- 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.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Alexandria, VA to Washington, DC
Showing times and prices for Jun 07
Cheapest price
$9
Average price
$10
Fastest journey
16 m
Average duration
23 m
Trains per day
4
Distance
10 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Alexandria, VA 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 Alexandria, VA to Washington, DC will cost around $10 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $9.
Fast trains
Of the 4 trains that leave Alexandria, VA for Washington, DC on Sun, Jun 07, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sun, Jun 07 the direct trains cover the 10 km distance in an average of 23 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 16 m .
On Sun, Jun 07 the slowest trains will take 26 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.
12:52 PM0h26Alexandria, VA1:18 PMWashington, DC$91One-way0 transfers- 12:22 AM0h26Alexandria, VA12:48 AMWashington, DC$91One-way0 transfers
- 11:57 AM0h25Alexandria, VA12:22 PMWashington, DC$91One-way0 transfers
- 1:12 AM0h16Alexandria, VA1:28 AMWashington, DC$111One-way0 transfers
- 1:12 AM0h16Alexandria, VA1:28 AMWashington, DC$111One-way0 transfers
- 11:57 AM0h25Alexandria, VA12:22 PMWashington, DC$91One-way0 transfers
- 12:52 PM0h26Alexandria, VA1:18 PMWashington, DC$91One-way0 transfers
- 12:22 AM0h26Alexandria, VA12:48 AMWashington, DC$91One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Alexandria, VA to Washington, DC
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Alexandria, VA to Washington, DC among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $9. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 16m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $9, and a bus costs an average of $11.
Distance: 6 miles (10 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$10 Average price Cheapest | $11 Average price | $2 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
56m Average total duration 26m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 46m Average total duration Fastest 16m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 17m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Alexandria, VA to Washington, DC is a train with an average price of $10 (€8).
This is compared to other travel options from Alexandria, VA to Washington, DC:
A train is $2 (€1) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Alexandria, VA to Washington, DC costing on average $11 (€9).
The fastest way to travel from Alexandria, VA to Washington, DC is by bus with an average journey time of 16m.
Other travel options to Washington, DC take longer:
Train takes on average 26m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Alexandria, VA and Washington, DC including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Alexandria, VA to Washington, DC 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 $10 (€8) compared to roughly $2 (€2) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-7.55 (€-6.15). The journey takes 26m versus 17m 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 Washington, DC train times
The table below shows live departures for Alexandria, VA to Washington, DC trains for today, Saturday, June 6. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 164 Northeast Regional | 7:57 AM Alexandria Station, Alexandria, VA | 0h25 | 8:22 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 156 Northeast Regional | 1:26 PM Alexandria Station, Alexandria, VA | 0h25 | 1:51 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 40 Floridian | 2:43 PM Alexandria Station, Alexandria, VA | 0h29 | 3:12 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 80 Carolinian | 4:03 PM Alexandria Station, Alexandria, VA | 0h28 | 4:31 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 158 Northeast Regional | 5:10 PM Alexandria Station, Alexandria, VA | 0h36 | 5:46 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 90 Palmetto | 6:34 PM Alexandria Station, Alexandria, VA | 0h36 | 7:10 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 124 Northeast Regional | 7:27 PM Alexandria Station, Alexandria, VA | 0h25 | 7:52 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 128 Northeast Regional | 8:22 PM Alexandria Station, Alexandria, VA | 0h26 | 8:48 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Sunday, June 7 | |||||
| 12:22 AM Alexandria, VA | 0h26 | 12:48 AM Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Saturday, June 6 | |||||
| 66 Northeast Regional | 9:12 PM Alexandria Station, Alexandria, VA | 0h16 | 9:28 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 1:12 AM Alexandria, VA | 0h16 | 1:28 AM Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Alexandria, VA to Washington, DC by bus or train
Compare bus and train 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.
Sun
Jun 07
Jun 07
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Jun 13
Jun 13
Journey information
Overview: Train from Alexandria, VA to Washington, DC
USAUSA
Trains from Alexandria, VA to Washington, DC run on average 10 times per day, taking around 26m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $9 (€7) if you book in advance.
There are 10 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 07:00, the last at 21:12. The fastest train covers the 6 miles (10 km) distance in 16m.
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 6 miles (10 km) |
Average train duration 26m |
Cheapest ticket price $9 (€7) |
Trains per day 10 |
Direct trains 10 |
Fastest train 16m |
First train 7:00 AM |
Last train 9:12 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Mon |
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
Train companies: Amtrak, Virginia Railway Express from Alexandria, VA to Washington, DC trainsAmtrak, Virginia Railway Express trains will get you between Alexandria, VA and Washington, DC from $9 (€7). 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
16m
Cheapest Price
$9 (€7)
Amtrak frequency
8 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
Virginia Railway Express
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
17m
Cheapest Price
$6 (€5)
Virginia Railway Express frequency
12 a day
Complete guide to Washington
Things to do in Washington
Discover the best of Washington — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Washington trip today.
- Must visit
National Museum of African American History and Culture
Flagship Smithsonian museum exploring African American history, culture, and community through powerful permanent exhibitions and major national narratives.
- Must visit
National Gallery of Art
Premier art museum with masterworks from the Middle Ages to the modern era, plus sculpture garden and rotating exhibitions in two landmark buildings.
- Must visit
National Mall
Washington’s essential civic promenade lined with museums and monuments, ideal for first-time visitors and the city’s top walking experience.
- Must visit
Georgetown
Historic waterfront neighborhood known for charming streets, rowhouses, shopping, and canal-side walks; a classic area for exploring on foot.
- Must visit
Tidal Basin
Scenic reservoir loop famous for memorials and cherry blossoms, especially photogenic at sunrise, sunset, and spring bloom season.
Half-Smoke
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.
Mumbo Sauce With Fried Chicken And Wings
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.
- Gluten-free
Chesapeake Blue Crab
Sweet blue crab from the Chesapeake region, commonly served steamed and heavily seasoned. It reflects the Mid-Atlantic seafood traditions closely tied to Washington.
Old Ebbitt Grill
A celebrated historic restaurant near the White House, known for oysters, crab cakes, and classic Washington political dining ambiance.
Rasika
Widely acclaimed Indian restaurant with a polished atmosphere, famous for refined cooking and one of Washington’s best-known dining rooms.
Le Diplomate
Well-known French brasserie in Logan Circle, valued for its classic menu, energetic scene, and stylish long-established popularity.
United States Dollar
Prices are high by U.S. standards, especially for hotels and dining in central areas, though casual food is still manageable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-18 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- USD 25-45 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 80+ per person before drinks and tip.
- Coffee
- USD 4-7 for a regular café coffee.
Tipping culture
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.
DC Metro and Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- USD 2.25
- Day pass
- USD 13.00
To the city center
Union Station, Washington, DC -> Metro Center, Washington, DC
- Distance
- 2 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Tap a contactless card or mobile wallet at Metrorail gates and on Metrobus; SmarTrip is also accepted system-wide.
- Metrobus fare is usually free for 2 hours after a Metrorail trip when you use SmarTrip, which can reduce transfer costs.
FAQs: Trains from Alexandria, VA to Washington, DC
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Alexandria, VA to Washington, DC 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 Washington, DC, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Alexandria, VA to Washington, DC can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $9 (€7), while the average price is around $10 (€8).
The train from Alexandria, VA to Washington, DC takes 16m and runs 10 per day.
The first train from Alexandria, VA to Washington, DC leaves at 7:00 AM.
The distance by train from Alexandria, VA to Washington, DC is 6 miles (10 km).
The last train from Alexandria, VA to Washington, DC leaves at 9:12 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Alexandria, VA to Washington, DC.
Yes, there is a direct train from Alexandria, VA to Washington, DC. This service operates 10 times per day, provided by Amtrak, Virginia Railway Express.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Alexandria, VA to Washington, DC.
The train station in Alexandria, VA that goes to Washington, DC is Alexandria Station, Alexandria, VA, which connects to Washington Union Station, Washington, DC.
The cheapest way to get from Alexandria, VA to Washington, DC is by train, with a cost of around $9 (€7).
The train journey from Alexandria, VA to Washington, DC offers a glimpse of charming urban landscapes, historic neighborhoods, and views of the Potomac River, providing a pleasant, if not spectacularly scenic, experience.
Yes, a day trip from Alexandria, VA to Washington, DC is feasible. The journey takes 16m with a frequency of 10 trains per day, covering a distance of 6 miles (10 km).
In Washington, DC, you can discover the National Gallery of Art, stroll through the historic Georgetown neighborhood, visit the world's largest library at the Library of Congress, explore the vibrant Eastern Market, and enjoy a performance at the Kennedy Center. Key sights include the National Mall, the White House, the United States Capitol, the Smithsonian Institution, and the Lincoln Memorial.
To explore Washington, DC's main attractions such as the National Mall, museums, and monuments, a stay of three to four days is recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Alexandria, VA to Washington, DC.
Since neither Alexandria, VA 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.
Popular day trips by train from Washington, DC include Baltimore, MD, Wilmington, DE, Fredericksburg, VA, Newark, DE, Quantico, VA.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Alexandria, VA to Washington, DC 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 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 train stations
Popular train stations from Alexandria, VA to Washington, DC
Alexandria
Washington
The major train station for departures in Alexandria is Alexandria Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Alexandria Station for your trip from Alexandria to Washington.
Alexandria Station
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
1 km
Number of platforms
3Wifi
- Free
Parking
- Parking is available adjacent to the station building.
Dining
- Joe Theismann's Restaurant
- Table Talk Restaurant
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Ramps.
WC
- $0.50
Hotel
- Hilton Alexandria Old Town
- Embassy Suites by Hilton Alexandria Old Town
- The Alexandrian Old Town Alexandria
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
- 42 places
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, waiting room, and ticket office
- Hall 2: access to platforms
Public transit options for Alexandria Station
- Metro: King Street-Old Town Metro Station (Blue and Yellow Lines)
- Bus: DASH and Metrobus services available
The major train station for arrivals in Washington is Union Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Union Station for your journey to Washington from Alexandria.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDining
ATMTaxisAccessibilityHotelTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike Rental
Car RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Fri: 04:30 - 22:00
- Sat - Sun: 05:00 - 22:00
Distance to city center
2 kmWifi
- Free Wi-Fi in the station courtesy of Amtrak.
Lockers
- Amtrak provides temporary luggage storage for $10 per bag for 24 hours for customers holding Amtrak tickets.
Dining
- Shake Shack
- McDonald’s
- Starbucks
- Potbelly Sandwich Shop
- Chopt Creative Salad Co.
- Chipotle Mexican Grill
- Thunder Grill
- Johnny Rockets
- Jamba Juice
- Ladurée Union Station
- & many more
Accessibility
- Elevators, escalators, wheelchair access. Accessible facilities including restrooms, parking, platforms, ticket office, waiting room.
Hotel
- Hyatt Recency Washington On Capitol Hill
- Phoenix Park Hotel
- Kimpton George Hotel
Ticket Office
- Mon - Fri: 04:30 - 22:00
- Sat - Sun: 05:00 - 22:00
Information Desk
- Located on the train concourse of Level G near the Amtrak Waiting Area.
Public transit options for Union Station
- Metro lines: Red
- Bus lines: D6, D8, 80, 96,
- Train lines: Acela, Capitol Limited, Cardinal, Carolinian, Crescent, Fredericksburg Line, MARC Brunswick, MARC Camden, MARC Penn, Manassas Line, Northeast Regional, Palmetto, Silver Service/Palmetto, Vermonter
Most popular train connections from Alexandria, VA
More options for your journey from Alexandria, VA to Washington, DC
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Washington, DC and Alexandria, VA
Most popular train connections to Washington, DC
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