- Must visit
Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
One of the world’s most visited natural history museums, known for dinosaur fossils, the Hope Diamond, and broad family-friendly exhibits.
Cheapest price
$85
Average price
$101
Fastest journey
8 h 45 m
Average duration
9 h 3 m
Buses per day
15
Distance
501 km
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Albany, NY to Washington, DC is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Albany, NY to Washington, DC will cost around $101 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $85.
It's difficult to get from Albany, NY to Washington, DC without transferring at least once.
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FlixBus · FlixBus
FlixBus · FlixBus
BZ 1422B · BZ 0721B · PPB 8667P
FlixBus · FlixBus
FlixBus · FlixBus
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FlixBus · FlixBus
· Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Albany, NY to Washington, DC among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $58. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 10m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.5kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $58, and a flight costs an average of $156.
Distance: 311 miles (501 km)
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$87 Average price Cheapest | $138 Average price | $337 Average price | $102 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
8h 22m Average total duration 7h 52m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 29m Average total duration 5h 59m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 10m Average total duration Fastest 3h 10m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 6h 14m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.5 - 1.3kg CO2 emissions | 0.1 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 1.5 - 3.0kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
This is compared to other travel options from Albany, NY to Washington, DC:
A bus is $50 (€41) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Albany, NY to Washington, DC costing on average $138 (€113).
A bus is $249 (€204) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Albany, NY to Washington, DC costing on average $337 (€276).
Other travel options to Washington, DC take longer:
Train takes on average 5h 59m.
Bus takes on average 7h 52m.
You'll arrive about {timeSavings} sooner ({durationInMinutes} by bus vs {drivingDurationInMinutes} by car) and save roughly {savingsAmount} compared to fuel and tolls ({cheapestPrice} vs {drivingPriceInCents}). You also skip the drive itself — no traffic stress, no parking, and you can use the time to work, nap, or catch up on a series with the onboard Wi-Fi.
Direct coaches are operated by {directProviders}.
Driving is still worth considering if you're travelling with bulky luggage, need flexibility on departure times, or plan to stop along the way.
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 04:20AM | Arrival Time 02:25PM | Duration 10h05 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $65 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 07:15AM | Arrival Time 04:30PM | Duration 9h15 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $65 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:20AM | Arrival Time 09:15PM | Duration 13h55 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $71 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:30AM | Arrival Time 09:15PM | Duration 9h45 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $66 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:45AM | Arrival Time 09:15PM | Duration 9h30 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $66 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 01:15PM | Arrival Time 11:30PM | Duration 10h15 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $69 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 02:10PM | Arrival Time 01:15AM | Duration 11h05 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $69 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 02:30PM | Arrival Time 01:15AM | Duration 10h45 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $72 |
Operator Peter Pan Bus Lines | Departure Time 03:15PM | Arrival Time 01:20AM | Duration 10h05 | Departure days Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $87 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 05:35PM | Arrival Time 03:20AM | Duration 9h45 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $76 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 06:30PM | Arrival Time 03:30AM | Duration 9h00 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $73 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:00PM | Arrival Time 06:00AM | Duration 11h00 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $79 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 07:00PM | Arrival Time 06:50AM | Duration 11h50 | Departure days Tue, Thu, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $84 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 07:30PM | Arrival Time 06:50AM | Duration 11h20 | Departure days Tue, Thu, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $85 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:30PM | Arrival Time 06:00AM | Duration 10h30 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $79 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:00PM | Arrival Time 08:15AM | Duration 11h15 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $99 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:15PM | Arrival Time 08:15AM | Duration 11h00 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $98 |
The table below shows live departures for Albany, NY to Washington, DC buses for today, Friday, July 10. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
· | 7:15 AM Albany, Bus Terminal | 9h15 | 4:30 PM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus+ · · | 7:20 AM Albany, Bus Terminal | 11h55 | 7:15 PM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 3 transfers | |
FlixBus · FlixBus | 11:30 AM Albany, Collins Circle (SUNY - Near Flagpoles), NY | 9h30 | 9:00 PM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus · FlixBus | 11:45 AM Albany, Bus Terminal | 9h15 | 9:00 PM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 1 transfer | |
· | 1:15 PM Albany, Bus Terminal | 10h15 | 11:30 PM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus · FlixBus | 2:10 PM Albany, Collins Circle (SUNY - Near Flagpoles), NY | 10h30 | 12:40 AM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus · FlixBus | 2:10 PM Albany, Collins Circle (SUNY - Near Flagpoles), NY | 11h25 | 1:35 AM Washington, DuPont Circle (Connecticut Ave. NW / 20th St. NW) | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus · FlixBus | 2:30 PM Albany, Bus Terminal | 10h10 | 12:40 AM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus · FlixBus | 2:30 PM Albany, Bus Terminal | 11h05 | 1:35 AM Washington, DuPont Circle (Connecticut Ave. NW / 20th St. NW) | 1 transfer | |
BZ 1422B · BZ 0721B · PPB 8663P | 3:15 PM Albany, Division St / Green St, NY | 10h05 | 1:20 AM Washington, Union Station Bus Terminal, DC | 2 transfers | |
· · | 5:35 PM Albany, Bus Terminal | 9h45 | 3:20 AM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 2 transfers | |
· | 6:30 PM Albany, Bus Terminal | 9h00 | 3:30 AM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus · FlixBus+![]() | 7:00 PM Albany, Collins Circle (SUNY - Near Flagpoles), NY | 11h50 | 6:50 AM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 2 transfers | |
FlixBus · FlixBus+![]() | 7:30 PM Albany, Bus Terminal | 11h20 | 6:50 AM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 2 transfers | |
FlixBus · FlixBus | 9:00 PM Albany, Collins Circle (SUNY - Near Flagpoles), NY | 11h15 | 8:15 AM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus · FlixBus | 9:15 PM Albany, Bus Terminal | 11h00 | 8:15 AM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 1 transfer | |
| Saturday, July 11 | |||||
· | 4:20 AM Albany, Bus Terminal | 10h05 | 2:25 PM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 1 transfer | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare bus, train, and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Buses from Albany, NY to Washington, DC run on average 12 times per day, taking around 7h 52m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $58 (€48) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 00:35, the last at 23:55. The fastest bus covers the 311 miles (501 km) distance in 8h 50m.
Distance 311 miles (501 km) |
Average bus duration 7h 52m |
Cheapest ticket price $58 (€48) |
Buses per day 12 |
Fastest bus 8h 50m |
First bus 12:35 AM |
Last bus 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 21 days |
Discover the best of Washington — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Washington trip today.
One of the world’s most visited natural history museums, known for dinosaur fossils, the Hope Diamond, and broad family-friendly exhibits.
Flagship Smithsonian museum covering aviation and spaceflight, with iconic aircraft, spacecraft, and major interactive exhibits.
Premier art museum with strong collections from the Middle Ages to modern art, plus sculpture garden and rotating exhibitions.
The city’s grand ceremonial park lined with Smithsonian museums, memorials, and iconic government buildings.
Historic neighborhood of cobblestone streets, waterfront walks, rowhouses, and some of Washington’s most photogenic corners.
Scenic waterside loop famous for cherry blossoms and views of major memorials, especially popular for sunrise and spring visits.
Washington’s signature sausage, usually smoky and spicy, served on a bun with chili, mustard, and onions. It is one of the city’s most iconic street foods.
A sweet-tangy sauce closely associated with Washington carryout culture, often paired with fried chicken wings and fries. It is a local comfort-food staple.
Steamed or picked blue crab from the nearby Chesapeake region is deeply tied to local food traditions. It is especially popular in warmer months.
Celebrated upscale restaurant with creative small plates and a warm, energetic atmosphere. It is one of Washington’s best-known modern dining destinations.
A classic, long-running Washington institution known for oysters, crab cakes, and traditional American fare in an elegant historic atmosphere.
Bustling brasserie known for polished French classics, strong brunch, and a stylish dining room that is popular with both locals and visitors.
Prices are high for hotels and dining, especially downtown. Free museums help balance daily costs.
Tip 18-20% at restaurants. USD 1-2 per drink at bars, round up taxis, and tip hotel staff USD 2-5.
Official public transport app
L'Enfant Plaza, Washington, DC -> Metro Center, Washington, DC
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Albany, NY to Washington, DC by bus. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest bus, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Washington, DC, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need