- Must visit
The Charleston Museum
Often called America's first museum, it covers Charleston and Lowcountry history, decorative arts, natural history, and regional culture.
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 Harrisburg, PA to Charleston, SC
Showing times and prices for Jun 19
Cheapest price
$252
Average price
$297
Fastest journey
15 h 43 m
Average duration
17 h 33 m
Trains per day
6
Distance
877 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Harrisburg, PA 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 Harrisburg, PA to Charleston, SC will cost around $297 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $252.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Harrisburg, PA to Charleston, SC without transferring at least once.
640 Keystone Service · 89 Palmetto5:10 AM17h11Middletown Station, Middletown, PA10:21 PMCharleston Station, North Charleston, SC$2521One-way1 transfer- 640 Keystone Service · 89 Palmetto5:00 AM17h21Harrisburg Station, Harrisburg, PA10:21 PMCharleston Station, North Charleston, SC$2561One-way1 transfer
- 650 Keystone Service · 97 Silver Meteor12:20 PM16h28Middletown Station, Middletown, PA4:48 AMCharleston Station, North Charleston, SC$2981One-way1 transfer
- 8011 AMTRAK · 650 Keystone Service · 97 Silver Meteor7:45 AM21h03Harrisburg, PA4:48 AMCharleston Station, North Charleston, SC$3181One-way2 transfers
- 42 Pennsylvanian · 97 Silver Meteor1:05 PM15h43Harrisburg Station, Harrisburg, PA4:48 AMCharleston Station, North Charleston, SC$3201One-way1 transfer
- 42 Pennsylvanian · 97 Silver Meteor1:05 PM15h43Harrisburg Station, Harrisburg, PA4:48 AMCharleston Station, North Charleston, SC$3201One-way1 transfer
- 650 Keystone Service · 97 Silver Meteor12:20 PM16h28Middletown Station, Middletown, PA4:48 AMCharleston Station, North Charleston, SC$2981One-way1 transfer
- 640 Keystone Service · 89 Palmetto5:10 AM17h11Middletown Station, Middletown, PA10:21 PMCharleston Station, North Charleston, SC$2521One-way1 transfer
- 640 Keystone Service · 89 Palmetto5:00 AM17h21Harrisburg Station, Harrisburg, PA10:21 PMCharleston Station, North Charleston, SC$2561One-way1 transfer
- 8011 AMTRAK · 42 Pennsylvanian · 97 Silver Meteor7:45 AM21h03Harrisburg, PA4:48 AMCharleston Station, North Charleston, SC$3371One-way2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Harrisburg, PA to Charleston, SC
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Harrisburg, PA to Charleston, SC among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $101. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 6h 29m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $101, and a flight costs an average of $142.
Distance: 544 miles (877 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$250 Average price | $201 Average price Cheapest | $386 Average price | $124 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
15h 2m Average total duration 14h 32m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 22h 35m Average total duration 22h 5m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 29m Average total duration Fastest 6h 29m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 9h 44m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Harrisburg, PA to Charleston, SC is a bus with an average price of $201 (€164).
This is compared to other travel options from Harrisburg, PA to Charleston, SC:
A bus is $49 (€40) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Harrisburg, PA to Charleston, SC costing on average $250 (€204).
A bus is $186 (€152) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Harrisburg, PA to Charleston, SC costing on average $386 (€316).
The fastest way to travel from Harrisburg, PA to Charleston, SC is by flight with an average journey time of 6h 29m.
Other travel options to Charleston, SC take longer:
Train takes on average 14h 32m.
Bus takes on average 22h 5m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Harrisburg, PA and Charleston, SC including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Harrisburg, PA to Charleston, SC 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 $250 (€204) compared to roughly $124 (€101) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-125.93 (€-102.87). The journey takes 14h 32m versus 9h 44m 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
Harrisburg, PA to Charleston, SC train times
The table below shows live departures for Harrisburg, PA to Charleston, SC trains for today, Thursday, June 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9:10 AM Harrisburg, PA | 16h16 | 1:26 AM Charleston, SC | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Harrisburg, PA 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.
Fri
Jun 19
Jun 19
Sat
Jun 20
Jun 20
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
Journey information
Overview: Train from Harrisburg, PA to Charleston, SC
USAUSA
Trains from Harrisburg, PA to Charleston, SC run on average 5 times per day, taking around 14h 32m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $151 (€123) but you can travel from only $101 (€82) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 05:00, the last at 21:34. The fastest train covers the 544 miles (877 km) distance in 14h 33m.
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 $101 (€82)
Distance 544 miles (877 km) |
Average train duration 14h 32m |
Cheapest ticket price $151 (€123) |
Trains per day 5 |
Fastest train 14h 33m |
First train 5:00 AM |
Last train 9:34 PM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Oct - Dec |
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
Bus from $101 (€82)
Train companies: Amtrak from Harrisburg, PA to Charleston, SC trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Harrisburg, PA and Charleston, SC from $101 (€82). 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
14h 33m
Cheapest Price
$151 (€123)
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 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
Old Slave Mart Museum
A small but important museum interpreting the domestic slave trade in Charleston through exhibits in a historic market building.
- Must visit
Gibbes Museum of Art
Charleston's leading art museum, known for American art with strong ties to the South, rotating exhibitions, and a distinguished permanent collection.
- Must visit
The Battery
Charleston's famous waterfront promenade is lined with grand historic homes, harbor views, and classic postcard scenery.
- Must visit
Waterfront Park
A popular riverfront park known for its pier, lawns, and the photogenic Pineapple Fountain.
- Must visit
King Street
Charleston's best-known commercial corridor, mixing historic architecture, shopping, nightlife, and frequent social media visibility.
- Gluten-free
Shrimp And Grits
A Lowcountry classic of sautéed shrimp served over creamy grits, often with bacon or gravy. It is one of Charleston’s signature dishes.
- Gluten-free
She-Crab Soup
A rich Charleston soup made with crab meat, crab roe, cream, and sherry. It is a historic local specialty associated with the city’s coastal cuisine.
- Gluten-free
Hoppin’ John
A traditional rice and field pea dish, usually cooked with pork for flavor. It is an iconic Southern and Lowcountry comfort food.
FIG
One of Charleston’s most acclaimed restaurants, serving ingredient-driven Southern cuisine with a polished but approachable feel. Reservations are highly sought after.
Fleet Landing Restaurant & Bar
A popular waterfront restaurant known for Lowcountry seafood, shrimp and grits, and relaxed harbor views. It is a dependable choice for classic Charleston flavors.
Husk
A celebrated restaurant focused on refined Southern cooking using seasonal local ingredients. Stylish and upscale, it is one of Charleston’s best-known dining rooms.
United States Dollar
Prices are moderate by U.S. standards. Historic district dining and hotels cost more, while casual food and transport stay manageable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-18 for casual spots or takeout.
- Mid-range
- USD 25-45 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 75-150+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- USD 4-7 for coffee or a latte.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% in restaurants. Tip USD 1-2 per drink at bars, round up taxis, and tip hotel staff and valet. Tipping is expected for most service roles.
FAQs: Trains from Harrisburg, PA to Charleston, SC
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Harrisburg, PA 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 Harrisburg, PA to Charleston, SC can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $151 (€123), while the average price is around $250 (€204).
The train from Harrisburg, PA to Charleston, SC takes 14h 33m and runs 5 per day.
The distance by train from Harrisburg, PA to Charleston, SC is 544 miles (877 km).
The first train from Harrisburg, PA to Charleston, SC leaves at 5:00 AM.
The last train from Harrisburg, PA to Charleston, SC leaves at 9:34 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Harrisburg, PA to Charleston, SC.
There is no direct train service currently available from Harrisburg, PA to Charleston, SC.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Harrisburg, PA to Charleston, SC.
The cheapest way to get from Harrisburg, PA to Charleston, SC is by bus, with a cost of around $101 (€82).
The train journey from Harrisburg, PA to Charleston, SC offers scenic views, especially as it travels through the picturesque landscapes of the Appalachian Mountains and the lush greenery of the Southern countryside, providing a pleasant visual experience for travelers.
A day trip from Harrisburg, PA to Charleston, SC is not feasible as the journey duration is 14h 33m and the distance is 544 miles (877 km). The frequency is 5 per day for trains.
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 Harrisburg, PA to Charleston, SC.
Since neither Harrisburg, PA 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 train as it is the most popular way to get from Harrisburg, PA 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.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Harrisburg, PA to Charleston, SC
Most Harrisburg, PA to Charleston, SC trains use the Duncannon, Exxon to Charleston Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Harrisburg, PA and Charleston, SC train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Harrisburg
Arrival train stations in Charleston
Harrisburg Station4th and Chestnut Streets, Harrisburg, PA 17101, USA+1 800-872-7245
City-centre transport
Getting to Harrisburg Station from Harrisburg city centre
Harrisburg Station is 1 km from Harrisburg city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus2, 7, 81X, A, B, C, D, M, E, 322 · 6m · $2 · every ~6 min
2, M, 7, D, A, B, 81X, C, 322, E · 7m · $2 · every ~6 min
Hbg Com Kng B · 15m · $2
Harrisburg Station train station facilities and services
Harrisburg Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: The Millworks, Bricco
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Harrisburg Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Harrisburg Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Harrisburg Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Harrisburg Station: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Harrisburg Station: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hilton Harrisburg, Crowne Plaza Harrisburg-Hershey, Radisson Hotel Harrisburg.
Most popular train connections from Harrisburg, PA
More options for your journey from Harrisburg, PA to Charleston, SC
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Charleston, SC and Harrisburg, PA
Most popular train connections to Charleston, SC
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.
