- Must visit
Philadelphia Museum of Art
Philadelphia’s flagship art museum, known for major global collections and the iconic east steps made famous in film. A top cultural stop with strong special 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 Richmond, VA to Philadelphia, PA
Showing times and prices for May 31
Cheapest price
$141
Average price
$191
Fastest journey
4 h 54 m
Average duration
4 h 59 m
Trains per day
11
Distance
333 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Richmond, VA to Philadelphia, PA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Richmond, VA to Philadelphia, PA will cost around $191 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $141.
Fast trains
Of the 11 trains that leave Richmond, VA for Philadelphia, PA on Sun, May 31, 9 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sun, May 31 the direct trains cover the 333 km distance in an average of 4 h 59 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 54 m .
On Sun, May 31 the slowest trains will take 5 h 4 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.
164 Northeast Regional5:58 AM5h04Staples Mill Road Station, Richmond, VA11:02 AM30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA$1411One-way0 transfers- 128 Northeast Regional6:21 PM4h54Staples Mill Road Station, Richmond, VA11:15 PM30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA$1411One-way0 transfers
- 124 Northeast Regional5:26 PM4h57Staples Mill Road Station, Richmond, VA10:23 PM30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA$1411One-way0 transfers
- 124 Northeast Regional4:49 PM5h34Main Street Station, Richmond, VA10:23 PM30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA$1421One-way0 transfers
- 164 Northeast Regional5:26 AM5h36Main Street Station, Richmond, VA11:02 AM30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA$1421One-way0 transfers
- 128 Northeast Regional6:21 PM4h54Staples Mill Road Station, Richmond, VA11:15 PM30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA$1411One-way0 transfers
- 80 Carolinian2:04 PM4h56Staples Mill Road Station, Richmond, VA7:00 PM30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA$2741One-way0 transfers
- 124 Northeast Regional5:26 PM4h57Staples Mill Road Station, Richmond, VA10:23 PM30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA$1411One-way0 transfers
- 164 Northeast Regional5:58 AM5h04Staples Mill Road Station, Richmond, VA11:02 AM30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA$1411One-way0 transfers
- 158 Northeast Regional3:03 PM5h04Staples Mill Road Station, Richmond, VA8:07 PM30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA$1951One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Richmond, VA to Philadelphia, PA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Richmond, VA to Philadelphia, PA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $43. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 4h 59m. 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 $43, and a flight costs an average of $124.
Distance: 206 miles (333 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$96 Average price | $66 Average price Cheapest | $392 Average price | $61 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 29m Average total duration Fastest 4h 59m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 21m Average total duration 5h 51m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 27m Average total duration 6h 27m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 4h 19m 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 |
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 Richmond, VA to Philadelphia, PA is a bus with an average price of $66 (€53).
This is compared to other travel options from Richmond, VA to Philadelphia, PA:
A bus is $30 (€24) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Richmond, VA to Philadelphia, PA costing on average $96 (€77).
A bus is $326 (€263) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Richmond, VA to Philadelphia, PA costing on average $392 (€316).
The fastest way to travel from Richmond, VA to Philadelphia, PA is by train with an average journey time of 4h 59m.
Other travel options to Philadelphia, PA take longer:
Bus takes on average 5h 51m.
Flight takes on average 6h 27m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Richmond, VA and Philadelphia, PA including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Richmond, VA to Philadelphia, PA 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 $96 (€77) compared to roughly $61 (€49) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-35.09 (€-28.25). The journey takes 4h 59m versus 4h 19m 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
Richmond, VA to Philadelphia, PA train times
The table below shows live departures for Richmond, VA to Philadelphia, PA trains for today, Saturday, May 30. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 40 Floridian · 158 Northeast Regional | 12:52 PM Staples Mill Road Station, Richmond, VA | 7h15 | 8:07 PM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 1 transfer | |
| 158 Northeast Regional | 3:03 PM Staples Mill Road Station, Richmond, VA | 5h04 | 8:07 PM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 124 Northeast Regional | 4:49 PM Main Street Station, Richmond, VA | 5h34 | 10:23 PM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 124 Northeast Regional | 5:26 PM Staples Mill Road Station, Richmond, VA | 4h57 | 10:23 PM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 128 Northeast Regional | 6:21 PM Staples Mill Road Station, Richmond, VA | 4h54 | 11:15 PM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 98 Silver Meteor · 164 Northeast Regional | 3:52 AM Staples Mill Road Station, Richmond, VA | 7h10 | 11:02 AM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 1 transfer | |
| 98 Silver Meteor | 3:52 AM Staples Mill Road Station, Richmond, VA | 5h16 | 9:08 AM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 164 Northeast Regional | 5:26 AM Main Street Station, Richmond, VA | 5h36 | 11:02 AM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 164 Northeast Regional | 5:58 AM Staples Mill Road Station, Richmond, VA | 5h04 | 11:02 AM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Richmond, VA to Philadelphia, PA 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.
Sun
May 31
May 31
Mon
Jun 01
Jun 01
Tue
Jun 02
Jun 02
Wed
Jun 03
Jun 03
Thu
Jun 04
Jun 04
Fri
Jun 05
Jun 05
Sat
Jun 06
Jun 06
Journey information
Overview: Train from Richmond, VA to Philadelphia, PA
USAUSA
Trains from Richmond, VA to Philadelphia, PA run on average 13 times per day, taking around 4h 59m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $35 (€29) if you book in advance.
There are 10 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 49m.
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 $35 (€29) |
Trains per day 13 |
Direct trains 10 |
Fastest train 4h 49m |
First train 3:52 AM |
Last train 6:21 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 5 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 Richmond, VA to Philadelphia, PA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Richmond, VA and Philadelphia, PA from $35 (€29). 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 49m
Cheapest Price
$35 (€29)
Amtrak frequency
13 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 Philadelphia
Things to do in Philadelphia
Discover the best of Philadelphia — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Philadelphia trip today.
- Must visit
The Barnes Foundation
Renowned collection of Impressionist, Post-Impressionist, and early modern art displayed in an intimate, distinctive installation. Highly regarded for both art quality and presentation.
- Must visit
The Franklin Institute
Major science museum with interactive exhibits, a planetarium, and the famous giant heart. Especially popular with families and visitors seeking hands-on experiences.
- Must visit
Reading Terminal Market
Historic public market and one of the city’s busiest gathering places, valued for atmosphere, local culture, and classic Philadelphia energy.
- Must visit
Rittenhouse Square
Elegant central square surrounded by shops, residences, and leafy paths. One of the city’s best places to relax, people-watch, and enjoy urban scenery.
- Must visit
Old City
Historic neighborhood packed with colonial-era streetscapes, major heritage sites, galleries, and lively pedestrian areas. Ideal for walking and first visits.
Philly Cheesesteak
Philadelphia’s signature sandwich of thin-sliced beef on a long roll, usually topped with fried onions and cheese such as provolone, American, or Cheese Whiz.
Roast Pork Sandwich
A classic South Philadelphia sandwich with slow-roasted pork, sharp provolone, and broccoli rabe on an Italian roll; many locals consider it the city’s best sandwich.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Soft Pretzel
A local street-food staple, Philadelphia soft pretzels are denser and chewier than other styles and are often eaten plain or with mustard.
Reading Terminal Market
Historic public market with many established Philadelphia food vendors. Ideal for trying local specialties like roast pork, cheesesteaks, pretzels, and baked goods in a lively setting.
Zahav
Widely acclaimed modern Israeli restaurant known for polished service, creative mezze, and a destination-worthy dining experience.
John's Roast Pork
Beloved no-frills institution celebrated for both roast pork sandwiches and excellent cheesesteaks; a classic choice for traditional local fare.
United States Dollar
Moderate by major U.S. city standards. Hotels can be pricey in Center City, but casual food and transit are reasonable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-18 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- USD 25-45 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 75+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- USD 3-6 for a regular coffee or latte.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants; 20%+ for great service. USD 1-2 per drink at bars, round up taxis, and tip hotel staff USD 2-5.
FAQs: Trains from Richmond, VA to Philadelphia, PA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Richmond, VA to Philadelphia, PA 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 Philadelphia, PA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Richmond, VA to Philadelphia, PA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $35 (€29), while the average price is around $96 (€77).
The train from Richmond, VA to Philadelphia, PA takes 4h 49m and runs 13 per day.
The distance by train from Richmond, VA to Philadelphia, PA is 206 miles (333 km).
The first train from Richmond, VA to Philadelphia, PA leaves at 3:52 AM.
The last train from Richmond, VA to Philadelphia, PA leaves at 6:21 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Richmond, VA to Philadelphia, PA.
Yes, there is a direct train from Richmond, VA to Philadelphia, PA. This service operates 10 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Richmond, VA to Philadelphia, PA.
The train station in Richmond, VA that goes to Philadelphia, PA is Staples Mill Road Station, Richmond, VA, which connects to 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA.
The cheapest way to get from Richmond, VA to Philadelphia, PA is by train, with a cost of around $35 (€29).
The train journey from Richmond, VA to Philadelphia, PA offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, featuring views of the James River, lush forests, and glimpses of historic towns, providing a pleasant but not notably dramatic landscape.
A day trip from Richmond, VA to Philadelphia, PA is not feasible as the journey takes 4h 49m each way. The frequency of trains is 14 per day, and the distance is 206 miles (333 km).
In Philadelphia, PA, you can visit the Liberty Bell, an iconic symbol of American independence, and Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were debated and adopted. Art enthusiasts can explore the Philadelphia Museum of Art, known for its vast collection and the famous Rocky Steps. For a taste of local culture, head to Reading Terminal Market, a bustling indoor space with diverse food options. Additionally, the Philadelphia Zoo offers a chance to see a wide variety of animals and interactive exhibits.
To experience Philadelphia's key attractions, such as the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and the Reading Terminal Market, a stay of 2 to 3 days is typically sufficient.
Yes, you can take the train from Richmond, VA to Philadelphia, PA.
Since neither Richmond, VA nor Philadelphia, PA 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 Philadelphia, PA include New York, NY, Newark, NJ, Baltimore, MD, Lancaster, PA, Harrisburg, PA.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Richmond, VA to Philadelphia, PA 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 Philadelphia, PA, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like Center City and tourist hotspots. Scams involving overpriced taxi rides or unlicensed transportation are common, so using reputable services or ride-sharing apps is advised. Travelers should also be wary of street vendors selling counterfeit goods and avoid displaying valuables openly to reduce risk. Staying aware of surroundings and using well-lit, populated routes enhances 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 Richmond, VA to Philadelphia, PA
Richmond
Philadelphia
The major train station for departures 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 trip from Richmond to 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 km
Number 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
The major train station for arrivals 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 journey to Philadelphia from Richmond.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDining
ATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotel
LoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike Parking
Bike Rental
Car RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 5:15 AM - 10:30 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
1 kmNumber 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
Most popular train connections from Richmond, VA
More options for your journey from Richmond, VA to Philadelphia, PA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Philadelphia, PA and Richmond, VA
Most popular train connections to 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.
