The cheapest and fastest trains from Charlotte, NC to Washington, DC
Cheapest price
$138
Average price
$319
Fastest journey
8 h 16 m
Average duration
9 h 39 m
Trains per day
2
Distance
529 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Charlotte, 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 Charlotte, NC to Washington, DC will cost around $319 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $138.
Of the 2 trains that leave Charlotte, NC for Washington, DC on Fri, Feb 27, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, Feb 27 the direct trains cover the 529 km distance in an average of 9 h 39 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 8 h 16 m .
On Fri, Feb 27 the slowest trains will take 11 h 1 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.
80 Carolinian
20 Crescent
20 Crescent
80 CarolinianTravel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Charlotte, NC to Washington, DC
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Charlotte, NC to Washington, DC among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $53. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 31m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.2 - 0.5kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $53, and a flight costs an average of $81.
Distance: 328 miles (529 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight |
|---|---|---|
$148 Average price | $87 Average price Cheapest | $363 Average price |
9h 48m Average total duration 9h 18m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 9m Average total duration 8h 39m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 31m Average total duration Fastest 1h 31m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.5 - 1.3kg CO2 emissions | 1.6 - 3.2kg CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular bus company | ![]() Most popular airline |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Charlotte, NC to Washington, DC train times
The table below shows live departures for Charlotte, NC to Washington, DC trains for today, Thursday, February 26. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() | 10:31 AM Charlotte, NC | 8h16 | 6:47 PM Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 11:45 AM Charlotte, NC | 9h46 | 9:31 PM 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 Charlotte, 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.
Feb 27
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How far in advance should I book train tickets from Charlotte, NC to Washington, DC?
Journey information
Overview: Train from Charlotte, NC to Washington, DC
Trains from Charlotte, NC to Washington, DC run on average 2 times per day, taking around 9h 18m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $83 (€66) but you can travel from only $53 (€42) by bus.
There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:04, the last at 18:49. The fastest train covers the 328 miles (529 km) distance in 8h 16m.
Distance 328 miles (529 km) |
Average train duration 9h 18m |
Cheapest ticket price $83 (€66) |
Trains per day 2 |
Direct trains 2 |
Fastest train 8h 16m |
First train 04:04 |
Last train 18:49 |
Train companies: Amtrak from Charlotte, NC to Washington, DC trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Charlotte, NC and Washington, DC from $53 (€42). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Amtrak
Traveling by train from Charlotte, NC to Washington, DC
Traveling between Charlotte, NC and Washington, DC is a convenient experience thanks to the reliable train service provided by Amtrak. The journey covers approximately 400 miles and offers scenic views of the eastern United States along the way. With multiple daily departures, passengers can enjoy comfortable seating and onboard amenities as they traverse this vibrant route connecting two dynamic cities.
Train Connection: Charlotte, NC to Washington, DC
The train connection between Charlotte, NC and Washington, DC takes approximately 9 hours and 46 minutes. There are 2 direct connections available each day. Passengers will depart from Charlotte Station, NC and arrive at Union Station, DC.
Charlotte, NC to Washington, DC
The first daily train journey departs from Charlotte at 10:45 AM and arrives in Washington, DC at 11:45 AM. This convenient schedule allows travelers to start their day early and enjoy the scenic route between these two cities.
Train Tickets Price for Charlotte, NC to Washington, DC
The cheapest ticket price for the train connection from Charlotte to Washington is $69 (62.1€). The average ticket price tends to be around $114 (102.6€), providing travelers with a range of options depending on their budget and travel preferences.
Exploring the Heart of American Democracy: Iconic Landmarks in Washington, D.C.
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 significance extends beyond politics; it represents a rich tapestry of history where monumental decisions have shaped our nation’s future. Unique features include its neoclassical architecture and iconic rooms like the Oval Office and the Rose Garden, each telling stories that reflect both personal presidential moments and pivotal national events.
The Lincoln Memorial was dedicated in 1922 to honor President Abraham Lincoln's legacy as a champion for unity and equality during one of America's most tumultuous times—the Civil War. This landmark holds profound significance not only for its tribute to Lincoln but also as a site for civil rights movements, famously hosting Martin Luther King Jr.'s "I Have a Dream" speech in 1963. The memorial is uniquely designed with 36 columns representing each state at the time of Lincoln's death, creating an awe-inspiring atmosphere that invites reflection on freedom and justice.
The United States Capitol stands proudly atop Capitol Hill as both an architectural marvel and a powerful symbol of legislative authority since its construction began in 1793. It plays a crucial role in American governance—housing Congress—and serves as an emblematic representation of democratic ideals worldwide. Notably unique are its stunning dome topped by Lady Liberty herself along with intricate frescoes inside that depict significant moments from U.S.history—all inviting visitors to appreciate their place within this grand narrative.
FAQs: Trains from Charlotte, NC to Washington, DC
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Charlotte, 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.

popular train stations
Popular train stations from Charlotte, NC to Washington, DC
- 24 hours Monday - Sunday
- Free
- Parking is available on site with both short-term and long-term options.
- Alexander Michael's
- The King's Kitchen
- Outside the main entrance.
- Elevators, ramps.
- $0.50
- The Westin Charlotte
- Hilton Charlotte Uptown
- Omni Charlotte Hotel
- Located in the main hall
- Located in the main hall
- Free
- Hall 1: main entrance, ticket office, and waiting area
- Hall 2: platform access
- Bus: CATS Bus Routes 11, 21, 22
- Light Rail: LYNX Blue Line nearby
- Mon - Fri: 04:30 - 22:00
- Sat - Sun: 05:00 - 22:00
- Free Wi-Fi in the station courtesy of Amtrak.
- Amtrak provides temporary luggage storage for $10 per bag for 24 hours for customers holding Amtrak tickets.
- 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
- Elevators, escalators, wheelchair access. Accessible facilities including restrooms, parking, platforms, ticket office, waiting room.
- Hyatt Recency Washington On Capitol Hill
- Phoenix Park Hotel
- Kimpton George Hotel
- Mon - Fri: 04:30 - 22:00
- Sat - Sun: 05:00 - 22:00
- Located on the train concourse of Level G near the Amtrak Waiting Area.
- 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 Charlotte, NC
More options for your journey from Charlotte, NC to Washington, DC
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