- Must visit
Princeton University Art Museum
Princeton's premier art museum is nationally respected for global collections and thoughtful exhibitions on a major Ivy League campus.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 16
Cheapest price on Oct 16
$49
Average ticket price on Oct 16
$62
Fastest journey on Oct 16
3 h 35 m
Average journey duration on Oct 16
4 h 28 m
Buses on Oct 16
4
Distance
260 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ will cost around $62 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $49.
Fast buses
On Fri, Oct 16, we found 4 buses from Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ, including 3 direct services.
On Fri, Oct 16 the direct buses cover the 260 km distance in an average of 4 h 28 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 3 h 35 m .
On Fri, Oct 16 the slowest buses will take 6 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.
FlixBus10:15 AM3h40Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station1:55 PMNew Brunswick, French Street (Across New Brunswick train station)$491One-way0 transfers- FlixBus4:55 PM3h40Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station8:35 PMNew Brunswick, French Street (Across New Brunswick train station)$521One-way0 transfers
- FlixBus12:30 PM3h35Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station4:05 PMNew Brunswick, French Street (Across New Brunswick train station)$631One-way0 transfers
- FlixBus · FlixBus1:00 PM6h55Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station7:55 PMNew Brunswick, French Street (Across New Brunswick train station)$861One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus12:30 PM3h35Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station4:05 PMNew Brunswick, French Street (Across New Brunswick train station)$631One-way0 transfers
- FlixBus10:15 AM3h40Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station1:55 PMNew Brunswick, French Street (Across New Brunswick train station)$491One-way0 transfers
- FlixBus4:55 PM3h40Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station8:35 PMNew Brunswick, French Street (Across New Brunswick train station)$521One-way0 transfers
- FlixBus · FlixBus1:00 PM6h55Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station7:55 PMNew Brunswick, French Street (Across New Brunswick train station)$861One-way1 transfer
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ
USAUSA
Buses from Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ run on average 4 times per day, taking around 4h 5m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $23 (€19) 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 35m.
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 4h 5m |
Cheapest ticket price $23 (€19) |
Buses per day 4 |
Direct buses 2 |
Fastest bus 3h 35m |
First bus 12:05 AM |
Last bus 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 21 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)
Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:15AM | Arrival Time 01:55PM | Duration 3h40 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $30 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 12:30PM | Arrival Time 04:05PM | Duration 3h35 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $37 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 01:00PM | Arrival Time 07:55PM | Duration 6h55 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $46 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 04:55PM | Arrival Time 08:35PM | Duration 3h40 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $37 |
Live departures
Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ bus times
The table below shows live departures for Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ buses for today, Thursday, October 15. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FlixBus | 10:15 AM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 3h40 | 1:55 PM New Brunswick, French Street (Across New Brunswick train station) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| FlixBus | 12:30 PM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 3h35 | 4:05 PM New Brunswick, French Street (Across New Brunswick train station) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 1:00 PM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 6h55 | 7:55 PM New Brunswick, French Street (Across New Brunswick train station) | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus | 4:55 PM Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station | 3h40 | 8:35 PM New Brunswick, French Street (Across New Brunswick train station) | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ buses with Omio?
FlixBus as well as Greyhound offer buses services from Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ.
Why book with Omio vs FlixBus?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for FlixBus, but also compare tickets for the likes of Greyhound to find the best option for your trip from Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ.
- 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 train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Greyhound to find the best option for your trip from Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ.
Bus providers: FlixBus, Greyhound from Washington, DC to Princeton, NJYou can travel by bus between Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ with FlixBus, Greyhound 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 FlixBus Duration
3h 35m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
$23 (€19)
FlixBus frequency
3 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.
Greyhound
About
Greyhound Lines, Inc. is a prominent American intercity bus transportation provider, established in 1914. It operates the largest intercity bus network in the United States, also extending services to Canada and Mexico. Greyhound is known for offering affordable and reliable long-distance travel, connecting major cities and rural communities across North America. The company's buses are equipped with amenities such as free Wi-Fi, power outlets, and extra legroom to enhance passenger comfort. Greyhound is a subsidiary of Flix SE, which also owns FlixBus, and together they offer an extensive network of over 1,600 destinations.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Greyhound Duration
5h 5m
Cheapest Greyhound Price
$24 (€20)
Greyhound frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 25 lbs (11 kg) and one checked bag up to 50 lbs (23 kg).
Additional luggage
$15 per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket for a refund or exchange up to 24 hours before departure, for a cancellation fee applied.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed.
Complete guide to Princeton, NJ
Things to do in Princeton, NJ
Discover the best of Princeton, NJ — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Princeton, NJ trip today.
- Must visit
Morven Museum & Garden
This historic mansion museum presents New Jersey history, decorative arts, and changing exhibitions in elegant garden surroundings.
- Recommended
Princeton Historical Society Museum at Updike Farmstead
A compact local history museum with engaging exhibits on Princeton's people, neighborhoods, and role in the American Revolution.
- Must visit
Nassau Street
This lively main street anchors downtown with historic architecture, university atmosphere, shops, and easy access to major sights.
- Must visit
Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park
A scenic towpath along the historic canal popular for walking, cycling, birding, and peaceful waterside views near town.
- Must visit
Princeton Battlefield State Park
This broad parkland preserves the 1777 battlefield and offers trails, open lawns, and one of Princeton's most meaningful landscapes.
Pork Roll Sandwich
A New Jersey classic often found around Princeton: thin-sliced pork roll grilled on a breakfast sandwich, prized as a local comfort food with deep regional loyalty.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Jersey Sweet Corn
Fresh Jersey corn is a summer staple in Central New Jersey, valued for its sweetness and strong farm-to-table link to the Princeton area.
- Vegetarian
Tomato Pie
Tomato pie is a regional favorite in nearby New Jersey and Philadelphia style: a thin crust topped with bright tomato sauce, often served at room temperature.
Conte's Pizza
Long-running Italian restaurant celebrated for tomato pies, pasta, and classic red-sauce dishes in a casual, family-friendly atmosphere.
The Perch At Peacock Inn
Refined fine-dining destination at The Peacock Inn serving contemporary American cuisine with an elegant, intimate atmosphere.
Triumph Brewing Company
Lively Princeton favorite known for upscale comfort food, craft beer, and a bustling bar scene in a polished but relaxed setting.
U.S. Dollar ($)
Moderate for U.S. college towns. Hotels and dining run above small-town averages, but local transit is limited and many everyday food options remain reasonably priced.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $10-18 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- $20-40 per person for a mid-range meal.
- Fine dining
- $60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- $3-6 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, more for excellent service. Taxis usually get 10-15%. Cafes often use tip jars or card prompts; $1-2 is common.
NJ TRANSIT Mobile App
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- $2.90
- Day pass
- $8.80
To the city center
Princeton Station -> Palmer Square, Princeton, NJ
- Distance
- 1.6 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- NJ Transit buses and the Princeton Branch train accept tickets in the NJ TRANSIT Mobile App; buy before boarding where possible.
- Contactless bank card tap-to-pay is not generally available on NJ Transit buses or the Princeton Branch, so use the app or a paper ticket.
FAQs: Bus from Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ 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 Princeton, NJ, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ can start from as little as $23 (€19) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ is $52 (€44) ; 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 Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ is 3h 35m 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 Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ leaves at 12:05 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ leaves at 11:55 PM.
Yes, there are 2 direct buses a day from Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ with FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ, you can count on FlixBus, Greyhound for the best way to get you to Princeton, NJ. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Washington, DC and Princeton, NJ and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from Washington, DC , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station, Arlington, Wilson Blvd / N Kent St (Rosslyn), VA, Bethesda, Waverly Street / Montgomery Ave, MD, New Carrollton, Garden City Dr (Train Station) . When arriving in Princeton, NJ , you can end your journey in bus stations like New Brunswick, French Street (Across New Brunswick train station) .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station, which is located around 1 miles (2 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at New Brunswick, French Street (Across New Brunswick train station), located 1 away from the city centre.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Washington, DC and Princeton, NJ including taking a train, bus, and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ:
- Greyhound
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ for bus company FlixBus, Greyhound.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ depends on the bus companies:
- Greyhound
- You can cancel your ticket for a refund or exchange up to 24 hours before departure, for a cancellation fee applied.
- 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, Greyhound.
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 Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ:
- Greyhound
- One carry-on bag up to 25 lbs (11 kg) and one checked bag up to 50 lbs (23 kg).
- 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 Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ:
- Greyhound
- $15 per additional bag.
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ with the following bus company: FlixBus, Greyhound
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ with the following bus company: FlixBus, Greyhound.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ with the following bus company: FlixBus, Greyhound.
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 Princeton, NJ, travelers should be aware of typical urban safety concerns such as pickpocketing in crowded areas and parking scams, especially near popular attractions and the university campus. It’s advisable to use official transportation services and avoid unlicensed taxis. Staying alert in busy spots and securing personal belongings helps ensure a safe visit.
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 Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ
Most Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ buses use the Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station to New Brunswick, French Street (Across New Brunswick train station) station pair. Use this guide to compare Washington, DC and Princeton, NJ bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Washington
Arrival bus stations in Princeton
Which Washington, DC station do buses to Princeton, NJ leave from?
Buses from Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ leave from Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station. The station is 1 miles (3 km) from Washington, DC city centre at 50 Massachusetts Ave NE, Washington, DC 20002, USA.
Washington, Columbus Circle, Union Station50 Massachusetts Ave NE, Washington, DC 20002, USA
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 · $3 · every ~1 min
SubwayR · 5m · $3 · 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.
Most popular bus connections from Washington, DC
More options for your journey from Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Princeton, NJ and Washington, DC
Most popular bus connections to Princeton, NJ
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