Cary, NC to Washington, DC train with Amtrak

Fri, May 08
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Amtrak
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
Amtrak
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cary, NC to Washington, DC

Showing times and prices for May 08

Cheapest price

$80

Average price

$80

Fastest journey

6 h 39 m

Average duration

6 h 42 m

Trains per day

2

Distance

378 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cary, NC 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 Cary, NC to Washington, DC will cost around $80 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $80.

Fast trains

Of the 2 trains that leave Cary, NC for Washington, DC on Fri, May 08, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Fri, May 08 the direct trains cover the 378 km distance in an average of 6 h 42 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 6 h 39 m .

On Fri, May 08 the slowest trains will take 6 h 44 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.

  • Amtrak
    1:33 PM6h39
    Cary, NC
    8:12 PMWashington, DC
    $801One-way
    0 transfers
  • Amtrak
    2:47 PM6h44
    Cary, NC
    9:31 PMWashington, DC
    $801One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Cary, NC to Washington, DC

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cary, NC to Washington, DC among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $40. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 22m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $40, and a flight costs an average of $99.

Distance: 234 miles (378 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Flight
Driving

$94

Average price

$61

Average price

Cheapest

$328

Average price

$56

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

7h 7m

Average total duration

6h 37m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 6m

Average total duration

5h 36m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 22m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 22m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

4h 27m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.3kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.4 - 0.9kg

CO2 emissions

1.1 - 2.3kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

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 Cary, NC to Washington, DC is a bus with an average price of $61 (€49).

This is compared to other travel options from Cary, NC to Washington, DC:

A bus is $33 (€27) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cary, NC to Washington, DC costing on average $94 (€75).

A bus is $267 (€213) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Cary, NC to Washington, DC costing on average $328 (€262).

The fastest way to travel from Cary, NC to Washington, DC is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 22m.

Other travel options to Washington, DC take longer:

Bus takes on average 5h 36m.

Train takes on average 6h 37m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Cary, NC and Washington, DC including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cary, NC 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 $94 (€75) compared to roughly $56 (€44) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-38.35 (€-30.65). The journey takes 6h 37m versus 4h 27m 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

Cary, NC to Washington, DC train times

The table below shows live departures for Cary, NC to Washington, DC trains for today, Thursday, May 7. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
amtrak1:33 PM Cary, NC
6h39
8:12 PM Washington, DC0 transfersDirect
amtrak2:47 PM Cary, NC
6h44
9:31 PM Washington, DC0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cary, NC to Washington, DC 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.

Fri
May 08
Sat
May 09
Sun
May 10
Mon
May 11
Tue
May 12
Wed
May 13
Thu
May 14

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cary, NC to Washington, DC

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Icon of train

Trains from Cary, NC to Washington, DC run on average 2 times per day, taking around 6h 37m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $53 (€42) but you can travel from only $40 (€32) by bus.

There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 08:24, the last at 14:48. The fastest train covers the 234 miles (378 km) distance in 6h 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $40 (€32)
Distance
234 miles (378 km)
Average train duration
6h 37m
Cheapest ticket price
$53 (€42)
Trains per day
2
Direct trains
2
Fastest train
6h 39m
First train
8:24 AM
Last train
2:48 PM
Cheapest Month
Feb
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Jan - Mar
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Fri
Least Busy Day
Fri
Best time to book
84 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 $40 (€32)

Train companies: Amtrak from Cary, NC to Washington, DC trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Cary, NC and Washington, DC from $40 (€32). 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
6h 39m
Cheapest Price
$53 (€42)
Amtrak frequency
2 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

FAQs: Trains from Cary, NC to Washington, DC

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cary, NC 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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Cary, NC to Washington, DC can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $53 (€42), while the average price is around $94 (€75).
The train from Cary, NC to Washington, DC takes 6h 39m and runs 2 per day.
The first train from Cary, NC to Washington, DC leaves at 8:24 AM.
The distance by train from Cary, NC to Washington, DC is 234 miles (378 km).
The last train from Cary, NC to Washington, DC leaves at 2:48 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Cary, NC to Washington, DC.
Yes, there is a direct train from Cary, NC to Washington, DC. This service operates 2 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cary, NC to Washington, DC.
The train station in Cary, NC that goes to Washington, DC is Cary Station, Cary, NC, which connects to Washington Union Station, Washington, DC.
The cheapest way to get from Cary, NC to Washington, DC is by bus, with a cost of around $40 (€32).
The train journey from Cary, NC to Washington, DC offers a variety of scenic views, including glimpses of the rolling hills of North Carolina and Virginia, picturesque farmland, and the occasional view of rivers and small towns, providing a pleasant visual experience for travelers.
A day trip from Cary, NC to Washington, DC is not feasible as the journey takes 6h 39m each way. Trains run 2 times per day for this route with a distance of 234 miles (378 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 Cary, NC to Washington, DC.
Since neither Cary, NC 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 Cary, NC 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 Cary, NC to Washington, DC

Cary
Washington
The major train station for departures in Cary is Cary Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Cary Station for your trip from Cary to Washington.
Cary StationWifiLockersParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation DeskLuggage Carts
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Information DeskInformation Desk
Luggage CartsLuggage Carts
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
platformCount
Number of platforms
2
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free
Parking
Parking
  • Parking is available adjacent to the station, open 24/7.
Dining
Dining
  • Academy Street Bistro
  • Lugano Ristorante
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Ramps, restrooms.
WC
WC
  • Free for passengers
Hotel
Hotel
  • The Mayton
  • Courtyard by Marriott Raleigh/Cary
  • Hampton Inn & Suites Raleigh/Cary
Lost and Found Office
Lost and Found Office
  • Located in the main waiting room
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located in the main waiting room
Luggage Carts
Luggage Carts
  • Free
Station Plan
  • The station has a main waiting area with ticketing services and restrooms.
Public transit options for Cary Station
  • Bus: GoCary routes available
  • Taxi services available

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