Cheap train tickets from Philadelphia to Erie

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Trip Summary

There are usually 2 daily train trips available from Philadelphia to Erie. Traveling by train from Philadelphia to Erie usually takes 13 hours and 48 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak train can make the trip in 12 hours and 48 minutes.

Distance	297 mi (478 km)
Fastest train	12h 48m
Lowest price	$151.00
Trains per day	0
Most frequent service	Amtrak
Train lines	1

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Philadelphia to Erie Train Schedule

Is it better to travel by bus or train from Philadelphia to Erie?

There are usually 2 daily bus trips available from Philadelphia to Erie.

	Train	Bus
Avg. Price	Avg. Price$268.04	Avg. Price$129.70Cheaper
Daily Trips	Daily Trips2	Daily Trips2
Duration	Duration13h 48m	Duration13h 43mFaster

There are several train options that can take you from Philadelphia to Erie:

Amtrak tickets: $138 one-way

See more details

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

In the last month, the average price of a train ticket from Philadelphia to Erie was $172.00. This is somewhat expensive compared to other train fares, but it makes sense given the route’s long distance. Good news! You can find the cheapest tickets if you book your trip at least 16 days prior to the travel date. You’ll likely pay around $192.90 more if you wait to book until the last minute.

Average train ticket prices from Philadelphia to Erie by travel date

Over the next 30 days, a one-way train trip from Philadelphia to Erie will cost between $134 and $277. Book in advance to secure the best price in the next few weeks.

Average train ticket prices from Philadelphia to Erie by month

Ticket prices for the train from Philadelphia to Erie often fluctuate based on the time of year. For the best prices on this route, book in February when the average ticket price is only $208. If you're thinking of traveling from Philadelphia to Erie during November, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of $340 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 Philadelphia to Erie on Wanderu at least 16 days ahead of time, you can save about $192.90 on your ticket. Waiting until the last minute means missing out on these savings!

Which train should you take from Philadelphia to Erie?

Amtrak is the one and only train line which connects Philadelphia to Erie. The schedule is relatively limited as the train only runs twice a day.

Train	Daily Trips	Avg. Time	Avg. Price
Amtrak	2	13h 48m	$268.04

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 Philadelphia to Erie every day, as well as 4 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from $138.

Frequently asked questions about traveling by train from Philadelphia to Erie

Trains leave the station in Philadelphia twice a day, so there are a couple of options depending on your preferred travel time. However, there are no direct trains. This means that you will need to disembark from your original train and board a connecting train at some point during your journey. You will need to remember to bring your carry-on luggage with you when you change trains. Depending on the carrier's policy, you may also be responsible for transferring your own checked baggage. You can also take a train for your return trip from Erie to Philadelphia. If you're not set on traveling by train, you could always take the bus from Philadelphia to Erie for $65.

Trains per day

Direct trains

The distance between Philadelphia and Erie is approximately 297 miles, or 478 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 13 hours and 48 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 12 hours and 48 minutes. Looking for ways to pass the time? Most trains are equipped with Wi-Fi, which means you can stream music, browse social media or get some work done during your ride. That said, in case your train has a spotty signal, or is among the few without Wi-Fi, we also recommend downloading TV shows and movies to your mobile device in advance of your trip. That way the ride will fly by whatever the Wi-Fi situation.

Distance (mi)

297

Distance (km)

478

The earliest train departs Philadelphia at 11:25am while the last train of the day leaves at 1:22pm. 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

11:25am

Last train

1:22pm

Trains from Philadelphia to Erie are the most crowded on Saturday. 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 Friday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.

Busiest

Saturday

Least crowded

Friday

City Information

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.

Erie

Named for the Great Lake it sits upon, Erie is one of Pennsylvania's most picturesque cities. Erie is about halfway between Buffalo and Cleveland and about two hours north of Pittsburgh.

One of the most popular spots to visit, Presque Isle State Park, is a curved peninsula that extends into Lake Erie and creates 11 miles of beaches. Swim on the beaches, birdwatch near some of its lagoons, or tour the Presque Isle Lighthouse for a full day of lakeside exploring. Then, head up to the Port Erie Bicentennial Tower on the bayfront for epic panoramic views of the park and lake beyond.

Discover the city's buzzing nightlife by visiting downtown Erie, where you'll find numerous restaurants, bars, and clubs. Go big with a concert at Erie Insurance Arena, or watch a horse race at the Presque Isle Downs & Casino.

Barons Bus Lines and Jefferson Lines provide affordable bus transportation from Erie to Cleveland, Columbus, Buffalo, and beyond. The Amtrak Lake Shore Limited runs from Chicago through Erie, onward to Boston and New York City. Erie International Airport has a handful of flights to Charlotte and Chicago, but if you're flying from Erie, you'll find more destinations available from Buffalo or Cleveland's airports.

Station Information

Where is the train station in Philadelphia?

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

There is one train station in Philadelphia.

All train stations in Philadelphia:

30th St Station - 2955 Market St

Where is the train station in Erie?

Main arrival station: 125 W 14th St

Erie has one train station.

All train stations in Erie:

125 W 14th St

Need a return trip from Erie to Philadelphia?

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