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Trip Summary
There is one daily train from Philadelphia to Charleston. Traveling by train from Philadelphia to Charleston usually takes 12 hours and 8 minutes, but some trains might arrive slightly earlier or later than scheduled.
| Distance | 364 mi (585 km) |
| Fastest train | 12h 8m |
| Lowest price | $76.00 |
| Trains per day | 1 |
| Most frequent service | Amtrak Cardinal |
| Train lines | 1 |
What is the price of a train ticket from Philadelphia to Charleston?
In the last 30 days, the average cost of a train ticket from Philadelphia to Charleston was $117.00. Tickets for this route are somewhat expensive, given the distance between Philadelphia and Charleston. You have the best chances of scoring the cheapest ticket to Charleston if you book your train tickets at least 3 days in advance. Waiting to purchase until the day of your trip could end up costing you an extra $61.00.
Monthly average prices
Which train should you take from Philadelphia to Charleston?
Amtrak Cardinal is the one and only train line which connects Philadelphia to Charleston. Furthermore, there is only one train per day, so you will have to plan your travel around this limited availability. On the other hand, you won't have to spend a ton of time comparing a bunch of possible options.
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak Cardinal | 1 | 12h 8m | $153.71 |
The Amtrak Cardinal is a long distance passenger rail service from New York to Chicago, connecting a total of 31 cities. As one of Amtrak's most scenic train routes, the Cardinal is a popular train line connecting the Northeast to the Southeast, and offers top-notch comfort thanks to its seats with extra legroom, free WiFi, power outlets, and snacks available for purchase in the Cardinal Café. There are usually 1 Cardinal trips from Philadelphia to Charleston per day, with an average trip length of 12 hours and 8 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
The distance between Philadelphia and Charleston is approximately 364 miles, or 585 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 12 hours and 8 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.
Trains from Philadelphia to Charleston are the most crowded on Thursday. 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 Saturday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.
Most days, there is only one train which leaves Philadelphia at 8:00am and arrives in Charleston around 12 hours later.
Typically there is only one scheduled train per day. Luckily, this train will get you to Charleston with direct service. While there might still be stops along the way, you will not need to switch trains.
You can also take a train for your return trip from Charleston to Philadelphia.
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.
Station Information
Where is the train station in Philadelphia?
Image credit: Ben Schumin
Link to image attributionMain 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 Charleston?
Main arrival station: 350 MacCorkle Ave SE
Charleston has one train station.
All train stations in Charleston:
350 MacCorkle Ave SE
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Need a return trip from Charleston to Philadelphia?
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