- 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 broad family-friendly exhibits.










Cheapest price
$32
Average price
$139
Fastest journey
1h 45m
Average duration
1h 58m
Trains per day
32
Distance
195 km
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Philadelphia, PA to Washington, DC among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $20. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 47m. 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 $20, and a flight costs an average of $319.
Distance: 123 miles (199 km)
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$34 Average price | $30 Average price Cheapest | $485 Average price | $34 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 17m Average total duration Fastest 2h 47m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 28m Average total duration 2h 58m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 37m Average total duration 3h 37m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 2h 40m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions | 0.6 - 1.2kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
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 Philadelphia, PA to Washington, DC:
A bus is $5 (€4) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Philadelphia, PA to Washington, DC costing on average $34 (€28).
A bus is $456 (€375) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Philadelphia, PA to Washington, DC costing on average $485 (€399).
Other travel options to Washington, DC take longer:
Bus takes on average 2h 58m.
Flight takes on average 3h 37m.
Tickets start at around $34 (€28) compared to roughly $34 (€28) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-0.73 (€-0.60). The journey takes 2h 47m versus 2h 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.
The table below shows live departures for Philadelphia, PA to Washington, DC trains for today, Saturday, July 11. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
65 Northeast Regional | 4:20 AM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 2h09 | 6:29 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
151 Northeast Regional | 4:57 AM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 2h01 | 6:58 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
109 Northeast Regional | 7:06 AM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 1h55 | 9:01 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
89 Palmetto | 7:32 AM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 2h08 | 9:40 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
2207 NextGen Acela | 8:18 AM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 1h51 | 10:09 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
79 Carolinian | 8:58 AM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 2h04 | 11:02 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
101 Northeast Regional | 9:17 AM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 1h55 | 11:12 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
153 Northeast Regional | 9:33 AM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 1h59 | 11:32 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
2211 NextGen Acela | 10:14 AM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 1h47 | 12:01 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
103 Northeast Regional | 10:20 AM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 1h56 | 12:16 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
155 Northeast Regional | 10:38 AM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 2h01 | 12:39 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
143 Northeast Regional | 11:20 AM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 2h04 | 1:24 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
127 Northeast Regional | 11:37 AM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 2h10 | 1:47 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
195 Northeast Regional | 12:29 PM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 1h56 | 2:25 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
2255 NextGen Acela | 12:36 PM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 1h48 | 2:24 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
147 Northeast Regional | 2:22 PM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 1h56 | 4:18 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
2259 NextGen Acela | 2:37 PM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 1h45 | 4:22 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
99 Northeast Regional | 2:45 PM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 1h56 | 4:41 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
2219 NextGen Acela | 3:35 PM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 1h49 | 5:24 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
161 Northeast Regional | 3:37 PM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 1h54 | 5:31 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
19 Crescent | 3:38 PM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 2h09 | 5:47 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
97 Silver Meteor | 4:15 PM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 2h05 | 6:20 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
2265 NextGen Acela | 4:34 PM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 1h50 | 6:24 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
87 Northeast Regional | 4:36 PM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 1h54 | 6:30 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
163 Northeast Regional | 5:35 PM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 1h57 | 7:32 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
2267 Acela | 6:13 PM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 1h52 | 8:05 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
159 Northeast Regional | 6:33 PM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 2h10 | 8:43 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
135 Northeast Regional | 7:35 PM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 2h02 | 9:37 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
107 Northeast Regional | 7:56 PM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 1h54 | 9:50 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
57 Vermonter | 8:26 PM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 2h02 | 10:28 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
2271 Acela | 9:10 PM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 1h45 | 10:55 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
165 Northeast Regional | 9:38 PM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 1h58 | 11:36 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
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 Philadelphia, PA to Washington, DC run on average 34 times per day, taking around 2h 47m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $12 (€10) if you book in advance.
There are 34 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:04, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 123 miles (199 km) distance in 1h 34m.
Distance 123 miles (199 km) |
Average train duration 2h 47m |
Cheapest ticket price $12 (€10) |
Trains per day 34 |
Direct trains 34 |
Fastest train 1h 34m |
First train 12:04 AM |
Last train 11:58 PM |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 56 days |
Discover the best of Washington — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Washington trip today.
One of the world’s most visited natural history museums, known for dinosaur fossils, the Hope Diamond, and broad family-friendly exhibits.
Flagship Smithsonian museum covering aviation and spaceflight, with iconic aircraft, spacecraft, and major interactive exhibits.
Premier art museum with strong collections from the Middle Ages to modern art, plus sculpture garden and rotating exhibitions.
The city’s grand ceremonial park lined with Smithsonian museums, memorials, and iconic government buildings.
Historic neighborhood of cobblestone streets, waterfront walks, rowhouses, and some of Washington’s most photogenic corners.
Scenic waterside loop famous for cherry blossoms and views of major memorials, especially popular for sunrise and spring visits.
Washington’s signature sausage, usually smoky and spicy, served on a bun with chili, mustard, and onions. It is one of the city’s most iconic street foods.
A sweet-tangy sauce closely associated with Washington carryout culture, often paired with fried chicken wings and fries. It is a local comfort-food staple.
Steamed or picked blue crab from the nearby Chesapeake region is deeply tied to local food traditions. It is especially popular in warmer months.
Celebrated upscale restaurant with creative small plates and a warm, energetic atmosphere. It is one of Washington’s best-known modern dining destinations.
A classic, long-running Washington institution known for oysters, crab cakes, and traditional American fare in an elegant historic atmosphere.
Bustling brasserie known for polished French classics, strong brunch, and a stylish dining room that is popular with both locals and visitors.
Prices are high for hotels and dining, especially downtown. Free museums help balance daily costs.
Tip 18-20% at restaurants. USD 1-2 per drink at bars, round up taxis, and tip hotel staff USD 2-5.
Official public transport app
Union Station, Washington, DC -> Metro Center, Washington, DC
The train connection between Philadelphia, PA and Washington, DC is a convenient and efficient way to travel between these two cities. Amtrak provides regular service on this route, allowing passengers to enjoy comfortable seating and scenic views along the journey. With multiple departures throughout the day, travelers can easily plan their trips while experiencing the ease of rail transportation in the Northeast Corridor.
Traveling from Philadelphia to Washington, DC takes approximately 1 hour and 35 minutes. There are about 25 connections available each day on this route, all of which are direct services. Passengers will depart from 30th Street Station in Pennsylvania and arrive at Union Station in the District of Columbia.
The first daily train journey departs from Philadelphia at 4:44 AM, providing an early start for travelers heading to the nation's capital. The last departure of the day is scheduled for 11:37 PM, allowing late-night arrivals in Washington, DC.
The cheapest ticket price for the train connection between Philadelphia and Washington is $11 (10€). The average ticket price typically hovers around $45.
The White House, completed in 1800, has served as the official residence and workplace of every U.S. president since John Adams, symbolizing the heart of American democracy. Its significance extends beyond politics; it represents a rich tapestry of history where pivotal decisions have shaped our nation’s future. Unique features include its neoclassical architecture and iconic rooms like the Oval Office and the Rose Garden, each telling stories that resonate with visitors from around the world.
The Lincoln Memorial was dedicated in 1922 to honor President Abraham Lincoln's legacy and his role in preserving the Union during one of America’s most tumultuous times—the Civil War. This monumental structure not only serves as a tribute but also stands as an enduring symbol for civil rights movements throughout history, making it a site for countless gatherings advocating equality. The striking seated statue of Lincoln is surrounded by inscriptions from his famous speeches—words that continue to inspire generations seeking justice.
The United States Capitol has been at the center of American legislative power since its completion in 1800, housing both chambers of Congress where laws are debated and enacted. Its significance lies not just in governance but also as a beacon representing democratic ideals worldwide—a place where citizens can witness their representatives at work firsthand. Notable features include its magnificent dome adorned with sculptures and murals depicting key moments from U.S. history that invite you to reflect on what makes this country unique.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Philadelphia, PA 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.

Most Philadelphia, PA to Washington, DC trains use the 30th Street Station to Union Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Philadelphia, PA and Washington, DC train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
30th Street Station is 1 km from Philadelphia city centre. Public transport options include:
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 options include: Bridgewater's Pub, The Porch at 30th Street Station
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Ticket office support is available at 30th Street Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage storage is available at 30th Street Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at 30th Street Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at 30th Street Station: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at 30th Street Station: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Nearby hotels include The Inn at Penn, a Hilton Hotel, Sheraton Philadelphia University City Hotel, The Study at University City.
Union Station is 2 km from Washington city centre. Public transport options include:
Union Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food options include: 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
Free Wi-Fi in the station courtesy of Amtrak. ATMs are there are 2 ATM machines located on Level G.
The ticket office is open Mon - Fri: 04:30 - 22:00, Sat - Sun: 05:00 - 22:00. Information desks are located on the train concourse of Level G near the Amtrak Waiting Area.
Luggage storage is amtrak provides temporary luggage storage for $10 per bag for 24 hours for customers holding Amtrak tickets.
Available at Union Station: Parking, Taxis.
Available at Union Station: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Union Station: Elevators, escalators, wheelchair access. Accessible facilities including restrooms, parking, platforms, ticket office, waiting room.
Nearby hotels include Hyatt Recency Washington On Capitol Hill, Phoenix Park Hotel, Kimpton George Hotel.
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