- Must visit
The National WWII Museum
A world-class museum with immersive exhibits, restored aircraft, and personal histories covering the American experience in World War II.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Houston, TX to New Orleans, LA
Showing times and prices for May 26
Cheapest price
$76
Average price
$76
Fastest journey
9 h 30 m
Average duration
9 h 30 m
Trains per day
1
Distance
510 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Houston, TX to New Orleans, LA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Houston, TX to New Orleans, LA will cost around $76 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $76.
Fast trains
Of the 1 trains that leave Houston, TX for New Orleans, LA on Tue, May 26, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Tue, May 26 the direct trains cover the 510 km distance in an average of 9 h 30 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 9 h 30 m .
On Tue, May 26 the slowest trains will take 9 h 30 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.
2 Sunset Limited12:10 PM9h30Houston Station, Houston, TX9:40 PMUnion Passenger Terminal, New Orleans, LA$761One-way0 transfers
- 2 Sunset Limited12:10 PM9h30Houston Station, Houston, TX9:40 PMUnion Passenger Terminal, New Orleans, LA$761One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Houston, TX to New Orleans, LA
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Houston, TX to New Orleans, LA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $44. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 56m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.2 - 0.5kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $44, and a flight costs an average of $53.
Distance: 316 miles (510 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$87 Average price | $71 Average price Cheapest | $282 Average price | $72 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
9h 12m Average total duration 8h 42m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 14m Average total duration 7h 44m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 56m Average total duration Fastest 1h 56m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 5h 3m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.5 - 1.3kg CO2 emissions | 1.5 - 3.1kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
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 Houston, TX to New Orleans, LA is a bus with an average price of $71 (€58).
This is compared to other travel options from Houston, TX to New Orleans, LA:
A bus is $16 (€13) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Houston, TX to New Orleans, LA costing on average $87 (€70).
A bus is $211 (€170) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Houston, TX to New Orleans, LA costing on average $282 (€227).
The fastest way to travel from Houston, TX to New Orleans, LA is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 56m.
Other travel options to New Orleans, LA take longer:
Bus takes on average 7h 44m.
Train takes on average 8h 42m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Houston, TX and New Orleans, LA including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Houston, TX to New Orleans, LA 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 $87 (€70) compared to roughly $72 (€58) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-15.26 (€-12.31). The journey takes 8h 42m versus 5h 3m 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
Houston, TX to New Orleans, LA train times
The table below shows live departures for Houston, TX to New Orleans, LA trains for tomorrow, Tuesday, May 26. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 Sunset Limited | 12:10 PM Houston Station, Houston, TX | 9h30 | 9:40 PM Union Passenger Terminal, New Orleans, LA | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Houston, TX to New Orleans, LA 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.
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How far in advance should I book train tickets from Houston, TX to New Orleans, LA?
The best time to book your train from Houston, TX to New Orleans, LA is 77 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Houston, TX to New Orleans, LA route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Houston, TX to New Orleans, LA per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Houston, TX to New Orleans, LA.
Trains
from $314Buses
from $78Flights
from $83Journey information
Overview: Train from Houston, TX to New Orleans, LA
USAUSA
Trains from Houston, TX to New Orleans, LA run on average 1 times per day, taking around 8h 42m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $59 (€48) but you can travel from only $44 (€35) by bus.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 09:00, the last at 19:22. The fastest train covers the 316 miles (510 km) distance in 9h 30m.
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 $44 (€35)
Distance 316 miles (510 km) |
Average train duration 8h 42m |
Cheapest ticket price $59 (€48) |
Trains per day 1 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 9h 30m |
First train 9:00 AM |
Last train 7:22 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 77 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $44 (€35)
Train companies: Amtrak from Houston, TX to New Orleans, LA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Houston, TX and New Orleans, LA from $44 (€35). 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
9h 30m
Cheapest Price
$59 (€48)
Amtrak frequency
1 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 New Orleans
Things to do in New Orleans
Discover the best of New Orleans — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect New Orleans trip today.
- Must visit
New Orleans Museum of Art
The city’s major fine arts museum in City Park, known for its broad collection and adjacent sculpture garden.
- Recommended
Ogden Museum of Southern Art
Leading museum dedicated to Southern art, featuring painting, photography, and contemporary regional works.
- Must visit
French Quarter
The city’s signature historic district, famous for Creole architecture, lively streets, and a dense concentration of major sights.
- Must visit
Bourbon Street
The best-known street in New Orleans, famous for nightlife, balconies, and nonstop energy in the heart of the French Quarter.
- Must visit
Frenchmen Street
A highly popular corridor for live music and local atmosphere, especially appealing to visitors seeking a less touristy evening scene.
Gumbo
A rich Louisiana stew made with a dark roux, vegetables, and usually seafood or sausage over rice. It is one of the city’s signature Creole and Cajun dishes.
- Gluten-free
Jambalaya
A one-pot rice dish cooked with spices, vegetables, and often sausage, chicken, or seafood. It is a classic New Orleans comfort food with deep regional roots.
Po' Boy
A traditional sandwich on local French bread, commonly filled with fried shrimp, oysters, or roast beef. It is an iconic everyday New Orleans meal.
Commander's Palace
A landmark Garden District restaurant known for refined Creole cuisine, elegant dining rooms, and polished service. Famous for turtle soup and jazz brunch.
Dooky Chase's Restaurant
A historic Treme institution celebrated for classic Creole cooking and cultural significance. Known for gumbo, fried chicken, and red beans.
Cochon
A popular Warehouse District restaurant specializing in Cajun-inspired Southern food in a lively rustic space. Known for boudin, gumbo, and pork dishes.
United States Dollar
Moderate for U.S. travel. Food and drinks range widely, while hotels get pricey during festivals and weekends.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-18 for casual spots or takeout.
- Mid-range
- USD 20-40 per person at a standard restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 75+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- USD 4-6 for a regular coffee or latte.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants; 20%+ for great service. USD 1-2 per drink at bars, round up taxis, and tip hotel staff.
FAQs: Trains from Houston, TX to New Orleans, LA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Houston, TX to New Orleans, LA 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 New Orleans, LA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Houston, TX to New Orleans, LA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $59 (€48), while the average price is around $87 (€70).
The train from Houston, TX to New Orleans, LA runs once a day and takes approximately 9h 30m.
The first train from Houston, TX to New Orleans, LA leaves at 9:00 AM.
The distance by train from Houston, TX to New Orleans, LA is 316 miles (510 km).
The last train from Houston, TX to New Orleans, LA leaves at 7:22 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Houston, TX to New Orleans, LA.
Yes, there is a direct train from Houston, TX to New Orleans, LA. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Houston, TX to New Orleans, LA.
The train station in Houston, TX that goes to New Orleans, LA is Houston Station, Houston, TX, which connects to Union Passenger Terminal, New Orleans, LA.
The cheapest way to get from Houston, TX to New Orleans, LA is by bus, with a cost of around $44 (€35).
The train journey from Houston, TX to New Orleans, LA offers a variety of scenic views, including glimpses of the Gulf Coast, expansive wetlands, and picturesque rural landscapes as the route travels through eastern Texas and southern Louisiana.
A day trip from Houston, TX to New Orleans, LA is not feasible as the journey takes 9h 30m, covering a distance of 316 miles (510 km). The frequency is 1 per day for trains.
In New Orleans, LA, you can enjoy traditional jazz performances at Preservation Hall, relax in Audubon Park with its zoo and golf course, and experience live music on Frenchmen Street. Take a scenic cruise on the Steamboat Natchez and explore City Park's botanical gardens and art museum. Discover the French Quarter's vibrant nightlife and cultural heritage, visit Jackson Square and the historic St. Louis Cathedral, admire the Garden District's antebellum mansions, and explore the National WWII Museum's immersive exhibits.
Three to four days are recommended to fully explore New Orleans, allowing time to visit its historic neighborhoods, enjoy live music, savor local cuisine, and experience cultural landmarks such as the French Quarter and Garden District.
Yes, you can take the train from Houston, TX to New Orleans, LA.
Since neither Houston, TX nor New Orleans, LA 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 New Orleans, LA include Hammond, LA, Gulfport, MS, McComb, MS, Bay Saint Louis, MS, Picayune, MS.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Houston, TX to New Orleans, LA 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 New Orleans, LA, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like the French Quarter. Common scams include overpriced taxi rides and street vendors selling counterfeit goods. It's advisable to avoid walking alone late at night in less populated neighborhoods and to use authorized transportation services to 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.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Houston, TX to New Orleans, LA
Houston
New Orleans
The major train station for departures in Houston is Houston Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Houston Station for your trip from Houston to New Orleans.
Houston Station
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 11:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Number of platforms
2Wifi
- Free
Parking
- Parking is available adjacent to the station.
Dining
- Irma's Southwest Grill
- The Moonshiners Southern Table + Bar
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
- $1
Hotel
- The Lancaster Hotel
- Hotel ICON
- Magnolia Hotel Houston
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-2 for Amtrak services
- Waiting area and ticket office located in the main hall.
Public transit options for Houston Station
- Bus: Several lines available
- METRORail: Red Line
The major train station for arrivals in New Orleans is Union Passenger Terminal. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Union Passenger Terminal for your journey to New Orleans from Houston.
Union Passenger Terminal
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 5:00 AM - 11:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Number of platforms
4Wifi
- Free
Parking
- Parking is available adjacent to the station, accessible 24/7.
Dining
- Cochon Restaurant
- Herbsaint
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
- $1
Hotel
- Hyatt Regency New Orleans
- Le Pavillon Hotel
- Drury Plaza Hotel New Orleans
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Car Rental
- Enterprise
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, ticket office, and waiting area
- Hall 2: platforms for Amtrak services
- Hall 3: bus and streetcar connections
Public transit options for Union Passenger Terminal
- Bus: Several lines available
- Streetcar: Loyola-UPT Line
Most popular train connections from Houston, TX
More options for your journey from Houston, TX to New Orleans, LA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from New Orleans, LA and Houston, TX
Most popular train connections to New Orleans, LA
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