- Must visit
Philadelphia Museum of Art
One of the largest art museums in the United States, known for major collections, special exhibitions, and the famous East Steps.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest trains from Charlottesville, VA to Philadelphia, PA
Showing times and prices for Jun 21
Cheapest price
$147
Average price
$318
Fastest journey
5 h 5 m
Average duration
5 h 16 m
Trains per day
5
Distance
357 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Charlottesville, VA to Philadelphia, PA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Charlottesville, VA to Philadelphia, PA will cost around $318 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $147.
Fast trains
Of the 5 trains that leave Charlottesville, VA for Philadelphia, PA on Sun, Jun 21, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sun, Jun 21 the direct trains cover the 357 km distance in an average of 5 h 16 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 5 m .
On Sun, Jun 21 the slowest trains will take 5 h 43 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.
66 Northeast Regional7:01 PM5h05Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA12:06 AM30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA$1471One-way0 transfers- 50 Cardinal3:44 PM5h07Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA8:51 PM30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA$2371One-way0 transfers
- 156 Northeast Regional11:18 AM5h14Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA4:32 PM30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA$2371One-way0 transfers
- 156 Northeast Regional · 132 Northeast Regional11:18 AM5h43Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA5:01 PM30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA$2961One-way1 transfer
- 20 Crescent10:59 AM5h09Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA4:08 PM30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA$6751One-way0 transfers
- 66 Northeast Regional7:01 PM5h05Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA12:06 AM30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA$1471One-way0 transfers
- 50 Cardinal3:44 PM5h07Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA8:51 PM30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA$2371One-way0 transfers
- 20 Crescent10:59 AM5h09Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA4:08 PM30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA$6751One-way0 transfers
- 156 Northeast Regional11:18 AM5h14Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA4:32 PM30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA$2371One-way0 transfers
- 156 Northeast Regional · 132 Northeast Regional11:18 AM5h43Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA5:01 PM30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA$2961One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Charlottesville, VA to Philadelphia, PA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Charlottesville, VA to Philadelphia, PA 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 4h 56m. 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 $242.
Distance: 221 miles (357 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$84 Average price | $74 Average price Cheapest | $452 Average price | $60 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 38m Average total duration 5h 8m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 55m Average total duration 7h 25m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 56m Average total duration Fastest 4h 56m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 4h 33m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.4 - 0.9kg CO2 emissions | - 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 Charlottesville, VA to Philadelphia, PA is a bus with an average price of $74 (€60).
This is compared to other travel options from Charlottesville, VA to Philadelphia, PA:
A bus is $11 (€9) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Charlottesville, VA to Philadelphia, PA costing on average $84 (€69).
A bus is $378 (€310) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Charlottesville, VA to Philadelphia, PA costing on average $452 (€370).
The fastest way to travel from Charlottesville, VA to Philadelphia, PA is by flight with an average journey time of 4h 56m.
Other travel options to Philadelphia, PA take longer:
Train takes on average 5h 8m.
Bus takes on average 7h 25m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Charlottesville, VA and Philadelphia, PA including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Charlottesville, VA to Philadelphia, PA 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 $84 (€69) compared to roughly $60 (€49) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-24.25 (€-19.85). The journey takes 5h 8m versus 4h 33m 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, VA to Philadelphia, PA train times
The table below shows live departures for Charlottesville, VA to Philadelphia, PA trains for tomorrow, Sunday, June 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 20 Crescent | 10:59 AM Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA | 5h09 | 4:08 PM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 156 Northeast Regional · 132 Northeast Regional | 11:18 AM Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA | 5h43 | 5:01 PM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 1 transfer | |
| 156 Northeast Regional | 11:18 AM Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA | 5h14 | 4:32 PM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 50 Cardinal | 3:44 PM Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA | 5h07 | 8:51 PM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 66 Northeast Regional | 7:01 PM Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA | 5h05 | 12:06 AM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 0 transfersDirect |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Charlottesville, VA to Philadelphia, PA 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.
Sun
Jun 21
Jun 21
Mon
Jun 22
Jun 22
Tue
Jun 23
Jun 23
Wed
Jun 24
Jun 24
Thu
Jun 25
Jun 25
Fri
Jun 26
Jun 26
Sat
Jun 27
Jun 27
Journey information
Overview: Train from Charlottesville, VA to Philadelphia, PA
USAUSA
Trains from Charlottesville, VA to Philadelphia, PA run on average 4 times per day, taking around 5h 8m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $32 (€26) if you book in advance.
There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:52, the last at 19:01. The fastest train covers the 221 miles (357 km) distance in 5h 5m.
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
Distance 221 miles (357 km) |
Average train duration 5h 8m |
Cheapest ticket price $32 (€26) |
Trains per day 4 |
Direct trains 3 |
Fastest train 5h 5m |
First train 4:52 AM |
Last train 7:01 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 21 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
Train companies: Amtrak from Charlottesville, VA to Philadelphia, PA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Charlottesville, VA and Philadelphia, PA from $32 (€26). 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
5h 5m
Cheapest Price
$32 (€26)
Amtrak frequency
4 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 Philadelphia
Things to do in Philadelphia
Discover the best of Philadelphia — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Philadelphia trip today.
- Must visit
The Barnes Foundation
Renowned collection of Impressionist, Post-Impressionist, and early Modern paintings displayed in an intimate, carefully arranged setting.
- Must visit
The Franklin Institute
Major science museum with hands-on exhibits, a planetarium, and family-friendly displays that make it one of the city’s most popular museums.
- Must visit
Rittenhouse Square
Elegant central square surrounded by historic buildings, shopping, and cafés, popular for people-watching and relaxed city walks.
- Must visit
Benjamin Franklin Parkway
Broad cultural boulevard linking City Hall and the art museum district, lined with flags, fountains, and major institutions.
- Must visit
Old City
Historic neighborhood with cobbled streets, early American landmarks, galleries, and lively urban atmosphere near the waterfront.
Philly Cheesesteak
The city’s signature sandwich of thinly sliced beef and melted cheese on a long roll, often ordered with fried onions. It is Philadelphia’s most famous comfort food.
Roast Pork Sandwich
A traditional Philadelphia sandwich with slow-roasted pork, sharp provolone, and broccoli rabe on an Italian roll. Many locals consider it the city’s best sandwich.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Soft Pretzel
Philadelphia-style soft pretzels are dense, chewy, and usually eaten with mustard. They are a classic street snack with deep local roots.
Reading Terminal Market
A historic indoor market with many established vendors serving classic Philadelphia foods, including roast pork, pretzels, and Pennsylvania Dutch specialties. Lively and casual atmosphere.
Zahav
An acclaimed modern Israeli restaurant known for polished service, excellent mezze, and a destination dining experience. One of Philadelphia’s best-known upscale restaurants.
DiNic's
A famous market sandwich counter best known for its roast pork with broccoli rabe and sharp provolone. One of the city’s most celebrated casual eats.
United States Dollar
Moderate by major U.S. city standards. Hotels can be pricey, but food, transit, and attractions offer good mid-range options.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-18 for casual or fast food.
- Mid-range
- USD 25-45 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 80+ per person before drinks and tip.
- Coffee
- USD 3-6 for drip coffee or a latte.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% in restaurants; 20%+ for great service. USD 1-2 per drink at bars, round up taxis, and tip hotel staff USD 2-5.
FAQs: Trains from Charlottesville, VA to Philadelphia, PA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Charlottesville, VA to Philadelphia, PA 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 Philadelphia, PA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Charlottesville, VA to Philadelphia, PA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $32 (€26), while the average price is around $84 (€69).
The train from Charlottesville, VA to Philadelphia, PA takes 5h 5m and runs 4 per day.
The distance by train from Charlottesville, VA to Philadelphia, PA is 221 miles (357 km).
The first train from Charlottesville, VA to Philadelphia, PA leaves at 4:52 AM.
The last train from Charlottesville, VA to Philadelphia, PA leaves at 7:01 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Charlottesville, VA to Philadelphia, PA.
Yes, there is a direct train from Charlottesville, VA to Philadelphia, PA. This service operates 3 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Charlottesville, VA to Philadelphia, PA.
The train station in Charlottesville, VA that goes to Philadelphia, PA is Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA, which connects to 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA.
The cheapest way to get from Charlottesville, VA to Philadelphia, PA is by train, with a cost of around $32 (€26).
The train journey from Charlottesville, VA to Philadelphia, PA offers scenic views of the rolling hills of Virginia, lush forests, and glimpses of the Blue Ridge Mountains, providing a picturesque experience, especially during the fall foliage season.
A day trip from Charlottesville, VA to Philadelphia, PA is not feasible as the journey takes 5h 5m. There are 4 train trips available per day for this route, covering a distance of 221 miles (357 km).
In Philadelphia, PA, you can visit the Liberty Bell, an iconic symbol of American independence, and Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were debated and adopted. Art enthusiasts can explore the Philadelphia Museum of Art, known for its vast collection and the famous Rocky Steps. For a taste of local culture, head to Reading Terminal Market, a bustling indoor space with diverse food options. Additionally, the Philadelphia Zoo offers a chance to see a wide variety of animals and interactive exhibits.
To experience Philadelphia's key attractions, such as the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and the Reading Terminal Market, a stay of 2 to 3 days is typically sufficient.
Yes, you can take the train from Charlottesville, VA to Philadelphia, PA.
Since neither Charlottesville, VA nor Philadelphia, PA 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 Philadelphia, PA include New York, NY, Newark, NJ, Baltimore, MD, Lancaster, PA, Harrisburg, PA.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Charlottesville, VA to Philadelphia, PA 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 Philadelphia, PA, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like Center City and tourist hotspots. Scams involving overpriced taxi rides or unlicensed transportation are common, so using reputable services or ride-sharing apps is advised. Travelers should also be wary of street vendors selling counterfeit goods and avoid displaying valuables openly to reduce risk. Staying aware of surroundings and using well-lit, populated routes enhances 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 Charlottesville, VA to Philadelphia, PA
Most Charlottesville, VA to Philadelphia, PA trains use the Charlottesville Amtrak to 30th Street Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Charlottesville, VA and Philadelphia, PA train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Charlottesville
Arrival train stations in Philadelphia
Which Charlottesville, VA station do trains to Philadelphia, PA leave from?
Trains from Charlottesville, VA to Philadelphia, PA leave from Charlottesville Amtrak. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Charlottesville, VA city centre at 810 West Main Street, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA.
Charlottesville Amtrak810 West Main Street, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA1-800-USA-RAIL
City-centre transport
Getting to Charlottesville Amtrak from Charlottesville city centre
Charlottesville Amtrak is 1 km from Charlottesville city centre. Public transport options include:
BusAfton Express · 5m · $1
T, 7, 9 · 5m · $1 · every ~9 min
Charlottesville Amtrak train station facilities and services
Charlottesville Amtrak has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: The Local, Maya Restaurant, Public Fish & Oyster
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Charlottesville Amtrak. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Charlottesville Amtrak. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Charlottesville Amtrak: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Charlottesville Amtrak: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Charlottesville Amtrak: Elevators, ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Graduate Charlottesville, Residence Inn by Marriott Charlottesville Downtown, Omni Charlottesville Hotel.
Which Philadelphia, PA station do trains from Charlottesville, VA arrive at?
Trains from Charlottesville, VA to Philadelphia, PA arrive at 30th Street Station. 30th Street Station is 1 miles (2 km) from Philadelphia, PA city centre.
30th Street Station2955 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA+1 215-349-2135
City-centre transport
Getting to 30th Street Station from Philadelphia city centre
30th Street Station is 1 km from Philadelphia city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainAir, War, Wil, Med, Wtr, Lan, Pao, Cyn, Nor, Tre, Chw, Fox · 4m · $4 · every ~21 min
Bus414, 417, 555 · 9m · $2
31, 44, 62, 124, 125 · 10m · $4 · every ~16 min
TramT1, T2, T3, T4, T5 · 6m · $4 · every ~57 min
30th Street Station train station facilities and services
30th Street Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Bridgewater's Pub, The Porch at 30th Street Station
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at 30th Street Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at 30th Street Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at 30th Street Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at 30th Street Station: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at 30th Street Station: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include The Inn at Penn, a Hilton Hotel, Sheraton Philadelphia University City Hotel, The Study at University City.
More options for your journey from Charlottesville, VA to Philadelphia, PA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Philadelphia, PA and Charlottesville, VA
Most popular train connections to Philadelphia, PA
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
