Washington, DC to Albany, NY train with Amtrak

Mon, May 18
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Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
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2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Washington, DC to Albany, NY

Showing times and prices for May 18

Cheapest price

$77

Average price

$219

Fastest journey

6 h 19 m

Average duration

6 h 50 m

Trains per day

35

Distance

501 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Washington, DC to Albany, NY will cost around $219 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $77.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Washington, DC to Albany, NY without transferring at least once.

  • Amtrak66 Northeast Regional · 69 Adirondack
    10:00 PM14h06
    Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
    12:06 PMSchenectady Station, Schenectady, NY
    $771One-way
    1 transfer
  • Amtrak66 Northeast Regional · 69 Adirondack
    10:00 PM12h52
    Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
    10:52 AMAlbany / Rensselaer Amtrak, Rensselaer, NY
    $781One-way
    1 transfer
  • Amtrak66 Northeast Regional · 63 Maple Leaf
    10:00 PM12h34
    Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
    10:34 AMSchenectady Station, Schenectady, NY
    $851One-way
    1 transfer
  • Amtrak66 Northeast Regional · 63 Maple Leaf
    10:00 PM11h50
    Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
    9:50 AMAlbany / Rensselaer Amtrak, Rensselaer, NY
    $871One-way
    1 transfer
  • Amtrak6076 AMTRAK · 190 Northeast Regional · 281 Empire Service
    3:20 AM9h30
    Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
    12:50 PMAlbany / Rensselaer Amtrak, Rensselaer, NY
    $1611One-way
    2 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Washington, DC to Albany, NY

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Washington, DC to Albany, NY among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $42. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 36m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.5kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $42, and a flight costs an average of $161.

Distance: 311 miles (501 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Flight

$149

Average price

$91

Average price

Cheapest

$349

Average price

6h 16m

Average total duration

5h 46m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

8h 26m

Average total duration

7h 56m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 36m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 36m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

0.1 - 0.5kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.5 - 1.3kg

CO2 emissions

1.5 - 3.0kg

CO2 emissions

Amtrak

Most popular train company

Greyhound

Most popular bus company

United

Most popular airline

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 Washington, DC to Albany, NY is a bus with an average price of $91 (€73).

This is compared to other travel options from Washington, DC to Albany, NY:

A bus is $58 (€47) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Washington, DC to Albany, NY costing on average $149 (€120).

A bus is $258 (€209) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Washington, DC to Albany, NY costing on average $349 (€282).

The fastest way to travel from Washington, DC to Albany, NY is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 36m.

Other travel options to Albany, NY take longer:

Train takes on average 5h 46m.

Bus takes on average 7h 56m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Washington, DC and Albany, NY including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Washington, DC to Albany, NY among Omio's users.

Live departures

Washington, DC to Albany, NY train times

The table below shows live departures for Washington, DC to Albany, NY trains for today, Sunday, May 17. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Amtrak20 Crescent · 243 Empire Service2:12 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
9h47
11:59 PM Albany / Rensselaer Amtrak, Rensselaer, NY1 transfer
Amtrak80 Carolinian · 63 Maple Leaf5:11 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
16h39
9:50 AM Albany / Rensselaer Amtrak, Rensselaer, NY1 transfer
Amtrak80 Carolinian · 63 Maple Leaf5:11 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
17h23
10:34 AM Schenectady Station, Schenectady, NY1 transfer
Amtrak66 Northeast Regional · 69 Adirondack10:00 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
12h52
10:52 AM Albany / Rensselaer Amtrak, Rensselaer, NY1 transfer
Amtrak66 Northeast Regional · 63 Maple Leaf10:00 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
11h50
9:50 AM Albany / Rensselaer Amtrak, Rensselaer, NY1 transfer
Amtrak66 Northeast Regional · 69 Adirondack10:00 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
14h06
12:06 PM Schenectady Station, Schenectady, NY1 transfer
Amtrak66 Northeast Regional · 63 Maple Leaf10:00 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
12h34
10:34 AM Schenectady Station, Schenectady, NY1 transfer
Monday, May 18
Amtrak6076 AMTRAK · 190 Northeast Regional · 281 Empire Service3:20 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
10h19
1:39 PM Schenectady Station, Schenectady, NY2 transfers
Amtrak6076 AMTRAK · 190 Northeast Regional · 49 Lake Shore Limited3:20 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
16h07
7:27 PM Schenectady Station, Schenectady, NY2 transfers
Amtrak6076 AMTRAK · 190 Northeast Regional · 281 Empire Service3:20 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
9h30
12:50 PM Albany / Rensselaer Amtrak, Rensselaer, NY2 transfers
Amtrak6076 AMTRAK · 190 Northeast Regional · 49 Lake Shore Limited3:20 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
15h00
6:20 PM Albany / Rensselaer Amtrak, Rensselaer, NY2 transfers
Amtrak170 Northeast Regional · 281 Empire Service5:05 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
8h34
1:39 PM Schenectady Station, Schenectady, NY1 transfer
Amtrak170 Northeast Regional · 281 Empire Service5:05 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
7h45
12:50 PM Albany / Rensselaer Amtrak, Rensselaer, NY1 transfer
Amtrak172 Northeast Regional · 233 Empire Service7:06 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
6h45
1:51 PM Albany / Rensselaer Amtrak, Rensselaer, NY1 transfer
Amtrak98 Silver Meteor · 283 Empire Service7:10 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
8h35
3:45 PM Albany / Rensselaer Amtrak, Rensselaer, NY1 transfer
Amtrak98 Silver Meteor · 291 Ethan Allen Express7:10 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
9h39
4:49 PM Albany / Rensselaer Amtrak, Rensselaer, NY1 transfer
Amtrak98 Silver Meteor · 283 Empire Service7:10 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
9h24
4:34 PM Schenectady Station, Schenectady, NY1 transfer
Amtrak98 Silver Meteor · 49 Lake Shore Limited7:10 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
12h17
7:27 PM Schenectady Station, Schenectady, NY1 transfer
Amtrak98 Silver Meteor · 49 Lake Shore Limited7:10 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
11h10
6:20 PM Albany / Rensselaer Amtrak, Rensselaer, NY1 transfer
Amtrak98 Silver Meteor · 291 Ethan Allen Express7:10 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
10h18
5:28 PM Schenectady Station, Schenectady, NY1 transfer
Amtrak86 Northeast Regional · 283 Empire Service8:50 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
6h55
3:45 PM Albany / Rensselaer Amtrak, Rensselaer, NY1 transfer
Amtrak86 Northeast Regional · 291 Ethan Allen Express8:50 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
7h59
4:49 PM Albany / Rensselaer Amtrak, Rensselaer, NY1 transfer
Amtrak86 Northeast Regional · 291 Ethan Allen Express8:50 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
8h38
5:28 PM Schenectady Station, Schenectady, NY1 transfer
Amtrak86 Northeast Regional · 283 Empire Service8:50 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
7h44
4:34 PM Schenectady Station, Schenectady, NY1 transfer
Amtrak174 Northeast Regional · 49 Lake Shore Limited10:35 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
7h45
6:20 PM Albany / Rensselaer Amtrak, Rensselaer, NY1 transfer
Amtrak174 Northeast Regional · 235 Empire Service10:35 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
7h12
5:47 PM Albany / Rensselaer Amtrak, Rensselaer, NY1 transfer
Amtrak174 Northeast Regional · 241 Empire Service10:35 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
10h40
9:15 PM Albany / Rensselaer Amtrak, Rensselaer, NY1 transfer
Amtrak174 Northeast Regional · 49 Lake Shore Limited10:35 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
8h52
7:27 PM Schenectady Station, Schenectady, NY1 transfer

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Washington, DC to Albany, NY 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.

Mon
May 18
Tue
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May 21
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May 22
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May 24

Why should you book Washington, DC to Albany, NY trains with Omio?

Amtrak as well as Amtrak offer trains services from Washington, DC to Albany, NY.
Omio is the only official third party seller for Amtrak tickets.

Why book with Omio vs Amtrak?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Amtrak, but also compare tickets for the likes of Amtrak to find the best option for your trip from Washington, DC to Albany, NY.
  • Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
  • Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Amtrak with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Washington, DC to Albany, NY.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Washington, DC to Albany, NY

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Trains from Washington, DC to Albany, NY run on average 22 times per day, taking around 5h 46m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $72 (€58) but you can travel from only $42 (€34) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 03:20, the last at 22:00. The fastest train covers the 311 miles (501 km) distance in 7h 23m.

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 $42 (€34)
Distance
311 miles (501 km)
Average train duration
5h 46m
Cheapest ticket price
$72 (€58)
Trains per day
22
Fastest train
7h 23m
First train
3:20 AM
Last train
10:00 PM
Cheapest Month
Sep
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Apr - Jun
Busiest Day
Sat
Least Busy Day
Tue
Best time to book
14 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $42 (€34)

Train companies: Amtrak from Washington, DC to Albany, NY trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Washington, DC and Albany, NY from $42 (€34). 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
7h 23m
Cheapest Price
$72 (€58)
Amtrak frequency
19 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 Albany

Things to do in Albany

Discover the best of Albany — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Albany trip today.

  • Must visit

New York State Museum

A major cultural and educational institution in Albany, offering exhibits on New York's cultural heritage and natural history.

  • Recommended

Albany Institute of History and Art

A museum dedicated to the preservation of local art, history, and culture, with an extensive collection focusing on the Hudson Valley.

  • Recommended

The Egg

An iconic performing arts center with distinctive architecture, offering a variety of artistic performances and exhibitions.

United States Dollar

Costs are moderate compared to larger cities like New York, but higher than rural areas.

Average meal costs

Budget
$10-15 for fast food or casual dining.
Mid-range
$25-40 per person at mid-range restaurants.
Fine dining
$60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
Coffee
$3-5 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

15-20% in restaurants, round up taxis, not expected in fast food joints.

Traveling by train from Washington, DC to Albany, NY

Traveling between Washington, DC and Albany, NY is a convenient journey made easy by Amtrak. With comfortable seating and scenic views along the way, you can relax as you traverse approximately 3 hours of travel time. The train service offers multiple daily departures, ensuring flexibility for your schedule while connecting these two cities rich in history and culture.

Train Connection: Washington, DC to Albany, NY

The train journey from Washington, DC to Albany, NY takes approximately 6 hours and 20 minutes. There are up to 10 connections available per day; however, this route does not offer direct trains. Passengers can expect a transfer during their travel time.

Washington, DC to Albany, NY

The first daily train journey from Washington, DC to Albany, NY departs at 9:00 AM. The last departure for this route is scheduled for 9:25 PM.

Train Tickets Price for Washington, DC to Albany, NY

The cheapest ticket price for the train connection from Washington, DC to Albany, NY is $15 (13.5€). This offers a budget-friendly option for travelers looking to explore these two cities while enjoying scenic views along the way.

Exploring Albany: A Journey Through History and Culture

Welcome to the New York State Capitol, a stunning architectural marvel completed in 1899 that showcases an eclectic mix of styles, including Romanesque and Renaissance influences. This historic building is significant not only as the seat of government for New York but also as a symbol of political power and civic pride, housing important artworks and sculptures that reflect our state's rich history. One unique feature you’ll notice is its grand staircase made from over 400 different types of stone—each telling its own story about craftsmanship and design.

Next on our tour is Empire State Plaza, an impressive complex designed by architect Wallace Harrison during the mid-20th century which serves as both a governmental hub and cultural center. The significance of this space lies in its role as a modernist statement amidst Albany's historical backdrop while providing public access to art installations like "The Egg," an iconic performing arts venue. What sets it apart are the breathtaking views from atop the plaza’s terraces where you can see panoramic vistas stretching across downtown Albany.

Finally, we arrive at the Albany Institute of History & Art—a treasure trove dedicated to preserving local heritage through art collections dating back centuries. Established in 1791, this museum holds immense significance for understanding regional culture with exhibits ranging from Hudson River School paintings to artifacts reflecting early American life. A truly unique aspect here is their focus on interactive experiences; visitors can engage with hands-on displays that bring history alive right before your eyes!

FAQs: Trains from Washington, DC to Albany, NY

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Washington, DC to Albany, NY 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 Albany, NY, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Washington, DC to Albany, NY can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $72 (€58), while the average price is around $149 (€120).
The train from Washington, DC to Albany, NY takes 7h 23m and runs 22 per day.
The first train from Washington, DC to Albany, NY leaves at 3:20 AM.
The distance by train from Washington, DC to Albany, NY is 311 miles (501 km).
The last train from Washington, DC to Albany, NY leaves at 10:00 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Washington, DC to Albany, NY.
There is no direct train service currently available from Washington, DC to Albany, NY.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Washington, DC to Albany, NY.
The train station in Washington, DC that goes to Albany, NY is Washington Union Station, Washington, DC, which connects to Albany / Rensselaer Amtrak, Rensselaer, NY.
The cheapest way to get from Washington, DC to Albany, NY is by bus, with a cost of around $42 (€34).
The train journey from Washington, DC to Albany, NY offers scenic views, particularly as it travels through the Hudson River Valley, showcasing picturesque landscapes, charming small towns, and beautiful river views, especially during the fall foliage season.
A day trip from Washington, DC to Albany, NY is not feasible as the journey takes 7h 23m each way. However, there are 20 trains per day. The distance is 311 miles (501 km).
Spending 2 to 3 days in Albany, NY is ideal to explore its historical sites, museums, and enjoy local dining experiences.
Yes, you can take the train from Washington, DC to Albany, NY.
Since neither Washington, DC nor Albany, NY 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 Albany, NY include Utica, NY, White Plains, NY, Hudson, NY, Poughkeepsie, NY, Pittsfield, MA.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Washington, DC to Albany, NY 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 Albany, NY, travelers should be cautious of petty theft, especially in crowded areas and on public transportation. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers and fake ticket sellers near popular attractions. It is advisable to use official transportation services and keep personal belongings secure to avoid pickpocketing. Staying in well-lit and populated areas at night 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 Washington, DC to Albany, NY

Washington
Albany
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

Most popular trains to and from Albany, NY and Washington, DC

HomeTrainsTrains in USATrain Times to Albany, NYWashington, DC to Albany, NY train

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