- Must visit
Buffalo AKG Art Museum
Major regional art museum with modern, contemporary, and historic works, plus a growing campus and frequent exhibitions.
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 Philadelphia, PA to Buffalo, NY
Showing times and prices for Aug 26
Cheapest price
lei654
Average price
lei929
Fastest journey
11 h 8 m
Average duration
12 h 29 m
Trains per day
5
Distance
450 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Philadelphia, PA to Buffalo, NY is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Philadelphia, PA to Buffalo, NY will cost around lei929 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only lei654.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Philadelphia, PA to Buffalo, NY without transferring at least once.
66 Northeast Regional · 63 Maple Leaf3:25 AM12h2530th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA3:50 PMBuffalo NY Exchange Street, Buffalo, NYlei6541One-way1 transfer- 86 Northeast Regional · 283 Empire Service10:51 AM11h0930th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA10:00 PMBuffalo NY Exchange Street, Buffalo, NYlei8901One-way1 transfer
- 642 Keystone Service · 281 Empire Service8:05 AM11h0830th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA7:13 PMBuffalo NY Exchange Street, Buffalo, NYlei9561One-way1 transfer
- 283 Empire Service+
2150 Acela6:30 AM15h3030th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA10:00 PMBuffalo NY Exchange Street, Buffalo, NYlei10481One-way1 transfer - 170 Northeast Regional · 281 Empire Service6:58 AM12h1530th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA7:13 PMBuffalo NY Exchange Street, Buffalo, NYlei10991One-way1 transfer
- 642 Keystone Service · 281 Empire Service8:05 AM11h0830th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA7:13 PMBuffalo NY Exchange Street, Buffalo, NYlei9561One-way1 transfer
- 86 Northeast Regional · 283 Empire Service10:51 AM11h0930th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA10:00 PMBuffalo NY Exchange Street, Buffalo, NYlei8901One-way1 transfer
- 170 Northeast Regional · 281 Empire Service6:58 AM12h1530th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA7:13 PMBuffalo NY Exchange Street, Buffalo, NYlei10991One-way1 transfer
- 66 Northeast Regional · 63 Maple Leaf3:25 AM12h2530th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA3:50 PMBuffalo NY Exchange Street, Buffalo, NYlei6541One-way1 transfer
- 283 Empire Service+2150 Acela6:30 AM15h3030th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA10:00 PMBuffalo NY Exchange Street, Buffalo, NYlei10481One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Philadelphia, PA to Buffalo, NY
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Philadelphia, PA to Buffalo, NY among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from lei271. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 7m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.4kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of lei271, and a flight costs an average of lei990.
Distance: 279 miles (450 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
lei630 Average price | lei390 Average price Cheapest | lei1541 Average price | lei441 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
10h 28m Average total duration 9h 58m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 10h 52m Average total duration 10h 22m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 7m Average total duration Fastest 2h 7m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 6h 1m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.4 - 1.1kg CO2 emissions | 1.3 - 2.7kg 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 Philadelphia, PA to Buffalo, NY is a bus with an average price of lei390.
This is compared to other travel options from Philadelphia, PA to Buffalo, NY:
A bus is lei241 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Philadelphia, PA to Buffalo, NY costing on average lei630.
A bus is lei1151 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Philadelphia, PA to Buffalo, NY costing on average lei1541.
The fastest way to travel from Philadelphia, PA to Buffalo, NY is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 7m.
Other travel options to Buffalo, NY take longer:
Train takes on average 9h 58m.
Bus takes on average 10h 22m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Philadelphia, PA and Buffalo, NY including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Philadelphia, PA to Buffalo, NY 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 lei630 compared to roughly lei441 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about lei-189.51. The journey takes 9h 58m versus 6h 1m 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
Philadelphia, PA to Buffalo, NY train times
The table below shows live departures for Philadelphia, PA to Buffalo, NY trains for today, Tuesday, August 25. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 283 Empire Service+2150 Acela | 6:30 AM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 15h20 | 9:50 PM Buffalo NY Exchange Street, Buffalo, NY | 1 transfer | |
| 170 Northeast Regional · 281 Empire Service | 6:58 AM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 12h05 | 7:03 PM Buffalo NY Exchange Street, Buffalo, NY | 1 transfer | |
| 642 Keystone Service · 281 Empire Service | 8:05 AM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 10h58 | 7:03 PM Buffalo NY Exchange Street, Buffalo, NY | 1 transfer | |
| 86 Northeast Regional · 283 Empire Service | 10:51 AM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 10h59 | 9:50 PM Buffalo NY Exchange Street, Buffalo, NY | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Philadelphia, PA to Buffalo, NY 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.
Wed
Aug 26
Aug 26
Thu
Aug 27
Aug 27
Fri
Aug 28
Aug 28
Sat
Aug 29
Aug 29
Sun
Aug 30
Aug 30
Mon
Aug 31
Aug 31
Tue
Sep 01
Sep 01
Journey information
Overview: Train from Philadelphia, PA to Buffalo, NY
USAUSA
Trains from Philadelphia, PA to Buffalo, NY run on average 4 times per day, taking around 9h 58m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at lei387 but you can travel from only lei271 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:33, the last at 21:24. The fastest train covers the 279 miles (450 km) distance in 10h 17m.
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 lei271
Distance 279 miles (450 km) |
Average train duration 9h 58m |
Cheapest ticket price lei387 |
Trains per day 4 |
Fastest train 10h 17m |
First train 12:33 AM |
Last train 9:24 PM |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 14 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 lei271
Train companies: Amtrak from Philadelphia, PA to Buffalo, NY trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Philadelphia, PA and Buffalo, NY from lei271. 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
10h 17m
Cheapest Price
lei387
Amtrak frequency
3 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 Buffalo, NY
Things to do in Buffalo, NY
Discover the best of Buffalo, NY — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Buffalo, NY trip today.
- Recommended
Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site
Former presidential inaugural site with exhibits on Theodore Roosevelt, the Pan-American Exposition, and Buffalo politics.
- Recommended
Michigan Street African American Heritage Corridor
Community museum preserving Buffalo’s African American heritage through local history, culture, and rotating exhibitions.
- Must visit
Canalside
Waterfront district with canal history, public art, seasonal events, skating, and frequent family-friendly activities downtown.
- Must visit
Elmwood Village
Lively walkable neighborhood known for boutiques, galleries, architecture, and one of Buffalo’s most popular main streets.
- Must visit
Outer Harbor
Long urban trail and greenway connecting waterfront areas, parks, and neighborhoods for walking, biking, and sightseeing.
Buffalo Wings
Crisp fried chicken wings coated in spicy butter-hot sauce. Created in Buffalo, they are the city’s signature bar food and a must-try local classic.
Beef On Weck
Thin-sliced roast beef on a kummelweck roll topped with coarse salt and caraway, usually dipped in jus. It is a longtime Western New York sandwich staple.
- Gluten-free
Buffalo-Style Bean Soup
Slow-cooked bean soup with ham, tomatoes, and vegetables. It is strongly associated with Buffalo’s old taverns and Friday lunch traditions.
Oliver's Restaurant
Refined fine-dining restaurant known for seasonal New American tasting menus, polished service, and an elegant special-occasion atmosphere.
Schwabl's
Traditional German restaurant celebrated for beef on weck, sausages, and old-world charm. A Buffalo dining landmark with a cozy historic feel.
Duff's Famous Wings
Long-standing wing institution known for crispy, saucy chicken wings in a classic neighborhood bar setting with a devoted local following.
United States dollar ($)
Moderate for U.S. city travel; hotels are often cheaper than NYC, while dining and local transit stay fairly manageable for visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $10-18 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- $20-40 per person for a mid-range restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- $3-6 for a coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, more for great service. Taxis usually 10-15%. For cafes, round up or add $1 per drink.
Token Transit
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- $2
- Day pass
- $5
To the city center
Buffalo Exchange Street -> Lafayette Square, Buffalo, NY
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Use the Token Transit app to buy NFTA bus and Metro Rail tickets before boarding.
- NFTA buses accept contactless card and mobile wallet payment onboard. Metro Rail riders can also use vending machines at stations.
FAQs: Trains from Philadelphia, PA to Buffalo, NY
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Philadelphia, PA to Buffalo, 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 Buffalo, NY, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Philadelphia, PA to Buffalo, NY can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at lei387, while the average price is around lei630.
The train from Philadelphia, PA to Buffalo, NY takes 10h 17m and runs 4 per day.
The distance by train from Philadelphia, PA to Buffalo, NY is 279 miles (450 km).
The first train from Philadelphia, PA to Buffalo, NY leaves at 12:33 AM.
The last train from Philadelphia, PA to Buffalo, NY leaves at 9:24 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Philadelphia, PA to Buffalo, NY.
There is no direct train service currently available from Philadelphia, PA to Buffalo, NY.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Philadelphia, PA to Buffalo, NY.
The train station in Philadelphia, PA that goes to Buffalo, NY is 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA, which connects to Buffalo NY Exchange Street, Buffalo, NY.
The cheapest way to get from Philadelphia, PA to Buffalo, NY is by bus, with a cost of around lei271.
The train journey from Philadelphia to Buffalo offers scenic views, particularly as it travels through the rolling hills and lush landscapes of Pennsylvania and New York, providing glimpses of charming small towns and picturesque countryside along the way.
A day trip from Philadelphia, PA to Buffalo, NY is not feasible as the journey takes 10h 17m one way and the distance is 279 miles (450 km). Trains run 4 times per day.
A stay of 2 to 3 days in Buffalo, NY is ideal for exploring key attractions like Niagara Falls, the Buffalo Zoo, and the Albright-Knox Art Gallery, while also enjoying the local food scene.
Yes, you can take the train from Philadelphia, PA to Buffalo, NY.
Since neither Philadelphia, PA nor Buffalo, NY 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 Buffalo, NY include Rochester, NY, Niagara Falls, NY, Erie, PA, Niagara Falls, ON, St. Catharines, ON.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Philadelphia, PA to Buffalo, NY 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 Buffalo, NY, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like downtown and tourist spots. Scams involving overcharging for taxi or rideshare services have been reported, so it's advised to use licensed transportation and confirm fares beforehand. Additionally, travelers should stay aware of their surroundings at night, particularly in less populated neighborhoods, to avoid potential 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 Philadelphia, PA to Buffalo, NY
Most Philadelphia, PA to Buffalo, NY trains use the 30th Street Station to Exchange Street Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Philadelphia, PA and Buffalo, NY train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Philadelphia
Arrival train stations in Buffalo
Which Philadelphia, PA station do trains to Buffalo, NY leave from?
Trains from Philadelphia, PA to Buffalo, NY leave from 30th Street Station. The station is 1 miles (2 km) from Philadelphia, PA city centre at 2955 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
30th Street Station2955 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA+1 215-349-2135
City-centre transport
Getting to 30th Street Station from Philadelphia city centre
30th Street Station is 1 km from Philadelphia city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainAir, War, Wil, Med, Wtr, Lan, Pao, Cyn, Nor, Tre, Chw, Fox · 4m · lei17 · every ~21 min
Bus414, 417, 555 · 9m · lei11
31, 44, 62, 124, 125 · 10m · lei17 · every ~16 min
TramT1, T2, T3, T4, T5 · 6m · lei17 · every ~57 min
30th Street Station train station facilities and services
30th Street Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Bridgewater's Pub, The Porch at 30th Street Station
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at 30th Street Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at 30th Street Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at 30th Street Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at 30th Street Station: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at 30th Street Station: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include The Inn at Penn, a Hilton Hotel, Sheraton Philadelphia University City Hotel, The Study at University City.
Which Buffalo, NY station do trains from Philadelphia, PA arrive at?
Trains from Philadelphia, PA to Buffalo, NY most often arrive at Exchange Street Station. Some services arrive at Depew Amtrak Station, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Buffalo, NY arrival station.
Exchange Street Station75 Exchange St, Buffalo, NY 14203, USA+1 800-872-7245
City-centre transport
Getting to Exchange Street Station from Buffalo city centre
Bus14, 16, 101 · 11m · lei11 · every ~7 min
Exchange Street Station train station facilities and services
Exchange Street Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Pearl Street Grill & Brewery, Liberty Hound
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Exchange Street Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Exchange Street Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Exchange Street Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Exchange Street Station: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Exchange Street Station: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Courtyard by Marriott Buffalo Downtown/Canalside, Buffalo Marriott at LECOM HARBORCENTER, The Westin Buffalo.
Most popular train connections from Philadelphia, PA
More options for your journey from Philadelphia, PA to Buffalo, NY
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Buffalo, NY and Philadelphia, PA
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.
