- Must visit
The Charleston Museum
Often called America’s first museum, it covers Charleston and Lowcountry history through archaeology, decorative arts, and natural history collections.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Fort Lauderdale, FL to Charleston, SC
Showing times and prices for Jul 10
Cheapest price
$126
Average price
$129
Fastest journey
12 h 22 m
Average duration
16 h 6 m
Trains per day
6
Distance
740 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Fort Lauderdale, FL to Charleston, SC is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Fort Lauderdale, FL to Charleston, SC will cost around $129 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $126.
Fast trains
Of the 6 trains that leave Fort Lauderdale, FL for Charleston, SC on Fri, Jul 10, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, Jul 10 the direct trains cover the 740 km distance in an average of 16 h 6 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 12 h 22 m .
On Fri, Jul 10 the slowest trains will take 21 h 25 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.
98 Silver Meteor8:03 AM12h22Deerfield Beach station, Deerfield Beach, FL8:25 PMCharleston Station, North Charleston, SC$1261One-way0 transfers- 98 Silver Meteor7:29 AM12h56Hollywood Station, Hollywood, FL8:25 PMCharleston Station, North Charleston, SC$1281One-way0 transfers
- 98 Silver Meteor7:45 AM12h40Fort Lauderdale Amtrak, Fort Lauderdale, FL8:25 PMCharleston Station, North Charleston, SC$1281One-way0 transfers
- 40 Floridian · 90 Palmetto12:00 PM21h08Deerfield Beach station, Deerfield Beach, FL9:08 AMCharleston Station, North Charleston, SC$1301One-way1 transfer
- 40 Floridian · 90 Palmetto11:29 AM21h39Hollywood Station, Hollywood, FL9:08 AMCharleston Station, North Charleston, SC$1321One-way1 transfer
- 98 Silver Meteor8:03 AM12h22Deerfield Beach station, Deerfield Beach, FL8:25 PMCharleston Station, North Charleston, SC$1261One-way0 transfers
- 98 Silver Meteor7:45 AM12h40Fort Lauderdale Amtrak, Fort Lauderdale, FL8:25 PMCharleston Station, North Charleston, SC$1281One-way0 transfers
- 98 Silver Meteor7:29 AM12h56Hollywood Station, Hollywood, FL8:25 PMCharleston Station, North Charleston, SC$1281One-way0 transfers
- 40 Floridian · 90 Palmetto12:00 PM21h08Deerfield Beach station, Deerfield Beach, FL9:08 AMCharleston Station, North Charleston, SC$1301One-way1 transfer
- 40 Floridian · 90 Palmetto11:43 AM21h25Fort Lauderdale Amtrak, Fort Lauderdale, FL9:08 AMCharleston Station, North Charleston, SC$1321One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Fort Lauderdale, FL to Charleston, SC
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Fort Lauderdale, FL to Charleston, SC among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $83. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 4h 50m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $83, and a train costs an average of $86.
Distance: 459 miles (740 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Bus |
|---|---|---|
$182 Average price | $171 Average price | $159 Average price Cheapest |
8h 2m Average total duration 7h 32m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 50m Average total duration Fastest 4h 50m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 17h 30m Average total duration 17h 0m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Fort Lauderdale, FL to Charleston, SC is a bus with an average price of $159 (€130).
This is compared to other travel options from Fort Lauderdale, FL to Charleston, SC:
A bus is $12 (€10) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Fort Lauderdale, FL to Charleston, SC costing on average $171 (€140).
A bus is $23 (€19) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Fort Lauderdale, FL to Charleston, SC costing on average $182 (€149).
The fastest way to travel from Fort Lauderdale, FL to Charleston, SC is by flight with an average journey time of 4h 50m.
Other travel options to Charleston, SC take longer:
Train takes on average 7h 32m.
Bus takes on average 17h 0m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Fort Lauderdale, FL and Charleston, SC including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Fort Lauderdale, FL to Charleston, SC among Omio's users.
Live departures
Fort Lauderdale, FL to Charleston, SC train times
The table below shows live departures for Fort Lauderdale, FL to Charleston, SC trains for today, Thursday, July 9. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 98 Silver Meteor | 7:29 AM Hollywood Station, Hollywood, FL | 12h56 | 8:25 PM Charleston Station, North Charleston, SC | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 98 Silver Meteor | 7:45 AM Fort Lauderdale Amtrak, Fort Lauderdale, FL | 12h40 | 8:25 PM Charleston Station, North Charleston, SC | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 98 Silver Meteor | 8:03 AM Deerfield Beach station, Deerfield Beach, FL | 12h22 | 8:25 PM Charleston Station, North Charleston, SC | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 40 Floridian · 90 Palmetto | 11:29 AM Hollywood Station, Hollywood, FL | 21h39 | 9:08 AM Charleston Station, North Charleston, SC | 1 transfer | |
| 40 Floridian · 90 Palmetto | 11:43 AM Fort Lauderdale Amtrak, Fort Lauderdale, FL | 21h25 | 9:08 AM Charleston Station, North Charleston, SC | 1 transfer | |
| 40 Floridian · 90 Palmetto | 12:00 PM Deerfield Beach station, Deerfield Beach, FL | 21h08 | 9:08 AM Charleston Station, North Charleston, SC | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Fort Lauderdale, FL to Charleston, SC 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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Journey information
Overview: Train from Fort Lauderdale, FL to Charleston, SC
USAUSA
Trains from Fort Lauderdale, FL to Charleston, SC run on average 6 times per day, taking around 7h 32m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $86 (€70) but you can travel from only $40 (€33) by flight.
There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:56, the last at 22:28. The fastest train covers the 459 miles (740 km) distance in 12h 22m.
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
Flight from $40 (€33)
Distance 459 miles (740 km) |
Average train duration 7h 32m |
Cheapest ticket price $86 (€70) |
Trains per day 6 |
Direct trains 3 |
Fastest train 12h 22m |
First train 4:56 AM |
Last train 10:28 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
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
Flight from $40 (€33)
Train companies: Amtrak from Fort Lauderdale, FL to Charleston, SC trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Fort Lauderdale, FL and Charleston, SC from $40 (€33). 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
12h 22m
Cheapest Price
$86 (€70)
Amtrak frequency
6 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 Charleston
Things to do in Charleston
Discover the best of Charleston — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Charleston trip today.
- Must visit
Gibbes Museum Of Art
Charleston’s leading art museum, known for American works with strong connections to the city, the South, and regional artists.
- Must visit
International African American Museum
A major new museum on the waterfront exploring African American history and the African diaspora through immersive exhibitions.
- Must visit
The Battery
Charleston’s signature waterfront promenade, lined with historic mansions, harbor views, and one of the city’s classic walks.
- Must visit
Waterfront Park
A popular harborfront park known for pier views, shaded paths, and the famous Pineapple Fountain.
- Must visit
King Street
One of Charleston’s best-known streets for architecture, shopping, and lively city atmosphere across several distinct sections.
- Gluten-free
Shrimp And Grits
A Lowcountry classic of shrimp served over creamy stone-ground grits, often with bacon, gravy, or sausage. It is one of Charleston’s signature comfort dishes.
- Gluten-free
She-Crab Soup
A rich coastal soup made with crab meat, crab roe, cream, and a splash of sherry. It is strongly associated with Charleston and historic Lowcountry dining.
- Gluten-free
Hoppin' John
A traditional rice and field pea dish, usually seasoned with pork. It is a classic Southern and Lowcountry staple, especially around New Year celebrations.
FIG
One of Charleston’s best-known fine dining restaurants, serving polished Southern dishes with strong local sourcing in an elegant but relaxed atmosphere.
Husk
A celebrated Southern restaurant known for refined Lowcountry cooking, seasonal local ingredients, and a historic Charleston setting.
Fleet Landing Restaurant & Bar
A popular waterfront venue set in a former naval building, known for seafood, she-crab soup, and harbor views.
United States Dollar
Moderate by U.S. standards. Hotels and fine dining can be pricey, but casual dining and coffee are fairly typical for a popular coastal city.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-18 for casual spots or takeout.
- Mid-range
- USD 25-45 per person at a standard restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 75+ per person before drinks.
- Coffee
- USD 4-7 for a coffee drink.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants; 20%+ for great service. Tip bartenders USD 1-2 per drink, taxis and rideshares 10-15%, hotel staff USD 2-5, and round up for casual services.
FAQs: Trains from Fort Lauderdale, FL to Charleston, SC
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Fort Lauderdale, FL to Charleston, SC 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 Charleston, SC, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Fort Lauderdale, FL to Charleston, SC can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $86 (€70), while the average price is around $182 (€149).
The train from Fort Lauderdale, FL to Charleston, SC takes 12h 22m and runs 6 per day.
The first train from Fort Lauderdale, FL to Charleston, SC leaves at 4:56 AM.
The distance by train from Fort Lauderdale, FL to Charleston, SC is 459 miles (740 km).
The last train from Fort Lauderdale, FL to Charleston, SC leaves at 10:28 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Fort Lauderdale, FL to Charleston, SC.
Yes, there is a direct train from Fort Lauderdale, FL to Charleston, SC. This service operates 3 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Fort Lauderdale, FL to Charleston, SC.
The train station in Fort Lauderdale, FL that goes to Charleston, SC is Fort Lauderdale Amtrak, Fort Lauderdale, FL, which connects to Charleston Station, North Charleston, SC.
The cheapest way to get from Fort Lauderdale, FL to Charleston, SC is by flight, with a cost of around $40 (€33).
The train journey from Fort Lauderdale, FL to Charleston, SC offers scenic views of the southeastern U.S., showcasing coastal landscapes, marshlands, and small southern towns along the route, providing a picturesque travel experience.
A day trip from Fort Lauderdale, FL to Charleston, SC is not feasible as the journey takes 12h 22m. Trains operate 6 times per day over a distance of 459 miles (740 km).
To fully explore Charleston, SC, and its attractions, 3 to 4 days is generally recommended. This allows time to visit historic sites, enjoy the local cuisine, and experience the city's unique culture and natural beauty.
Yes, you can take the train from Fort Lauderdale, FL to Charleston, SC.
Since neither Fort Lauderdale, FL nor Charleston, SC 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 Charleston, SC include Savannah, GA, Florence, SC, Yemassee, SC, Pooler, GA.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Fort Lauderdale, FL to Charleston, SC 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 Charleston, SC, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like the historic district and popular tourist spots. Beware of overly aggressive street vendors and unofficial taxi services that may overcharge. Additionally, travelers should avoid leaving valuables unattended and be cautious when using ride-sharing apps to ensure the driver matches the booking details. Staying aware of surroundings and using authorized services helps minimize safety risks.
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.
Most popular train connections from Fort Lauderdale, FL
More options for your journey from Fort Lauderdale, FL to Charleston, SC
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Charleston, SC and Fort Lauderdale, FL
Most popular train connections to Charleston, SC
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