Wanderu Logo
United States flag
$
Log in
background-img-buses-trains
chiku-desktop

Washington DC to Philadelphia train

chiku-mobile
Available on iOS & Android
Lowest Prices

We find the cheapest bus & train tickets, so you can wander for less.

Best Travel Options

We partner with 500+ carriers to bring you the most bus & train options.

Quick & Easy Booking

Book trips quickly with a simple, hassle-free checkout – online & on our app.

Fast Customer Support

We don’t monkey around. We respond within minutes to help you out.

Washington DC - Philadelphia Train Schedule

Find cheap rental carsFind great deals on cheap cars in the area.
RentalCars logotypeRentalCars logotype
from$30.00

Train Trip Information: Washington DC to Philadelphia

There are usually 36 daily train trips available from Washington DC to Philadelphia. Traveling by train from Washington DC to Philadelphia usually takes one hour and 57 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak train can make the trip in one hour and 30 minutes.

Distance123 mi (198 km)
Fastest train1h 30m
Lowest price$7.00
Trains per day29
Most frequent serviceAmtrak Northeast Regional
Train lines8

Train Trip Reviews from Wanderu Customers

Average score for trains from Washington to Philadelphia

(Based on 142 ratings and reviews)

4.8

5.0

Sophie

October 14, 2023- Visiting friends

Amtrak Vermonter

Pros: I like using amtrack because the seats are big and clean and the cars are very quiet. Cons: Some staff is rude but it’s not that bad at all. Tips: No :).

5.0

Maria

October 10, 2023- Solo travel

Amtrak Acela

First time on Amtrak in a long time. Surprisingly great and improved.

4.0

D.S.Y

October 5, 2023- Vacation

Amtrak Northeast Regional

Pros: Spacious and clean cabin. Cons: Boarding arrangement at the station could be manage better. Tips: A passenger sat next to me keep talking in the phone and put loud music while sitting in the quiet car, maybe the officer can check on this kind if behaviour as well during the trip.

5.0

Zuleirys

August 30, 2023- Business

Amtrak Northeast Regional

Pros: Everything was on time, very organized, easy and stress free. Cons: Wish it would be cheaper the early morning ones.

4.0

Sally

August 27, 2023- Solo travel

Amtrak Northeast Regional

Pros: I enjoy train rides. Cons: Add more cars. Tips: Put tray up when you leave your seat.

Washington DC to Philadelphia Route Map

Washington Philadelphia
See more details

What is the price of a train ticket from Washington DC to Philadelphia?

In the last month, the average price of a train ticket from Washington to Philadelphia was $85.98. Good news! You can find the cheapest tickets if you book your trip at least 28 days prior to the travel date. You’ll likely pay around $52.60 more if you wait to book until the last minute.

Average prices by travel date

$150$100$50NovDec

If you're planning to travel by bus from Washington DC to Philadelphia in the next month, the average ticket price is expected to range from $63 to $137. The cheapest bus tickets available in the next few weeks are for trips departing on December 24, 2023.

If you’re looking to travel to Philadelphia this week, bus tickets are available starting at $72.

Monthly average prices

$125$100$75$50$25JFMAMJJASOND
If you're on the hunt for the cheapest bus tickets from Washington DC to Philadelphia, mark your calendar for August. During this period, you can expect to find the lowest average ticket price of the year, just $77. However, taking the bus from Washington DC to Philadelphia during November is not so cheap. This time of year, ticket prices often reach an average of $103. The best way to find deals on a trip in November is to plan ahead and book your bus ticket as early as possible.

Prices as travel date approaches

$150$120$90$60$303020100

Most bus companies charge higher ticket prices closer to the date of travel, so it’s a good idea to buy your bus tickets as early as possible. To find the cheapest bus tickets, book your trip at least 28 days in advance. This way, you can save up to $52.60 on your bus ticket compared to booking last-minute.

Which train should you take from Washington DC to Philadelphia?

There are 8 train lines with service from Washington to Philadelphia. Amtrak Northeast Regional is the most popular choice with travelers, offering scheduled service on 16 trains each day.

TrainDaily TripsAvg. TimeAvg. Price
Amtrak92h 55m$131.75
Amtrak Acela81h 35m$187.69
Amtrak Carolinian11h 45m$172.16
Amtrak Crescent12h 0m$143.34
Amtrak Northeast Regional162h 1m$93.49
Amtrak Palmetto11h 54m$98.73
Amtrak Silver Service12h 0m$105.18
Amtrak Vermonter11h 50m$100.35

  • Amtrak is the largest passenger railroad service in America, offering daily intercity trains to hundreds of destinations across the contiguous United States, as well as several cities in Canada. Every Amtrak train comes equipped with comfortable seats with extra legroom, as well as several four-seat areas with tables in the middle. In addition, each car has a freshly cleaned restroom, free WiFi and power outlets at every seat. There are also snack bars where you can purchase drinks or food during your journey. On average, there are 9 Amtrak trains from Washington to Philadelphia every day, as well as 7 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from $7.

  • The Acela is Amtrak’s flagship high-speed rail service. Connecting 15 cities along the Northeast Corridor of the United States, the Acela is Amtrak’s fastest running passenger train, developing a speed of up to 82.2 mph. Acela trains are equipped with free high-speed internet, power outlets and extra comfortable seats. In addition, all Acela passengers have access to the line’s signature Corridor Café where they can unwind and enjoy a freshly prepared meal with a glass of wine. There are 8 Acela trips from Washington to Philadelphia every day, including the weekend. As it is Amtrak’s most premium service, the average Acela train ticket may cost more than other train lines.

  • The Amtrak Carolinian is a passenger train service which connects New York City and Washington, DC to some of the most charming destinations in North Carolina. The Carolinian runs an average of 1 trips per day between Washington and Philadelphia, all of which include seats with extra legroom, free WiFi, power outlets, and snacks available in the Café car. The average Amtrak Carolinian ticket price for this route is , and the trip usually lasts around 1 hours and 45 minutes.

  • The Crescent is Amtrak’s passenger train service that runs from New York to New Orleans by way of Atlanta. As an overnight service, the Crescent offers a variety of amenities and accommodation options. There’s also a café car where you can enjoy freshly prepared meals and a variety of soft and alcoholic beverages. Like all Amtrak trains, the Crescent offers free WiFi, power outlets and extra legroom. Train trips from Washington to Philadelphia take about 2 hours and 0 minutes and the cost of a one-way train ticket on the Crescent starts from $70.

  • The Northeast Regional is Amtrak’s passenger rail service that runs between Boston, MA and Virginia Beach, VA, connecting over 50 cities in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions of the United States. While the line’s downtown-to-downtown train service makes traveling between the biggest cities in the Northeast convenient and hassle-free, the train’s amenities make the journey comfortable and relaxing as well. Amtrak passengers can enjoy large seats with extra legroom and power outlets, as well as free WiFi and clean bathrooms. With 16 daily train trips from Washington to Philadelphia, the Northeast Regional is the busiest and most popular among all Amtrak routes.

  • The Palmetto is an Amtrak train service that runs a total of 829 miles from New York City to Savannah, GA, connecting 20 cities from the Northeast to the Southeast along the way. Traveling from Washington to Philadelphia is comfortable and relaxing on the Palmetto, thanks to the train’s free WiFi, power outlets, and seating with extra legroom. You can pick from 1 daily departures along this route, with train ticket pricing at an average of on the Palmetto.

  • The Silver Service is an Amtrak train line that runs from New York City to Miami, connecting the largest cities in the Mid-Atlantic region with key destinations in the South and many places across the Sunshine State. Two trains, the Silver Meteor and Silver Star, collectively comprise the Silver Service. The trains come equipped with a variety of sleeper cars that travelers taking an overnight train can choose from, as well as a variety of amenities like free WiFi, power outlets, and a café car. One-way train tickets for the Silver Service from Washington to Philadelphia start from $70 and the average train journey lasts about 2 hours and 0 minutes.

  • The Vermonter is an Amtrak passenger train that connects St. Albans, VT to Washington, D.C. by way of New York City. The journey is renowned for the beautiful scenic views that it presents as it passes through the Green Mountains and the Berkshires. Aboard the Vermonter, passengers can enjoy free WiFi, power outlets at every seat and extra legroom. You can also grab a bite to eat or enjoy a refreshing beverage from the train’s café. There are 1 Vermonter trains traveling from Washington to Philadelphia every day, with prices starting from $15.

Frequently Asked Questions

Although a train from D.C to Philly is faster and has more comfort, traveling by bus is cheaper. Bus tickets average $14, and take between 3 and 3.5 hours. Amtrak trains take only 2 hours, but the average price is around $64 more.

Our train partners have implemented several different policies to keep you safe during the COVID-19 pandemic. From limiting vehicle capacity to enhancing cleaning protocols and upgrading air filters, train carriers are committed to maintaining a safe environment. For details on what each company is doing to ensure their fleet remains safe for travel, click here.

Although masks are no longer required on public transportation, we stand behind CDC guidelines that encourage passengers to wear a mask over their nose and mouth while on the train or in stations.

Please visit our COVID-19 Travel Guide for more information on all carrier policies and the latest travel advisories issued by every U.S. state, Canadian province, and European country.

Yes, there are trains that can take you the entire way from Washington DC to Philadelphia. However, there are also some trips on this route that require you to board another vehicle, such as a bus or a shuttle, during your journey. This is worth paying attention to as you book your trip, since a direct train may be preferable for its speed and convenience.
The distance between Washington DC and Philadelphia is approximately 123 miles, or 198 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 1 hour 57 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 1 hour 30 minutes. As a relatively short ride, taking the train is an easy way to travel between these two cities.

Thursday is usually the day of the week when trains are busiest. If you are planning to travel on a Thursday, you should make sure to book tickets well in advance as they may sell out.

On the other hand, Tuesday is typically the least busy day for train travel on this route. If you’re looking for a little extra space, a Tuesday ticket is the way to go.

The earliest train departs Washington DC at 1:00am while the last train of the day leaves at 10:00pm. To see all scheduled departure times, use the search function on this page to get the full schedule for your specific travel dates.

There are 36 scheduled trains on most days. 29 of these are direct connections to Philadelphia. While direct trains may still make stops along the way, you will not need to switch trains at any point. If you're looking to get to your destination faster, a direct train is the convenient and time-efficient choice.

You can also take a train for your return trip from Philadelphia to Washington DC.

City Information

Washington DC

Washington, DC is the capital of the United States, and as such, it offers many points of interest of governmental and historical value. DC is home to several iconic landmarks, including the White House where the U.S. president resides, the Capitol building that houses the meeting chambers of the Senate and the House of Representatives, and the National Mall, where you can stop by the Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument, and the World War II Memorial. One of the reasons Washington, DC is among the best destinations to visit with your family is because it is home to so many world-famous museums, including the Smithsonians – 16 museums scattered across the District, most of which are open every day of the week, and even better, every single one is free.

D.C. is not just about politics and museums, though. The city’s active nightlife fittingly ranks it among the biggest party hubs in the country. Head to the vibrant Dupont Circle neighborhood to check out some of the finest restaurants that the nation’s capital has to offer, or join a food tour of Georgetown to get a taste of the area’s culture along with its cuisine.

Nested between Virginia and Maryland, Washington, D.C. is a key transportation hub with three nearby airports and several bus and train stations.

Philadelphia

We may feel a little bit more than just brotherly love for Philadelphia, a city steeped in history and culture. Where else can you channel your inner Rocky Balboa on his epic run, and later enjoy an authentic Philly cheesesteak as a reward?

Philadelphia’s affordability (especially compared to other East Coast cities) is just one of many reasons it is among Wanderu’s best destinations for college students. Another reason is how much there is to do! Early American history takes precedence at Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell, while museums abound on Benjamin Franklin Parkway, sometimes called the most artistic mile in the city. Head to Reading Terminal Market to fuel up for a night hitting the bars, clubs, and live music joints that line South Street.

Philadelphia is a major hub for both Greyhound and Amtrak, and its 30th Street Station is one of the busiest stations in the country. The plentitude of ground travel and the nearby Philadelphia International Airport make this exciting city very easily accessible, even on a budget.

Station Information

Where is the train station in Washington DC?

Washington, DC - Union Station - DCAUST-0

Main departure station: Union Station

Opened more than 100 years ago in 1907, Union Station is the largest transportation hub in Washington, D.C. with almost 5 million travelers passing through it every year. As the official headquarters of Amtrak, Union Station is the main train station in the U.S. capital. It is also a major hub for intercity bus travel, serving as the main bus station in D.C. for a number of carriers, including Greyhound, BoltBus, Peter Pan Bus Lines and OurBus. Union Station offers easy transit connections to places all over D.C. with dedicated stops for the city’s metro, bus and streetcar services, as well as commuter rail for travelers to and from the surrounding areas. Additionally, with a full blown shopping mall on the premises, Union Station is also among the most popular shopping destinations in the nation's capital.

All train stations in Washington DC:

  • Union Station

  • 325 Depot St - Amtrak Station

  • 200 Cleveland Memorial Shoreway

  • Chicago (Union Station), Illinois

  • 201 East Harrison St

  • Alvarado Transportation Center - 314 1st St SW

  • 250 N Lamar Blvd

  • Union Station - 1701 Wynkoop Street

  • Union Station - 400 S Houston St

  • 1100 Liberty Ave

  • Greyhound: Bus Station

  • 825 Kemper St

  • 110 Callahan Dr

  • 111 South Commerce St

  • Train Station - 810 W Main St

Where is the train station in Philadelphia?

PHLTTH-0 - PHLTTH-0.jpg

Image credit: Ben Schumin

Link to image attribution

Main arrival station: 30th St Station - 2955 Market St

Philadelphia has one train station.

All train stations in Philadelphia:

  • 30th St Station - 2955 Market St

Get around town with Moovit

Find the best way to get to and from any station in Philadelphia by public transit, courtesy of Moovit. Search now

From the Wanderu blog

Need a return trip from Philadelphia to Washington DC?

Search Train Tickets
0

Wanderu is the simplest way to book bus and train travel.

With just a quick search on Wanderu, you can compare bus and train schedules and prices from hundreds of travel companies in one convenient place to find the trip that works best for you. Wanderu’s simple checkout process makes it easy to book cheap bus and train tickets hassle-free. Most importantly, as Wanderu is an official partner of all leading bus and train companies, we always have the best bus and train deals out there.

Book buses and trains on the go with the Wanderu app.

Download our app and snag the best travel deals across North America & Europe.Learn more

iPhone
Android
Available on iOS & Android