- Must visit
Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
One of the world’s most visited natural history museums, known for dinosaur fossils, the Hope Diamond, and strong family-friendly exhibits on Earth and life sciences.
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Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Irvine, CA to Washington, DC
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Irvine, CA to Washington, DC among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $247. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 8h 26m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $247, and a train costs an average of $324.
Distance: 2281 miles (3671 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$624 Average price | $531 Average price | $428 Average price Cheapest | $531 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
81h 7m Average total duration 80h 37m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 11h 26m Average total duration Fastest 8h 26m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 67h 38m Average total duration 67h 8m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 38h 45m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Irvine, CA to Washington, DC is a bus with an average price of $428 (€349).
This is compared to other travel options from Irvine, CA to Washington, DC:
A bus is $103 (€84) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Irvine, CA to Washington, DC costing on average $531 (€433).
A bus is $196 (€159) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Irvine, CA to Washington, DC costing on average $624 (€508).
The fastest way to travel from Irvine, CA to Washington, DC is by flight with an average journey time of 8h 26m.
Other travel options to Washington, DC take longer:
Bus takes on average 67h 8m.
Train takes on average 80h 37m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Irvine, CA and Washington, DC including taking a train, bus, and flight.
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 $624 (€508) compared to roughly $531 (€433) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-92.67 (€-75.50). The journey takes 80h 37m versus 38h 45m 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
Irvine, CA to Washington, DC train times
The table below shows live departures for Irvine, CA to Washington, DC trains for today, Saturday, June 6. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 3:35 PM Irvine, CA | 69h30 | 1:05 PM Washington, DC | 2 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Irvine, CA to Washington, DC 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 Irvine, CA to Washington, DC
USAUSA
Trains from Irvine, CA to Washington, DC run on average 3 times per day, taking around 80h 37m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $324 (€264) but you can travel from only $247 (€201) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 10:32, the last at 18:13. The fastest train covers the 2281 miles (3671 km) distance in 66h 18m.
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 $247 (€201)
Distance 2281 miles (3671 km) |
Average train duration 80h 37m |
Cheapest ticket price $324 (€264) |
Trains per day 3 |
Fastest train 66h 18m |
First train 10:32 AM |
Last train 6:13 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Best time to book 28 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 $247 (€201)
Train companies: Metrolink Trains from Irvine, CA to Washington, DC trainsMetrolink Trains trains will get you between Irvine, CA and Washington, DC from $247 (€201). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Metrolink Trains
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
67h 45m
Cheapest Price
$1250 (€1018)
Metrolink Trains frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to Washington
Things to do in Washington
Discover the best of Washington — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Washington trip today.
- Must visit
National Museum of African American History and Culture
Flagship Smithsonian museum exploring African American history, culture, and community through powerful permanent exhibitions and major national narratives.
- Must visit
National Gallery of Art
Premier art museum with masterworks from the Middle Ages to the modern era, plus sculpture garden and rotating exhibitions in two landmark buildings.
- Must visit
National Mall
Washington’s essential civic promenade lined with museums and monuments, ideal for first-time visitors and the city’s top walking experience.
- Must visit
Georgetown
Historic waterfront neighborhood known for charming streets, rowhouses, shopping, and canal-side walks; a classic area for exploring on foot.
- Must visit
Tidal Basin
Scenic reservoir loop famous for memorials and cherry blossoms, especially photogenic at sunrise, sunset, and spring bloom season.
Half-Smoke
Washington’s signature sausage, typically smoky and spicy, served on a bun with mustard, onions, and chili. It is one of the city’s most iconic street foods.
Mumbo Sauce With Fried Chicken And Wings
A sweet-tangy sauce strongly associated with Washington carryout culture, often paired with fried chicken or wings. It is a distinctive local comfort-food staple.
- Gluten-free
Chesapeake Blue Crab
Sweet blue crab from the Chesapeake region, commonly served steamed and heavily seasoned. It reflects the Mid-Atlantic seafood traditions closely tied to Washington.
Old Ebbitt Grill
A celebrated historic restaurant near the White House, known for oysters, crab cakes, and classic Washington political dining ambiance.
Rasika
Widely acclaimed Indian restaurant with a polished atmosphere, famous for refined cooking and one of Washington’s best-known dining rooms.
Le Diplomate
Well-known French brasserie in Logan Circle, valued for its classic menu, energetic scene, and stylish long-established popularity.
United States Dollar
Prices are high by U.S. standards, especially for hotels and dining in central areas, though casual food is still manageable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-18 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- USD 25-45 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 80+ per person before drinks and tip.
- Coffee
- USD 4-7 for a regular café coffee.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants with table service. USD 1-2 per drink at bars, round up or 10-15% for taxis, and USD 1-2 per bag for hotel staff.
DC Metro and Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- USD 2.25
- Day pass
- USD 13.00
To the city center
Union Station, Washington, DC -> Metro Center, Washington, DC
- Distance
- 2 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Tap a contactless card or mobile wallet at Metrorail gates and on Metrobus; SmarTrip is also accepted system-wide.
- Metrobus fare is usually free for 2 hours after a Metrorail trip when you use SmarTrip, which can reduce transfer costs.
FAQs: Trains from Irvine, CA to Washington, DC
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Irvine, CA to Washington, DC 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 Washington, DC, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Irvine, CA to Washington, DC can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $324 (€264), while the average price is around $624 (€508).
The train from Irvine, CA to Washington, DC takes 66h 18m and runs 3 per day.
The distance by train from Irvine, CA to Washington, DC is 2281 miles (3671 km).
The first train from Irvine, CA to Washington, DC leaves at 10:32 AM.
The last train from Irvine, CA to Washington, DC leaves at 6:13 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Irvine, CA to Washington, DC.
There is no direct train service currently available from Irvine, CA to Washington, DC.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Irvine, CA to Washington, DC.
The train station in Irvine, CA that goes to Washington, DC is Irvine Transportation Center, Irvine, CA, which connects to Washington Union Station, Washington, DC.
The cheapest way to get from Irvine, CA to Washington, DC is by bus, with a cost of around $247 (€201).
The train journey from Irvine, CA to Washington, DC offers a diverse and scenic experience, showcasing Southern California's beaches, the vast landscapes of the American Southwest, the rolling plains, and the picturesque Appalachian Mountains.
A day trip from Irvine, CA to Washington, DC is not feasible as the journey takes 66h 18m and the distance is 2281 miles (3671 km). There are 3 trains per day.
In Washington, DC, you can discover the National Gallery of Art, stroll through the historic Georgetown neighborhood, visit the world's largest library at the Library of Congress, explore the vibrant Eastern Market, and enjoy a performance at the Kennedy Center. Key sights include the National Mall, the White House, the United States Capitol, the Smithsonian Institution, and the Lincoln Memorial.
To explore Washington, DC's main attractions such as the National Mall, museums, and monuments, a stay of three to four days is recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Irvine, CA to Washington, DC.
Since neither Irvine, CA nor Washington, DC 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 Washington, DC include Baltimore, MD, Wilmington, DE, Fredericksburg, VA, Newark, DE, Quantico, VA.
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 Washington, DC, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like the National Mall and Metro stations. Common scams include overpriced taxi rides and unofficial tour operators. It's advisable to use licensed transportation services and stay aware of surroundings, particularly at night or in less busy neighborhoods.
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 Irvine, CA to Washington, DC
Irvine
Washington
The major train station for departures in Irvine is Irvine Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Irvine Station for your trip from Irvine to Washington.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Car Rental
Information Desk
Luggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
8 km
Number of platforms
2Wifi
- Free
Parking
- Parking is available 7 days a week with multiple lots around the station.
Dining
- Del Frisco's Grille
- The Cheesecake Factory
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Ramps, restrooms.
WC
- $1
Hotel
- Marriott Irvine Spectrum
- Courtyard by Marriott Irvine Spectrum
- DoubleTree by Hilton Irvine Spectrum
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
- 54 places, covered
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 Metrolink and Amtrak
Public transit options for Irvine Station
- Bus: Several lines available
- Shuttle: Local shuttle services
The major train station for arrivals in Washington is Union Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Union Station for your journey to Washington from Irvine.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityHotelTicket OfficeBike Parking
Bike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Fri: 04:30 - 22:00
- Sat - Sun: 05:00 - 22:00
Distance to city center
2 kmWifi
- Free Wi-Fi in the station courtesy of Amtrak.
Lockers
- Amtrak provides temporary luggage storage for $10 per bag for 24 hours for customers holding Amtrak tickets.
Dining
- Shake Shack
- McDonald’s
- Starbucks
- Potbelly Sandwich Shop
- Chopt Creative Salad Co.
- Chipotle Mexican Grill
- Thunder Grill
- Johnny Rockets
- Jamba Juice
- Ladurée Union Station
- & many more
Accessibility
- Elevators, escalators, wheelchair access. Accessible facilities including restrooms, parking, platforms, ticket office, waiting room.
Hotel
- Hyatt Recency Washington On Capitol Hill
- Phoenix Park Hotel
- Kimpton George Hotel
Ticket Office
- Mon - Fri: 04:30 - 22:00
- Sat - Sun: 05:00 - 22:00
Information Desk
- Located on the train concourse of Level G near the Amtrak Waiting Area.
Public transit options for Union Station
- Metro lines: Red
- Bus lines: D6, D8, 80, 96,
- Train lines: Acela, Capitol Limited, Cardinal, Carolinian, Crescent, Fredericksburg Line, MARC Brunswick, MARC Camden, MARC Penn, Manassas Line, Northeast Regional, Palmetto, Silver Service/Palmetto, Vermonter
Most popular train connections from Irvine, CA
More options for your journey from Irvine, CA to Washington, DC
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Washington, DC and Irvine, CA
Most popular train connections to Washington, DC
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