Train from Washington, DC, to Philadelphia, PA
The train from Washington, DC, to Philadelphia, PA, lasts on average 2 h 1 min. Around 3 trains depart a day between Washington, DC, and Philadelphia, PA, the average price is $ 71.38 and the lowest ticket pricing starts at around $ 17.23.
Amtrak, the largest passenger railway service in the U.S., operates the train from Washington to Philadelphia. The good news is that all the trains connecting Washington and Philadelphia are direct. There are several options, but it comes down to whether you need to get there fast with the high-speed train Acela, or take your time with a slightly slower line like the Northeast Regional, or the long-distance lines passing through both cities.
- The Acela Express is a high-speed train between Washington, DC, and Philadelphia, MA. 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 greater 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 cheaper price and frequency. It runs around 16 times a day, unlike other lines, Carolinian, Crescent, Vermonter, and Palmetto, which run only once daily. The Northeast Regional is slower than the Acela Express, but it makes more stops along the way, making it a more convenient option for passengers who need to make connections.
The ticket prices may vary depending on how early you book, so securing them at your earliest convenience is recommended.
Children 2-12 travel at a lower fare on all Amtrak trains, but the Acela Express only offers discounts for children on weekends. But, the good news is that children under two always travel free on Amtrak trains on the Northeast Corridor.
Your main departure station in D.C. is Union station. 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 board the train from Washington D.C. to Philadelphia 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
In Philadelphia, you can exit at two stations:
- 30th Street Station, officially William H. Gray III, originally built in the 1930s, has since become a hub for transportation with access to Amtrak, SEPTA, and other forms of public transit. The beautiful station building is located in the University city, filled with restaurants and cafes, providing plenty of things to do and see. The famous Liberty bell is also easily reachable; if history is not your thing, you can always stroll down the Delaware river.
- Another option is the North Philadelphia station. Located on Broad Street, it is close to tourist attractions such as the African American Museum of Philadelphia and the Rodin Museum. The station, however, also has a reputation for not being safe, and it is recommended to exit on the 30th Street Station, which is constantly monitored and protected by the police and Amtrak security.
So if you're planning to travel to Philadelphia from Washington 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 Washington and Philidelphia.