Princeton, NJ to Washington, DC bus with FlixBus

Fri, Jul 31
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Princeton, NJ to Washington, DC

Showing times and prices for Jul 31

Cheapest price

$26

Average price

$46

Fastest journey

3 h 40 m

Average duration

3 h 42 m

Buses per day

7

Distance

260 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Princeton, NJ 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 Princeton, NJ to Washington, DC will cost around $46 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $26.

Fast buses

Of the 7 buses that leave Princeton, NJ for Washington, DC on Fri, Jul 31, 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Fri, Jul 31 the direct buses cover the 260 km distance in an average of 3 h 42 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 3 h 40 m .

On Fri, Jul 31 the slowest buses will take 3 h 50 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.

  • Amtrak177 Northeast Regional · 6077 AMTRAK
    11:09 PM3h51
    Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ
    3:00 AMWashington Union Station, Washington, DC
    $261One-way
    1 transfer
  • Amtrak177 Northeast Regional · 6077 AMTRAK
    11:01 PM3h59
    Princeton Junction Station at West Windsor, West Windsor Township, NJ
    3:00 AMWashington Union Station, Washington, DC
    $321One-way
    1 transfer
  • FlixBusFlixBus
    8:00 AM3h50
    New Brunswick, French Street (Across New Brunswick train station)
    11:50 AMWashington, Columbus Circle, Union Station
    $481One-way
    0 transfers
  • FlixBusFlixBus
    2:25 PM3h40
    New Brunswick, French Street (Across New Brunswick train station)
    6:05 PMWashington, Columbus Circle, Union Station
    $501One-way
    0 transfers
  • FlixBusFlixBus
    5:25 PM3h40
    New Brunswick, French Street (Across New Brunswick train station)
    9:05 PMWashington, Columbus Circle, Union Station
    $501One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus, train, and flight for Princeton, NJ to Washington, DC

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Princeton, NJ to Washington, DC among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $25. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 30m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $25, and a flight costs an average of $68.

Distance: 161 miles (260 km)

Compare bus with

Bus
Most popular
Train
Flight
Driving

$35

Average price

Cheapest

$48

Average price

$181

Average price

$47

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

4h 26m

Average total duration

3h 56m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 11m

Average total duration

2h 41m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 30m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 30m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

3h 19m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

-

CO2 emissions

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.8 - 1.6kg

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.

The cheapest way to travel from Princeton, NJ to Washington, DC is a bus with an average price of $35 (€29).

This is compared to other travel options from Princeton, NJ to Washington, DC:

A bus is $12 (€10) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Princeton, NJ to Washington, DC costing on average $48 (€39).

A bus is $146 (€119) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Princeton, NJ to Washington, DC costing on average $181 (€148).

The fastest way to travel from Princeton, NJ to Washington, DC is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 30m.

Other travel options to Washington, DC take longer:

Train takes on average 2h 41m.

Bus takes on average 3h 56m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Princeton, NJ and Washington, DC including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Princeton, NJ to Washington, DC among Omio's users.
Take the bus. It's the cheapest way to make this trip, and the price gap is usually bigger than people expect.

Tickets start at around $35 (€29) compared to roughly $47 (€39) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $12 (€10). The journey takes 3h 56m versus 3h 19m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can use the time productively rather than spending it behind the wheel. No parking to sort, no fuel stops, and most coaches have Wi-Fi and power outlets.

Direct services are operated by FlixBus.

Driving is worth considering if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), or want the flexibility to stop along the way.

Princeton, NJ to Washington, DC Bus Timetables

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
12:50AM
Arrival Time
04:30AM
Duration
3h40
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
$42
Operator
Amtrak
Departure Time
02:03AM
Arrival Time
06:00AM
Duration
3h57
Departure days
Tue
Cheapest price
$31
Operator
Amtrak
Departure Time
03:01AM
Arrival Time
07:00AM
Duration
3h59
Departure days
Tue
Cheapest price
$26
Operator
Amtrak
Departure Time
04:01AM
Arrival Time
08:00AM
Duration
3h59
Departure days
Tue
Cheapest price
$25
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
08:00AM
Arrival Time
11:50AM
Duration
3h50
Departure days
Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun
Cheapest price
$36
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
11:10AM
Arrival Time
02:50PM
Duration
3h40
Departure days
Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun
Cheapest price
$37
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
01:00PM
Arrival Time
04:50PM
Duration
3h50
Departure days
Mon
Cheapest price
$52
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
02:25PM
Arrival Time
06:05PM
Duration
3h40
Departure days
Fri, Sun
Cheapest price
$50
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
04:55PM
Arrival Time
08:35PM
Duration
3h40
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
$33
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
05:25PM
Arrival Time
09:05PM
Duration
3h40
Departure days
Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun
Cheapest price
$37
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
08:00PM
Arrival Time
11:40PM
Duration
3h40
Departure days
Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun
Cheapest price
$36
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
10:25PM
Arrival Time
02:05AM
Duration
3h40
Departure days
Mon, Sat
Cheapest price
$39
Operator
Amtrak
Departure Time
11:01PM
Arrival Time
03:00AM
Duration
3h59
Departure days
Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri
Cheapest price
$26
Operator
Amtrak
Departure Time
11:09PM
Arrival Time
03:00AM
Duration
3h51
Departure days
Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri
Cheapest price
$26
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
11:50PM
Arrival Time
03:30AM
Duration
3h40
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
$46

Live departures

Princeton, NJ to Washington, DC bus times

The table below shows live departures for Princeton, NJ to Washington, DC buses for today, Thursday, July 30. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
FlixBusFlixBus11:10 AM New Brunswick, French Street (Across New Brunswick train station)
3h40
2:50 PM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station0 transfersDirect
FlixBusFlixBus5:25 PM New Brunswick, French Street (Across New Brunswick train station)
3h40
9:05 PM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station0 transfersDirect
FlixBusFlixBus8:00 PM New Brunswick, French Street (Across New Brunswick train station)
3h40
11:40 PM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station0 transfersDirect
Amtrak177 Northeast Regional · 6077 AMTRAK11:01 PM Princeton Junction Station at West Windsor, West Windsor Township, NJ
3h59
3:00 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC1 transfer
Amtrak177 Northeast Regional · 6077 AMTRAK11:09 PM Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ
3h51
3:00 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC1 transfer
FlixBusFlixBus8:00 AM New Brunswick, French Street (Across New Brunswick train station)
3h50
11:50 AM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station0 transfersDirect

This is the last bus of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Princeton, NJ to Washington, DC by bus, train, or flight

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.

Fri
Jul 31
Sat
Aug 01
Sun
Aug 02
Mon
Aug 03
Tue
Aug 04
Wed
Aug 05
Thu
Aug 06

Why should you book Princeton, NJ to Washington, DC buses with Omio?

FlixBus operates all buses services from Princeton, NJ to Washington, DC.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Princeton, NJ to Washington, DC.

Why book with Omio vs FlixBus?

  • Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
  • Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare FlixBus with all available travel options, which are bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Princeton, NJ to Washington, DC.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?

  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Princeton, NJ to Washington, DC.

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Princeton, NJ to Washington, DC

USAUSA
USAUSA
Icon of bus

Buses from Princeton, NJ to Washington, DC run on average 5 times per day, taking around 3h 56m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $25 (€20) but you can travel from only $12 (€10) by train.

There are 2 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:05, the last at 23:55. The fastest bus covers the 161 miles (260 km) distance in 3h 40m.

Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from $12 (€10)
Distance
161 miles (260 km)
Average bus duration
3h 56m
Cheapest ticket price
$25 (€20)
Buses per day
5
Direct buses
2
Fastest bus
3h 40m
First bus
12:05 AM
Last bus
11:55 PM
Cheapest Month
May
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Fri
Least Busy Day
Wed
Best time to book
2 days
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from $12 (€10)

Bus providers: FlixBus from Princeton, NJ to Washington, DCYou can travel by bus between Princeton, NJ to Washington, DC with FlixBus for as low as $12 (€10). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey

FlixBus

About
FlixBus is one of Europe’s leading low-cost bus companies, founded in Germany and now offering long-distance services across Europe and the United States. In addition to its extensive daytime network, FlixBus also operates overnight buses on select European routes. Standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, power outlets to charge devices, extra legroom, luggage space, and onboard toilets, with snacks and drinks available for purchase. FlixBus offers a single Standard ticket type for all routes, which includes one carry-on bag and one checked bag per passenger. Additional fees apply for extra luggage and for reserving specific seats, such as Extra Seats, Table Seats, or Panorama Seats. This combination of affordability, comfort, and wide coverage makes FlixBus a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 40m
Cheapest Price
$29 (€24)
FlixBus frequency
4 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed for a fee; must be booked.
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed; guide dogs travel for free.

Complete guide to Washington, DC

Things to do in Washington, DC

Discover the best of Washington, DC — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Washington, DC trip today.

  • Must visit

National Air and Space Museum

This world-class museum presents aviation and space history through iconic aircraft, spacecraft, and hands-on science exhibits.

  • Must visit

Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History

Housed in a Beaux-Arts building, this museum explores natural wonders with dinosaurs, gems, fossils, and global biodiversity.

  • Must visit

National Museum of African American History and Culture

A landmark museum documenting African American history and culture through powerful exhibitions, artifacts, and storytelling.

US dollar ($)

DC is pricier than many US cities. Hotels and dining run high in central areas, but Metro and many free museums help balance daily travel costs.

Average meal costs

Budget
$10-18 for fast food or casual takeout.
Mid-range
$25-45 per person for a meal.
Fine dining
$80+ per person for upscale restaurants.
Coffee
$4-6 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Tip 18-20% at restaurants, more for great service. Taxis usually 10-15%. Cafes: round up or add $1-2.

FAQs: Bus from Princeton, NJ to Washington, DC

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Princeton, NJ 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.

FAQs
Cheap bus tickets from Princeton, NJ to Washington, DC can start from as little as $25 (€20) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Princeton, NJ to Washington, DC is $35 (€29) ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by bus from Princeton, NJ to Washington, DC is 3h 40m to travel the 161 miles (260 km) long journey. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest bus from Princeton, NJ to Washington, DC leaves at 12:05 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Princeton, NJ to Washington, DC leaves at 11:55 PM.
Yes, there are 2 direct buses a day from Princeton, NJ to Washington, DC with FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Princeton, NJ to Washington, DC, you can count on FlixBus for the best way to get you to Washington, DC. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Princeton, NJ and Washington, DC and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Washington, DC from Princeton, NJ is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 3h 40m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Princeton, NJ to Washington, DC is May.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Princeton, NJ and Washington, DC including taking a bus, train, and flight.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Princeton, NJ to Washington, DC for bus company FlixBus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Princeton, NJ to Washington, DC:
  • FlixBus
    • Assistance
    • Priority boarding
    • Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Washington, DC are:
  • The National Mall, a historic and iconic open-area national park featuring monuments and museums
  • The White House, the official residence and workplace of the President of the United States
  • The United States Capitol, the home of the United States Congress and a symbol of the American people and government
  • The Smithsonian Institution, a group of museums and research institutions offering diverse exhibits and educational programs
  • The Lincoln Memorial, a monument honoring the 16th President of the United States, Abraham Lincoln, known for its impressive architecture and historical significance.
The best things to do in Washington, DC include:
  • Discover the National Gallery of Art, featuring an extensive collection of European and American art from the Middle Ages to the present
  • Stroll through Georgetown, a historic neighborhood known for its cobblestone streets, upscale shops, and vibrant dining scene
  • Visit the Library of Congress, the largest library in the world, offering a vast collection of books, recordings, and exhibits
  • Explore the vibrant Eastern Market, a historic public market offering fresh food, local arts, and crafts
  • Enjoy a performance at the Kennedy Center, a premier venue for the performing arts, featuring theater, dance, and music.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Princeton, NJ to Washington, DC depends on the bus companies:
  • FlixBus
    • You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company FlixBus.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Princeton, NJ to Washington, DC.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Princeton, NJ to Washington, DC:
  • FlixBus
    • One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Princeton, NJ to Washington, DC:
  • FlixBus
    • Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Princeton, NJ to Washington, DC. The following conditions apply:
  • FlixBus
    • Small pets in carriers allowed
    • guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Princeton, NJ to Washington, DC with the following bus company: FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Princeton, NJ to Washington, DC with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Princeton, NJ to Washington, DC with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Since neither Princeton, NJ nor Washington, DC are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of United States and United States. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Princeton, NJ to Washington, DC among Omio's users.
The currency used in the United States is the US Dollar (USD). For travelers, using cards is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially credit and debit cards, while cash is useful for small purchases or places that do not accept cards.
In Washington, DC, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like the National Mall and Metro stations. Common scams include overpriced taxi rides and unofficial tour operators. It's advisable to use licensed transportation services and stay aware of surroundings, particularly at night or in less busy neighborhoods.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.

popular bus stations

Popular bus stations from Princeton, NJ to Washington, DC

Most Princeton, NJ to Washington, DC buses use the New Brunswick, French Street (Across New Brunswick train station) 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 Princeton, NJ and Washington, DC bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.

Departure bus stations in Princeton
Arrival bus stations in Washington

Which Washington, DC station do buses from Princeton, NJ arrive at?

Buses from Princeton, NJ to Washington, DC most often arrive at Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station. Some services arrive at Washington, Stadium-Armory Station + Bus Bay F, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Washington, DC arrival station.
Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station50 Massachusetts Ave NE, Washington, DC 20002, USAWifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station from Washington city centre

Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station is 2 km from Washington city centre. Public transport options include:

BusD30 · 15m · $4 · every ~10 min
281, 481, 483, 484, 486 · 19m · $2 · every ~1 min
SubwayR · 5m · $2 · every ~27 min

Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station bus station facilities and services

Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.

Food and drink

Food options include: McDonald's (in the station), Shake Shack (in the station)

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the main entrance and food court.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station: Elevators, ramps.

Washington, Stadium-Armory Station + Bus Bay F
City-centre transport

Getting to Washington, Stadium-Armory Station + Bus Bay F from Washington city centre

BusD24 · 28m · $4 · every ~5 min
D24 · 32m · $4 · every ~5 min
SubwayB, O, S · 13m · $2 · every ~34 min
O, B, S · 14m · $2 · every ~34 min
O, B, S · 16m · $2 · every ~34 min

Most popular bus connections from Princeton, NJ

HomeBusesBuses in USABus tickets to Washington, DCPrinceton, NJ to Washington, DC bus

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