- Must visit
Monticello Visitor Center and Exhibition Galleries
Museum at Monticello presenting Jefferson, slavery, and plantation history through artifacts and exhibitions on the mountain estate.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Princeton, NJ to Charlottesville, VA
Showing times and prices for Jul 31
Cheapest price
$174
Average price
$174
Fastest journey
5 h 48 m
Average duration
5 h 48 m
Trains per day
1
Distance
418 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Princeton, NJ to Charlottesville, VA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Princeton, NJ to Charlottesville, VA will cost around $174 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $174.
Fast trains
Of the 1 trains that leave Princeton, NJ for Charlottesville, VA on Fri, Jul 31, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, Jul 31 the direct trains cover the 418 km distance in an average of 5 h 48 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 48 m .
On Fri, Jul 31 the slowest trains will take 5 h 48 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.
5:46 PM5h48Princeton, NJ11:34 PMCharlottesville, VA$1741One-way0 transfers
- 5:46 PM5h48Princeton, NJ11:34 PMCharlottesville, VA$1741One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, flight, and bus for Princeton, NJ to Charlottesville, VA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Princeton, NJ to Charlottesville, VA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $92. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 4h 14m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $92, and a flight costs an average of $215.
Distance: 259 miles (418 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$176 Average price | $276 Average price | $117 Average price Cheapest | $60 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 59m Average total duration 5h 29m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 14m Average total duration Fastest 4h 14m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 17h 33m Average total duration 17h 3m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 11m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Princeton, NJ to Charlottesville, VA is a bus with an average price of $117 (€96).
This is compared to other travel options from Princeton, NJ to Charlottesville, VA:
A bus is $58 (€48) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Princeton, NJ to Charlottesville, VA costing on average $176 (€144).
A bus is $159 (€131) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Princeton, NJ to Charlottesville, VA costing on average $276 (€226).
The fastest way to travel from Princeton, NJ to Charlottesville, VA is by flight with an average journey time of 4h 14m.
Other travel options to Charlottesville, VA take longer:
Train takes on average 5h 29m.
Bus takes on average 17h 3m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Princeton, NJ and Charlottesville, VA including taking a train, flight, and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Princeton, NJ to Charlottesville, 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 $176 (€144) compared to roughly $60 (€49) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-115.85 (€-94.88). The journey takes 5h 29m versus 5h 11m 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
Princeton, NJ to Charlottesville, VA train times
The table below shows live departures for Princeton, NJ to Charlottesville, VA trains for today, Thursday, July 30. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 2:07 PM Princeton, NJ | 6h40 | 8:47 PM Charlottesville, VA | 2 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Princeton, NJ to Charlottesville, VA by train, flight, or bus
Compare train, flight, and bus 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 Princeton, NJ to Charlottesville, VA
USAUSA
Trains from Princeton, NJ to Charlottesville, VA run on average 5 times per day, taking around 5h 29m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $82 (€67) if you book in advance.
There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:09, the last at 15:44. The fastest train covers the 259 miles (418 km) distance in 5h 41m.
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 259 miles (418 km) |
Average train duration 5h 29m |
Cheapest ticket price $82 (€67) |
Trains per day 5 |
Direct trains 3 |
Fastest train 5h 41m |
First train 5:09 AM |
Last train 3:44 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Wed |
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, NJ Transit from Princeton, NJ to Charlottesville, VA trainsAmtrak, NJ Transit trains will get you between Princeton, NJ and Charlottesville, VA from $82 (€67). 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
5h 41m
Cheapest Price
$82 (€67)
Amtrak frequency
5 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
NJ Transit
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 12m
Cheapest Price
$154 (€126)
NJ Transit frequency
2 a day
Complete guide to Charlottesville, VA
Things to do in Charlottesville, VA
Discover the best of Charlottesville, VA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Charlottesville, VA trip today.
- Recommended
The Fralin Museum of Art at UVA
Leading university art museum with global collections from antiquity to today. Strong African art and rotating scholarly exhibitions.
- Recommended
Kluge-Ruhe Aboriginal Art Collection of the University of Virginia
Museum devoted to Kluge-Ruhe's major collection of Australian Aboriginal art. A distinctive cultural stop rare in the United States.
- Must visit
Downtown Mall
Eight-block pedestrian main street lined with shops, theaters, and public art. It is Charlottesville's most popular place to stroll.
- Must visit
The Lawn at the University of Virginia
Historic UNESCO-listed lawn framed by pavilions and student rooms. A walk here reveals Jefferson's influential campus vision.
- Recommended
Riverview Park
Large city park with trails, sports fields, and wooded creek scenery. A local favorite for relaxing and outdoor recreation.
Virginia Ham Biscuits
Virginia Ham is salt-cured and aged, often served in biscuits. It reflects central Virginia’s long pork-curing tradition and regional flavor.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Virginia Peanut Soup
Peanut Soup is a creamy, savory soup linked to Virginia’s historic peanut-growing culture, especially popular in traditional inns and regional dining rooms.
- Gluten-free
Brunswick Stew
Brunswick Stew is a hearty tomato-based stew with chicken and vegetables, widely associated with Virginia gatherings, tailgates, and community meals.
Ivy Inn Restaurant
Upscale farm-to-table restaurant on West Main serving refined New American dishes with local ingredients in an elegant setting.
MarieBette Cafe And Bakery
Popular artisanal bakery and café for breads, pastries, sandwiches, and coffee in a busy, casual neighborhood setting.
Ace Biscuit & Barbecue
Beloved casual spot for Virginia barbecue, smoked meats, and classic Southern sides with a relaxed local feel.
United States Dollar ($)
Moderate for U.S. college towns: hotels can rise on event weekends, dining is mid-priced, and most visitors need a car or rideshares.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $10-15 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- $18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- $3-6 for drip coffee or a latte.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at sit-down restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, and 10-15% for taxis. Cafes often have tip screens; small tips are optional for counter service.
FAQs: Trains from Princeton, NJ to Charlottesville, VA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Princeton, NJ to Charlottesville, 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 Charlottesville, VA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Princeton, NJ to Charlottesville, VA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $82 (€67), while the average price is around $176 (€144).
The train from Princeton, NJ to Charlottesville, VA takes 5h 41m and runs 5 per day.
The first train from Princeton, NJ to Charlottesville, VA leaves at 5:09 AM.
The distance by train from Princeton, NJ to Charlottesville, VA is 259 miles (418 km).
The last train from Princeton, NJ to Charlottesville, VA leaves at 3:44 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Princeton, NJ to Charlottesville, VA.
Yes, there is a direct train from Princeton, NJ to Charlottesville, VA. This service operates 3 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Princeton, NJ to Charlottesville, VA.
The train station in Princeton, NJ that goes to Charlottesville, VA is Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ, which connects to Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA.
The cheapest way to get from Princeton, NJ to Charlottesville, VA is by train, with a cost of around $82 (€67).
The train journey from Princeton, NJ to Charlottesville, VA offers scenic views, especially as it travels through the rolling hills and rural landscapes of Virginia, providing glimpses of picturesque countryside and charming small towns along the way.
A day trip from Princeton, NJ to Charlottesville, VA is not feasible as the journey takes 5h 41m. The train service operates 5 times per day.
In Charlottesville, VA, you can visit the IX Art Park for an interactive art experience or explore the Virginia Discovery Museum with your family. Enjoy a wine tasting tour at local vineyards or attend a show at the historic Paramount Theater. For scenic beauty, take a drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway. Don't miss Monticello, Thomas Jefferson's historic home, or the University of Virginia for its architecture. The Downtown Mall offers shopping and dining, while Shenandoah National Park and Carter Mountain Orchard provide outdoor adventures and stunning views.
A stay of 2 to 3 days in Charlottesville, VA is typically sufficient to explore its main attractions, including Monticello, the University of Virginia, local wineries, and the historic downtown area.
Yes, you can take the train from Princeton, NJ to Charlottesville, VA.
Since neither Princeton, NJ nor Charlottesville, 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 Charlottesville, VA include Manassas, VA, Fairfax, VA, Lynchburg, VA, Culpeper, VA, Burke, VA.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Princeton, NJ to Charlottesville, 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 Charlottesville, VA, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas and popular attractions. It is advisable to avoid poorly lit or isolated areas at night. Common scams include overcharging by taxis or ride services and unofficial ticket sellers near events. Staying aware of surroundings and using authorized transportation options helps ensure a safe visit.
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 Princeton, NJ to Charlottesville, VA
Most Princeton, NJ to Charlottesville, VA trains use the Trenton Transit Center to Charlottesville Amtrak station pair. Use this guide to compare Princeton, NJ and Charlottesville, VA train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Princeton
Arrival train stations in Charlottesville
Which Charlottesville, VA station do trains from Princeton, NJ arrive at?
Trains from Princeton, NJ to Charlottesville, VA arrive at Charlottesville Amtrak. Charlottesville Amtrak is 0 miles (1 km) from Charlottesville, VA city centre.
Charlottesville Amtrak810 West Main Street, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA1-800-USA-RAIL
City-centre transport
Getting to Charlottesville Amtrak from Charlottesville city centre
Charlottesville Amtrak is 1 km from Charlottesville city centre. Public transport options include:
BusAfton Express · 5m · $1
T, 7, 9 · 5m · $1 · every ~9 min
Charlottesville Amtrak train station facilities and services
Charlottesville Amtrak 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: The Local, Maya Restaurant, Public Fish & Oyster
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Charlottesville Amtrak. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Charlottesville Amtrak. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Charlottesville Amtrak: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Charlottesville Amtrak: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Charlottesville Amtrak: Elevators, ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Graduate Charlottesville, Residence Inn by Marriott Charlottesville Downtown, Omni Charlottesville Hotel.
Most popular train connections from Princeton, NJ
More options for your journey from Princeton, NJ to Charlottesville, VA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Charlottesville, VA and Princeton, NJ
Most popular train connections to Charlottesville, VA
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