Cheap train tickets from Rochester to Syracuse
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Trip Summary
There are usually 7 daily train trips available from Rochester to Syracuse. Traveling by train from Rochester to Syracuse usually takes 2 hours and 10 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak Maple Leaf train can make the trip in one hour and 15 minutes.
| Distance | 74 mi (119 km) |
| Fastest train | 1h 15m |
| Lowest price | $22.00 |
| Trains per day | 5 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak |
| Train lines | 4 |
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Rochester to Syracuse Train Schedule
Is it better to travel by bus or train from Rochester to Syracuse?
There are usually 16 daily bus trips available from Rochester to Syracuse.
Train | Bus | |
|---|---|---|
Avg. Price | Avg. Price$40.46 | Avg. Price$23.16Cheaper |
Daily Trips | Daily Trips7 | Daily Trips16 |
Duration | Duration2h 10m | Duration1h 52mFaster |
Train Trip Reviews from Wanderu Customers
Average score for trains from Rochester to Syracuse (Based on 16 ratings and reviews)
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There are several train options that can take you from Rochester to Syracuse:
- Amtrak tickets: $42 one-way
- Amtrak Empire Service tickets: $22 one-way
- Amtrak Lake Shore Limited tickets: $29 one-way
- Amtrak Maple Leaf tickets: $22 one-way
What is the price of a train ticket from Rochester to Syracuse?
In the last month, the average price of a train ticket from Rochester to Syracuse was $32.63. Compared to most train fares, this is an excellent price. Good news! You can find the cheapest tickets if you book your trip at least 23 days prior to the travel date. You’ll likely pay around $13.91 more if you wait to book until the last minute.
Average train ticket prices from Rochester to Syracuse by travel date
Over the next 30 days, a one-way train trip from Rochester to Syracuse will cost between $27 and $42. Book in advance to secure the best price in the next few weeks.
Average train ticket prices from Rochester to Syracuse by month
Ticket prices for the train from Rochester to Syracuse often fluctuate based on the time of year. For the best prices on this route, book in October when the average ticket price is only $29. If you're thinking of traveling from Rochester to Syracuse during November, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of $49 during this time of year. The best way to score a cheap deal, even in November, is to book your trip well in advance.
Prices as travel date approaches
By booking your train trip from Rochester to Syracuse on Wanderu at least 23 days ahead of time, you can save about $13.91 on your ticket. Waiting until the last minute means missing out on these savings!
Which train should you take from Rochester to Syracuse?
There are 4 train lines with service from Rochester to Syracuse. Amtrak is your best bet, with 2 scheduled trains per day.
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak | 2 | 5h 39m | $56.49 |
| Amtrak Empire Service | 2 | 1h 22m | $27.37 |
| Amtrak Lake Shore Limited | 2 | 1h 22m | $47.32 |
| Amtrak Maple Leaf | 1 | 1h 18m | $33.38 |
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 2 Amtrak trains from Rochester to Syracuse every day, as well as 2 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from $42.
The Amtrak Empire Service is a rail line spanning the Empire Corridor, a rail route through New York state from New York City to Niagara Falls. Several Amtrak passenger trains service this route, providing travelers with multiple options when commuting between cities in New York State. The trains themselves feature free internet, cafe service with snacks, beverages, and meals, and comfortable seats to enjoy the gorgeous views of the Hudson River Valley and Upstate New York.
The Amtrak Lake Shore Limited is an overnight train that runs along some of the best shorelines in the U.S., connecting New York City and Boston with Chicago. The service provides top-tier amenities to its passengers, including free WiFi and dining onboard. The Lake Shore Limited departs from Louise M. Slaughter Station in Rochester and arrives at Regional Transportation Center - 1 Walsh Cir in Syracuse. The route takes about 1 hours and 22 minutes and ticket prices start at $29.
The Amtrak Maple Leaf is an international rail line that runs from New York City to Toronto. It stops at some popular locations on its way, including Niagara Falls and Albany. Onboard WiFi and a cafe car make travel on the Maple Leaf comfortable and convenient. A trip from Rochester to Syracuse takes about 1 hours and 18 minutes on this line, and the average ticket price is $33.38.
Frequently asked questions about traveling by train from Rochester to Syracuse
There are 7 scheduled trains on most days. 5 of these are direct connections to Syracuse. 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 Syracuse to Rochester. If you're not set on traveling by train, you could always take the bus from Rochester to Syracuse for $12.
Trains per day
7
Direct trains
5
The distance between Rochester and Syracuse is approximately 74 miles, or 119 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 2 hours and 10 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 1 hour 15 minutes. As a relatively short ride, taking the train is an easy way to travel between these two cities.
Distance (mi)
74
Distance (km)
119
The earliest train departs Rochester at 5:31am while the last train of the day leaves at 1:25pm. To see all scheduled departure times, use the search function on this page to get the full schedule for your specific travel dates.
First train
5:31am
Last train
1:25pm
Trains from Rochester to Syracuse are the most crowded on Friday. Tickets also tend to be more expensive then. If you are looking for a great deal on your train tickets or just want extra room to stretch out, consider traveling on Monday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.
Busiest
Friday
Least crowded
Monday
City Information
Rochester
Perched on the shore on Lake Ontario, Rochester is an idyllic city with a small-town vibe, making it the perfect destination for those looking for some family-friendly fun. Rochester’s pride is Highland Park, which is one of the oldest arboretums in the U.S. Designed by the famous landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted, the park features idyllic paths cutting through treelines and fragrant lilac bushes. If you wish to marvel at the beauty of the Genesee River’s Gorge, go on a hiking trip on the Genesee Riverway Trail. For more cultural activities, George Eastman Museum, the world’s oldest photography museum, would be a great choice.
Rochester’s food scene features many quirky dishes, including the famous local garbage plate, which features your choice of meat along with decadent sides. For the best garbage plates, you might want to check out Nick Tahou Hots.
The city’s busiest bus station is the Trailways Terminal downtown. The station serves several bus carriers, including New York Trailways, Greyhound and OurBus, among others. The principal Amtrak train station is Louis M. Slaughter Station, which is located just across the street from the bus station. Rochester is served by Amtrak’s Empire Service, Lake Shore Limited and Maple Leaf lines. The city’s commercial air services are served by the Greater Rochester International Airport, located 3 miles southwest of downtown.
Syracuse
Syracuse might not be the top destination for tourists in New York, but it does have plenty of quirky and fun destinations for all age groups. Upon your first arrival to the city, don’t miss out on the chance to take a stroll around the historic Armory Square, considered to be the top destination by locals. The square also features plenty of restaurants and nightclubs if you are looking for the quarter with the best nightlife in town. If you want to mingle with a good crowd for some fun, the Carrier Dome, which is located within the campus of Syracuse University, will offer the adrenaline rush you need. For those seeking a more culturally-inclined activity, head towards the Everson Museum of Art and marvel at the most significant collection of American ceramics in the country.
Syracuse features a vibrant and diverse food scene. If you enjoy brunch, Modern Malt, a local favorite, is the place to be. And for some amazing authentic Cuban dishes, head to Esquina Habanera.
The busiest bus and train station in the city is the William F. Walsh Regional Transportation Center. From there you can catch an Amtrak train or a bus run by Greyhound, New York Trailways, OurBus or Jefferson Lines to various cities, including New York, Boston, and Albany. Syracuse is served by Amtrak’s Empire Service, Lake Shore Limited and Maple Leaf lines. The Syracuse Hancock International Airport is the principal airport in the city, and it is located five miles northwest of downtown.
Station Information
Where is the train station in Rochester?
Main departure station: Louise M. Slaughter Station
Opened in 2017, the Louise M. Slaughter Station Rochester is nearly brand new. It serves three Amtrak train lines: the Lake Shore Limited, the Empire Service, and the Maple Leaf. The station was renamed Louise M. Slaughter Station in honor of U.S. Representative Louise M. Slaughter, who died in March 2018. This intermodal transit station is connected to the rest of the area via transit buses and taxis. Spread across 9,500 square feet, Louise M. Slaughter Station has a classic red brick design, with cast stone and granite used in various places. At the station, you will find an indoor waiting area with plenty of seats. There are also several vending machines, an ATM, and restroom facilities.
All train stations in Rochester:
- Louise M. Slaughter Station
Where is the train station in Syracuse?
Main arrival station: Regional Transportation Center - 1 Walsh Cir
Opened in 1998, the William F. Walsh Regional Transportation Center (commonly referred to as the RTC) serves as a multi-service stop for travel throughout Central New York. The Transportation Center serves several Amtrak train lines, including the Empire Service, the Maple Leaf, and the Lake Shore Limited, as well as Greyhound and Trailways buses. As the central ground travel hub in Syracuse, the station provides transport for roughly 153,000 people annually. In addition to providing easy access to local landmarks such as the Destiny USA shopping center and the NBT Bank Stadium, the RTC can also take you further afield to popular destinations such as Niagara Falls, New York City, and Washington, D.C., among other places. At the RTC, you will find a Dunkin' Donuts, as well as a Great States newsstand. The free WiFi and climate-controlled waiting area make it a pleasant place to wait for your bus or train.
All train stations in Syracuse:
- Regional Transportation Center - 1 Walsh Cir
- Syracuse Hancock Intl Apt
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