- Must visit
North Carolina Museum of Art
Premier art museum with global collections, major exhibitions, and a large sculpture park that makes it a top cultural stop.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Durham, NC to Raleigh, NC
Showing times and prices for Jul 16
Cheapest price
$12
Average price
$12
Fastest journey
35 m
Average duration
36 m
Trains per day
3
Distance
34 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Durham, NC to Raleigh, NC is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Durham, NC to Raleigh, NC will cost around $12 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $12.
Fast trains
Of the 3 trains that leave Durham, NC for Raleigh, NC on Thu, Jul 16, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Thu, Jul 16 the direct trains cover the 34 km distance in an average of 36 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 35 m .
On Thu, Jul 16 the slowest trains will take 38 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.
74 Piedmont5:56 PM0h35Durham Station, Durham, NC6:31 PMRaleigh Union Station, Raleigh, NC$121One-way0 transfers- 80 Carolinian9:27 AM0h38Durham Station, Durham, NC10:05 AMRaleigh Union Station, Raleigh, NC$121One-way0 transfers
- 78 Piedmont11:02 PM0h35Durham Station, Durham, NC11:37 PMRaleigh Union Station, Raleigh, NC$121One-way0 transfers
- 74 Piedmont5:56 PM0h35Durham Station, Durham, NC6:31 PMRaleigh Union Station, Raleigh, NC$121One-way0 transfers
- 78 Piedmont11:02 PM0h35Durham Station, Durham, NC11:37 PMRaleigh Union Station, Raleigh, NC$121One-way0 transfers
- 80 Carolinian9:27 AM0h38Durham Station, Durham, NC10:05 AMRaleigh Union Station, Raleigh, NC$121One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Durham, NC to Raleigh, NC
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Durham, NC to Raleigh, NC among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $7. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 35m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.0kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $7, and a train costs an average of $11.
Distance: 21 miles (34 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$11 Average price | $11 Average price Cheapest | $6 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
1h 7m Average total duration 37m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 5m Average total duration Fastest 35m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 31m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.0kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
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 Durham, NC to Raleigh, NC is a bus with an average price of $11 (€9).
This is compared to other travel options from Durham, NC to Raleigh, NC:
A bus is $0.46 (€0.38) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Durham, NC to Raleigh, NC costing on average $11 (€9).
The fastest way to travel from Durham, NC to Raleigh, NC is by bus with an average journey time of 35m.
Other travel options to Raleigh, NC take longer:
Train takes on average 37m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Durham, NC and Raleigh, NC including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Durham, NC to Raleigh, NC 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 $11 (€9) compared to roughly $6 (€5) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-5.98 (€-4.91). The journey takes 37m versus 31m 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
Durham, NC to Raleigh, NC train times
The table below shows live departures for Durham, NC to Raleigh, NC trains for today, Wednesday, July 15. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 74 Piedmont | 5:56 PM Durham Station, Durham, NC | 0h35 | 6:31 PM Raleigh Union Station, Raleigh, NC | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 78 Piedmont | 11:02 PM Durham Station, Durham, NC | 0h35 | 11:37 PM Raleigh Union Station, Raleigh, NC | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Thursday, July 16 | |||||
| 80 Carolinian | 9:27 AM Durham Station, Durham, NC | 0h38 | 10:05 AM Raleigh Union Station, Raleigh, NC | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Durham, NC to Raleigh, NC by train or bus
Compare train and bus 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.
Thu
Jul 16
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Jul 22
Journey information
Overview: Train from Durham, NC to Raleigh, NC
USAUSA
Trains from Durham, NC to Raleigh, NC run on average 5 times per day, taking around 37m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $11 (€9) but you can travel from only $7 (€6) by bus.
There are 5 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 06:30, the last at 22:17. The fastest train covers the 21 miles (34 km) distance in 35m.
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 $7 (€6)
Distance 21 miles (34 km) |
Average train duration 37m |
Cheapest ticket price $11 (€9) |
Trains per day 5 |
Direct trains 5 |
Fastest train 35m |
First train 6:30 AM |
Last train 10:17 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 1 day |
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 $7 (€6)
Train companies: Amtrak from Durham, NC to Raleigh, NC trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Durham, NC and Raleigh, NC from $7 (€6). 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
35m
Cheapest Price
$11 (€9)
Amtrak frequency
5 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 Raleigh
Things to do in Raleigh
Discover the best of Raleigh — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Raleigh trip today.
- Must visit
North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences
One of the Southeast's best natural history museums, featuring dinosaurs, research labs, and family-friendly exhibits across two buildings.
- Must visit
North Carolina Museum of History
Interactive museum covering North Carolina's military past with aircraft, artifacts, and stories spanning colonial times to today.
- Must visit
Warehouse District
Lively warehouse district with murals, shops, event spaces, and nightlife. It is one of Raleigh's most popular modern walking areas.
- Must visit
Pullen Park
Beloved city park with an antique carousel, train ride, and shaded paths. Ideal for families and a classic local outing.
- Must visit
Ann and Jim Goodnight Museum Park
Scenic art-and-nature trail linking museum grounds with outdoor sculptures, woods, and open fields for an easy cultural walk.
- Gluten-free
Eastern NC Chopped Pork Barbecue
Eastern North Carolina chopped pork barbecue is smoked whole hog with a tangy vinegar-pepper sauce, a defining regional staple widely loved around Raleigh.
- Vegetarian
Hushpuppies
Barbecue hushpuppies are crisp fried cornmeal dumplings, a classic side with Carolina barbecue and seafood across the Raleigh area.
- Vegetarian
Fried Green Tomatoes
Fried green tomatoes are tart unripe tomato slices breaded and fried, a Southern favorite often served as an appetizer in Raleigh restaurants.
Second Empire Restaurant and Tavern
Long-running fine dining destination celebrated for upscale Southern cuisine, garden herbs, and a romantic historic setting.
Big Ed's City Market Restaurant
Popular casual spot for biscuits, Southern breakfast plates, and local comfort food with a lively neighborhood feel.
Raleigh Brewing Company
Beloved local brewpub offering house beers and hearty pub food, reflecting Raleigh's strong craft beer culture.
United States dollar ($)
Moderate for a U.S. city: hotels and dining are usually lower than NYC or DC, but car, rideshare, and limited transit can raise visitor costs.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $10-15 for fast food or casual lunch.
- Mid-range
- $20-40 per person for a mid-range meal.
- Fine dining
- $60+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- $3-6 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, 15-20% for taxis or rideshares, and $1-2 per drink or coffee in cafes if service is provided.
FAQs: Trains from Durham, NC to Raleigh, NC
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Durham, NC to Raleigh, NC 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 Raleigh, NC, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Durham, NC to Raleigh, NC can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $11 (€9), while the average price is around $11 (€9).
The train from Durham, NC to Raleigh, NC takes 35m and runs 5 per day.
The first train from Durham, NC to Raleigh, NC leaves at 6:30 AM.
The distance by train from Durham, NC to Raleigh, NC is 21 miles (34 km).
The last train from Durham, NC to Raleigh, NC leaves at 10:17 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Durham, NC to Raleigh, NC.
Yes, there is a direct train from Durham, NC to Raleigh, NC. This service operates 5 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Durham, NC to Raleigh, NC.
The train station in Durham, NC that goes to Raleigh, NC is Durham Station, Durham, NC, which connects to Raleigh Union Station, Raleigh, NC.
The cheapest way to get from Durham, NC to Raleigh, NC is by bus, with a cost of around $7 (€6).
The train journey from Durham, NC to Raleigh, NC primarily passes through urban and suburban areas, offering views of cityscapes and residential neighborhoods rather than scenic landscapes.
Yes, a day trip from Durham, NC to Raleigh, NC is feasible, with a travel time of 35m, a distance of 21 miles (34 km), and a frequency of 5 per day for trains.
In Raleigh, NC, visitors can explore Raleigh City Market for shopping and dining, enjoy diverse plant collections at JC Raulston Arboretum, and engage in interactive fun at Marbles Kids Museum. Music lovers can attend concerts at Red Hat Amphitheater, while families can have fun at Adventure Landing with mini-golf and go-karts. Art enthusiasts will appreciate the North Carolina Museum of Art, and outdoor lovers can visit Pullen Park for playgrounds and pedal boats or hike through William B. Umstead State Park. For a mix of history and nature, Historic Yates Mill County Park offers scenic trails and a glimpse into the past with a restored gristmill. The North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences provides educational exhibits on natural history.
To explore Raleigh, NC, three days is ideal to visit key attractions such as the North Carolina Museum of Art, Pullen Park, and the State Capitol, while also enjoying the local dining scene and vibrant neighborhoods.
Yes, you can take the train from Durham, NC to Raleigh, NC.
Since neither Durham, NC nor Raleigh, NC 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 Raleigh, NC include Greensboro, NC, High Point, NC, Burlington, NC, Rocky Mount, NC, Wilson, NC.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Durham, NC to Raleigh, NC 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 Raleigh, NC, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and vehicle break-ins, especially in crowded areas and parking lots. Common scams include overcharging by unofficial taxi or ride-share drivers and fake ticket sellers near popular attractions. Staying aware of surroundings and using authorized transportation services helps 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.
More options for your journey from Durham, NC to Raleigh, NC
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Raleigh, NC and Durham, NC
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