Washington Union Station, Washington, DC to Charlotte Station, Charlotte, NC train with Amtrak

Thu, May 07
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Deutsche Bahn
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2,000+ travel companies
Amtrak
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Washington Union Station, Washington, DC to Charlotte Station, Charlotte, NC

Showing times and prices for May 07

Cheapest price

$98

Average price

$142

Fastest journey

8 h

Average duration

9 h 12 m

Trains per day

3

Distance

529 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Washington Union Station, Washington, DC to Charlotte Station, Charlotte, NC is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Washington Union Station, Washington, DC to Charlotte Station, Charlotte, NC will cost around $142 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $98.

Fast trains

Of the 3 trains that leave Washington Union Station, Washington, DC for Charlotte Station, Charlotte, NC on Thu, May 07, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Thu, May 07 the direct trains cover the 529 km distance in an average of 9 h 12 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 8 h .

On Thu, May 07 the slowest trains will take 9 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.

  • Amtrak
    5:10 PM9h48
    Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
    2:58 AMCharlotte Station, Charlotte, NC
    $981One-way
    0 transfers
  • Amtrak
    4:08 PM9h48
    Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
    1:56 AMCharlotte Station, Charlotte, NC
    $1401One-way
    0 transfers
  • Amtrak
    11:30 PM8h00
    Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
    7:30 AMCharlotte Station, Charlotte, NC
    $1891One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Washington Union Station, Washington, DC to Charlotte Station, Charlotte, NC

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Washington Union Station, Washington, DC to Charlotte Station, Charlotte, NC among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $56. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 30m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $56, and a flight costs an average of $57.

Distance: 328 miles (529 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Flight
Driving

$159

Average price

$81

Average price

Cheapest

$336

Average price

$77

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

9h 49m

Average total duration

9h 19m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

9h 47m

Average total duration

9h 17m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 30m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 30m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

6h 0m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Amtrak

Most popular train company

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

United

Most popular airline

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Washington Union Station, Washington, DC to Charlotte Station, Charlotte, NC is a bus with an average price of $81 (€65).

This is compared to other travel options from Washington Union Station, Washington, DC to Charlotte Station, Charlotte, NC:

A bus is $77 (€62) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Washington Union Station, Washington, DC to Charlotte Station, Charlotte, NC costing on average $159 (€127).

A bus is $255 (€203) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Washington Union Station, Washington, DC to Charlotte Station, Charlotte, NC costing on average $336 (€268).

The fastest way to travel from Washington Union Station, Washington, DC to Charlotte Station, Charlotte, NC is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 30m.

Other travel options to Charlotte Station, Charlotte, NC take longer:

Bus takes on average 9h 17m.

Train takes on average 9h 19m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Washington Union Station, Washington, DC and Charlotte Station, Charlotte, NC including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Washington Union Station, Washington, DC to Charlotte Station, Charlotte, NC 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 $159 (€127) compared to roughly $77 (€62) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-81.33 (€-64.98). The journey takes 9h 19m versus 6h 0m 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

Washington Union Station, Washington, DC to Charlotte Station, Charlotte, NC train times

The table below shows live departures for Washington Union Station, Washington, DC to Charlotte Station, Charlotte, NC trains for today, Wednesday, May 6. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
amtrak79 Carolinian1:05 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
9h40
10:45 PM Charlotte Station, Charlotte, NC0 transfersDirect
amtrak19 Crescent6:30 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
8h00
2:30 AM Charlotte Station, Charlotte, NC0 transfersDirect
Thursday, May 7
amtrak4:08 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
9h48
1:56 AM Charlotte Station, Charlotte, NC0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Washington Union Station, Washington, DC to Charlotte Station, Charlotte, NC by train, bus, or flight

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.

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Journey information

Overview: Train from Washington Union Station, Washington, DC to Charlotte Station, Charlotte, NC

USAUSA
USAUSA
Icon of train

Trains from Washington Union Station, Washington, DC to Charlotte Station, Charlotte, NC run on average 2 times per day, taking around 9h 19m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $85 (€68) but you can travel from only $56 (€45) by bus.

There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 16:08, the last at 23:30. The fastest train covers the 328 miles (529 km) distance in 8h 0m.

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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $56 (€45)
Distance
328 miles (529 km)
Average train duration
9h 19m
Cheapest ticket price
$85 (€68)
Trains per day
2
Direct trains
2
Fastest train
8h 0m
First train
4:08 PM
Last train
11:30 PM
Cheapest Month
Jan
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Jan - Mar
Low Season
Jul - Sep
Busiest Day
Thu
Least Busy Day
Fri
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $56 (€45)

Train companies: Amtrak from Washington Union Station, Washington, DC to Charlotte Station, Charlotte, NC trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Washington Union Station, Washington, DC and Charlotte Station, Charlotte, NC from $56 (€45). 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
8h 0m
Cheapest Price
$85 (€68)
Amtrak frequency
2 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 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC to Charlotte Station, Charlotte, NC

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Washington Union Station, Washington, DC to Charlotte Station, Charlotte, NC 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 Charlotte Station, Charlotte, NC, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Washington Union Station, Washington, DC to Charlotte Station, Charlotte, NC can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $85 (€68), while the average price is around $159 (€127).
The train from Washington Union Station, Washington, DC to Charlotte Station, Charlotte, NC takes 8h 0m and runs 2 per day.
The first train from Washington Union Station, Washington, DC to Charlotte Station, Charlotte, NC leaves at 4:08 PM.
The distance by train from Washington Union Station, Washington, DC to Charlotte Station, Charlotte, NC is 328 miles (529 km).
The last train from Washington Union Station, Washington, DC to Charlotte Station, Charlotte, NC leaves at 11:30 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Washington Union Station, Washington, DC to Charlotte Station, Charlotte, NC.
Yes, there is a direct train from Washington Union Station, Washington, DC to Charlotte Station, Charlotte, NC. This service operates 2 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Washington Union Station, Washington, DC to Charlotte Station, Charlotte, NC.
The cheapest way to get from Washington Union Station, Washington, DC to Charlotte Station, Charlotte, NC is by bus, with a cost of around $56 (€45).
The train journey from Washington Union Station, DC to Charlotte Station, NC offers scenic views of the rolling landscapes of Virginia and the picturesque countryside of North Carolina, making it a pleasant and visually appealing trip.
A day trip from Washington Union Station, DC to Charlotte Station, NC is not feasible as the travel duration is 8h 0m and there are only 2 trains per day.
Yes, you can take the train from Washington Union Station, Washington, DC to Charlotte Station, Charlotte, NC.
Since neither Washington Union Station, Washington, DC nor Charlotte Station, Charlotte, NC 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 Charlotte Station, Charlotte, NC include Greensboro, NC, Salisbury, NC, Hillsborough, NC, Burlington, NC, Graham, NC.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Washington Union Station, Washington, DC to Charlotte Station, Charlotte, NC 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.
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 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC to Charlotte Station, Charlotte, NC

Washington
Charlotte
The major train station for departures in Washington is Union Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Union Station for your trip from Washington to Charlotte.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
HotelHotel
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Mon - Fri: 04:30 - 22:00
  • Sat - Sun: 05:00 - 22:00
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
2 km
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free Wi-Fi in the station courtesy of Amtrak.
Lockers
Lockers
  • Amtrak provides temporary luggage storage for $10 per bag for 24 hours for customers holding Amtrak tickets.
Dining
Dining
  • Shake Shack
  • McDonald’s
  • Starbucks
  • Potbelly Sandwich Shop
  • Chopt Creative Salad Co.
  • Chipotle Mexican Grill
  • Thunder Grill
  • Johnny Rockets
  • Jamba Juice
  • Ladurée Union Station
  • & many more
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Elevators, escalators, wheelchair access. Accessible facilities including restrooms, parking, platforms, ticket office, waiting room.
Hotel
Hotel
  • Hyatt Recency Washington On Capitol Hill
  • Phoenix Park Hotel
  • Kimpton George Hotel
Ticket Office
Ticket Office
  • Mon - Fri: 04:30 - 22:00
  • Sat - Sun: 05:00 - 22:00
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located on the train concourse of Level G near the Amtrak Waiting Area.
Public transit options for Union Station
  • Metro lines: Red
  • Bus lines: D6, D8, 80, 96,
  • Train lines: Acela, Capitol Limited, Cardinal, Carolinian, Crescent, Fredericksburg Line, MARC Brunswick, MARC Camden, MARC Penn, Manassas Line, Northeast Regional, Palmetto, Silver Service/Palmetto, Vermonter

More options for your journey from Washington Union Station, Washington, DC to Charlotte Station, Charlotte, NC

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

Most popular trains to and from Charlotte Station, Charlotte, NC and Washington Union Station, Washington, DC

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