Salem, OR to Portland, OR train with Amtrak

Tue, May 26
+ Add return
Amtrak
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
Amtrak
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Salem, OR to Portland, OR

Showing times and prices for May 26

Cheapest price

$12

Average price

$17

Fastest journey

1 h 24 m

Average duration

1 h 28 m

Trains per day

3

Distance

70 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Salem, OR to Portland, OR is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Salem, OR to Portland, OR will cost around $17 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $12.

Fast trains

Of the 3 trains that leave Salem, OR for Portland, OR on Tue, May 26, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Tue, May 26 the direct trains cover the 70 km distance in an average of 1 h 28 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 24 m .

On Tue, May 26 the slowest trains will take 1 h 36 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.

  • Amtrak508 Amtrak Cascades
    5:41 PM1h24
    Salem Railroad Station, Salem, OR
    7:05 PMPortland Union Station, Portland, OR
    $121One-way
    0 transfers
  • Amtrak504 Amtrak Cascades
    8:56 AM1h24
    Salem Railroad Station, Salem, OR
    10:20 AMPortland Union Station, Portland, OR
    $121One-way
    0 transfers
  • Amtrak14 Coast Starlight
    2:04 PM1h36
    Salem Railroad Station, Salem, OR
    3:40 PMPortland Union Station, Portland, OR
    $271One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Salem, OR to Portland, OR

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Salem, OR to Portland, OR among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $12. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 1h 19m. 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 $12, and a train costs an average of $11.

Distance: 43 miles (70 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$24

Average price

$21

Average price

Cheapest

$10

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

1h 57m

Average total duration

1h 27m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

1h 49m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 19m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

51m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.0 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Amtrak

Most popular train company

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Your own car or car rental

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 Salem, OR to Portland, OR is a bus with an average price of $21 (€17).

This is compared to other travel options from Salem, OR to Portland, OR:

A bus is $3 (€3) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Salem, OR to Portland, OR costing on average $24 (€20).

The fastest way to travel from Salem, OR to Portland, OR is by bus with an average journey time of 1h 19m.

Other travel options to Portland, OR take longer:

Train takes on average 1h 27m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Salem, OR and Portland, OR including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Salem, OR to Portland, OR 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 $24 (€20) compared to roughly $10 (€8) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-14.21 (€-11.46). The journey takes 1h 27m versus 51m 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

Salem, OR to Portland, OR train times

The table below shows live departures for Salem, OR to Portland, OR trains for today, Monday, May 25. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Amtrak508 Amtrak Cascades5:41 PM Salem Railroad Station, Salem, OR
1h24
7:05 PM Portland Union Station, Portland, OR0 transfersDirect
Tuesday, May 26
Amtrak504 Amtrak Cascades8:56 AM Salem Railroad Station, Salem, OR
1h24
10:20 AM Portland Union Station, Portland, OR0 transfersDirect
Amtrak14 Coast Starlight2:04 PM Salem Railroad Station, Salem, OR
1h36
3:40 PM Portland Union Station, Portland, OR0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Salem, OR to Portland, OR by train or bus

Compare train 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.

Tue
May 26
Wed
May 27
Thu
May 28
Fri
May 29
Sat
May 30
Sun
May 31
Mon
Jun 01

Journey information

Overview: Train from Salem, OR to Portland, OR

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Icon of train

Trains from Salem, OR to Portland, OR run on average 3 times per day, taking around 1h 27m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $11 (€9) if you book in advance.

There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 06:35, the last at 20:39. The fastest train covers the 43 miles (70 km) distance in 1h 24m.

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
43 miles (70 km)
Average train duration
1h 27m
Cheapest ticket price
$11 (€9)
Trains per day
3
Direct trains
3
Fastest train
1h 24m
First train
6:35 AM
Last train
8:39 PM
Cheapest Month
Feb
Cheapest Day
Sun
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Sat
Least Busy Day
Sun
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 Salem, OR to Portland, OR trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Salem, OR and Portland, OR from $11 (€9). 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
1h 24m
Cheapest Price
$11 (€9)
Amtrak frequency
3 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

FAQs: Trains from Salem, OR to Portland, OR

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Salem, OR to Portland, OR 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 Portland, OR, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Salem, OR to Portland, OR can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $11 (€9), while the average price is around $24 (€20).
The train from Salem, OR to Portland, OR takes 1h 24m and runs 3 per day.
The distance by train from Salem, OR to Portland, OR is 43 miles (70 km).
The first train from Salem, OR to Portland, OR leaves at 6:35 AM.
The last train from Salem, OR to Portland, OR leaves at 8:39 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Salem, OR to Portland, OR.
Yes, there is a direct train from Salem, OR to Portland, OR. This service operates 3 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Salem, OR to Portland, OR.
The train station in Salem, OR that goes to Portland, OR is Salem Railroad Station, Salem, OR, which connects to Portland Union Station, Portland, OR.
The cheapest way to get from Salem, OR to Portland, OR is by train, with a cost of around $11 (€9).
The train journey from Salem, OR to Portland, OR offers scenic views of the Willamette Valley, with lush landscapes, farmland, and glimpses of the Cascade Range, providing a pleasant and picturesque travel experience.
Yes, a day trip from Salem, OR to Portland, OR is feasible. The journey takes 1h 24m, covering a distance of 43 miles (70 km). There are 3 train trips per day.
Three to four days in Portland, OR, is ideal to explore its vibrant food scene, visit nearby natural attractions like the Columbia River Gorge, and experience local cultural highlights such as the Portland Art Museum and Powell's City of Books.
Yes, you can take the train from Salem, OR to Portland, OR.
Since neither Salem, OR nor Portland, OR 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 Portland, OR include Olympia, WA, Albany, OR, Lacey, WA, Centralia, WA, Kelso, WA.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Salem, OR to Portland, OR 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 Portland, OR, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and occasional vehicle break-ins, especially in crowded areas and popular tourist spots. Scams involving fake ticket sellers and unauthorized ride services have been reported, so it’s best to use official transportation providers and purchase tickets through reputable sources. Staying aware of surroundings and securing belongings can help 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 Salem, OR to Portland, OR

Salem
Portland
The major train station for departures in Salem is Salem Railroad Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Salem Railroad Station for your trip from Salem to Portland.
Salem Railroad StationWifiLockersParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation DeskLuggage Carts
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Information DeskInformation Desk
Luggage CartsLuggage Carts
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
platformCount
Number of platforms
2
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free
Parking
Parking
  • Parking is available on-site with a daily fee.
Dining
Dining
  • Gamberetti's Italian Restaurant
  • Word of Mouth Neighborhood Bistro
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Ramps.
WC
WC
  • $1
Hotel
Hotel
  • The Grand Hotel in Salem
  • Phoenix Inn Suites Salem
  • Howard Johnson by Wyndham Salem
Lost and Found Office
Lost and Found Office
  • Located in the main hall
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
Luggage Carts
  • Free
Station Plan
  • Hall 1: main entrance, ticket office, and waiting area
  • Hall 2: platforms for Amtrak services
Public transit options for Salem Railroad Station
  • Bus: Cherriots local bus services
  • Amtrak Thruway Motorcoach

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