- Must visit
Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
One of the world’s most visited natural history museums, famous for dinosaur fossils, gemstones, and major family-friendly exhibits on Earth and life sciences.
Cheapest price
$34
Average price
$56
Fastest journey
2 h 20 m
Average duration
2 h 24 m
Trains per day
10
Distance
154 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Richmond, VA to Washington, DC 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 Washington, DC will cost around $56 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $34.
Of the 10 trains that leave Richmond, VA for Washington, DC on Thu, May 28, 10 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Thu, May 28 the direct trains cover the 154 km distance in an average of 2 h 24 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 20 m .
On Thu, May 28 the slowest trains will take 2 h 29 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.
138 Northeast Regional
86 Northeast Regional
86 Northeast Regional
186 Northeast Regional
186 Northeast Regional
40 Floridian
94 Northeast Regional
86 Northeast Regional
80 Carolinian
90 PalmettoOmio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Richmond, VA to Washington, DC among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $15. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 2h 14m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $15, and a flight costs an average of $148.
Distance: 95 miles (154 km)
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$34 Average price | $27 Average price Cheapest | $414 Average price | $22 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 57m Average total duration 2h 27m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 44m Average total duration Fastest 2h 14m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 43m Average total duration 2h 43m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 1h 48m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions | 0.5 - 0.9kg 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.
This is compared to other travel options from Richmond, VA to Washington, DC:
A bus is $6 (€5) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Richmond, VA to Washington, DC costing on average $34 (€27).
A bus is $386 (€312) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Richmond, VA to Washington, DC costing on average $414 (€334).
Other travel options to Washington, DC take longer:
Train takes on average 2h 27m.
Flight takes on average 2h 43m.
Tickets start at around $34 (€27) compared to roughly $22 (€18) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-11.47 (€-9.26). The journey takes 2h 27m versus 1h 48m 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 Richmond, VA to Washington, DC trains for tomorrow, Thursday, May 28. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
98 Silver Meteor | 3:52 AM Staples Mill Road Station, Richmond, VA | 2h33 | 6:25 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
86 Northeast Regional | 5:19 AM Main Street Station, Richmond, VA | 2h59 | 8:18 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
86 Northeast Regional | 5:54 AM Staples Mill Road Station, Richmond, VA | 2h24 | 8:18 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
94 Northeast Regional | 11:01 AM Staples Mill Road Station, Richmond, VA | 2h22 | 1:23 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
40 Floridian | 12:52 PM Staples Mill Road Station, Richmond, VA | 2h20 | 3:12 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
80 Carolinian | 2:04 PM Staples Mill Road Station, Richmond, VA | 2h27 | 4:31 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
138 Northeast Regional | 3:06 PM Staples Mill Road Station, Richmond, VA | 2h36 | 5:42 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
90 Palmetto | 4:41 PM Staples Mill Road Station, Richmond, VA | 2h29 | 7:10 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
186 Northeast Regional | 4:51 PM Main Street Station, Richmond, VA | 3h04 | 7:55 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
186 Northeast Regional | 5:26 PM Staples Mill Road Station, Richmond, VA | 2h29 | 7:55 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 transfersDirect | |
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 Richmond, VA to Washington, DC run on average 12 times per day, taking around 2h 27m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $16 (€13) but you can travel from only $15 (€12) by bus.
There are 12 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 03:52, the last at 19:27. The fastest train covers the 95 miles (154 km) distance in 2h 14m.
Distance 95 miles (154 km) |
Average train duration 2h 27m |
Cheapest ticket price $16 (€13) |
Trains per day 12 |
Direct trains 12 |
Fastest train 2h 14m |
First train 3:52 AM |
Last train 7:27 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 1 day |
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, famous for dinosaur fossils, gemstones, and major family-friendly exhibits on Earth and life sciences.
Premier art museum with masterworks from the Middle Ages to modern times, plus a celebrated sculpture garden and strong temporary exhibitions.
Iconic Smithsonian museum covering aviation and space exploration, with historic aircraft and spacecraft that make it a top draw in the city.
Washington’s signature civic landscape lined with museums and monuments, ideal for walking and the city’s top first-time visitor area.
Historic waterfront neighborhood known for cobblestone streets, rowhouses, shopping, and scenic walks along the canal and river.
Scenic walking area around the water framed by major memorials, especially famous during cherry blossom season.
Washington’s signature sausage, usually a coarse smoked pork-and-beef link served on a bun with chili, mustard, and onions. It is one of the city’s most iconic street foods.
A sweet, tangy, slightly spicy sauce closely associated with Washington carryout culture, commonly served with fried chicken and fries. It is a distinctive local condiment.
An oversized late-night pizza slice popular in nightlife areas of Washington, especially Adams Morgan. It is a recognizable local fast-food tradition.
An established, upscale-casual saloon near the White House known for oysters, crab cakes, and other classic Washington and Mid-Atlantic dishes.
Acclaimed Indian restaurant known for refined cooking and a polished dining room. A standout for one of Washington’s most celebrated restaurant experiences.
One of Washington’s best-known restaurants, offering classic French bistro fare in an elegant, energetic space that is popular with locals and visitors.
Prices are high by U.S. standards, especially for hotels and dining in central areas, though casual food is still manageable.
Tip 18-20% at restaurants; 20%+ for great service. Tip bartenders USD 1-2 per drink, taxis about 10-15%, and hotel staff a few dollars.
Official public transport app
Union Station, Washington, DC -> Metro Center, Washington, DC
The train connection between Richmond, VA and Washington, DC is a convenient option for travelers looking to explore the vibrant culture of both cities. Amtrak provides reliable service on this route, allowing passengers to enjoy comfortable seating and scenic views along the way. With multiple departures throughout the day, it's easy to plan your journey whether you're heading for business or leisure.
The train connection between Richmond, VA and Washington, DC takes approximately 2 hours and 18 minutes. There are 3 direct connections available each day. Passengers can board the trains at Main Street Station, VA or Staples Mill Road Station, VA and arrive at Union Station, DC.
The first daily train departs from Richmond at 10:25 AM, providing an early start for travelers heading to the nation's capital. The last journey of the day leaves Washington, DC at 9:41 PM, allowing visitors ample time to explore before returning in the evening.
The cheapest ticket price for the train connection between Richmond and Washington is $15 (13.5€). The average ticket price typically hovers around $19 (17.1€), making it a convenient option for travelers looking to explore these two cities on the East Coast of the United States.
The White House, built in 1800, has served as the official residence of every U.S. president since John Adams and symbolizes the executive branch's power and authority. Its significance extends beyond politics; it represents American democracy and is a beacon for visitors from around the world who come to witness its iconic neoclassical architecture. Unique features include its stunning Rose Garden, which hosts important events, and the Oval Office, where pivotal decisions shaping history are made.
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 darkest times—the Civil War. This monumental tribute not only serves as a reminder of Lincoln's leadership but also stands as an enduring symbol of equality and justice that resonates with civil rights movements throughout history. Visitors are often struck by its unique design featuring 36 columns representing each state at the time of Lincoln's death, along with his inspiring words inscribed on its walls.
The United States Capitol has been home to Congress since 1800 and plays a crucial role in American governance as both a working building for lawmakers and an architectural marvel reflecting our nation's ideals. It signifies unity through diversity—housing representatives from all states—and embodies democratic principles through public access to legislative processes. Notably distinguished by its grand dome topped with Lady Freedom, this landmark offers breathtaking views from within while showcasing art that narrates America's rich political heritage.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Richmond, VA 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.

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