- Must visit
Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
One of Washington’s most visited museums, famous for dinosaur fossils, the Hope Diamond, and broad natural science collections. A classic first-time stop on the National Mall.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA to Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
Showing times and prices for May 27
Cheapest price
$23
Average price
$57
Fastest journey
2 h 27 m
Average duration
2 h 41 m
Trains per day
4
Distance
161 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA to Washington Union Station, Washington, DC is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA to Washington Union Station, Washington, DC will cost around $57 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $23.
Fast trains
Of the 4 trains that leave Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA for Washington Union Station, Washington, DC on Wed, May 27, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, May 27 the direct trains cover the 161 km distance in an average of 2 h 41 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 27 m .
On Wed, May 27 the slowest trains will take 3 h 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.
66 Northeast Regional7:01 PM2h27Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA9:28 PMWashington Union Station, Washington, DC$231One-way0 transfers- 178 Northeast Regional12:25 PM2h30Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA2:55 PMWashington Union Station, Washington, DC$411One-way0 transfers
- 50 Cardinal3:44 PM3h00Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA6:44 PMWashington Union Station, Washington, DC$731One-way0 transfers
- 20 Crescent10:59 AM2h48Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA1:47 PMWashington Union Station, Washington, DC$931One-way0 transfers
- 66 Northeast Regional7:01 PM2h27Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA9:28 PMWashington Union Station, Washington, DC$231One-way0 transfers
- 178 Northeast Regional12:25 PM2h30Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA2:55 PMWashington Union Station, Washington, DC$411One-way0 transfers
- 20 Crescent10:59 AM2h48Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA1:47 PMWashington Union Station, Washington, DC$931One-way0 transfers
- 50 Cardinal3:44 PM3h00Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA6:44 PMWashington Union Station, Washington, DC$731One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA to Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA to Washington Union Station, Washington, DC among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $17. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 11m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $17, and a flight costs an average of $258.
Distance: 100 miles (161 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$41 Average price | $36 Average price Cheapest | $473 Average price | $25 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 5m Average total duration 2h 35m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 54m Average total duration 3h 24m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 11m Average total duration Fastest 2h 11m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 2h 34m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA to Washington Union Station, Washington, DC is a bus with an average price of $36 (€29).
This is compared to other travel options from Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA to Washington Union Station, Washington, DC:
A bus is $5 (€4) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA to Washington Union Station, Washington, DC costing on average $41 (€33).
A bus is $437 (€353) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA to Washington Union Station, Washington, DC costing on average $473 (€382).
The fastest way to travel from Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA to Washington Union Station, Washington, DC is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 11m.
Other travel options to Washington Union Station, Washington, DC take longer:
Train takes on average 2h 35m.
Bus takes on average 3h 24m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA and Washington Union Station, Washington, DC including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA to Washington Union Station, 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 $41 (€33) compared to roughly $25 (€20) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-16.55 (€-13.36). The journey takes 2h 35m versus 2h 34m 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
Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA to Washington Union Station, Washington, DC train times
The table below shows live departures for Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA to Washington Union Station, Washington, DC trains for today, Tuesday, May 26. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 66 Northeast Regional | 7:01 PM Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA | 2h27 | 9:28 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Wednesday, May 27 | |||||
| 20 Crescent | 10:59 AM Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA | 2h48 | 1:47 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 178 Northeast Regional | 12:25 PM Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA | 2h30 | 2:55 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 50 Cardinal | 3:44 PM Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA | 3h00 | 6:44 PM Washington Union Station, 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 Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA to Washington Union Station, 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.
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA to Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
USAUSA
Trains from Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA to Washington Union Station, Washington, DC run on average 3 times per day, taking around 2h 35m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $18 (€14) but you can travel from only $17 (€14) by bus.
There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:01. The fastest train covers the 100 miles (161 km) distance in 2h 27m.
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 $17 (€14)
Distance 100 miles (161 km) |
Average train duration 2h 35m |
Cheapest ticket price $18 (€14) |
Trains per day 3 |
Direct trains 3 |
Fastest train 2h 27m |
First train 12:01 AM |
Last train 11:01 PM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Sat |
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 $17 (€14)
Train companies: Amtrak from Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA to Washington Union Station, Washington, DC trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA and Washington Union Station, Washington, DC from $17 (€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
2h 27m
Cheapest Price
$18 (€14)
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 Washington
Things to do in Washington
Discover the best of Washington — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Washington trip today.
- Must visit
National Gallery of Art
Major art museum with masterworks from the Middle Ages to the present, plus sculpture gardens and rotating exhibitions. Excellent for both iconic pieces and quieter galleries.
- Recommended
National Postal Museum
Smithsonian museum beside Union Station covering American postal history, stamps, transportation, and mail systems. Convenient and worthwhile for a short visit near the station.
- Must visit
National Mall
Washington’s signature civic landscape lined with major museums, memorials, and monuments. Essential for first-time visitors and ideal for long walks and classic photos.
- Must visit
Georgetown
Historic area known for cobblestone streets, Federal architecture, waterfront walks, and photogenic side streets. One of the city’s most charming districts.
- Must visit
Tidal Basin
Scenic waterside walking area framed by memorials and famous cherry trees. One of the city’s best seasonal spots for photos and relaxed strolls.
Half-Smoke
Washington's signature sausage, usually smoky and spicy, served on a bun with chili, mustard, and onions. It is one of the city's most iconic quick bites.
Mumbo Sauce Wings
Fried chicken wings or carryout-style food coated in sweet, tangy, slightly spicy Mumbo sauce, a longtime staple of Washington takeout culture.
Chesapeake Crab Cakes
Crab cakes made with lump blue crab and minimal filler, reflecting the strong Chesapeake Bay influence on Washington dining.
Old Ebbitt Grill
Historic Washington restaurant near the National Mall known for oysters, crab cakes, and classic American fare in an elegant, old-school setting.
The Hamilton
Large, well-known downtown restaurant and music venue serving American classics, sushi, and brunch in a lively, polished atmosphere.
Ben's Chili Bowl
Legendary Washington institution famous for half-smokes, chili dogs, and casual comfort food with deep local cultural significance.
United States Dollar
Food and drinks at and around the station are pricier than average, but budget chains and casual spots keep costs manageable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-18 for fast food or a casual takeaway.
- Mid-range
- USD 20-35 per person at a casual sit-down restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 60+ per person at upscale restaurants nearby.
- Coffee
- USD 3-6 for drip coffee or a latte.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at sit-down restaurants. Tip USD 1-2 per drink at bars, round up taxis, and tip delivery 10-20%. Not expected at fast-food counters.
DC Metro and Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- USD 2.25
- Day pass
- USD 13.00
To the city center
Washington Union Station -> Metro Center, Washington
- Distance
- 2 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- You can pay fares with a SmarTrip card or contactless credit or debit card at Metrorail faregates and on Metrobus.
- Buy a 1-day pass only if you expect several trips; Metrorail fares vary by time and distance, while Metrobus local fare is fixed.
FAQs: Trains from Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA to Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA to Washington Union Station, 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 Union Station, Washington, DC, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA to Washington Union Station, Washington, DC can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $18 (€14), while the average price is around $41 (€33).
The train from Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA to Washington Union Station, Washington, DC takes 2h 27m and runs 3 per day.
The distance by train from Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA to Washington Union Station, Washington, DC is 100 miles (161 km).
The first train from Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA to Washington Union Station, Washington, DC leaves at 12:01 AM.
The last train from Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA to Washington Union Station, Washington, DC leaves at 11:01 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA to Washington Union Station, Washington, DC.
Yes, there is a direct train from Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA to Washington Union Station, Washington, DC. This service operates 3 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA to Washington Union Station, Washington, DC.
The cheapest way to get from Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA to Washington Union Station, Washington, DC is by bus, with a cost of around $17 (€14).
The train journey from Charlottesville Amtrak, VA to Washington Union Station, DC is considered scenic, offering views of the rolling hills of Virginia, picturesque countryside, and glimpses of the Shenandoah National Park and the Blue Ridge Mountains.
A day trip from Charlottesville Amtrak, VA to Washington Union Station, DC is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 27m. Trains run 3 times per day.
Yes, you can take the train from Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA to Washington Union Station, Washington, DC.
Since neither Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA nor Washington Union Station, 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 Union Station, Washington, DC include Philadelphia, PA, Baltimore, MD, Wilmington, DE, Fredericksburg, VA, Cherry Hill, NJ.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA to Washington Union Station, 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.
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 Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA to Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
Charlottesville
Washington
The major train station for departures in Charlottesville is Charlottesville Amtrak. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Charlottesville Amtrak for your trip from Charlottesville to Washington.
Charlottesville Amtrak
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
1 km
Number of platforms
2Wifi
- Free
Parking
- Parking is available near the station.
Dining
- The Local
- Maya Restaurant
- Public Fish & Oyster
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps.
WC
- $1
Hotel
- Graduate Charlottesville
- Residence Inn by Marriott Charlottesville Downtown
- Omni Charlottesville Hotel
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, ticket office, and waiting area
- Platform area for boarding
Public transit options for Charlottesville Amtrak
- Bus: Charlottesville Area Transit (CAT) services available
The major train station for arrivals in Washington is Union Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Union Station for your journey to Washington from Charlottesville.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDining
ATMTaxisAccessibilityHotelTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike Rental
Car RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Fri: 04:30 - 22:00
- Sat - Sun: 05:00 - 22:00
Distance to city center
2 kmWifi
- Free Wi-Fi in the station courtesy of Amtrak.
Lockers
- Amtrak provides temporary luggage storage for $10 per bag for 24 hours for customers holding Amtrak tickets.
Dining
- 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
Accessibility
- Elevators, escalators, wheelchair access. Accessible facilities including restrooms, parking, platforms, ticket office, waiting room.
Hotel
- Hyatt Recency Washington On Capitol Hill
- Phoenix Park Hotel
- Kimpton George Hotel
Ticket Office
- Mon - Fri: 04:30 - 22:00
- Sat - Sun: 05:00 - 22:00
Information Desk
- Located on the train concourse of Level G near the Amtrak Waiting Area.
Public transit options for Union Station
- 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 Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA
Most popular trains to and from Washington Union Station, Washington, DC and Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA
Most popular train connections to Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
HomeTrainsTrains in USACharlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA to Washington Union Station, Washington, DC train
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