- 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.
Cheapest price
$27
Average price
$32
Fastest journey
3 h 20 m
Average duration
3 h 38 m
Buses per day
2
Distance
185 km
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Paoli, PA 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 Paoli, PA to Washington, DC will cost around $32 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $27.
Of the 2 buses that leave Paoli, PA for Washington, DC on Sun, Jun 21, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sun, Jun 21 the direct buses cover the 185 km distance in an average of 3 h 38 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 3 h 20 m .
On Sun, Jun 21 the slowest buses will take 3 h 55 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.




Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Paoli, PA to Washington, DC among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $22. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 16m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $22, and a flight costs an average of $413.
Distance: 114 miles (185 km)
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$31 Average price Cheapest | $85 Average price | $484 Average price | $33 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 21m Average total duration 3h 51m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 46m Average total duration Fastest 2h 16m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 21m Average total duration 4h 21m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 2h 49m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
This is compared to other travel options from Paoli, PA to Washington, DC:
A bus is $54 (€44) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Paoli, PA to Washington, DC costing on average $85 (€70).
A bus is $453 (€371) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Paoli, PA to Washington, DC costing on average $484 (€396).
Other travel options to Washington, DC take longer:
Bus takes on average 3h 51m.
Flight takes on average 4h 21m.
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 12:30AM | Arrival Time 03:50AM | Duration 3h20 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $34 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 01:05AM | Arrival Time 06:00AM | Duration 4h55 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $62 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 01:30AM | Arrival Time 04:50AM | Duration 3h20 | Departure days Tue, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $24 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 02:00AM | Arrival Time 05:55AM | Duration 3h55 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $40 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 02:29AM | Arrival Time 07:00AM | Duration 4h31 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $33 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 03:00AM | Arrival Time 05:40AM | Duration 2h40 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $31 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 03:10AM | Arrival Time 06:00AM | Duration 2h50 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $59 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 05:00AM | Arrival Time 08:10AM | Duration 3h10 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $40 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 06:00AM | Arrival Time 09:55AM | Duration 3h55 | Departure days Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $37 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:20AM | Arrival Time 12:15PM | Duration 4h55 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $55 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:30AM | Arrival Time 11:35AM | Duration 3h05 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $57 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:00AM | Arrival Time 01:20PM | Duration 3h20 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $27 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:55AM | Arrival Time 03:35PM | Duration 3h40 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $40 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 12:10PM | Arrival Time 08:05PM | Duration 7h55 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $43 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 12:10PM | Arrival Time 05:45PM | Duration 5h35 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $45 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 12:45PM | Arrival Time 06:15PM | Duration 5h30 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $40 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 02:30PM | Arrival Time 05:45PM | Duration 3h15 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $45 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 03:30PM | Arrival Time 06:55PM | Duration 3h25 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $38 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 05:15PM | Arrival Time 08:05PM | Duration 2h50 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $40 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 05:35PM | Arrival Time 10:35PM | Duration 5h00 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $44 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 05:50PM | Arrival Time 09:55PM | Duration 4h05 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $40 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 06:30PM | Arrival Time 09:15PM | Duration 2h45 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $40 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 07:20PM | Arrival Time 10:35PM | Duration 3h15 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $40 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 09:50PM | Arrival Time 01:55AM | Duration 4h05 | Departure days Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $25 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:00PM | Arrival Time 12:40AM | Duration 2h40 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $40 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 10:50PM | Arrival Time 02:55AM | Duration 4h05 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $22 |
The table below shows live departures for Paoli, PA to Washington, DC buses for today, Saturday, June 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
+ FlixBus | 1:05 AM King of Prussia, Park and Ride | 4h55 | 6:00 AM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 1 transfer | |
![]() | 2:00 AM Philadelphia Bus Station | 3h55 | 5:55 AM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixBus | 3:10 AM Philadelphia Bus Station | 2h50 | 6:00 AM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixBus | 5:00 AM Philadelphia Bus Station | 3h10 | 8:10 AM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
+ FlixBus · FlixBus | 7:20 AM King of Prussia, Park and Ride | 4h55 | 12:15 PM Bethesda, Waverly Street / Montgomery Ave, MD | 2 transfers | |
+ FlixBus | 7:20 AM King of Prussia, Park and Ride | 4h15 | 11:35 AM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus | 8:30 AM Philadelphia Bus Station | 3h05 | 11:35 AM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixBus | 10:00 AM Philadelphia Bus Station | 2h50 | 12:50 PM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixBus · FlixBus | 11:55 AM Philadelphia Bus Station | 3h40 | 3:35 PM Bethesda, Waverly Street / Montgomery Ave, MD | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus+![]() | 11:55 AM Philadelphia Bus Station | 3h50 | 3:45 PM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 1 transfer | |
· + FlixBus | 12:10 PM King of Prussia, Park and Ride | 7h55 | 8:05 PM Arlington, Wilson Blvd / N Kent St (Rosslyn), VA | 2 transfers | |
+ FlixBus | 12:10 PM King of Prussia, Park and Ride | 5h35 | 5:45 PM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 1 transfer | |
· + FlixBus | 12:10 PM King of Prussia, Park and Ride | 6h55 | 7:05 PM Bethesda, Waverly Street / Montgomery Ave, MD | 2 transfers | |
![]() | 12:45 PM Philadelphia Bus Station | 5h30 | 6:15 PM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixBus | 2:30 PM Philadelphia Bus Station | 3h15 | 5:45 PM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
· | 3:30 PM Philadelphia Bus Station | 3h25 | 6:55 PM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 1 transfer | |
+ FlixBus | 3:30 PM Philadelphia Bus Station | 3h35 | 7:05 PM Bethesda, Waverly Street / Montgomery Ave, MD | 1 transfer | |
+ FlixBus | 3:30 PM Philadelphia Bus Station | 4h35 | 8:05 PM Arlington, Wilson Blvd / N Kent St (Rosslyn), VA | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus | 5:15 PM Philadelphia Bus Station | 2h50 | 8:05 PM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixBus+![]() | 5:35 PM King of Prussia, Park and Ride | 5h00 | 10:35 PM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus+ + FlixBus | 5:35 PM King of Prussia, Park and Ride | 8h05 | 1:40 AM Washington, DuPont Circle (Connecticut Ave. NW / 20th St. NW) | 2 transfers | |
![]() | 5:50 PM Philadelphia Bus Station | 4h05 | 9:55 PM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixBus | 6:30 PM Philadelphia Bus Station | 2h45 | 9:15 PM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 7:20 PM Philadelphia Bus Station | 3h15 | 10:35 PM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixBus | 10:00 PM Philadelphia Bus Station | 2h40 | 12:40 AM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare train, bus, 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 Paoli, PA to Washington, DC run on average 14 times per day, taking around 3h 51m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $22 (€18) if you book in advance.
There are 12 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:05, the last at 23:55. The fastest bus covers the 114 miles (185 km) distance in 2h 40m.
Distance 114 miles (185 km) |
Average bus duration 3h 51m |
Cheapest ticket price $22 (€18) |
Buses per day 14 |
Direct buses 12 |
Fastest bus 2h 40m |
First bus 12:05 AM |
Last bus 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 1 day |
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 Paoli, PA 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