- Must visit
Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
One of the most visited museums in the city, known for dinosaur fossils, the Hope Diamond, and major natural science collections.
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from New Castle, DE to Washington, DC among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $32. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 33m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $32, and a bus costs an average of $36.
Distance: 95 miles (153 km)
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$36 Average price | $32 Average price Cheapest | $22 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 30m Average total duration 2h 0m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 3m Average total duration Fastest 1h 33m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 8m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
This is compared to other travel options from New Castle, DE to Washington, DC:
A train is $4 (€3) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from New Castle, DE to Washington, DC costing on average $36 (€29).
Other travel options to Washington, DC take longer:
Bus takes on average 2h 0m.
You'll arrive about 8m sooner (2h 0m by bus vs 2h 8m by car). Tickets start at around $36 (€29) compared to roughly $22 (€18) in fuel and tolls — a bit more, but you're getting time back, skipping traffic and parking, and you can work or rest on board.
Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel splits across several people), want flexibility on timing, or plan to stop en route.
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:30PM | Arrival Time 01:30AM | Duration 2h00 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $36 |
Compare bus and train 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 New Castle, DE to Washington, DC run on average 9 times per day, taking around 2h 0m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $36 (€29) but you can travel from only $32 (€26) by train.
There are 9 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:05, the last at 23:55. The fastest bus covers the 95 miles (153 km) distance in 2h 0m.
Distance 95 miles (153 km) |
Average bus duration 2h 0m |
Cheapest ticket price $36 (€29) |
Buses per day 9 |
Direct buses 9 |
Fastest bus 2h 0m |
First bus 12:05 AM |
Last bus 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
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 most visited museums in the city, known for dinosaur fossils, the Hope Diamond, and major natural science collections.
Flagship museum for aviation and space exploration, featuring iconic aircraft, spacecraft, and interactive exhibits.
Powerful museum covering African American history, culture, and achievements through immersive exhibitions.
The city’s central ceremonial landscape, lined with major museums, memorials, and classic Washington views.
Historic neighborhood of cobbled streets, waterfront paths, and Federal-era architecture, ideal for walking and photos.
Scenic waterfront loop famous for cherry blossoms and close-up access to several major memorials.
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 strongly associated with Washington carryout culture, commonly paired with fried chicken and fries. It is a distinctive local flavor locals recognize immediately.
Regional blue crab from nearby Chesapeake waters, often served steamed and heavily seasoned. It reflects the Mid-Atlantic seafood traditions closely tied to Washington dining.
An established downtown institution known for oysters, crab cakes, and classic American seafood near the White House, with an elegant old-school atmosphere.
Busy, established French brasserie in Logan Circle known for polished service, a classic dining room, and consistently popular bistro dishes.
Historic casual landmark on U Street, famous for half-smokes, chili dogs, and classic Washington comfort food in a lively, nostalgic setting.
Prices are high by U.S. standards, especially for hotels and dining near central areas and major attractions.
Tip 18-20% at restaurants. USD 1-2 per drink at bars. Taxis: 10-15% or round up. Hotel staff: USD 2-5. Tips are expected for table service.
Official public transport app
L'Enfant Plaza, Washington, DC -> Union Station, Washington, DC
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from New Castle, DE 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.

Most New Castle, DE to Washington, DC buses use the Wilmington, Amtrak Station @ ML King-French to Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station station pair, with some services arriving at Washington, Stadium-Armory Station + Bus Bay F. Use this guide to compare New Castle, DE and Washington, DC bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station is 2 km from Washington city centre. Public transport options include:
Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: McDonald's (in the station), Shake Shack (in the station)
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the main entrance and food court.
Ticket office support is available at Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station.
Available at Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station: Elevators, ramps.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need