- Must visit
New York State Museum
Large state history, science, and art museum with notable exhibits on New York’s natural and cultural heritage.
Cheapest price
$87
Average price
$87
Fastest journey
4 h 26 m
Average duration
4 h 26 m
Trains per day
1
Distance
217 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from New York, NY to Albany, NY is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from New York, NY to Albany, NY will cost around $87 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $87.
It's difficult to get from New York, NY to Albany, NY without transferring at least once.
291 Ethan Allen Express · 6064 AMTRAK
291 Ethan Allen Express · 6064 AMTRAKOmio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from New York, NY to Albany, NY among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $24. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 35m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $24, and a flight costs an average of $222.
Distance: 134 miles (217 km)
| Train | Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$76 Average price | $38 Average price Cheapest | $528 Average price | $34 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 7m Average total duration 2h 37m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 40m Average total duration 3h 10m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 35m Average total duration Fastest 2h 35m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 2h 32m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions | 0.6 - 1.3kg 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.
This is compared to other travel options from New York, NY to Albany, NY:
A bus is $39 (€32) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from New York, NY to Albany, NY costing on average $76 (€63).
A bus is $491 (€403) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from New York, NY to Albany, NY costing on average $528 (€433).
Other travel options to Albany, NY take longer:
Train takes on average 2h 37m.
Bus takes on average 3h 10m.
Tickets start at around $76 (€63) compared to roughly $34 (€28) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-41.96 (€-34.44). The journey takes 2h 37m versus 2h 32m 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.
The table below shows live departures for New York, NY to Albany, NY trains for today, Friday, July 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
63 Maple Leaf | 7:15 AM Penn Station, New York, NY | 3h19 | 10:34 AM Schenectady Station, Schenectady, NY | 0 transfersDirect | |
283 Empire Service | 1:20 PM Penn Station, New York, NY | 3h14 | 4:34 PM Schenectady Station, Schenectady, NY | 0 transfersDirect | |
291 Ethan Allen Express | 2:19 PM Penn Station, New York, NY | 2h30 | 4:49 PM Albany / Rensselaer Amtrak, Rensselaer, NY | 0 transfersDirect | |
235 Empire Service | 3:15 PM Penn Station, New York, NY | 2h32 | 5:47 PM Albany / Rensselaer Amtrak, Rensselaer, NY | 0 transfersDirect | |
49 Lake Shore Limited | 3:40 PM Penn Station, New York, NY | 3h47 | 7:27 PM Schenectady Station, Schenectady, NY | 0 transfersDirect | |
49 Lake Shore Limited | 3:40 PM Penn Station, New York, NY | 2h40 | 6:20 PM Albany / Rensselaer Amtrak, Rensselaer, NY | 0 transfersDirect | |
239 Empire Service | 5:47 PM Penn Station, New York, NY | 2h41 | 8:28 PM Albany / Rensselaer Amtrak, Rensselaer, NY | 0 transfersDirect | |
241 Empire Service | 6:46 PM Penn Station, New York, NY | 2h29 | 9:15 PM Albany / Rensselaer Amtrak, Rensselaer, NY | 0 transfersDirect | |
243 Empire Service | 9:30 PM Penn Station, New York, NY | 2h29 | 11:59 PM Albany / Rensselaer Amtrak, Rensselaer, NY | 0 transfersDirect | |
245 Empire Service | 11:25 PM Penn Station, New York, NY | 2h31 | 1:56 AM Albany / Rensselaer Amtrak, Rensselaer, NY | 0 transfersDirect | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.
Trains from New York, NY to Albany, NY run on average 3 times per day, taking around 2h 37m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $44 (€36) but you can travel from only $24 (€19) by bus.
There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 01:56, the last at 23:25. The fastest train covers the 134 miles (217 km) distance in 2h 25m.
Distance 134 miles (217 km) |
Average train duration 2h 37m |
Cheapest ticket price $44 (€36) |
Trains per day 3 |
Direct trains 2 |
Fastest train 2h 25m |
First train 1:56 AM |
Last train 11:25 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 35 days |
Discover the best of Albany — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Albany trip today.
Large state history, science, and art museum with notable exhibits on New York’s natural and cultural heritage.
One of the oldest museums in the United States, known for Hudson River School paintings and regional history collections.
Historic World War II destroyer escort ship museum offering insight into naval life and wartime history.
Vast government plaza with modernist architecture, fountains, memorials, and one of Albany’s most photographed settings.
Historic urban park with walking paths, monuments, and seasonal color, especially popular during tulip season.
Lively, walkable corridor known for local culture, historic buildings, and a strong neighborhood atmosphere.
Large, foldable slices with a thin yet chewy crust, a staple across Upstate New York and a classic everyday food in Albany.
Crispy chicken wings tossed in spicy butter-based sauce, a New York State icon commonly found on Albany pub and sports-bar menus.
Fried mozzarella served with sweet raspberry Melba sauce, a Capital Region favorite strongly associated with Albany-area Italian-American dining.
An established fine-dining restaurant known for elegant Indonesian-inspired and New American cuisine, polished service, and a special-occasion atmosphere.
A long-running local favorite for regional Italian cooking, handmade pasta, and an intimate, old-school atmosphere.
A historic Albany institution specializing in oysters, seafood, and classic American fare in a traditional downtown setting.
Costs are moderate by U.S. standards. Casual dining is affordable, while hotels and fine dining vary by season and location.
Tip 15-20% at restaurants; 20% for strong service. Tip bartenders USD 1-2 per drink, taxis 10-15%, hotel staff USD 1-5, and round up for coffee only if desired.
The train connection between New York, NY and Albany, NY is a convenient option for travelers looking to explore the capital of New York State. Amtrak provides reliable service on this route, allowing passengers to enjoy scenic views along the way. The journey typically takes around 2 hours and offers comfortable seating with amenities that make travel enjoyable. Whether you're heading for business or leisure, taking the train is an excellent choice!
Traveling from New York, NY to Albany, NY takes approximately 2 hours and 25 minutes. There are up to 10 connections available each day, all of which are direct services.
The first daily train journey from New York to Albany departs at 4:35 AM, providing an early start for travelers looking to explore the capital of New York State. The last departure of the day is scheduled for 8:40 PM, allowing visitors ample time to enjoy their stay in Albany before returning later in the evening.
The cheapest ticket price for the train connection from New York to Albany is $38 (34.2€).
Welcome to the New York State Capitol, a stunning architectural marvel completed in 1899 that showcases an eclectic mix of styles, including Romanesque and Renaissance influences. This historic building is not only the seat of government for New York but also symbolizes the state's rich political heritage and commitment to democracy. As you explore its grand halls adorned with intricate carvings and beautiful murals, you'll discover unique features like the impressive Million Dollar Staircase, which tells stories through its detailed stonework.
Next on our journey is Empire State Plaza, a striking example of modernist architecture designed by renowned architect Wallace Harrison in the 1960s. This expansive complex serves as both a governmental hub and cultural center while offering breathtaking views of Albany's skyline from its elevated walkways. Don't miss out on visiting The Egg—a uniquely shaped performing arts venue—where art meets innovation against a backdrop of beautifully landscaped gardens.
Finally, we arrive at the Albany Institute of History & Art, one of America's oldest museums dedicated to preserving regional history since 1791. With an extensive collection featuring over 30,000 artifacts ranging from fine art to historical objects related to upstate New York’s past, this institution plays a vital role in educating visitors about local culture and heritage. Be sure to admire their unique Hudson River School paintings that capture America’s natural beauty during your visit!
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from New York, NY to Albany, NY 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 Albany, NY, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most New York, NY to Albany, NY trains use the Penn Station to Albany-Rensselaer Station station pair. Use this guide to compare New York, NY and Albany, NY train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Penn Station is 4 km from New York city centre. Public transport options include:
Penn Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, Hotel, Ticket Office, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food options include: Blue Bottle Coffee, Magnolia Bakery, Starbucks, The Pennsy Food Hall, Nick + Stef's Steakhouse, Penn & Sushi, Krispy Kreme Donuts, T.G.I. Friday's, NY Pizza Suprema, Blarney Stone, & many more
Free Wi-Fi available in Moynihan Train Hall. ATMs are there are ATMs in various locations around the station.
The ticket office is open Mon - Sun: 05:00-22:00. Information desks are located on the connecting concourse near Tracks 18-19.
Luggage storage is baggage assistance is provided by Red Caps, open 24/7 at Penn and open from 05:00 to 23:00 at Moynihan Train Hall. .
Available at Penn Station: Parking, Taxis.
Available at Penn Station: Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Penn Station: Accessible facilities including restroom, parking, elevators, and ramps. Additional assistance available at ticket counters or by asking uniformed employees.
Nearby hotels include The New Yorker at Wyndham Hotel, Courtyard by Marriott New York Manhattan/Chelsea, Hilton Garden Inn West 35th Street.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need