Durham, NC to Arlington, VA train with Amtrak

Sun, Jun 21
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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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Travel Information

Compare bus, train, and flight for Durham, NC to Arlington, VA

Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Durham, NC to Arlington, VA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $54. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 4h 32m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $54, and a flight costs an average of $312.

Distance: 222 miles (358 km)

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Bus
Flight
Driving

$129

Average price

$62

Average price

Cheapest

$352

Average price

$52

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

7h 3m

Average total duration

6h 33m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 46m

Average total duration

5h 16m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

7h 32m

Average total duration

Fastest

4h 32m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

4h 7m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Durham, NC to Arlington, VA is a bus with an average price of $62 (€51).

This is compared to other travel options from Durham, NC to Arlington, VA:

A bus is $68 (€55) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Durham, NC to Arlington, VA costing on average $129 (€106).

A bus is $291 (€238) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Durham, NC to Arlington, VA costing on average $352 (€288).

The fastest way to travel from Durham, NC to Arlington, VA is by flight with an average journey time of 4h 32m.

Other travel options to Arlington, VA take longer:

Bus takes on average 5h 16m.

Train takes on average 6h 33m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Durham, NC and Arlington, VA including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Durham, NC to Arlington, VA 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 $129 (€106) compared to roughly $52 (€43) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-77.35 (€-63.28). The journey takes 6h 33m versus 4h 7m 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.

Compare prices and tickets Durham, NC to Arlington, VA 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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Jun 21
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Journey information

Overview: Train from Durham, NC to Arlington, VA

USAUSA
USAUSA
Icon of train

Trains from Durham, NC to Arlington, VA run on average 2 times per day, taking around 6h 33m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $88 (€72) but you can travel from only $54 (€44) by bus.

There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 06:11, the last at 12:28. The fastest train covers the 222 miles (358 km) distance in 7h 4m.

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 $54 (€44)
Distance
222 miles (358 km)
Average train duration
6h 33m
Cheapest ticket price
$88 (€72)
Trains per day
2
Direct trains
2
Fastest train
7h 4m
First train
6:11 AM
Last train
12:28 PM
Cheapest Month
Sep
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Jan - Mar
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 $54 (€44)

Train companies: Amtrak from Durham, NC to Arlington, VA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Durham, NC and Arlington, VA from $54 (€44). 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
7h 4m
Cheapest Price
$88 (€72)
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 Arlington

Things to do in Arlington

Discover the best of Arlington — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Arlington trip today.

  • Must visit

National Medal of Honor Museum

A major new museum dedicated to Medal of Honor recipients, featuring immersive exhibits on service, courage, and American military history.

  • Recommended

Arlington Museum of Art

A leading local art museum presenting rotating exhibitions, contemporary works, and community-focused programming in downtown Arlington.

  • Recommended

Top O' Hill Terrace

A historic site museum known for its past as a gambling destination and later a Bible school, offering guided tours and strong local lore.

United States Dollar

Costs are moderate by U.S. standards. Hotels vary, while casual dining and transport are generally manageable.

Average meal costs

Budget
USD 10-18 for fast food or a simple meal.
Mid-range
USD 20-40 per person at a casual sit-down restaurant.
Fine dining
USD 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
Coffee
USD 4-6 for a regular coffee or latte.

Tipping culture

Tip 15-20% in restaurants; 20% for strong service. Tip USD 1-2 per drink at bars, round up taxis, and tip hotel staff and delivery drivers.

FAQs: Trains from Durham, NC to Arlington, VA

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Durham, NC to Arlington, VA 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 Arlington, VA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Durham, NC to Arlington, VA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $88 (€72), while the average price is around $129 (€106).
The train from Durham, NC to Arlington, VA takes 7h 4m and runs 2 per day.
The first train from Durham, NC to Arlington, VA leaves at 6:11 AM.
The distance by train from Durham, NC to Arlington, VA is 222 miles (358 km).
The last train from Durham, NC to Arlington, VA leaves at 12:28 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Durham, NC to Arlington, VA.
There is no direct train service currently available from Durham, NC to Arlington, VA.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Durham, NC to Arlington, VA.
The train station in Durham, NC that goes to Arlington, VA is Durham Station, Durham, NC, which connects to Alexandria Station, Alexandria, VA.
The cheapest way to get from Durham, NC to Arlington, VA is by bus, with a cost of around $54 (€44).
The train journey from Durham, NC to Arlington, VA is moderately scenic, offering views of the rolling hills of North Carolina and Virginia's countryside, with occasional glimpses of rivers and small towns along the route.
A day trip from Durham, NC to Arlington, VA is not feasible as the journey duration is 7h 4m with a distance of 222 miles (358 km). The frequency for this trip is 2 per day by train.
In Arlington, VA, you can explore the Fashion Centre at Pentagon City for shopping and dining, visit the Arlington Arts Center for contemporary art, and enjoy the scenic Mount Vernon Trail along the Potomac River. For performances, the Signature Theatre offers innovative productions, while Ballston Quarter provides diverse local cuisine. Notable sights include the historic Arlington National Cemetery, The Pentagon, the Marine Corps War Memorial, Arlington House, and Theodore Roosevelt Island, offering rich history and natural beauty.
Visitors typically spend 2 to 3 days in Arlington, VA, allowing time to explore key attractions like the Arlington National Cemetery, Pentagon Memorial, and nearby museums, while also enjoying local dining and shopping.
Yes, you can take the train from Durham, NC to Arlington, VA.
Since neither Durham, NC nor Arlington, VA 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 Arlington, VA include Baltimore, MD, Philadelphia, PA, Fredericksburg, VA, Wilmington, DE, Aberdeen, MD.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Durham, NC to Arlington, VA 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 Arlington, VA, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like public transit and popular attractions. Common scams include unauthorized taxi services and overpriced rideshares. It's advisable to use official transportation options, stay aware of surroundings, and avoid sharing personal information with strangers to ensure a safe visit.
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 Durham, NC to Arlington, VA

Most Durham, NC to Arlington, VA trains use the Durham Station to Alexandria Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Durham, NC and Arlington, VA train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Durham
Arrival train stations in Arlington

Which Durham, NC station do trains to Arlington, VA leave from?

Trains from Durham, NC to Arlington, VA leave from Durham Station. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Durham, NC city centre at 601 West Main Street, Durham, NC 27701, USA.
Durham Station601 West Main Street, Durham, NC 27701, USA1-800-USA-RAILWifiLockersParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation DeskLuggage Carts
City-centre transport

Getting to Durham Station from Durham city centre

Bus2, 9, 12, 12B · 3m · $1 · every ~12 min

Durham Station train station facilities and services

Durham Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.

Food and drink

Food options include: Parker and Otis, Dame's Chicken & Waffles

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Durham Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Durham Station. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Durham Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Durham Station: Bike Parking.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Durham Station: Ramps.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Durham Marriott City Center, 21c Museum Hotel Durham, Aloft Durham Downtown.

More options for your journey from Durham, NC to Arlington, VA

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