- Must visit
Philadelphia Museum of Art
World-class art museum famous for major collections and the Rocky Steps. A top cultural stop with strong city views.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Alexandria, VA to Philadelphia, PA
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 10
Cheapest price on Sep 10
$38
Average ticket price on Sep 10
$87
Fastest journey on Sep 10
2 h 53 m
Average journey duration on Sep 10
2 h 59 m
Trains on Sep 10
10
Distance
206 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Alexandria, VA to Philadelphia, PA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Alexandria, VA to Philadelphia, PA will cost around $87 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $38.
Fast trains
On Thu, Sep 10, we found 10 trains from Alexandria, VA to Philadelphia, PA, including 8 direct services.
On Thu, Sep 10 the direct trains cover the 206 km distance in an average of 2 h 59 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 53 m .
On Thu, Sep 10 the slowest trains will take 3 h 10 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.
178 Northeast Regional2:32 PM3h22Alexandria Station, Alexandria, VA5:54 PM30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA$381One-way0 transfers- 66 Northeast Regional9:12 PM3h10Alexandria Station, Alexandria, VA12:22 AM30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA$531One-way0 transfers
- 80 Carolinian4:28 PM3h02Alexandria Station, Alexandria, VA7:30 PM30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA$531One-way0 transfers
- 86 Northeast Regional7:52 AM2h55Alexandria Station, Alexandria, VA10:47 AM30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA$711One-way0 transfers
- 90 Palmetto6:34 PM3h20Alexandria Station, Alexandria, VA9:54 PM30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA$711One-way0 transfers
- 186 Northeast Regional7:37 PM2h53Alexandria Station, Alexandria, VA10:30 PM30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA$711One-way0 transfers
- 86 Northeast Regional7:52 AM2h55Alexandria Station, Alexandria, VA10:47 AM30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA$711One-way0 transfers
- 94 Northeast Regional1:02 PM2h56Alexandria Station, Alexandria, VA3:58 PM30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA$711One-way0 transfers
- 80 Carolinian4:28 PM3h02Alexandria Station, Alexandria, VA7:30 PM30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA$531One-way0 transfers
- 66 Northeast Regional9:12 PM3h10Alexandria Station, Alexandria, VA12:22 AM30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA$531One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Alexandria, VA to Philadelphia, PA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Alexandria, VA to Philadelphia, PA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $35 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 33m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.2kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $35, while a flight costs an average of $684.
Distance: 128 miles (206 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$120 Average price | $35 Average price Cheapest | $684 Average price | $39 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 33m Average total duration Fastest 3h 3m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 49m Average total duration 3h 19m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 59m Average total duration 3h 59m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 2h 37m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions | 0.6 - 1.2kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus 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.
The cheapest way to travel from Alexandria, VA to Philadelphia, PA is a bus with an average price of $35 (€29).
This is compared to other travel options from Alexandria, VA to Philadelphia, PA:
A bus is $85 (€69) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Alexandria, VA to Philadelphia, PA costing on average $120 (€97).
A bus is $649 (€524) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Alexandria, VA to Philadelphia, PA costing on average $684 (€553).
The fastest way to travel from Alexandria, VA to Philadelphia, PA is by train with an average journey time of 3h 3m.
Other travel options to Philadelphia, PA take longer:
Bus takes on average 3h 19m.
Flight takes on average 3h 59m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Alexandria, VA and Philadelphia, PA including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Alexandria, VA to Philadelphia, PA 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 $120 (€97) compared to roughly $39 (€31) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-81.36 (€-65.72). The journey takes 3h 3m versus 2h 37m 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.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Alexandria, VA to Philadelphia, PA train times
The table below shows live departures for Alexandria, VA to Philadelphia, PA trains for today, Wednesday, September 9. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 94 Northeast Regional | 1:02 PM Alexandria Station, Alexandria, VA | 2h56 | 3:58 PM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 178 Northeast Regional | 2:32 PM Alexandria Station, Alexandria, VA | 3h22 | 5:54 PM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 0 transfersDirect | |
40 Floridian+ 2124 NextGen Acela | 2:43 PM Alexandria Station, Alexandria, VA | 5h12 | 7:55 PM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 1 transfer | |
| 40 Floridian · 196 Northeast Regional | 2:43 PM Alexandria Station, Alexandria, VA | 5h20 | 8:03 PM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 1 transfer | |
| 80 Carolinian | 4:28 PM Alexandria Station, Alexandria, VA | 3h02 | 7:30 PM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 138 Northeast Regional | 5:09 PM Alexandria Station, Alexandria, VA | 3h22 | 8:31 PM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 90 Palmetto | 6:34 PM Alexandria Station, Alexandria, VA | 3h20 | 9:54 PM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 186 Northeast Regional | 7:37 PM Alexandria Station, Alexandria, VA | 2h53 | 10:30 PM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 66 Northeast Regional | 9:12 PM Alexandria Station, Alexandria, VA | 3h10 | 12:22 AM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Thursday, September 10 | |||||
| 86 Northeast Regional | 7:52 AM Alexandria Station, Alexandria, VA | 2h55 | 10:47 AM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 0 transfersDirect | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Alexandria, VA to Philadelphia, PA 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 Alexandria, VA to Philadelphia, PA
USAUSA
Trains from Alexandria, VA to Philadelphia, PA run on average 12 times per day, taking around 3h 3m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $13 (€10) if you book in advance.
There are 9 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:15, the last at 22:48. The fastest train covers the 128 miles (206 km) distance in 1h 39m.
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
Distance 128 miles (206 km) |
Average train duration 3h 3m |
Cheapest ticket price $13 (€10) |
Trains per day 12 |
Direct trains 9 |
Fastest train 1h 39m |
First train 4:15 AM |
Last train 10:48 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 1 day |
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
Train companies: Amtrak from Alexandria, VA to Philadelphia, PA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Alexandria, VA and Philadelphia, PA from $24 (€19). 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 Amtrak Duration
1h 50m
Cheapest Amtrak Price
$13 (€10)
Amtrak frequency
11 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 Philadelphia, PA
Things to do in Philadelphia, PA
Discover the best of Philadelphia, PA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Philadelphia, PA trip today.
- Must visit
The Franklin Institute
Hands-on science museum for all ages, known for interactive exhibits and the giant walk-through heart near the Parkway.
- Must visit
Barnes Foundation
Celebrated collection of Impressionist, Post-Impressionist, and modern works in an intimate gallery setting on the Parkway.
- Must visit
Independence National Historical Park
Historic district packed with foundational sites, cobblestone streets, and museums. The best base for first-time visitors.
- Must visit
Eakins Oval and Rocky Steps
Beloved park atop a hill with skyline views, trails, and the Rocky Steps approach. Great for walking and photography.
- Must visit
Rittenhouse Square
Walkable district of rowhouses, boutiques, and small parks. A classic local neighborhood for architecture and relaxed city strolling.
Philly Cheesesteak
A long roll packed with thin-sliced beef and melted cheese, often with fried onions. It is Philadelphia's signature street and comfort food.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Philadelphia Soft Pretzel
A soft pretzel with a distinct figure-eight twist and chewy texture. Sold by street vendors and bakeries, it is a classic Philadelphia snack.
Roast Pork Sandwich
A roast pork sandwich with garlicky pork, sharp provolone, and broccoli rabe. Many locals consider it the city's best traditional sandwich.
Vetri Cucina
Acclaimed fine dining restaurant by Chef Marc Vetri, known for refined Italian tasting menus and one of Philadelphia's top culinary experiences.
John's Roast Pork
Historic roast pork and cheesesteak shop in South Philadelphia, known for hearty sandwiches and a no-frills local atmosphere.
Rita's Italian Ice
Beloved local chain specializing in water ice and frozen custard. It is a go-to stop for a classic Philadelphia summer dessert.
US Dollar ($)
Moderate for a major US city. Hotels can be pricey in Center City, but dining and transit are often cheaper than New York or Washington.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $10-18 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- $20-40 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $75+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- $3-6 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% in restaurants, 15-20% for taxis, and $1-2 per drink or cafe order if service is provided.
FAQs: Trains from Alexandria, VA to Philadelphia, PA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Alexandria, VA to Philadelphia, PA 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 Philadelphia, PA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Alexandria, VA to Philadelphia, PA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $13 (€10), while the average price is around $120 (€97).
The train from Alexandria, VA to Philadelphia, PA takes 1h 39m and runs 12 per day.
The distance by train from Alexandria, VA to Philadelphia, PA is 128 miles (206 km).
The first train from Alexandria, VA to Philadelphia, PA leaves at 4:15 AM.
The last train from Alexandria, VA to Philadelphia, PA leaves at 10:48 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Alexandria, VA to Philadelphia, PA.
Yes, there is a direct train from Alexandria, VA to Philadelphia, PA. This service operates 9 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Alexandria, VA to Philadelphia, PA.
The train station in Alexandria, VA that goes to Philadelphia, PA is Alexandria Station, Alexandria, VA, which connects to 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA.
The cheapest way to get from Alexandria, VA to Philadelphia, PA is by bus, with a cost of around $24 (€19).
The train journey from Alexandria, VA to Philadelphia, PA offers a mix of urban and suburban scenery, with views of the Potomac River, lush greenery, and glimpses of historic towns, though it primarily focuses on efficiency over scenic views.
A day trip from Alexandria, VA to Philadelphia, PA is not feasible, as the travel time is 1h 39m. There are 11 train trips available per day for this journey, covering a distance of 128 miles (206 km).
In Philadelphia, PA, you can visit the Liberty Bell, an iconic symbol of American independence, and Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were debated and adopted. Art enthusiasts can explore the Philadelphia Museum of Art, known for its vast collection and the famous Rocky Steps. For a taste of local culture, head to Reading Terminal Market, a bustling indoor space with diverse food options. Additionally, the Philadelphia Zoo offers a chance to see a wide variety of animals and interactive exhibits.
To experience Philadelphia's key attractions, such as the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and the Reading Terminal Market, a stay of 2 to 3 days is typically sufficient.
Yes, you can take the train from Alexandria, VA to Philadelphia, PA.
Since neither Alexandria, VA nor Philadelphia, PA 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 Philadelphia, PA include New York, NY, Newark, NJ, Baltimore, MD, Lancaster, PA, Harrisburg, PA.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Alexandria, VA to Philadelphia, PA 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 Philadelphia, PA, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like Center City and tourist hotspots. Scams involving overpriced taxi rides or unlicensed transportation are common, so using reputable services or ride-sharing apps is advised. Travelers should also be wary of street vendors selling counterfeit goods and avoid displaying valuables openly to reduce risk. Staying aware of surroundings and using well-lit, populated routes enhances safety.
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 Alexandria, VA to Philadelphia, PA
Most Alexandria, VA to Philadelphia, PA trains use the Alexandria Station to 30th Street Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Alexandria, VA and Philadelphia, PA train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Alexandria
Arrival train stations in Philadelphia
Which Alexandria, VA station do trains to Philadelphia, PA leave from?
Trains from Alexandria, VA to Philadelphia, PA leave from Alexandria Station. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Alexandria, VA city centre at 110 Callahan Drive, Alexandria, VA 22301, USA.
Alexandria Station110 Callahan Drive, Alexandria, VA 22301, USA+1 800-872-7245
City-centre transport
Getting to Alexandria Station from Alexandria city centre
Alexandria Station is 1 km from Alexandria city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus30, 31, Kst · 9m · $2 · every ~16 min
31 · 10m · $2 · every ~7 min
Alexandria Station train station facilities and services
Alexandria 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: Joe Theismann's Restaurant, Table Talk Restaurant
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Alexandria Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Alexandria Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Alexandria Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Alexandria Station: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Alexandria Station: Ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hilton Alexandria Old Town, Embassy Suites by Hilton Alexandria Old Town, The Alexandrian Old Town Alexandria.
Which Philadelphia, PA station do trains from Alexandria, VA arrive at?
Trains from Alexandria, VA to Philadelphia, PA arrive at 30th Street Station. 30th Street Station is 1 miles (2 km) from Philadelphia, PA city centre.
30th Street Station2955 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA+1 215-349-2135
City-centre transport
Getting to 30th Street Station from Philadelphia city centre
30th Street Station is 1 km from Philadelphia city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainAir, War, Wil, Med, Wtr, Lan, Pao, Cyn, Nor, Tre, Chw, Fox · 4m · $4 · every ~21 min
Bus414, 417, 555 · 9m · $2
31, 44, 62, 124, 125 · 10m · $4 · every ~16 min
TramT1, T2, T3, T4, T5 · 6m · $4 · every ~57 min
30th Street Station train station facilities and services
30th Street Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Bridgewater's Pub, The Porch at 30th Street Station
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at 30th Street Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at 30th Street Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at 30th Street Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at 30th Street Station: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at 30th Street Station: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include The Inn at Penn, a Hilton Hotel, Sheraton Philadelphia University City Hotel, The Study at University City.
More options for your journey from Alexandria, VA to Philadelphia, PA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Philadelphia, PA and Alexandria, VA
Most popular train connections to Philadelphia, PA
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