- Must visit
Monticello Visitor Center and Exhibition Galleries
Museum at Monticello presenting Jefferson, slavery, and plantation history through artifacts and exhibitions on the mountain estate.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Arlington, VA to Charlottesville, VA
Showing times and prices for Jul 23
Cheapest price
$18
Average price
$33
Fastest journey
1 h 58 m
Average duration
2 h 14 m
Trains per day
3
Distance
152 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Arlington, VA to Charlottesville, VA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Arlington, VA to Charlottesville, VA will cost around $33 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $18.
Fast trains
Of the 3 trains that leave Arlington, VA for Charlottesville, VA on Thu, Jul 23, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Thu, Jul 23 the direct trains cover the 152 km distance in an average of 2 h 14 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 58 m .
On Thu, Jul 23 the slowest trains will take 2 h 29 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.
11:30 AM2h29Arlington, VA1:59 PMCharlottesville, VA$181One-way0 transfers- 10:49 PM1h58Arlington, VA12:47 AMCharlottesville, VA$411One-way0 transfers
- 10:17 PM2h15Arlington, VA12:32 AMCharlottesville, VA$411One-way0 transfers
- 10:49 PM1h58Arlington, VA12:47 AMCharlottesville, VA$411One-way0 transfers
- 10:17 PM2h15Arlington, VA12:32 AMCharlottesville, VA$411One-way0 transfers
- 11:30 AM2h29Arlington, VA1:59 PMCharlottesville, VA$181One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Arlington, VA to Charlottesville, VA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Arlington, VA to Charlottesville, VA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $18. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 49m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $18, and a flight costs an average of $244.
Distance: 94 miles (152 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$35 Average price | $25 Average price Cheapest | $386 Average price | $19 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 39m Average total duration 2h 9m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 9m Average total duration 3h 39m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 49m Average total duration Fastest 1h 49m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 2h 14m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Arlington, VA to Charlottesville, VA is a bus with an average price of $25 (€25).
This is compared to other travel options from Arlington, VA to Charlottesville, VA:
A bus is $10 (€10) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Arlington, VA to Charlottesville, VA costing on average $35 (€35).
A bus is $361 (€361) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Arlington, VA to Charlottesville, VA costing on average $386 (€386).
The fastest way to travel from Arlington, VA to Charlottesville, VA is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 49m.
Other travel options to Charlottesville, VA take longer:
Train takes on average 2h 9m.
Bus takes on average 3h 39m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Arlington, VA and Charlottesville, VA including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Arlington, VA to Charlottesville, VA among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 5m sooner (2h 9m by train vs 2h 14m by car). Tickets start at around $35 (€35) compared to roughly $19 (€19) in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.
Direct services run with Amtrak.
Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Arlington, VA to Charlottesville, VA train times
The table below shows live departures for Arlington, VA to Charlottesville, VA trains for today, Wednesday, July 22. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9:22 PM Arlington, VA | 2h12 | 11:34 PM Charlottesville, VA | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Arlington, VA to Charlottesville, VA by bus, train, or flight
Compare bus, train, 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 Arlington, VA to Charlottesville, VA
USAUSA
Trains from Arlington, VA to Charlottesville, VA run on average 9 times per day, taking around 2h 9m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $14 (€14) if you book in advance.
There are 7 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 06:37, the last at 19:01. The fastest train covers the 94 miles (152 km) distance in 1h 58m.
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 94 miles (152 km) |
Average train duration 2h 9m |
Cheapest ticket price $14 (€14) |
Trains per day 9 |
Direct trains 7 |
Fastest train 1h 58m |
First train 6:37 AM |
Last train 7:01 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 4 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 from Arlington, VA to Charlottesville, VA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Arlington, VA and Charlottesville, VA from $14 (€14). 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
1h 58m
Cheapest Price
$14 (€14)
Amtrak frequency
9 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 Charlottesville, VA
Things to do in Charlottesville, VA
Discover the best of Charlottesville — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Charlottesville trip today.
- Recommended
The Fralin Museum of Art at UVA
Leading university art museum with global collections from antiquity to today. Strong African art and rotating scholarly exhibitions.
- Recommended
Kluge-Ruhe Aboriginal Art Collection of the University of Virginia
Museum devoted to Kluge-Ruhe's major collection of Australian Aboriginal art. A distinctive cultural stop rare in the United States.
- Must visit
Downtown Mall
Eight-block pedestrian main street lined with shops, theaters, and public art. It is Charlottesville's most popular place to stroll.
- Must visit
The Lawn at the University of Virginia
Historic UNESCO-listed lawn framed by pavilions and student rooms. A walk here reveals Jefferson's influential campus vision.
- Recommended
Riverview Park
Large city park with trails, sports fields, and wooded creek scenery. A local favorite for relaxing and outdoor recreation.
Virginia Ham Biscuits
Virginia Ham is salt-cured and aged, often served in biscuits. It reflects central Virginia’s long pork-curing tradition and regional flavor.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Virginia Peanut Soup
Peanut Soup is a creamy, savory soup linked to Virginia’s historic peanut-growing culture, especially popular in traditional inns and regional dining rooms.
- Gluten-free
Brunswick Stew
Brunswick Stew is a hearty tomato-based stew with chicken and vegetables, widely associated with Virginia gatherings, tailgates, and community meals.
Ivy Inn Restaurant
Upscale farm-to-table restaurant on West Main serving refined New American dishes with local ingredients in an elegant setting.
MarieBette Cafe And Bakery
Popular artisanal bakery and café for breads, pastries, sandwiches, and coffee in a busy, casual neighborhood setting.
Ace Biscuit & Barbecue
Beloved casual spot for Virginia barbecue, smoked meats, and classic Southern sides with a relaxed local feel.
United States Dollar ($)
Moderate for U.S. college towns: hotels can rise on event weekends, dining is mid-priced, and most visitors need a car or rideshares.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $10-15 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- $18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- $3-6 for drip coffee or a latte.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at sit-down restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, and 10-15% for taxis. Cafes often have tip screens; small tips are optional for counter service.
FAQs: Trains from Arlington, VA to Charlottesville, VA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Arlington, VA to Charlottesville, VA 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 Charlottesville, VA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Arlington, VA to Charlottesville, VA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $14 (€14), while the average price is around $35 (€35).
The train from Arlington, VA to Charlottesville, VA takes 1h 58m and runs 9 per day.
The distance by train from Arlington, VA to Charlottesville, VA is 94 miles (152 km).
The first train from Arlington, VA to Charlottesville, VA leaves at 6:37 AM.
The last train from Arlington, VA to Charlottesville, VA leaves at 7:01 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Arlington, VA to Charlottesville, VA.
Yes, there is a direct train from Arlington, VA to Charlottesville, VA. This service operates 7 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Arlington, VA to Charlottesville, VA.
The train station in Arlington, VA that goes to Charlottesville, VA is Alexandria Station, Alexandria, VA, which connects to Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA.
The cheapest way to get from Arlington, VA to Charlottesville, VA is by train, with a cost of around $14 (€14).
The train journey from Arlington, VA to Charlottesville, VA offers scenic views of the Virginia countryside, including rolling hills and picturesque landscapes, making it a pleasant experience for travelers.
A day trip from Arlington, VA to Charlottesville, VA is not feasible as the journey takes 1h 58m, exceeding the 120-minute limit. Trains run 9 times per day over a distance of 94 miles (152 km).
In Charlottesville, VA, you can visit the IX Art Park for an interactive art experience or explore the Virginia Discovery Museum with your family. Enjoy a wine tasting tour at local vineyards or attend a show at the historic Paramount Theater. For scenic beauty, take a drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway. Don't miss Monticello, Thomas Jefferson's historic home, or the University of Virginia for its architecture. The Downtown Mall offers shopping and dining, while Shenandoah National Park and Carter Mountain Orchard provide outdoor adventures and stunning views.
A stay of 2 to 3 days in Charlottesville, VA is typically sufficient to explore its main attractions, including Monticello, the University of Virginia, local wineries, and the historic downtown area.
Yes, you can take the train from Arlington, VA to Charlottesville, VA.
Since neither Arlington, VA nor Charlottesville, VA 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 Charlottesville, VA include Manassas, VA, Fairfax, VA, Lynchburg, VA, Culpeper, VA, Burke, VA.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Arlington, VA to Charlottesville, VA 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 Charlottesville, VA, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas and popular attractions. It is advisable to avoid poorly lit or isolated areas at night. Common scams include overcharging by taxis or ride services and unofficial ticket sellers near events. Staying aware of surroundings and using authorized transportation options 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 train stations
Popular train stations from Arlington, VA to Charlottesville, VA
Most Arlington, VA to Charlottesville, VA trains use the Alexandria Station to Charlottesville Amtrak station pair. Use this guide to compare Arlington, VA and Charlottesville, VA train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Arlington
Arrival train stations in Charlottesville
Which Charlottesville, VA station do trains from Arlington, VA arrive at?
Trains from Arlington, VA to Charlottesville, VA arrive at Charlottesville Amtrak. Charlottesville Amtrak is 0 miles (1 km) from Charlottesville, VA city centre.
Charlottesville Amtrak810 West Main Street, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA1-800-USA-RAIL
City-centre transport
Getting to Charlottesville Amtrak from Charlottesville city centre
Charlottesville Amtrak is 1 km from Charlottesville city centre. Public transport options include:
BusAfton Express · 5m · $1
T, 7, 9 · 5m · $1 · every ~9 min
Charlottesville Amtrak train station facilities and services
Charlottesville Amtrak 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: The Local, Maya Restaurant, Public Fish & Oyster
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Charlottesville Amtrak. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Charlottesville Amtrak. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Charlottesville Amtrak: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Charlottesville Amtrak: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Charlottesville Amtrak: Elevators, ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Graduate Charlottesville, Residence Inn by Marriott Charlottesville Downtown, Omni Charlottesville Hotel.
Most popular train connections from Arlington, VA
More options for your journey from Arlington, VA to Charlottesville, VA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Charlottesville, VA and Arlington, VA
Most popular train connections to Charlottesville, VA
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