

Train companies may charge higher ticket prices as the date of departure approaches. Prices in the next days can range from around $12 to $55 but may be subject to change. Our advice is to book as early as possible to potentially save up to 79% on your trip!

Best time to book cheap train tickets from Philadelphia, PA to Washington, DC

The cheapest Philadelphia, PA - Washington, DC train tickets can be found for as low as $21 if you’re lucky, or $44 on average. The most expensive ticket can cost as much as $81.

Find the best day to travel to Washington, DC by train

When travelling to Washington, DC by train, if you want to avoid crowds you can check how frequently our customers are travelling in the next 30-days using the graph below. On average, the peak hours to travel are between 6:30am and 9am in the morning, or between 4pm and 7pm in the evening. Please keep this in mind when travelling to your point of departure as you may need some extra time to arrive, particularly in big cities!

Carriers on this route

Find out more about the carriers on this route.

Amtrak, formally known as the National Railroad Passenger Corporation, is a U.S. government-owned entity that delivers intercity passenger train services across the country. Operating over 300 trains daily, Amtrak connects more than 500 destinations in 46 states, the District of Columbia, and three Canadian provinces. Its services include a variety of routes, from short-distance commuter lines to extended journeys featuring sleeper car accommodations.

Ticket types and facilities from Philadelphia, PA to Washington, DC

Compare the different ticket types and the facilities provided by Amtrak when traveling from Philadelphia, PA to Washington, DC.

Coach

Coach Class passengers enjoy reclining seats with plenty of legroom and fold-down tray tables, along with outlets for electronic devices. They also have access to the Cafe car for food and beverages, along with carry-on baggage service and, on some routes, checked baggage service.

WiFi
Power sockets
Luggage
Accessibility
Food and drink
Air conditioning
Bicycle

First Class

On Acela trains, First Class passengers enjoy all the benefits of Business Class with further enhancements. The seats are adjustable leather with extra space for comfort. There is also a complimentary meal service delivered directly to the passengers' seats. First Class travelers have access to ClubAcela lounges at select stations.

WiFi
Quiet zone
Power sockets
Luggage
Accessibility
Food and drink
Air conditioning
Bicycle

Business

Stepping up to Business Class, passengers receive all the amenities of Coach Class plus additional legroom and complimentary non-alcoholic drinks. They also gain access to lounges at select stations for a more relaxed wait before boarding.

WiFi
Quiet zone
Power sockets
Luggage
Accessibility
Food and drink
Air conditioning
Bicycle

Facility Description

Find out more about the carriers on this route.

WiFi
Free basic WiFi available in select trains and stations. Some include Acela, Adirondack (not available in Canada), Amtrak Cascades (not available in Canada), Amtrak Hartford Line, Auto Train, Blue Water, Capitol Corridor, Cardinal, Carolinian, Crescent, Downeaster, Empire Service, Ethan, Allen Express, Hiawatha Service, Illini/Saluki, and Illinois Zephyr/Carl Sandburg
Quiet zone
Quiet Cars, designed for limited conversation and subdued tones, are available on various trains like Acela, Northeast Regional, and more. The atmosphere is calm with low lighting. Seating follows first-come, first-served and one seat per person policies. First Class Rooms: For those seeking privacy and space, First Class private rooms are an available option.
Power sockets
Electric outlets are distributed on trains. For example, Superliner and Viewliner sleepers provide outlets in Roomettes and Bedrooms.
Air conditioning
All trains are air-conditioned. In coaches, temperature is staff-controlled. Sleeper cars offer air temperature adjustments, with vent positioning recommended for comfort.
Luggage
On Amtrak, regardless of your ticket type, you can typically bring two carry-on bags and two personal items. Just make sure your carry-ons are within 28 x 22 x 14 inches and under 50 lbs. Some locations even allow up to four checked bags: two come free, and two for $20 each, but they should stay under 75 linear inches and 50 lbs. You can also check in overweight luggage, up to 70 lbs and 100 linear inches, for an additional $20 fee.
Accessibility
All trains accommodate passengers with disabilities. Features include accessible seats with extra room and areas where passengers can remain in their wheelchairs.
Food and drink
Trains offer various dining options, from meals to café services. Meal service is available for passengers with disabilities. Guidelines are present for personal food, beverages, and medication. Nutritional and allergen information provided for menu items.
Bicycle
Amtrak accommodates various types of special equipment with certain conditions. Bicycles are allowed on many routes, often requiring a reservation and small fee. Wheelchairs, scooters, and other mobility devices are accepted on all trains, with specific accessible seating and bedrooms available. Small musical instruments can be carried on if they fit under the seat or overhead rack, while larger ones must meet carry-on restrictions or be checked. Some sports equipment, like skis or golf clubs, can be carried on or checked depending on size.
Services on board Amtrak from Philadelphia, PA to Washington, DC
Compare services on board when travelling from Philadelphia, PA to Washington, DC by train.
Facilities Amtrak
Quiet zone
WiFi
Power sockets
Luggage
Accessibility
Food and drink
Air conditioning
Bicycle
Sleeper

Philadelphia, PA to Washington, DC CO2 Emissions by Train

Ecology
Train
1.7kg
Bus
11.2kg
Flight
449.1kg
Car
43.3kg
What are the CO2 emissions from Philadelphia, PA to Washington, DC by train? The CO2 emissions from taking the train between Philadelphia, PA and Washington, DC are 1.7kg.
How much CO2 do I save by taking the train between Philadelphia, PA and Washington, DC? By taking the train between Philadelphia, PA and Washington, DC you will save 447.4kg CO2 emissions compared to a flight, 9.5kg compared to a bus and 41.6kg compared to a car.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is a train ticket from Philadelphia, PA to Washington, DC?
A train ticket from Philadelphia, PA to Washington, DC is $35.98. However the price varies depending on how early you buy, and if it's peak time to travel. Occasionally you can find them for as cheap as $15.56.
What's the cheapest train ticket from Philadelphia, PA to Washington, DC?
The cheapest ticket you can get from Philadelphia, PA to Washington, DC is $15.56. We recommend booking as early as possible and off-peak hours to get the cheapest ticket possible. Off-peak times are usually from 09:30 to 16:00, and after 19:00.
What's the distance between Philadelphia, PA and Washington, DC by train?
Philadelphia, PA to Washington, DC is 123.8 mi.
How long does the train between Philadelphia, PA and Washington, DC take?
Philadelphia, PA to Washington, DC is on average 4 h 59 min. However the fastest option will get you there in 1 h 38 min.
Which companies operate from Philadelphia, PA to Washington, DC?
The train journey from Philadelphia, PA to Washington, DC is covered by 1 operator(s). On Virail you can find these carriers that provide services on this route: Amtrak.
How many train connections per day go from Philadelphia, PA to Washington, DC?
Philadelphia, PA to Washington, DC has 5 connection(s) per day on average.
What time does the first train from Philadelphia, PA to Washington, DC leave?
The earliest train from Philadelphia, PA to Washington, DC departs at 8:08am. However be sure to check with us the schedule on the day you want to leave as the time may differ.
What time does the last train from Philadelphia, PA to Washington, DC depart?
The latest train from Philadelphia, PA to Washington, DC departs at 12:40am. However be sure to check with us the schedule on the day you want to leave as the time may differ.
Should I book my ticket from Philadelphia, PA to Washington, DC in advance?
If you can, we recommend booking your ticket as early as possible to ensure you get better savings. The cheapest train ticket we have found is $15.56 but this may be subject to change depending on the day of travel, hour you wish to depart and how far in advance you book.
From which stations can I leave from Philadelphia, PA to Washington, DC?
There are 3 station(s) that you can depart from Philadelphia, PA to go to Washington, DC. You can go from Philadelphia, Pa, 30th Street Station and Ardmore Station and you can arrive at Washington, Dc, Washington, Dc - Union Station and Union Station.
How many direct connections depart from Philadelphia, PA to Washington, DC?
There are on average 4 direct connection(s) from Philadelphia, PA to go to Washington, DC.
What's the fastest journey time between Philadelphia, PA to Washington, DC by train?
The fastest journey time by train between Philadelphia, PA and Washington, DC is 1 h 38 min.
Is there a direct train from Philadelphia, PA to Washington, DC?
Yes, there is a direct train between Philadelphia, PA and Washington, DC.
What are the CO2 emissions for Philadelphia, PA to Washington, DC by train?
The train journey from Philadelphia, PA to Washington, DC creates 1.7kg of CO2 emissions.

Subscribe to our Newsletter

Get the latest news, product updates, and exclusive promotions directly in your inbox

Go local from Philadelphia, PA

Trending routes

Weekend getaways from Philadelphia, PA

Other destinations from Philadelphia, PA

Main routes to Washington, DC

Related routes

Other popular routes