Cheap train tickets from Columbia to Philadelphia
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Trip Summary
There is one daily train from Columbia to Philadelphia. Traveling by train from Columbia to Philadelphia usually takes 15 hours and 42 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak train can make the trip in 15 hours and 41 minutes.
| Distance | 523 mi (842 km) |
| Fastest train | 15h 41m |
| Lowest price | $105.00 |
| Trains per day | 0 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak |
| Train lines | 1 |
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Columbia to Philadelphia Train Schedule
Train Trip Reviews from Wanderu Customers
Average score for trains from Columbia to Philadelphia (Based on 1 ratings and reviews)
5.0
August 20, 2022 - Visiting friends
Amtrak Silver ServiceThere are several train options that can take you from Columbia to Philadelphia:
See more detailsWhat is the price of a train ticket from Columbia to Philadelphia?
In the last month, the average price of a train ticket from Columbia to Philadelphia was $154.00. 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 23 days prior to the travel date. You’ll likely pay around $201.75 more if you wait to book until the last minute.
Average train ticket prices from Columbia to Philadelphia by travel date
Over the next 30 days, a one-way train trip from Columbia to Philadelphia will cost between $100 and $403. Book in advance to secure the best price in the next few weeks.
Average train ticket prices from Columbia to Philadelphia by month
Ticket prices for the train from Columbia to Philadelphia 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 $154. If you're thinking of traveling from Columbia to Philadelphia during December, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of $284 during this time of year. The best way to score a cheap deal, even in December, is to book your trip well in advance.
Prices as travel date approaches
By booking your train trip from Columbia to Philadelphia on Wanderu at least 23 days ahead of time, you can save about $201.75 on your ticket. Waiting until the last minute means missing out on these savings!
What train companies travel from Columbia to Philadelphia?
There are multiple trains that travel from Columbia to Philadelphia, including Amtrak. Here is what you should know about the 1 most popular train lines:
| TRAIN | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak | 1 | 15h 42m | $249.15 |
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 Columbia to Philadelphia every day, as well as 1 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from $104.
Frequently asked questions about traveling by train from Columbia to Philadelphia
The distance between Columbia and Philadelphia is approximately 523 miles, or 842 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 15 hours and 42 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 15 hours and 41 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)
523
DISTANCE (KM)
842
Most days, there is only one train which leaves Columbia at 4:22am and arrives in Philadelphia around 15 hours later.
EARLIEST TRAIN
4:22am
LATEST TRAIN
4:22am
Trains from Columbia to Philadelphia 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 Sunday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.
MOST CROWDED
Friday
LEAST CROWDED
Sunday
City Information
Columbia
As the capital city of South Carolina, Columbia offers plenty of historic attractions and exciting activities that will keep tourists of all ages satisfied. Sitting at the heart of the city is the South Carolina State Museum, which boasts the most impressive collection of permanent and changing exhibits in the state, as well as in the Southeast. One of the top highlights of the museum is its amazing planetarium that has a height of 55 feet. If you are traveling with kids, EdVenture should certainly be on your list. The museum’s prime attraction is a giant 10-year-old with his own fake digestive tracts and vertebrae, allowing kids to explore anatomy with ease. Nature lovers should not miss out on the chance to enjoy an outdoor day at Lake Murray, which features a vast range of activities such as boating, fishing, paddling, etc.
Columbia features an exciting food scene that is brimming with new talents. For an amazing lunch, The Gourmet Shop and their famous chicken salad will be a great choice. If you wish to enjoy a dinner with wine, Lula Drake is the place to be.
Columbia’s principal bus station is located 710-A Buckner Rd on the outskirts of the city. The main Amtrak train station is located on Pulaski St in the heart of downtown near the University of South Carolina campus. Columbia is served by Amtrak’s Silver Service line. The Columbia Metropolitan Airport is the main airport and it is located five miles southwest of the city.
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 does the train leave from in Columbia?
Main departure station: 850 Pulaski St
The Columbia Amtrak Station at 850 Pulaski St is the only train station in Columbia, SC. The station is served by the Amtrak Silver Star train, which travels from New York City to Miami. Built in 1991, the Columbia Station is a steel structure located three miles from the city's downtown area and not far from the University of South Carolina campus. It offers an indoor waiting area, an information kiosk, and restrooms. The station was moved to the current Pulaski Street site from Gervais Street, where the former red-brick Seaboard Air Line and Amtrak station stood.
All train stations in Columbia:
- 850 Pulaski St
Where does the train arrive in Philadelphia?
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
Need a return trip from Philadelphia to Columbia?
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