- Must visit
Detroit Institute of Arts
One of the leading art museums in the United States, famous for its vast collection and Diego Rivera’s Detroit Industry Murals.
Cheapest price
$265
Average price
$330
Fastest journey
22 h 18 m
Average duration
1 d 7 h 20 m
Trains per day
3
Distance
822 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Raleigh, NC to Detroit, MI is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Raleigh, NC to Detroit, MI will cost around $330 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $265.
It's difficult to get from Raleigh, NC to Detroit, MI without transferring at least once.
40 Floridian · 6049 AMTRAK
79 Carolinian · 20 Crescent · 40 Floridian · 6049 AMTRAK
40 Floridian · 352 Wolverine
40 Floridian · 6049 AMTRAK
40 Floridian · 352 Wolverine
79 Carolinian · 20 Crescent · 40 Floridian · 6049 AMTRAKOmio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Raleigh, NC to Detroit, MI among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $119. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 18m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $119, and a flight costs an average of $57.
Distance: 510 miles (822 km)
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$276 Average price | $302 Average price | $184 Average price Cheapest | $146 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
24h 7m Average total duration 23h 37m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 18m Average total duration Fastest 2h 18m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 19h 35m Average total duration 19h 5m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 10h 42m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular airline | ![]() Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
This is compared to other travel options from Raleigh, NC to Detroit, MI:
A bus is $92 (€76) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Raleigh, NC to Detroit, MI costing on average $276 (€227).
A bus is $118 (€97) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Raleigh, NC to Detroit, MI costing on average $302 (€248).
Other travel options to Detroit, MI take longer:
Bus takes on average 19h 5m.
Train takes on average 23h 37m.
Tickets start at around $276 (€227) compared to roughly $146 (€120) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-129.20 (€-106.24). The journey takes 23h 37m versus 10h 42m 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 Raleigh, NC to Detroit, MI trains for today, Thursday, July 9. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
40 Floridian · 352 Wolverine | 9:17 AM Raleigh Union Station, Raleigh, NC | 35h23 | 8:40 PM Detroit Amtrak, Detroit, MI | 1 transfer | |
40 Floridian · 6049 AMTRAK | 9:17 AM Raleigh Union Station, Raleigh, NC | 22h18 | 7:35 AM Detroit Amtrak, Detroit, MI | 1 transfer | |
79 Carolinian · 20 Crescent · 40 Floridian · 6049 AMTRAK | 7:15 PM Raleigh Union Station, Raleigh, NC | 36h20 | 7:35 AM Detroit Amtrak, Detroit, MI | 3 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.
Trains from Raleigh, NC to Detroit, MI run on average 3 times per day, taking around 23h 37m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $197 (€162) but you can travel from only $57 (€46) by flight.
The earliest train runs at 09:08, the last at 21:30. The fastest train covers the 510 miles (822 km) distance in 22h 18m.
Distance 510 miles (822 km) |
Average train duration 23h 37m |
Cheapest ticket price $197 (€162) |
Trains per day 3 |
Fastest train 22h 18m |
First train 9:08 AM |
Last train 9:30 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 1 day |
Discover the best of Detroit — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Detroit trip today.
One of the leading art museums in the United States, famous for its vast collection and Diego Rivera’s Detroit Industry Murals.
A major museum of American innovation and culture with iconic vehicles, industrial artifacts, and immersive exhibits.
Small but iconic museum preserving the legacy of Motown Records in the original Hitsville U.S.A. house and studio.
The city’s signature waterfront promenade with skyline views, public art, parks, and easy walking along the river.
Large island park with scenic drives, trails, waterfront views, and several cultural attractions.
Historic market district known for murals, local culture, weekend energy, and some of Detroit’s most photographed streets.
A rectangular, thick-crust pizza baked in a deep steel pan with a crisp, caramelized cheese edge and sauce spooned on top. It is one of Detroit’s signature foods.
A natural-casing hot dog in a bun topped with chili, mustard, and chopped onions. Detroit’s long-running Coney rivalry makes it a classic local must-try.
French fries topped with Coney-style chili, mustard, and onions, often with cheese. This diner staple reflects the Greek-American influence on Detroit’s Coney culture.
A well-regarded contemporary restaurant serving seasonal small plates with strong local sourcing. Stylish but relaxed, it is a standout for modern Detroit dining.
A long-established Hamtramck favorite known for hearty Polish specialties such as pierogi, stuffed cabbage, and schnitzel in a cozy basement setting.
A classic Southwest Detroit counter spot celebrated for dependable Coney dogs and old-school diner atmosphere. Simple, affordable, and deeply local.
Costs are moderate by U.S. city standards. Dining is affordable, while downtown hotels can be pricier during events.
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, more for great service. Tip USD 1-2 per drink at bars, round up taxis, and tip hotel staff and valets.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Raleigh, NC to Detroit, MI 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 Detroit, MI, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

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