- Must visit
Buffalo AKG Art Museum
Major regional art museum with modern, contemporary, and historic works, plus a growing campus and frequent exhibitions.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Albany, NY to Buffalo, NY
Showing times and prices for Aug 17
Cheapest price
$52
Average price
$86
Fastest journey
5 h 15 m
Average duration
5 h 21 m
Trains per day
8
Distance
419 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Albany, NY to Buffalo, NY is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Albany, NY to Buffalo, NY will cost around $86 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $52.
Fast trains
Of the 8 trains that leave Albany, NY for Buffalo, NY on Mon, Aug 17, 8 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Mon, Aug 17 the direct trains cover the 419 km distance in an average of 5 h 21 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 15 m .
On Mon, Aug 17 the slowest trains will take 5 h 25 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.
283 Empire Service4:10 PM5h17Albany / Rensselaer Amtrak, Rensselaer, NY9:27 PMDepew Amtrak Station, Depew, NY$521One-way0 transfers- 283 Empire Service4:10 PM5h40Albany / Rensselaer Amtrak, Rensselaer, NY9:50 PMBuffalo NY Exchange Street, Buffalo, NY$581One-way0 transfers
- 281 Empire Service1:15 PM5h25Albany / Rensselaer Amtrak, Rensselaer, NY6:40 PMDepew Amtrak Station, Depew, NY$611One-way0 transfers
- 281 Empire Service1:15 PM5h48Albany / Rensselaer Amtrak, Rensselaer, NY7:03 PMBuffalo NY Exchange Street, Buffalo, NY$661One-way0 transfers
- 63 Maple Leaf10:10 AM5h15Albany / Rensselaer Amtrak, Rensselaer, NY3:25 PMDepew Amtrak Station, Depew, NY$951One-way0 transfers
- 63 Maple Leaf10:10 AM5h15Albany / Rensselaer Amtrak, Rensselaer, NY3:25 PMDepew Amtrak Station, Depew, NY$951One-way0 transfers
- 283 Empire Service4:10 PM5h17Albany / Rensselaer Amtrak, Rensselaer, NY9:27 PMDepew Amtrak Station, Depew, NY$521One-way0 transfers
- 49 Lake Shore Limited7:05 PM5h24Albany / Rensselaer Amtrak, Rensselaer, NY12:29 AMDepew Amtrak Station, Depew, NY$1281One-way0 transfers
- 449 Lake Shore Limited7:05 PM5h24Albany / Rensselaer Amtrak, Rensselaer, NY12:29 AMDepew Amtrak Station, Depew, NY$1281One-way0 transfers
- 281 Empire Service1:15 PM5h25Albany / Rensselaer Amtrak, Rensselaer, NY6:40 PMDepew Amtrak Station, Depew, NY$611One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Albany, NY to Buffalo, NY
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Albany, NY to Buffalo, NY among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $46. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 5h 19m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $46, and a flight costs an average of $126.
Distance: 260 miles (419 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$56 Average price Cheapest | $74 Average price | $358 Average price | $94 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 49m Average total duration Fastest 5h 19m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 10h 30m Average total duration 10h 0m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 53m Average total duration 5h 53m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 4h 18m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Albany, NY to Buffalo, NY is a train with an average price of $56 (€45).
This is compared to other travel options from Albany, NY to Buffalo, NY:
A train is $18 (€15) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Albany, NY to Buffalo, NY costing on average $74 (€60).
A train is $303 (€248) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Albany, NY to Buffalo, NY costing on average $358 (€293).
The fastest way to travel from Albany, NY to Buffalo, NY is by train with an average journey time of 5h 19m.
Other travel options to Buffalo, NY take longer:
Flight takes on average 5h 53m.
Bus takes on average 10h 0m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Albany, NY and Buffalo, NY including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Albany, NY to Buffalo, NY among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around $56 (€45) compared to roughly $94 (€77) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $38 (€31). The journey takes 5h 19m versus 4h 18m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Direct services run with Amtrak.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Albany, NY to Buffalo, NY train times
The table below shows live departures for Albany, NY to Buffalo, NY trains for today, Sunday, August 16. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 283 Empire Service | 4:10 PM Albany / Rensselaer Amtrak, Rensselaer, NY | 5h17 | 9:27 PM Depew Amtrak Station, Depew, NY | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 283 Empire Service | 4:10 PM Albany / Rensselaer Amtrak, Rensselaer, NY | 5h40 | 9:50 PM Buffalo NY Exchange Street, Buffalo, NY | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 449 Lake Shore Limited | 7:05 PM Albany / Rensselaer Amtrak, Rensselaer, NY | 5h24 | 12:29 AM Depew Amtrak Station, Depew, NY | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 49 Lake Shore Limited | 7:05 PM Albany / Rensselaer Amtrak, Rensselaer, NY | 5h24 | 12:29 AM Depew Amtrak Station, Depew, NY | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Monday, August 17 | |||||
| 63 Maple Leaf | 10:10 AM Albany / Rensselaer Amtrak, Rensselaer, NY | 5h30 | 3:40 PM Buffalo NY Exchange Street, Buffalo, NY | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 63 Maple Leaf | 10:10 AM Albany / Rensselaer Amtrak, Rensselaer, NY | 5h15 | 3:25 PM Depew Amtrak Station, Depew, NY | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 281 Empire Service | 1:15 PM Albany / Rensselaer Amtrak, Rensselaer, NY | 5h25 | 6:40 PM Depew Amtrak Station, Depew, NY | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 281 Empire Service | 1:15 PM Albany / Rensselaer Amtrak, Rensselaer, NY | 5h48 | 7:03 PM Buffalo NY Exchange Street, Buffalo, NY | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Albany, NY to Buffalo, NY by train, bus, or flight
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.
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Albany, NY to Buffalo, NY
USAUSA
Trains from Albany, NY to Buffalo, NY run on average 7 times per day, taking around 5h 19m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $46 (€37) but you can travel from only $34 (€28) by bus.
There are 7 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:18, the last at 19:05. The fastest train covers the 260 miles (419 km) distance in 5h 9m.
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
Bus from $34 (€28)
Distance 260 miles (419 km) |
Average train duration 5h 19m |
Cheapest ticket price $46 (€37) |
Trains per day 7 |
Direct trains 7 |
Fastest train 5h 9m |
First train 4:18 AM |
Last train 7:05 PM |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 14 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
Bus from $34 (€28)
Train companies: Amtrak from Albany, NY to Buffalo, NY trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Albany, NY and Buffalo, NY from $34 (€28). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Amtrak
About
Amtrak is the main passenger train operator in the United States, providing medium- and long-distance intercity services across 46 states and three Canadian provinces. Operating over 300 trains daily and serving more than 500 destinations, Amtrak connects cities and regions nationwide through routes such as the high-speed Acela in the Northeast Corridor, the scenic Coast Starlight along the West Coast, and the Empire Builder linking Chicago to the Midwest and the Pacific Northwest. Other notable services include the Northeast Regional, Keystone Service, and the unique Auto Train, which allows passengers to bring their cars onboard. Amtrak offers a variety of classes to suit different budgets and travel needs, including Coach, Business, First Class, and Sleeper Class with options like Roomettes, Bedrooms, and Bedroom Suites for overnight journeys. Ticket types include Saver, Value, Flexible, Business, and Premium. Onboard amenities vary by service but may include comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, power outlets, dining options, and lounge access on select trains. Popular routes include Washington, D.C.–Boston, San Diego–San Luis Obispo, San Jose–Sacramento, and Chicago–Seattle.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 9m
Cheapest Price
$46 (€37)
Amtrak frequency
7 a day
Luggage included
2 personal items and 2 carry-on bags included free
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas at end of cars
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies depend on ticket type and timing
Refund
Full refund if train is canceled by Amtrak
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Café car with snacks, beverages, and light meals. Long-distance trains have full-service dining cars
Seat reservation
Included in ticket price for Business and First Class. Optional fee for Coach Class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible restrooms, Red Cap assistance service, accessible platforms and stations
Pets
Small pets under 20 pounds allowed for $26 fee. Must be in carrier. Service animals travel free
Quiet zone
Complete guide to Buffalo, NY
Things to do in Buffalo, NY
Discover the best of Buffalo, NY — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Buffalo, NY trip today.
- Recommended
Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site
Former presidential inaugural site with exhibits on Theodore Roosevelt, the Pan-American Exposition, and Buffalo politics.
- Recommended
Michigan Street African American Heritage Corridor
Community museum preserving Buffalo’s African American heritage through local history, culture, and rotating exhibitions.
- Must visit
Canalside
Waterfront district with canal history, public art, seasonal events, skating, and frequent family-friendly activities downtown.
- Must visit
Elmwood Village
Lively walkable neighborhood known for boutiques, galleries, architecture, and one of Buffalo’s most popular main streets.
- Must visit
Outer Harbor
Long urban trail and greenway connecting waterfront areas, parks, and neighborhoods for walking, biking, and sightseeing.
Buffalo Wings
Crisp fried chicken wings coated in spicy butter-hot sauce. Created in Buffalo, they are the city’s signature bar food and a must-try local classic.
Beef On Weck
Thin-sliced roast beef on a kummelweck roll topped with coarse salt and caraway, usually dipped in jus. It is a longtime Western New York sandwich staple.
- Gluten-free
Buffalo-Style Bean Soup
Slow-cooked bean soup with ham, tomatoes, and vegetables. It is strongly associated with Buffalo’s old taverns and Friday lunch traditions.
Oliver's Restaurant
Refined fine-dining restaurant known for seasonal New American tasting menus, polished service, and an elegant special-occasion atmosphere.
Schwabl's
Traditional German restaurant celebrated for beef on weck, sausages, and old-world charm. A Buffalo dining landmark with a cozy historic feel.
Duff's Famous Wings
Long-standing wing institution known for crispy, saucy chicken wings in a classic neighborhood bar setting with a devoted local following.
United States dollar ($)
Moderate for U.S. city travel; hotels are often cheaper than NYC, while dining and local transit stay fairly manageable for visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $10-18 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- $20-40 per person for a mid-range restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- $3-6 for a coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, more for great service. Taxis usually 10-15%. For cafes, round up or add $1 per drink.
Token Transit
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- $2
- Day pass
- $5
To the city center
Buffalo Exchange Street -> Lafayette Square, Buffalo, NY
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Use the Token Transit app to buy NFTA bus and Metro Rail tickets before boarding.
- NFTA buses accept contactless card and mobile wallet payment onboard. Metro Rail riders can also use vending machines at stations.
Traveling by train from Albany, NY to Buffalo, NY
The train connection between Albany, NY and Buffalo, NY is a convenient option for travelers looking to explore the scenic beauty of New York State. Operated by Amtrak, this route offers comfortable seating and amenities that make your journey enjoyable. With multiple departures throughout the day, you can easily plan your trip while taking in picturesque views along the way.
Train Connection: Albany, NY to Buffalo, NY
The train connection between Albany and Buffalo offers a direct service with a duration of 5 hours and 9 minutes. There are 3 connections available per day, making it convenient for travelers looking to explore these two cities in New York.
Albany, NY to Buffalo, NY
The first daily train journey departs from Albany at 14:10 and arrives in Buffalo at 23:05. This connection offers travelers a convenient option for exploring the scenic route between these two cities in New York State.
Train Tickets Price for Albany, NY to Buffalo, NY
The cheapest ticket price for the train connection between Albany and Buffalo is $45 (40.5€). The average ticket price tends to be around $53 (47.7€), making it a convenient option for travelers looking to explore these two vibrant New York cities.
Exploring the Wonders of Niagara Falls and Buffalo
Welcome to Niagara Falls, a breathtaking natural wonder that has captivated visitors for centuries. This iconic landmark not only serves as a powerful reminder of nature's beauty but also plays a crucial role in the local economy through tourism and hydroelectric power generation. What makes it truly unique is its sheer volume of water—over 168,000 cubic meters flow over the falls every minute—creating an awe-inspiring spectacle that you simply cannot miss.
Next on our journey is Buffalo City Hall, an architectural gem completed in 1931 that stands as one of the tallest city halls in America. Its significance lies not just in its impressive Art Deco design but also as a symbol of Buffalo’s rich history and resilience during economic challenges. Be sure to take note of its stunning murals and intricate details; they reflect both the city's heritage and aspirations for greatness.
Finally, we arrive at the Albright-Knox Art Gallery, home to one of the most significant collections of modern and contemporary art in North America. Established in 1862, this gallery holds works by renowned artists such as Picasso and Warhol while serving as a cultural hub for innovative exhibitions throughout each year. The unique blend of classic masterpieces alongside cutting-edge installations creates an inspiring atmosphere where creativity thrives—a must-visit for any art enthusiast!
FAQs: Trains from Albany, NY to Buffalo, NY
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Albany, NY to Buffalo, NY by train. 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 train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Buffalo, NY, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Albany, NY to Buffalo, NY can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $46 (€37), while the average price is around $56 (€45).
The train from Albany, NY to Buffalo, NY takes 5h 9m and runs 7 per day.
The first train from Albany, NY to Buffalo, NY leaves at 4:18 AM.
The distance by train from Albany, NY to Buffalo, NY is 260 miles (419 km).
The last train from Albany, NY to Buffalo, NY leaves at 7:05 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Albany, NY to Buffalo, NY.
Yes, there is a direct train from Albany, NY to Buffalo, NY. This service operates 7 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Albany, NY to Buffalo, NY.
The train station in Albany, NY that goes to Buffalo, NY is Albany / Rensselaer Amtrak, Rensselaer, NY, which connects to Depew Amtrak Station, Depew, NY.
The cheapest way to get from Albany, NY to Buffalo, NY is by bus, with a cost of around $34 (€28).
The train journey from Albany, NY to Buffalo, NY offers scenic views, especially along the Hudson River, with picturesque landscapes, rolling hills, and charming small towns as highlights along the route.
A day trip from Albany, NY to Buffalo, NY is not feasible as the journey takes 5h 9m each way. Trains run 7 times per day.
A stay of 2 to 3 days in Buffalo, NY is ideal for exploring key attractions like Niagara Falls, the Buffalo Zoo, and the Albright-Knox Art Gallery, while also enjoying the local food scene.
Yes, you can take the train from Albany, NY to Buffalo, NY.
Since neither Albany, NY nor Buffalo, NY 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.
Popular day trips by train from Buffalo, NY include Rochester, NY, Niagara Falls, NY, Erie, PA, Niagara Falls, ON, St. Catharines, ON.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Albany, NY to Buffalo, NY among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
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 Buffalo, NY, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like downtown and tourist spots. Scams involving overcharging for taxi or rideshare services have been reported, so it's advised to use licensed transportation and confirm fares beforehand. Additionally, travelers should stay aware of their surroundings at night, particularly in less populated neighborhoods, to avoid potential safety risks.
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 train stations
Popular train stations from Albany, NY to Buffalo, NY
Most Albany, NY to Buffalo, NY trains use the Albany-Rensselaer Station to Depew Amtrak Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Albany, NY and Buffalo, NY train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Albany
Arrival train stations in Buffalo
Which Buffalo, NY station do trains from Albany, NY arrive at?
Trains from Albany, NY to Buffalo, NY most often arrive at Depew Amtrak Station. Some services arrive at Exchange Street Station, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Buffalo, NY arrival station.
Exchange Street Station75 Exchange St, Buffalo, NY 14203, USA+1 800-872-7245
City-centre transport
Getting to Exchange Street Station from Buffalo city centre
Bus14, 16, 101 · 11m · $2 · every ~7 min
Exchange Street Station train station facilities and services
Exchange Street Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Pearl Street Grill & Brewery, Liberty Hound
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Exchange Street Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Exchange Street Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Exchange Street Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Exchange Street Station: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Exchange Street Station: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Courtyard by Marriott Buffalo Downtown/Canalside, Buffalo Marriott at LECOM HARBORCENTER, The Westin Buffalo.
More options for your journey from Albany, NY to Buffalo, NY
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Most popular trains to and from Buffalo, NY and Albany, NY
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