Cheap train tickets from Philadelphia to North Charleston

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Trip Summary

There are usually 3 daily train trips available from Philadelphia to North Charleston. Traveling by train from Philadelphia to North Charleston usually takes 13 hours and 17 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak train can make the trip in 12 hours and 31 minutes.

Distance
558 mi (899 km)
Fastest train
12h 31m
Lowest price
$95.00
Trains per day
2
Most frequent service
Amtrak
Train lines
3

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Philadelphia to North Charleston Train Schedule

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

There are usually 4 daily bus trips available from Philadelphia to North Charleston.

Train
Bus
Avg. Price$268.61Avg. Price$171.07Cheaper
Daily Trips3Daily Trips4
Duration13h 17mFasterDuration20h 45m
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Train Trip Reviews from Wanderu Customers

Average score for trains from Philadelphia to North Charleston (Based on 2 ratings and reviews)

4.5

5.0

Benjamin

September 27, 2025 - Business

Amtrak Palmetto
Tips: Make sure you wear pants, long sleeve shirt or hoody and bring a small blanket
See more details

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

In the last month, the average price of a train ticket from Philadelphia to North Charleston was $135.00. 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 28 days prior to the travel date. You’ll likely pay around $251.33 more if you wait to book until the last minute.

Average train ticket prices from Philadelphia to North Charleston by travel date

$285$190$95AugSep

Over the next 30 days, a one-way train trip from Philadelphia to North Charleston will cost between $106 and $284. Book in advance to secure the best price in the next few weeks.

Average train ticket prices from Philadelphia to North Charleston by month

$250$200$150$100$50JFMAMJJASOND

Ticket prices for the train from Philadelphia to North Charleston often fluctuate based on the time of year. For the best prices on this route, book in September when the average ticket price is only $143. If you're thinking of traveling from Philadelphia to North Charleston during July, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of $245 during this time of year. The best way to score a cheap deal, even in July, is to book your trip well in advance.

Prices as travel date approaches

$400$320$240$160$80010

By booking your train trip from Philadelphia to North Charleston on Wanderu at least 28 days ahead of time, you can save about $251.33 on your ticket. Waiting until the last minute means missing out on these savings!

What train companies travel from Philadelphia to North Charleston?

There are multiple trains that travel from Philadelphia to North Charleston, including Amtrak, Amtrak Palmetto, Amtrak Silver Service. Here is what you should know about the 3 most popular train lines:

TRAINDaily TripsAvg. TimeAvg. Price
Amtrak112h 45m$300.53
Amtrak Palmetto114h 49m$218.65
Amtrak Silver Service112h 33m$274.70
  • 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 1 Amtrak trains from Philadelphia to North Charleston every day, as well as 2 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from $123.

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  • 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 Philadelphia to North Charleston 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 $218.65 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 Philadelphia to North Charleston start from $158 and the average train journey lasts about 12 hours and 33 minutes.

Frequently asked questions about traveling by train from Philadelphia to North Charleston

There are 3 scheduled trains on most days. 2 of these are direct connections to North Charleston. 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 North Charleston to Philadelphia. If you're not set on traveling by train, you could always take the bus from Philadelphia to North Charleston for $92.

TRIPS PER DAY

3

DIRECT TRIPS

2

The distance between Philadelphia and North Charleston is approximately 558 miles, or 899 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 13 hours and 17 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 12 hours and 31 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)

558

DISTANCE (KM)

899

The earliest train departs Philadelphia at 7:32am while the last train of the day leaves at 4:15pm. To see all scheduled departure times, use the search function on this page to get the full schedule for your specific travel dates.

EARLIEST TRAIN

7:32am

LATEST TRAIN

4:15pm

Trains from Philadelphia to North Charleston are the most crowded on Sunday. 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 Tuesday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.

MOST CROWDED

Sunday

LEAST CROWDED

Tuesday

City Information

Philadelphia

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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.

North Charleston

North Charleston, SCNorth Charleston, SCNorth Charleston, SC

North Charleston is a promising travel destination with quirky landmarks and fun activities for all travelers. To explore the city’s rich history, the H.L. Hunley Museum offers everything you need. Featuring the first successful combat submarine in the world as well as other Civil War-era relics, the museum will keep you enthralled for a whole morning. Other notable museums include the Greater Charleston Naval Memorial as well as the Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum. For fans of cultural activities, don’t pass up the chance to enjoy an event at the North Charleston Coliseum, which is one of the largest venues in South Carolina. If you enjoy staying away from a crowd and exploring nature, a walk around Riverfront Park will be what you need.

Though North Charleston might not feature a lively food scene like Charleston does, the city’s staples will still satisfy hungry travelers. Nigel’s Good Food is a local favorite and a good place to start your food tour. Chill-N-Grill is a great spot to grab some fresh seafood.

The city’s transportation center is located on Gaynor Ave. Travelers can catch Southeastern Stages buses here. Travelers can also catch Amtrak trains passing through the city at this station. North Charleston is served by Amtrak’s Palmetto and Silver Meteor lines. The main airport is the Charleston International Airport.

Station Information

Where does the train leave from in Philadelphia?

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

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There is one train station in Philadelphia.

All train stations in Philadelphia:

  • 30th St Station - 2955 Market St

Where does the train arrive in North Charleston?

Main arrival station: 4565 Gaynor Ave

The Amtrak Station in North Charleston is an intermodal transportation hub offering both intercity bus services and train services for travelers into and out of the Charleston area. The station opened in 2018 and offers modern amenities like charging ports along with vending machines and restrooms. Amtrak’s Palmetto service from Savannah to New York and Silver Meteor service from Miami to New York both stop in North Charleston. Southeastern Stages provides bus service from this station to destinations throughout the South.

All train stations in North Charleston:

  • 4565 Gaynor Ave

Need a return trip from North Charleston to Philadelphia?

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