- 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
$129
Average price
$132
Fastest journey
13 h 1 m
Average duration
13 h 23 m
Buses per day
2
Distance
775 km
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Portland, ME 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 Portland, ME to Washington, DC will cost around $132 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $129.
It's difficult to get from Portland, ME to Washington, DC without transferring at least once.
· ·
FlixBus · FlixBus
FlixBus · FlixBus
· · Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Portland, ME to Washington, DC among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $69. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 3m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.2 - 0.7kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $69, and a flight costs an average of $138.
Distance: 481 miles (775 km)
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$140 Average price Cheapest | $257 Average price | $349 Average price | $147 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
12h 30m Average total duration 12h 0m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 10h 39m Average total duration 10h 9m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 3m Average total duration Fastest 2h 3m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 9h 9m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.8 - 1.9kg CO2 emissions | 0.2 - 0.7kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 2.3 - 4.7kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular bus company | ![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
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 Portland, ME to Washington, DC:
A bus is $117 (€96) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Portland, ME to Washington, DC costing on average $257 (€210).
A bus is $209 (€171) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Portland, ME to Washington, DC costing on average $349 (€286).
Other travel options to Washington, DC take longer:
Train takes on average 10h 9m.
Bus takes on average 12h 0m.
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 01:45PM | Arrival Time 03:30AM | Duration 13h45 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $93 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:59PM | Arrival Time 01:00PM | Duration 13h01 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $84 |
The table below shows live departures for Portland, ME to Washington, DC buses for today, Friday, June 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
FlixBus · FlixBus | 11:59 PM Portland, Congress St (Greyhound Bus Terminal), ME | 13h01 | 1:00 PM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 1 transfer | |
| Saturday, June 20 | |||||
· · | 1:45 PM Portland, Congress St (Greyhound Bus Terminal), ME | 13h45 | 3:30 AM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 2 transfers | |
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 Portland, ME to Washington, DC run on average 17 times per day, taking around 12h 0m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $69 (€56) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 00:05, the last at 23:55. The fastest bus covers the 481 miles (775 km) distance in 13h 35m.
Distance 481 miles (775 km) |
Average bus duration 12h 0m |
Cheapest ticket price $69 (€56) |
Buses per day 17 |
Fastest bus 13h 35m |
First bus 12:05 AM |
Last bus 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Best time to book 70 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 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 Portland, ME 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.

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