- Must visit
New Orleans Museum of Art
Leading art museum in City Park with major European, American, African, and contemporary collections plus a renowned sculpture garden.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Charleston, SC to New Orleans, LA
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 19
Cheapest price on Sep 19
$243
Average ticket price on Sep 19
$243
Fastest journey on Sep 19
1 d 12 h 57 m
Average journey duration on Sep 19
1 d 12 h 57 m
Trains on Sep 19
1
Distance
1012 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Charleston, SC to New Orleans, LA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Charleston, SC to New Orleans, LA will cost around $243 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $243.
Fast trains
On Sat, Sep 19, we found 1 trains from Charleston, SC to New Orleans, LA, including 1 direct services.
On Sat, Sep 19 the direct trains cover the 1012 km distance in an average of 1 d 12 h 57 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 d 12 h 57 m .
On Sat, Sep 19 the slowest trains will take 1 d 12 h 57 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.
1:15 PM36h57Charleston, SC2:12 AMNew Orleans, LA$2431One-way0 transfers
- 1:15 PM36h57Charleston, SC2:12 AMNew Orleans, LA$2431One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Charleston, SC to New Orleans, LA
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Charleston, SC to New Orleans, LA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $138 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 6h 40m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $138, while a train costs an average of $554.
Distance: 628 miles (1012 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$554 Average price | $533 Average price | $138 Average price Cheapest | $150 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
39h 8m Average total duration 38h 38m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 40m Average total duration Fastest 4h 40m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 20h 50m Average total duration 20h 20m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 11h 22m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Charleston, SC to New Orleans, LA is a bus with an average price of $138.
This is compared to other travel options from Charleston, SC to New Orleans, LA:
A bus is $395 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Charleston, SC to New Orleans, LA costing on average $533.
A bus is $416 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Charleston, SC to New Orleans, LA costing on average $554.
The fastest way to travel from Charleston, SC to New Orleans, LA is by flight with an average journey time of 4h 40m.
Other travel options to New Orleans, LA take longer:
Bus takes on average 20h 20m.
Train takes on average 38h 38m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Charleston, SC and New Orleans, LA including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Charleston, SC to New Orleans, LA 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 $554 compared to roughly $150 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-404.43. The journey takes 38h 38m versus 11h 22m 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
Charleston, SC to New Orleans, LA train times
The table below shows live departures for Charleston, SC to New Orleans, LA trains for today, Friday, September 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 90 · 79 · 19 | 9:15 AM Charleston Station, North Charleston, SC | 36h57 | 9:12 PM Union Passenger Terminal, New Orleans, LA | 2 transfers | |
| 98 · 40 · 59 | 8:34 PM Charleston Station, North Charleston, SC | 66h13 | 1:47 PM Union Passenger Terminal, New Orleans, LA | 2 transfers | |
| 98 · 19 | 8:34 PM Charleston Station, North Charleston, SC | 49h38 | 9:12 PM Union Passenger Terminal, New Orleans, LA | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Charleston, SC to New Orleans, LA 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 Charleston, SC to New Orleans, LA
USAUSA
Trains from Charleston, SC to New Orleans, LA run on average 3 times per day, taking around 38h 38m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $264 but you can travel from only $94 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 09:10, the last at 21:34. The fastest train covers the 628 miles (1012 km) distance in 29h 10m.
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 $94
Distance 628 miles (1012 km) |
Average train duration 38h 38m |
Cheapest ticket price $264 |
Trains per day 3 |
Fastest train 29h 10m |
First train 9:10 AM |
Last train 9:34 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
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 $94
Train companies: Amtrak from Charleston, SC to New Orleans, LA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Charleston, SC and New Orleans, LA from $94. 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
29h 10m
Cheapest Amtrak Price
$264
Amtrak frequency
3 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 New Orleans, LA
Things to do in New Orleans, LA
Discover the best of New Orleans, LA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect New Orleans, LA trip today.
- Must visit
The National WWII Museum
Powerful museum using immersive exhibits to explain World War II through personal stories, artifacts, and major military history.
- Recommended
Ogden Museum of Southern Art
Smithsonian-affiliated museum devoted to Southern art, design, and culture in a contemporary warehouse district setting.
- Must visit
French Quarter
The city’s most famous neighborhood, packed with historic architecture, music, courtyards, and essential New Orleans street life.
- Must visit
Jackson Square
Lively public square facing St. Louis Cathedral, ideal for architecture, performers, and a classic introduction to the city.
- Must visit
City Park
Vast urban park with oak groves, lagoons, museums, and trails, offering one of the best green escapes in New Orleans.
- Gluten-free
Jambalaya
A hearty Creole rice dish with sausage, chicken, and seafood. It reflects Spanish, French, and local influences central to New Orleans cooking.
Gumbo
A rich Louisiana stew usually made with roux, okra or filé, and seafood or sausage. It is a signature dish of Creole and Cajun tradition.
Po' Boy
A classic po' boy is a French bread sandwich stuffed with fried shrimp, oysters, or roast beef. It is one of the city's most iconic everyday foods.
Commander's Palace
Celebrated Creole restaurant famous for gumbo z'herbes, turtle soup, and jazz brunch in an elegant Garden District mansion.
Johnny's Po-Boys
Casual landmark for classic po' boys and fried seafood. Expect a lively, old-school New Orleans atmosphere near the French Quarter.
Café du Monde
Historic coffee stand best known for beignets and chicory café au lait. It is busy, informal, and one of the city's essential stops.
United States dollar ($)
Moderate for U.S. cities: hotels can be pricey in peak season, but food and transit are reasonable for tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $10-18 for fast food or po'boys.
- Mid-range
- $20-40 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $60+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- $3-6 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, 10-15% for taxis, and spare change or $1 at cafes for good service.
FAQs: Trains from Charleston, SC to New Orleans, LA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Charleston, SC to New Orleans, LA 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 New Orleans, LA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Charleston, SC to New Orleans, LA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $264, while the average price is around $554.
The train from Charleston, SC to New Orleans, LA takes 29h 10m and runs 3 per day.
The distance by train from Charleston, SC to New Orleans, LA is 628 miles (1012 km).
The first train from Charleston, SC to New Orleans, LA leaves at 9:10 AM.
The last train from Charleston, SC to New Orleans, LA leaves at 9:34 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Charleston, SC to New Orleans, LA.
There is no direct train service currently available from Charleston, SC to New Orleans, LA.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Charleston, SC to New Orleans, LA.
The train station in Charleston, SC that goes to New Orleans, LA is Charleston Station, North Charleston, SC, which connects to Union Passenger Terminal, New Orleans, LA.
The cheapest way to get from Charleston, SC to New Orleans, LA is by flight, with a cost of around $94.
The train journey from Charleston, SC to New Orleans, LA offers scenic views of the Southern landscape, including charming small towns, lush forests, and glimpses of the Mississippi River, providing travelers with a picturesque experience through the heart of the South.
A day trip from Charleston, SC to New Orleans, LA is not feasible as the journey duration is 29h 10m and the distance is 628 miles (1012 km). Trains operate 3 times per day.
In New Orleans, LA, you can enjoy traditional jazz performances at Preservation Hall, relax in Audubon Park with its zoo and golf course, and experience live music on Frenchmen Street. Take a scenic cruise on the Steamboat Natchez and explore City Park's botanical gardens and art museum. Discover the French Quarter's vibrant nightlife and cultural heritage, visit Jackson Square and the historic St. Louis Cathedral, admire the Garden District's antebellum mansions, and explore the National WWII Museum's immersive exhibits.
Three to four days are recommended to fully explore New Orleans, allowing time to visit its historic neighborhoods, enjoy live music, savor local cuisine, and experience cultural landmarks such as the French Quarter and Garden District.
Yes, you can take the train from Charleston, SC to New Orleans, LA.
Since neither Charleston, SC nor New Orleans, LA 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 New Orleans, LA include Hammond, LA, Gulfport, MS, McComb, MS, Bay Saint Louis, MS, Picayune, MS.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Charleston, SC to New Orleans, LA 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 New Orleans, LA, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like the French Quarter. Common scams include overpriced taxi rides and street vendors selling counterfeit goods. It's advisable to avoid walking alone late at night in less populated neighborhoods and to use authorized transportation services to ensure 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 Charleston, SC to New Orleans, LA
Most Charleston, SC to New Orleans, LA trains use the Charleston Station to Union Passenger Terminal station pair. Use this guide to compare Charleston, SC and New Orleans, LA train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Charleston
Arrival train stations in New Orleans
Which New Orleans, LA station do trains from Charleston, SC arrive at?
Trains from Charleston, SC to New Orleans, LA arrive at Union Passenger Terminal. Union Passenger Terminal is 0 miles (1 km) from New Orleans, LA city centre.
Union Passenger Terminal1001 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113, USA+1 800-872-7245
City-centre transport
Getting to Union Passenger Terminal from New Orleans city centre
Bus202, 51, 52, 53-O, 57, 91 · 4m · $2 · every ~17 min
202, 114A, 114B, 103 · 4m · $2 · every ~7 min
Tram46 · 7m · $2 · every ~4 min
Union Passenger Terminal train station facilities and services
Union Passenger Terminal has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Cochon Restaurant, Herbsaint
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Union Passenger Terminal. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Union Passenger Terminal. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Union Passenger Terminal: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Union Passenger Terminal: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Union Passenger Terminal: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hyatt Regency New Orleans, Le Pavillon Hotel, Drury Plaza Hotel New Orleans.
More options for your journey from Charleston, SC to New Orleans, LA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from New Orleans, LA and Charleston, SC
Most popular train connections to New Orleans, LA
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