- Must visit
Philadelphia Museum of Art
World-class art museum famous for major collections and the Rocky Steps. A top cultural stop with strong city views.
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from McLean, VA to Philadelphia, PA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $12. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 50m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $12, and a flight costs an average of $247.
Distance: 128 miles (207 km)
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight |
|---|---|---|
$24 Average price | $12 Average price Cheapest | $247 Average price |
4h 25m Average total duration 3h 55m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 20m Average total duration Fastest 1h 50m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 14h 46m Average total duration 11h 46m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
This is compared to other travel options from McLean, VA to Philadelphia, PA:
A train is $11 (€9) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from McLean, VA to Philadelphia, PA costing on average $24 (€19).
A train is $235 (€189) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from McLean, VA to Philadelphia, PA costing on average $247 (€199).
Other travel options to Philadelphia, PA take longer:
Bus takes on average 3h 55m.
Flight takes on average 11h 46m.
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 12:35AM | Arrival Time 06:45AM | Duration 6h10 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $48 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 05:15AM | Arrival Time 10:45AM | Duration 5h30 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $49 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:45AM | Arrival Time 01:45PM | Duration 4h00 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $49 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:25AM | Arrival Time 03:45PM | Duration 4h20 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $49 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 12:05PM | Arrival Time 03:45PM | Duration 3h40 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $49 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 02:15PM | Arrival Time 10:30PM | Duration 8h15 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $48 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 04:25PM | Arrival Time 12:30AM | Duration 8h05 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $48 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 06:30PM | Arrival Time 10:30PM | Duration 4h00 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $49 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 11:15PM | Arrival Time 03:10AM | Duration 3h55 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $24 |
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 McLean, VA to Philadelphia, PA run on average 13 times per day, taking around 3h 55m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $24 (€19) but you can travel from only $12 (€10) by train.
There are 10 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:05, the last at 23:30. The fastest bus covers the 128 miles (207 km) distance in 3h 55m.
Distance 128 miles (207 km) |
Average bus duration 3h 55m |
Cheapest ticket price $24 (€19) |
Buses per day 13 |
Direct buses 10 |
Fastest bus 3h 55m |
First bus 12:05 AM |
Last bus 11:30 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Discover the best of Philadelphia, PA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Philadelphia, PA trip today.
World-class art museum famous for major collections and the Rocky Steps. A top cultural stop with strong city views.
Hands-on science museum for all ages, known for interactive exhibits and the giant walk-through heart near the Parkway.
Celebrated collection of Impressionist, Post-Impressionist, and modern works in an intimate gallery setting on the Parkway.
Historic district packed with foundational sites, cobblestone streets, and museums. The best base for first-time visitors.
Beloved park atop a hill with skyline views, trails, and the Rocky Steps approach. Great for walking and photography.
Walkable district of rowhouses, boutiques, and small parks. A classic local neighborhood for architecture and relaxed city strolling.
A long roll packed with thin-sliced beef and melted cheese, often with fried onions. It is Philadelphia's signature street and comfort food.
A soft pretzel with a distinct figure-eight twist and chewy texture. Sold by street vendors and bakeries, it is a classic Philadelphia snack.
A roast pork sandwich with garlicky pork, sharp provolone, and broccoli rabe. Many locals consider it the city's best traditional sandwich.
Acclaimed fine dining restaurant by Chef Marc Vetri, known for refined Italian tasting menus and one of Philadelphia's top culinary experiences.
Historic roast pork and cheesesteak shop in South Philadelphia, known for hearty sandwiches and a no-frills local atmosphere.
Beloved local chain specializing in water ice and frozen custard. It is a go-to stop for a classic Philadelphia summer dessert.
Moderate for a major US city. Hotels can be pricey in Center City, but dining and transit are often cheaper than New York or Washington.
Tip 18-20% in restaurants, 15-20% for taxis, and $1-2 per drink or cafe order if service is provided.
Official public transport app
Philadelphia Bus Terminal -> Philadelphia City Hall, Philadelphia, PA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from McLean, VA to Philadelphia, PA 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 Philadelphia, PA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most McLean, VA to Philadelphia, PA buses use the Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station to Philadelphia, Spring Garden St / N 2nd St (Madison War Memorial Park) station pair, with some services arriving at Philadelphia, Greyhound Bus Station. Use this guide to compare McLean, VA and Philadelphia, PA bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Philadelphia, Spring Garden St / N 2nd St (Madison War Memorial Park) is 2 km from Philadelphia city centre. Public transport options include:
Philadelphia, Spring Garden St / N 2nd St (Madison War Memorial Park) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi is available at Philadelphia, Spring Garden St / N 2nd St (Madison War Memorial Park). ATMs are available at Philadelphia, Spring Garden St / N 2nd St (Madison War Memorial Park).
Ticket office support is available at Philadelphia, Spring Garden St / N 2nd St (Madison War Memorial Park).
Available at Philadelphia, Spring Garden St / N 2nd St (Madison War Memorial Park): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Philadelphia, Spring Garden St / N 2nd St (Madison War Memorial Park): The bus stop is accessible with ramps.
Philadelphia, Greyhound Bus Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Snack bars and vending machines are available.
Free Wi-Fi available in the waiting area. ATMs are an ATM is available near the entrance.
Ticket office support is available at Philadelphia, Greyhound Bus Station.
Available at Philadelphia, Greyhound Bus Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Philadelphia, Greyhound Bus Station: The station is wheelchair accessible with ramps and elevators.
Philadelphia, Schuylkill Ave (Cira Centre South) is 1 km from Philadelphia city centre. Public transport options include:
Philadelphia, Schuylkill Ave (Cira Centre South) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Free Wi-Fi available in the waiting area. ATMs are available at Philadelphia, Schuylkill Ave (Cira Centre South).
Ticket office support is available at Philadelphia, Schuylkill Ave (Cira Centre South).
Available at Philadelphia, Schuylkill Ave (Cira Centre South): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Philadelphia, Schuylkill Ave (Cira Centre South): Wheelchair accessible area.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need