- Must visit
Virginia Museum of Fine Arts
Major art museum with collections spanning ancient to contemporary works. One of Richmond’s signature cultural attractions and strong local favorite.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Philadelphia, PA to Richmond, VA
Showing times and prices for May 24
Cheapest price
$69
Average price
$117
Fastest journey
4 h 33 m
Average duration
4 h 45 m
Trains per day
17
Distance
333 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Philadelphia, PA to Richmond, VA 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 Richmond, VA will cost around $117 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $69.
Fast trains
Of the 17 trains that leave Philadelphia, PA for Richmond, VA on Sun, May 24, 9 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sun, May 24 the direct trains cover the 333 km distance in an average of 4 h 45 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 33 m .
On Sun, May 24 the slowest trains will take 5 h 2 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.
65 Northeast Regional4:20 AM4h4330th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA9:03 AMStaples Mill Road Station, Richmond, VA$691One-way0 transfers- 65 Northeast Regional4:20 AM5h1230th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA9:32 AMMain Street Station, Richmond, VA$711One-way0 transfers
- 65 Northeast Regional · 79 Carolinian4:20 AM10h5530th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA3:15 PMStaples Mill Road Station, Richmond, VA$861One-way1 transfer
- 161 Northeast Regional · 87 Northeast Regional3:35 PM5h4030th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA9:15 PMStaples Mill Road Station, Richmond, VA$901One-way1 transfer
- 103 Northeast Regional · 41 Floridian10:20 AM5h3730th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA3:57 PMStaples Mill Road Station, Richmond, VA$921One-way1 transfer
- 99 Northeast Regional2:45 PM4h3330th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA7:18 PMStaples Mill Road Station, Richmond, VA$1411One-way0 transfers
- 87 Northeast Regional4:34 PM4h4130th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA9:15 PMStaples Mill Road Station, Richmond, VA$1411One-way0 transfers
- 65 Northeast Regional4:20 AM4h4330th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA9:03 AMStaples Mill Road Station, Richmond, VA$691One-way0 transfers
- 155 Northeast Regional10:38 AM4h4830th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA3:26 PMStaples Mill Road Station, Richmond, VA$1211One-way0 transfers
- 99 Northeast Regional2:45 PM5h0230th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA7:47 PMMain Street Station, Richmond, VA$1421One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Philadelphia, PA to Richmond, VA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Philadelphia, PA to Richmond, VA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $41. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 16m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $41, and a flight costs an average of $125.
Distance: 206 miles (333 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$84 Average price | $64 Average price Cheapest | $375 Average price | $57 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 29m Average total duration 4h 59m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 27m Average total duration 5h 57m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 16m Average total duration Fastest 1h 16m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 4h 35m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.3 - 0.8kg CO2 emissions | 1.0 - 2.0kg 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 Richmond, VA is a bus with an average price of $64 (€52).
This is compared to other travel options from Philadelphia, PA to Richmond, VA:
A bus is $20 (€16) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Philadelphia, PA to Richmond, VA costing on average $84 (€68).
A bus is $311 (€252) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Philadelphia, PA to Richmond, VA costing on average $375 (€303).
The fastest way to travel from Philadelphia, PA to Richmond, VA is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 16m.
Other travel options to Richmond, VA take longer:
Train takes on average 4h 59m.
Bus takes on average 5h 57m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Philadelphia, PA and Richmond, VA including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Philadelphia, PA to Richmond, VA 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 $84 (€68) compared to roughly $57 (€46) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-27.02 (€-21.86). The journey takes 4h 59m versus 4h 35m 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 Richmond, VA train times
The table below shows live departures for Philadelphia, PA to Richmond, VA trains for today, Saturday, May 23. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 99 Northeast Regional | 2:45 PM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 5h02 | 7:47 PM Main Street Station, Richmond, VA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 99 Northeast Regional | 2:45 PM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 4h33 | 7:18 PM Staples Mill Road Station, Richmond, VA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 161 Northeast Regional · 87 Northeast Regional | 3:35 PM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 5h40 | 9:15 PM Staples Mill Road Station, Richmond, VA | 1 transfer | |
| 161 Northeast Regional · 97 Silver Meteor | 3:35 PM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 6h04 | 9:39 PM Staples Mill Road Station, Richmond, VA | 1 transfer | |
| 97 Silver Meteor | 4:15 PM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 5h24 | 9:39 PM Staples Mill Road Station, Richmond, VA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 87 Northeast Regional | 4:34 PM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 4h41 | 9:15 PM Staples Mill Road Station, Richmond, VA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Sunday, May 24 | |||||
| 65 Northeast Regional | 4:20 AM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 5h12 | 9:32 AM Main Street Station, Richmond, VA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 65 Northeast Regional · 79 Carolinian | 4:20 AM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 10h55 | 3:15 PM Staples Mill Road Station, Richmond, VA | 1 transfer | |
| 65 Northeast Regional | 4:20 AM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 4h43 | 9:03 AM Staples Mill Road Station, Richmond, VA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 89 Palmetto | 7:32 AM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 7h21 | 2:53 PM Staples Mill Road Station, Richmond, VA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 79 Carolinian | 8:58 AM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 6h17 | 3:15 PM Staples Mill Road Station, Richmond, VA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 153 Northeast Regional · 89 Palmetto | 9:33 AM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 5h20 | 2:53 PM Staples Mill Road Station, Richmond, VA | 1 transfer | |
| 153 Northeast Regional · 79 Carolinian | 9:33 AM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 5h42 | 3:15 PM Staples Mill Road Station, Richmond, VA | 1 transfer | |
 2205 Acela+41 Floridian | 10:13 AM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 5h44 | 3:57 PM Staples Mill Road Station, Richmond, VA | 1 transfer | |
| 103 Northeast Regional · 41 Floridian | 10:20 AM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 5h37 | 3:57 PM Staples Mill Road Station, Richmond, VA | 1 transfer | |
| 155 Northeast Regional | 10:38 AM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 4h48 | 3:26 PM Staples Mill Road Station, Richmond, VA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 155 Northeast Regional · 41 Floridian | 10:38 AM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 5h19 | 3:57 PM Staples Mill Road Station, Richmond, VA | 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 Richmond, VA by bus, train, or flight
Compare bus, train, 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 Philadelphia, PA to Richmond, VA
USAUSA
Trains from Philadelphia, PA to Richmond, VA run on average 15 times per day, taking around 4h 59m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $40 (€33) if you book in advance.
There are 11 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 03:52, the last at 18:21. The fastest train covers the 206 miles (333 km) distance in 4h 29m.
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
Distance 206 miles (333 km) |
Average train duration 4h 59m |
Cheapest ticket price $40 (€33) |
Trains per day 15 |
Direct trains 11 |
Fastest train 4h 29m |
First train 3:52 AM |
Last train 6:21 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Fri |
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
Train companies: Amtrak from Philadelphia, PA to Richmond, VA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Philadelphia, PA and Richmond, VA from $40 (€33). 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
4h 25m
Cheapest Price
$40 (€33)
Amtrak frequency
15 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 Richmond
Things to do in Richmond
Discover the best of Richmond — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Richmond trip today.
- Recommended
The Valentine
Museum of Richmond history in a historic downtown complex, offering strong context on the city’s architecture, people, and civic life.
- Recommended
Virginia Museum of History & Culture
State history museum with exhibitions on Virginia’s political, military, and social history. Good choice for understanding the wider region.
- Must visit
Maymont
Large estate and park with gardens, trails, animal exhibits, and mansion grounds. One of the city’s best all-around outdoor visits.
- Must visit
Belle Isle
River island park popular for walking, skyline views, rocks, and suspension bridge access. Highly photogenic and popular online.
- Must visit
Carytown
Popular shopping and strolling district known for independent storefronts, murals, and lively street atmosphere.
Virginia Ham Biscuits
Tender biscuits filled with salty, cured Virginia ham, a classic snack tied to the state’s long ham-curing tradition.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Pimento Cheese
A Southern spread of cheddar, pimentos, and mayonnaise, commonly served with crackers or as a sandwich filling in Richmond.
- Gluten-free
Brunswick Stew
A thick regional stew usually made with chicken or pork, tomatoes, corn, and lima beans, popular across Virginia.
ZZQ Texas Craft Barbeque
Popular casual restaurant famous for smoked brisket, ribs, and house-made sides, with a lively counter-service setting.
Perly's
Established downtown deli known for Jewish comfort food, creative brunch, and a lively retro atmosphere.
Mama J's Kitchen
Beloved Jackson Ward restaurant serving classic Southern soul food such as fried chicken, catfish, and cornbread in a warm atmosphere.
United States Dollar
Moderate by U.S. standards. Dining and coffee are reasonable, while upscale restaurants and central hotels cost more.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-15 for fast food or a casual lunch.
- Mid-range
- USD 20-40 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 60+ per person before drinks and tax.
- Coffee
- USD 4-6 for a regular cafe coffee.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants. Tip USD 1-2 per drink at bars, round up taxis, and tip hotel staff or delivery drivers.
FAQs: Trains from Philadelphia, PA to Richmond, VA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Philadelphia, PA to Richmond, VA 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 Richmond, VA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Philadelphia, PA to Richmond, VA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $40 (€33), while the average price is around $84 (€68).
The train from Philadelphia, PA to Richmond, VA takes 4h 29m and runs 15 per day.
The distance by train from Philadelphia, PA to Richmond, VA is 206 miles (333 km).
The first train from Philadelphia, PA to Richmond, VA leaves at 3:52 AM.
The last train from Philadelphia, PA to Richmond, VA leaves at 6:21 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Philadelphia, PA to Richmond, VA.
Yes, there is a direct train from Philadelphia, PA to Richmond, VA. This service operates 11 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Philadelphia, PA to Richmond, VA.
The train station in Philadelphia, PA that goes to Richmond, VA is 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA, which connects to Staples Mill Road Station, Richmond, VA.
The cheapest way to get from Philadelphia, PA to Richmond, VA is by train, with a cost of around $40 (€33).
The train journey from Philadelphia, PA to Richmond, VA offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, featuring views of historic cities, lush landscapes, and rivers, particularly as you travel through the countryside of Virginia.
A day trip from Philadelphia, PA to Richmond, VA is not feasible as the journey takes 4h 29m. However, there are 15 trains available per day for this route.
In Richmond, VA, visitors can explore the American Civil War Museum to delve into Civil War history, enjoy outdoor activities at Belle Isle, and take a scenic stroll along the Richmond Canal Walk. The Science Museum of Virginia offers interactive exhibits on science and technology. For shopping and dining, Carytown is known for its unique boutiques and eateries. Key sights include the Virginia State Capitol, designed by Thomas Jefferson, and Maymont, a Victorian estate with gardens and a nature center. Visitors can also visit Hollywood Cemetery, the Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden for themed displays, and St. John's Church, famous for Patrick Henry's "Give me liberty, or give me death!" speech.
Typically, spending two to three days in Richmond, VA is ideal to explore its historical sites, vibrant arts scene, and diverse culinary offerings.
Yes, you can take the train from Philadelphia, PA to Richmond, VA.
Since neither Philadelphia, PA nor Richmond, VA 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 Richmond, VA include Newport News, VA, Williamsburg, VA, Woodbridge, VA, Fredericksburg, VA, Hampton, VA.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Philadelphia, PA to Richmond, VA 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 Richmond, VA, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and vehicle break-ins, especially in busy areas and parking lots. Scams involving overpriced parking or unofficial tour operators can occur, so it's best to use licensed services. Travelers should also stay aware of their surroundings at night and avoid isolated areas 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 Philadelphia, PA to Richmond, VA
Philadelphia
Richmond
The major train station for departures in Philadelphia is 30th Street Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at 30th Street Station for your trip from Philadelphia to Richmond.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Desk
Luggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 5:15 AM - 10:30 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
1 km
Number of platforms
16Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 24/7. Access via 30th Street and Market Street.
Dining
- Bridgewater's Pub
- The Porch at 30th Street Station
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
- $1
Hotel
- The Inn at Penn, a Hilton Hotel
- Sheraton Philadelphia University City Hotel
- The Study at University City
Lounge
- Located in the main hall
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
- Main Hall: entrance, ticketing, and waiting area
- Upper Level: Amtrak platforms
- Lower Level: SEPTA Regional Rail platforms
Public transit options for 30th Street Station
- SEPTA: Market-Frankford Line
- Trolley: Routes 10, 11, 13, 34, 36
- Bus: Several lines available
The major train station for arrivals in Richmond is Staples Mill Road Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Staples Mill Road Station for your journey to Richmond from Philadelphia.
Staples Mill Road Station
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
7 kmNumber of platforms
3Wifi
- Free
Parking
- Parking is available on-site with spaces for short-term and long-term parking.
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Ramps, restrooms.
WC
- $1
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- The station has a single-level layout with an enclosed waiting area and ticketing services.
Public transit options for Staples Mill Road Station
- Bus: GRTC Route 19
- Taxi services available
Main Street Station
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
3 kmNumber of platforms
2Wifi
- Free
Parking
- Parking is available at the station with access from Main Street.
Dining
- The Roosevelt
- Lemaire Restaurant
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Ramps.
WC
- $1
Hotel
- The Berkeley Hotel
- Omni Richmond Hotel
- The Commonwealth
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 access, ticket office, and waiting area
Public transit options for Main Street Station
- Bus: GRTC Pulse
- Several local bus lines available
Most popular train connections from Philadelphia, PA
More options for your journey from Philadelphia, PA to Richmond, VA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Richmond, VA and Philadelphia, PA
Most popular train connections to Richmond, VA
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