- Must visit
National Air and Space Museum
This world-class museum presents aviation and space history through iconic aircraft, spacecraft, and hands-on science exhibits.
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Boston, MA 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 Boston, MA to Washington, DC will cost around CHF 485 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only CHF 253.
On Fri, Nov 13, we found 17 trains from Boston, MA to Washington, DC, including 9 direct services.
On Fri, Nov 13 the direct trains cover the 634 km distance in an average of 7 h 15 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 6 h 58 m .
On Fri, Nov 13 the slowest trains will take 8 h 8 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.
449 Lake Shore Limited · 475 Amtrak Hartford Line · 65 Northeast Regional
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449 Lake Shore Limited · 475 Amtrak Hartford Line · 65 Northeast Regional
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1167 Northeast Regional · 6077 Connecting Bus
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1167 Northeast Regional · 6077 Connecting Bus
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1195 Northeast Regional
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2149 Acela [NextGen]
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2151 Acela [NextGen]
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2149 Acela [NextGen]
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2151 Acela [NextGen]
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1195 Northeast Regional
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Trains from Boston, MA to Washington, DC run on average 33 times per day, taking around 8h 1m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at CHF 31 but you can travel from only CHF 21 by bus.
There are 26 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 03:00, the last at 22:00. The fastest train covers the 393 miles (634 km) distance in 6h 33m.
Distance 393 miles (634 km) |
Average train duration 8h 1m |
Cheapest ticket price CHF 31 |
Trains per day 33 |
Direct trains 26 |
Fastest train 6h 33m |
First train 3:00 AM |
Last train 10:00 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 49 days |
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Boston, MA to Washington, DC.
The table below shows live departures for Boston, MA to Washington, DC trains for today, Thursday, November 12. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
2149 Acela [NextGen] | 6:05 AM South Station, Boston, MA | 7h03 | 1:08 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
1195 Northeast Regional · 1147 Northeast Regional | 6:25 AM South Station, Boston, MA | 9h47 | 4:12 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 1 transfer | |
1195 Northeast Regional | 6:25 AM South Station, Boston, MA | 8h13 | 2:38 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
2151 Acela [NextGen] | 7:00 AM South Station, Boston, MA | 7h05 | 2:05 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
1099 Northeast Regional · 19 Crescent | 8:20 AM South Station, Boston, MA | 9h28 | 5:48 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 1 transfer | |
1099 Northeast Regional | 8:20 AM South Station, Boston, MA | 8h21 | 4:41 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
1161 Northeast Regional | 9:00 AM South Station, Boston, MA | 8h26 | 5:26 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
449 Lake Shore Limited · 475 Amtrak Hartford Line · 67 Northeast Regional | 12:50 PM South Station, Boston, MA | 18h04 | 6:54 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 2 transfers | |
1165 Northeast Regional | 3:15 PM South Station, Boston, MA | 8h27 | 11:42 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
1167 Northeast Regional · 6077 Connecting Bus | 4:10 PM South Station, Boston, MA | 9h50 | 2:00 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 1 transfer | |
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Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
Discover the best of Washington, DC — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Washington, DC trip today.
This world-class museum presents aviation and space history through iconic aircraft, spacecraft, and hands-on science exhibits.
Housed in a Beaux-Arts building, this museum explores natural wonders with dinosaurs, gems, fossils, and global biodiversity.
A landmark museum documenting African American history and culture through powerful exhibitions, artifacts, and storytelling.
The National Mall is Washington's grand civic promenade, lined with museums, memorials, and classic views ideal for first-time visitors.
Georgetown charms with historic streets, rowhouses, waterfront paths, and independent shops that make it one of the city's best walking areas.
The Tidal Basin loop offers famous cherry blossoms, water views, and easy access to several of Washington's most iconic memorials.
Half-smoke sausage, usually smoked pork and beef, served on a bun with chili, mustard, and onions. It is DC's signature street food, strongly tied to Ben's Chili Bowl.
Jumbo slice is an oversized late-night pizza slice popular in Adams Morgan. It is a recognizable DC nightlife food known for its huge foldable portions.
Mumbo sauce is a sweet tangy red sauce commonly served with fried chicken and wings at DC carryouts. It is a beloved local condiment with roots in Black DC food culture.
Acclaimed fine-dining restaurant focused on Mid-Atlantic ingredients and refined tasting menus in an elegant, contemporary dining room.
Polished seafood institution at the municipal fish market, best known for regional oysters, crab cakes, and classic Chesapeake flavors.
Historic casual landmark famous for half-smokes, chili, and a classic diner feel. A must for trying DC's best-known street food tradition.
DC is pricier than many US cities. Hotels and dining run high in central areas, but Metro and many free museums help balance daily travel costs.
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, more for great service. Taxis usually 10-15%. Cafes: round up or add $1-2.
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Washington, DC.
The train connection between Boston, MA and Washington, DC is a convenient and scenic way to travel along the East Coast. Amtrak provides reliable service on this route, allowing passengers to enjoy comfortable seating and onboard amenities while taking in views of charming towns and beautiful landscapes. With multiple daily departures, travelers can easily find a schedule that suits their needs for this approximately 7-hour journey.
Traveling from Boston, MA to Washington, DC takes approximately 6 hours and 40 minutes. There are up to 12 direct connections available each day. Passengers can board the train at Back Bay Station or South Station in Boston and arrive at Union Station in Washington, DC.
The first daily train journey departs from Boston at 10:05 AM, providing an early start for travelers heading to the nation's capital. The last departure of the day is scheduled for 10:35 PM, allowing late-night arrivals in Washington, DC.
The cheapest ticket price for the train connection from Boston to Washington is $79 (71.1€). The average ticket price tends to be around $198 (178.2€), making it a more economical option if you book in advance or look out for deals.
The White House, completed in 1800, has served as the official residence and workplace of every U.S. president since John Adams, symbolizing the heart of American democracy. Its neoclassical architecture features iconic elements like the portico and grand columns that reflect both power and grace, making it a must-see for anyone interested in politics or history. As you stand before this landmark, imagine the countless decisions made within its walls that have shaped not only America but also global affairs.
The United States Capitol is more than just an architectural marvel; it's where our nation's laws are crafted and debated. Completed in 1800 with its distinctive dome added later on during reconstruction after the War of 1812, it represents unity among states while showcasing stunning sculptures and murals depicting pivotal moments from American history. Walking through its halls allows you to feel connected to centuries of legislative progress—each room tells a story waiting to be discovered.
Finally, we arrive at the Lincoln Memorial—a tribute dedicated to one of America's most revered presidents who led us through civil strife during his time in office. Designed by architect Henry Bacon in 1922 with striking Greek Doric columns surrounding a colossal seated statue of Abraham Lincoln himself, this memorial serves as a powerful reminder of equality and justice for all citizens. Standing here amidst inscriptions from his famous speeches inspires reflection on how far we've come—and how much further we still need to go toward fulfilling his vision for America.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Boston, MA 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.

Most Boston, MA to Washington, DC trains use the South Station to Union Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Boston, MA and Washington, DC train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
South Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food options include: Legal Sea Foods, Tavern in the Square
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Ticket office support is available at South Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage storage is available at South Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at South Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at South Station: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at South Station: Elevators, restrooms.
Nearby hotels include InterContinental Boston, The Langham, Boston, Boston Harbor Hotel.
Back Bay Station is 1 km from Boston city centre. Public transport options include:
Back Bay Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food options include: Sorellina, Atlantic Fish Company
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Ticket office support is available at Back Bay Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage storage is available at Back Bay Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Back Bay Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Back Bay Station: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Back Bay Station: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Nearby hotels include Copley Square Hotel, The Westin Copley Place, Fairmont Copley Plaza.
Union Station is 2 km from Washington city centre. Public transport options include:
Union Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food options include: 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
Free Wi-Fi in the station courtesy of Amtrak. ATMs are there are 2 ATM machines located on Level G.
The ticket office is open Mon - Fri: 04:30 - 22:00, Sat - Sun: 05:00 - 22:00. Information desks are located on the train concourse of Level G near the Amtrak Waiting Area.
Luggage storage is amtrak provides temporary luggage storage for $10 per bag for 24 hours for customers holding Amtrak tickets.
Available at Union Station: Parking, Taxis.
Available at Union Station: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Union Station: Elevators, escalators, wheelchair access. Accessible facilities including restrooms, parking, platforms, ticket office, waiting room.
Nearby hotels include Hyatt Recency Washington On Capitol Hill, Phoenix Park Hotel, Kimpton George Hotel.
Check train stations information for Boston, MA and Washington, DC, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.
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