- Must visit
Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
One of the world’s most visited natural history museums, known for dinosaur fossils, the Hope Diamond, and strong family-friendly exhibits on Earth and life sciences.
Flights from Oakland, CA to Washington, DC depart on average 33 times per day, taking around 15h 1m. Cheap flight tickets for this journey start at $393 (€318) but you can travel from only $190 (€153) by bus.
The earliest flight runs at 06:00, the last at 22:10. The fastest flight covers the 2426 miles (3905 km) distance in 8h 11m. May is the cheapest month to fly.
Distance 2426 miles (3905 km) |
Average flight duration 15h 1m |
Cheapest ticket price $393 (€318) |
Flights per day 33 |
Fastest flight 8h 11m |
First flight 6:00 AM |
Last flight 10:10 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Best time to book 28 days |
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Oakland, CA to Washington, DC among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $190. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 15h 1m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $190, and a train costs an average of $429.
Distance: 2426 miles (3905 km)
| Flight | Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$517 Average price | $605 Average price | $300 Average price Cheapest | $572 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
18h 1m Average total duration Fastest 15h 1m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 70h 22m Average total duration 69h 52m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 74h 3m Average total duration 73h 33m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 41h 9m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
This is compared to other travel options from Oakland, CA to Washington, DC:
A bus is $217 (€175) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Oakland, CA to Washington, DC costing on average $517 (€417).
A bus is $306 (€247) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Oakland, CA to Washington, DC costing on average $605 (€489).
Other travel options to Washington, DC take longer:
Train takes on average 69h 52m.
Bus takes on average 73h 33m.
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.
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 world’s most visited natural history museums, known for dinosaur fossils, the Hope Diamond, and strong family-friendly exhibits on Earth and life sciences.
Flagship Smithsonian museum exploring African American history, culture, and community through powerful permanent exhibitions and major national narratives.
Premier art museum with masterworks from the Middle Ages to the modern era, plus sculpture garden and rotating exhibitions in two landmark buildings.
Washington’s essential civic promenade lined with museums and monuments, ideal for first-time visitors and the city’s top walking experience.
Historic waterfront neighborhood known for charming streets, rowhouses, shopping, and canal-side walks; a classic area for exploring on foot.
Scenic reservoir loop famous for memorials and cherry blossoms, especially photogenic at sunrise, sunset, and spring bloom season.
Washington’s signature sausage, typically smoky and spicy, served on a bun with mustard, onions, and chili. It is one of the city’s most iconic street foods.
A sweet-tangy sauce strongly associated with Washington carryout culture, often paired with fried chicken or wings. It is a distinctive local comfort-food staple.
Sweet blue crab from the Chesapeake region, commonly served steamed and heavily seasoned. It reflects the Mid-Atlantic seafood traditions closely tied to Washington.
A celebrated historic restaurant near the White House, known for oysters, crab cakes, and classic Washington political dining ambiance.
Widely acclaimed Indian restaurant with a polished atmosphere, famous for refined cooking and one of Washington’s best-known dining rooms.
Well-known French brasserie in Logan Circle, valued for its classic menu, energetic scene, and stylish long-established popularity.
Prices are high by U.S. standards, especially for hotels and dining in central areas, though casual food is still manageable.
Tip 18-20% at restaurants with table service. USD 1-2 per drink at bars, round up or 10-15% for taxis, and USD 1-2 per bag for hotel staff.
Official public transport app
Washington Dulles International Airport, Washington -> Metro Center, Washington
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Oakland, CA to Washington, DC by flight. 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 flight, 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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