- Must visit
Philadelphia Museum of Art
World-class art museum famous for major collections and the Rocky Steps. A top cultural stop with strong city views.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Indianapolis, IN to Philadelphia, PA
Showing times and prices for Jul 15
Cheapest price
$279
Average price
$337
Fastest journey
20 h 40 m
Average duration
1 d 2 h 54 m
Trains per day
3
Distance
938 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Indianapolis, IN to Philadelphia, PA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Indianapolis, IN to Philadelphia, PA will cost around $337 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $279.
Fast trains
Of the 3 trains that leave Indianapolis, IN for Philadelphia, PA on Wed, Jul 15, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, Jul 15 the direct trains cover the 938 km distance in an average of 1 d 2 h 54 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 20 h 40 m .
On Wed, Jul 15 the slowest trains will take 1 d 7 h 29 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.
50 Cardinal12:15 AM20h40Indianapolis Station, Indianapolis, IN8:55 PM30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA$2791One-way0 transfers- 8255 AMTRAK · 41 Floridian · 42 Pennsylvanian10:25 AM28h34Indianapolis Station, Indianapolis, IN2:59 PM30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA$3401One-way2 transfers
- 8255 AMTRAK · 41 Floridian · 178 Northeast Regional10:25 AM31h29Indianapolis Station, Indianapolis, IN5:54 PM30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA$3921One-way2 transfers
- 50 Cardinal12:15 AM20h40Indianapolis Station, Indianapolis, IN8:55 PM30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA$2791One-way0 transfers
- 8255 AMTRAK · 41 Floridian · 42 Pennsylvanian10:25 AM28h34Indianapolis Station, Indianapolis, IN2:59 PM30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA$3401One-way2 transfers
- 8255 AMTRAK · 41 Floridian · 178 Northeast Regional10:25 AM31h29Indianapolis Station, Indianapolis, IN5:54 PM30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA$3921One-way2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Indianapolis, IN to Philadelphia, PA
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Indianapolis, IN to Philadelphia, PA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $74. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 36m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $74, and a flight costs an average of $85.
Distance: 582 miles (938 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$274 Average price | $114 Average price Cheapest | $360 Average price | $206 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
21h 19m Average total duration 20h 49m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 16h 17m Average total duration 15h 47m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 36m Average total duration Fastest 3h 36m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 9h 40m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
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 |
The cheapest way to travel from Indianapolis, IN to Philadelphia, PA is a bus with an average price of $114 (€94).
This is compared to other travel options from Indianapolis, IN to Philadelphia, PA:
A bus is $160 (€132) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Indianapolis, IN to Philadelphia, PA costing on average $274 (€226).
A bus is $247 (€203) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Indianapolis, IN to Philadelphia, PA costing on average $360 (€297).
The fastest way to travel from Indianapolis, IN to Philadelphia, PA is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 36m.
Other travel options to Philadelphia, PA take longer:
Bus takes on average 15h 47m.
Train takes on average 20h 49m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Indianapolis, IN and Philadelphia, PA including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Indianapolis, IN to Philadelphia, PA 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 $274 (€226) compared to roughly $206 (€170) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-67.40 (€-55.54). The journey takes 20h 49m versus 9h 40m 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
Indianapolis, IN to Philadelphia, PA train times
The table below shows live departures for Indianapolis, IN to Philadelphia, PA trains for today, Tuesday, July 14. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8255 AMTRAK · 41 Floridian · 178 Northeast Regional | 10:25 AM Indianapolis Station, Indianapolis, IN | 31h29 | 5:54 PM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 2 transfers | |
| 8255 AMTRAK · 41 Floridian · 42 Pennsylvanian | 10:25 AM Indianapolis Station, Indianapolis, IN | 28h34 | 2:59 PM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 2 transfers | |
| Wednesday, July 15 | |||||
| 50 Cardinal | 12:15 AM Indianapolis Station, Indianapolis, IN | 20h40 | 8:55 PM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Indianapolis, IN to Philadelphia, PA 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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Journey information
Overview: Train from Indianapolis, IN to Philadelphia, PA
USAUSA
Trains from Indianapolis, IN to Philadelphia, PA run on average 2 times per day, taking around 20h 49m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $130 (€107) but you can travel from only $74 (€61) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:15, the last at 10:50. The fastest train covers the 582 miles (938 km) distance in 20h 36m.
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 $74 (€61)
Distance 582 miles (938 km) |
Average train duration 20h 49m |
Cheapest ticket price $130 (€107) |
Trains per day 2 |
Fastest train 20h 36m |
First train 12:15 AM |
Last train 10:50 AM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 7 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 $74 (€61)
Train companies: Amtrak from Indianapolis, IN to Philadelphia, PA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Indianapolis, IN and Philadelphia, PA from $74 (€61). 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
20h 36m
Cheapest Price
$130 (€107)
Amtrak frequency
2 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 Philadelphia, PA
Things to do in Philadelphia, PA
Discover the best of Philadelphia, PA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Philadelphia, PA trip today.
- Must visit
The Franklin Institute
Hands-on science museum for all ages, known for interactive exhibits and the giant walk-through heart near the Parkway.
- Must visit
Barnes Foundation
Celebrated collection of Impressionist, Post-Impressionist, and modern works in an intimate gallery setting on the Parkway.
- Must visit
Independence National Historical Park
Historic district packed with foundational sites, cobblestone streets, and museums. The best base for first-time visitors.
- Must visit
Eakins Oval and Rocky Steps
Beloved park atop a hill with skyline views, trails, and the Rocky Steps approach. Great for walking and photography.
- Must visit
Rittenhouse Square
Walkable district of rowhouses, boutiques, and small parks. A classic local neighborhood for architecture and relaxed city strolling.
Philly Cheesesteak
A long roll packed with thin-sliced beef and melted cheese, often with fried onions. It is Philadelphia's signature street and comfort food.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Philadelphia Soft Pretzel
A soft pretzel with a distinct figure-eight twist and chewy texture. Sold by street vendors and bakeries, it is a classic Philadelphia snack.
Roast Pork Sandwich
A roast pork sandwich with garlicky pork, sharp provolone, and broccoli rabe. Many locals consider it the city's best traditional sandwich.
Vetri Cucina
Acclaimed fine dining restaurant by Chef Marc Vetri, known for refined Italian tasting menus and one of Philadelphia's top culinary experiences.
John's Roast Pork
Historic roast pork and cheesesteak shop in South Philadelphia, known for hearty sandwiches and a no-frills local atmosphere.
Rita's Italian Ice
Beloved local chain specializing in water ice and frozen custard. It is a go-to stop for a classic Philadelphia summer dessert.
US Dollar ($)
Moderate for a major US city. Hotels can be pricey in Center City, but dining and transit are often cheaper than New York or Washington.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $10-18 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- $20-40 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $75+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- $3-6 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% in restaurants, 15-20% for taxis, and $1-2 per drink or cafe order if service is provided.
FAQs: Trains from Indianapolis, IN to Philadelphia, PA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Indianapolis, IN to Philadelphia, PA 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 Philadelphia, PA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Indianapolis, IN to Philadelphia, PA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $130 (€107), while the average price is around $274 (€226).
The train from Indianapolis, IN to Philadelphia, PA takes 20h 36m and runs 2 per day.
The first train from Indianapolis, IN to Philadelphia, PA leaves at 12:15 AM.
The distance by train from Indianapolis, IN to Philadelphia, PA is 582 miles (938 km).
The last train from Indianapolis, IN to Philadelphia, PA leaves at 10:50 AM.
There is no high speed train available from Indianapolis, IN to Philadelphia, PA.
Yes, there is a direct train from Indianapolis, IN to Philadelphia, PA. This service operates 0 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Indianapolis, IN to Philadelphia, PA.
The train station in Indianapolis, IN that goes to Philadelphia, PA is Indianapolis Station, Indianapolis, IN, which connects to 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA.
The cheapest way to get from Indianapolis, IN to Philadelphia, PA is by bus, with a cost of around $74 (€61).
The train journey from Indianapolis, IN to Philadelphia, PA offers a mix of urban and rural scenery. Travelers will pass through the lush landscapes of Indiana and Ohio, with views of the rolling hills and farmland, as well as urban views when passing through cities like Pittsburgh. While not traditionally known for dramatic landscapes, the route provides a peaceful and varied view of the American Midwest and mid-Atlantic regions.
A day trip from Indianapolis, IN to Philadelphia, PA is not feasible as the journey takes 20h 36m. There are 2 trips per day available for trains, and the distance is 582 miles (938 km).
In Philadelphia, PA, you can visit the Liberty Bell, an iconic symbol of American independence, and Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were debated and adopted. Art enthusiasts can explore the Philadelphia Museum of Art, known for its vast collection and the famous Rocky Steps. For a taste of local culture, head to Reading Terminal Market, a bustling indoor space with diverse food options. Additionally, the Philadelphia Zoo offers a chance to see a wide variety of animals and interactive exhibits.
To experience Philadelphia's key attractions, such as the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and the Reading Terminal Market, a stay of 2 to 3 days is typically sufficient.
Yes, you can take the train from Indianapolis, IN to Philadelphia, PA.
Since neither Indianapolis, IN nor Philadelphia, PA 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 Philadelphia, PA include New York, NY, Newark, NJ, Baltimore, MD, Lancaster, PA, Harrisburg, PA.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Indianapolis, IN to Philadelphia, PA 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 Philadelphia, PA, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like Center City and tourist hotspots. Scams involving overpriced taxi rides or unlicensed transportation are common, so using reputable services or ride-sharing apps is advised. Travelers should also be wary of street vendors selling counterfeit goods and avoid displaying valuables openly to reduce risk. Staying aware of surroundings and using well-lit, populated routes enhances 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.
Most popular train connections from Indianapolis, IN
More options for your journey from Indianapolis, IN to Philadelphia, PA
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Most popular trains to and from Philadelphia, PA and Indianapolis, IN
Most popular train connections to Philadelphia, PA
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