Washington, DC to Boston, MA train with Amtrak

Mon, May 25
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Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
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2,000+ travel companies
Amtrak
Amtrak
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Deutsche Bahn
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Washington, DC to Boston, MA

Showing times and prices for May 25

Cheapest price

$263

Average price

$464

Fastest journey

6 h 48 m

Average duration

6 h 56 m

Trains per day

32

Distance

634 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Washington, DC to Boston, MA 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 Boston, MA will cost around $464 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $263.

Fast trains

Of the 32 trains that leave Washington, DC for Boston, MA on Mon, May 25, 30 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Mon, May 25 the direct trains cover the 634 km distance in an average of 6 h 56 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 6 h 48 m .

On Mon, May 25 the slowest trains will take 7 h 3 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.

  • Amtrak66 Northeast Regional
    10:00 PM12h05
    Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
    10:05 AMSouth Station, Boston, MA
    $2631One-way
    0 transfers
  • Amtrak66 Northeast Regional
    10:00 PM11h58
    Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
    9:58 AMBack Bay station, Boston, MA
    $2631One-way
    0 transfers
  • Amtrak166 Northeast Regional
    5:20 PM8h05
    Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
    1:25 AMSouth Station, Boston, MA
    $3321One-way
    0 transfers
  • Amtrak166 Northeast Regional
    5:20 PM7h58
    Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
    1:18 AMBack Bay station, Boston, MA
    $3321One-way
    0 transfers
  • Amtrak2274 NextGen Acela
    5:55 PM6h53
    Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
    12:48 AMSouth Station, Boston, MA
    $4031One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Washington, DC to Boston, MA

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Washington, DC to Boston, MA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $45. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 42m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.2 - 0.6kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $45, and a flight costs an average of $96.

Distance: 393 miles (634 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Flight
Driving

$226

Average price

$87

Average price

Cheapest

$291

Average price

$142

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

6h 12m

Average total duration

5h 42m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

10h 22m

Average total duration

9h 52m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 42m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 42m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

7h 40m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.2 - 0.6kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.6 - 1.6kg

CO2 emissions

1.9 - 3.8kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Amtrak

Most popular train company

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

American Airlines

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.

The cheapest way to travel from Washington, DC to Boston, MA is a bus with an average price of $87 (€70).

This is compared to other travel options from Washington, DC to Boston, MA:

A bus is $140 (€113) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Washington, DC to Boston, MA costing on average $226 (€183).

A bus is $204 (€165) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Washington, DC to Boston, MA costing on average $291 (€235).

The fastest way to travel from Washington, DC to Boston, MA is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 42m.

Other travel options to Boston, MA take longer:

Train takes on average 5h 42m.

Bus takes on average 9h 52m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Washington, DC and Boston, MA 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 Boston, MA among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.

You'll arrive about 1h 58m sooner (5h 42m by train vs 7h 40m by car). Tickets start at around $226 (€183) compared to roughly $142 (€115) in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.

Direct services run with Amtrak, Amtrak.

Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.

Live departures

Washington, DC to Boston, MA train times

The table below shows live departures for Washington, DC to Boston, MA trains for today, Sunday, May 24. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Amtrak160 Northeast Regional5:20 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
8h15
1:35 PM South Station, Boston, MA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak160 Northeast Regional5:20 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
8h10
1:30 PM Back Bay station, Boston, MA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak162 Northeast Regional6:20 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
8h02
2:22 PM South Station, Boston, MA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak162 Northeast Regional6:20 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
7h56
2:16 PM Back Bay station, Boston, MA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak98 Silver Meteor · 164 Northeast Regional7:13 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
10h11
5:24 PM South Station, Boston, MA1 transfer
Amtrak98 Silver Meteor · 164 Northeast Regional7:13 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
10h02
5:15 PM Back Bay station, Boston, MA1 transfer
Amtrak2248 Acela7:48 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
7h20
3:08 PM Back Bay station, Boston, MA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak2248 Acela7:48 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
7h27
3:15 PM South Station, Boston, MA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak152 Northeast Regional8:20 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
8h08
4:28 PM South Station, Boston, MA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak152 Northeast Regional8:20 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
8h02
4:22 PM Back Bay station, Boston, MA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak2250 NextGen Acela8:38 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
7h18
3:56 PM South Station, Boston, MA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak2250 NextGen Acela8:38 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
7h03
3:41 PM Back Bay station, Boston, MA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak164 Northeast Regional9:10 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
8h05
5:15 PM Back Bay station, Boston, MA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak164 Northeast Regional9:10 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
8h14
5:24 PM South Station, Boston, MA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak82 Northeast Regional10:18 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
8h14
6:32 PM South Station, Boston, MA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak82 Northeast Regional10:18 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
8h08
6:26 PM Back Bay station, Boston, MA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak2252 NextGen Acela10:54 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
7h03
5:57 PM South Station, Boston, MA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak2252 NextGen Acela10:54 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
6h57
5:51 PM Back Bay station, Boston, MA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak88 Northeast Regional11:25 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
7h52
7:17 PM Back Bay station, Boston, MA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak88 Northeast Regional11:25 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
7h58
7:23 PM South Station, Boston, MA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak194 Northeast Regional1:01 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
8h12
9:13 PM Back Bay station, Boston, MA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak194 Northeast Regional1:01 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
8h17
9:18 PM South Station, Boston, MA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak168 Northeast Regional3:21 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
7h59
11:20 PM Back Bay station, Boston, MA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak168 Northeast Regional3:21 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
8h05
11:26 PM South Station, Boston, MA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak66 Northeast Regional10:00 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
11h58
9:58 AM Back Bay station, Boston, MA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak66 Northeast Regional10:00 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
12h05
10:05 AM South Station, Boston, MA0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Washington, DC to Boston, MA 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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Why should you book Washington, DC to Boston, MA trains with Omio?

Amtrak as well as Amtrak offer trains services from Washington, DC to Boston, MA.
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 Boston, MA.
  • 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 Boston, MA.

How far in advance should I book train tickets from Washington, DC to Boston, MA?

The best time to book your train from Washington, DC to Boston, MA is 91 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Washington, DC to Boston, MA route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Washington, DC to Boston, MA per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Washington, DC to Boston, MA.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Washington, DC to Boston, MA

USAUSA
USAUSA
Icon of train

Trains from Washington, DC to Boston, MA run on average 31 times per day, taking around 5h 42m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $74 (€60) but you can travel from only $45 (€37) by bus.

There are 28 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 03:00, the last at 22:00. The fastest train covers the 393 miles (634 km) distance in 8h 2m.

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 $45 (€37)
Distance
393 miles (634 km)
Average train duration
5h 42m
Cheapest ticket price
$74 (€60)
Trains per day
31
Direct trains
28
Fastest train
8h 2m
First train
3:00 AM
Last train
10:00 PM
Cheapest Month
Dec
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Mon
Least Busy Day
Wed
Best time to book
28 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 $45 (€37)

Train companies: Amtrak from Washington, DC to Boston, MA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Washington, DC and Boston, MA from $45 (€37). 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 2m
Cheapest Price
$74 (€60)
Amtrak frequency
7 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 Boston

Things to do in Boston

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

  • Must visit

Museum of Fine Arts, Boston

One of the largest art museums in the United States, known for major collections spanning ancient to contemporary art.

  • Must visit

Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

A distinctive Venetian-style museum with art, architecture, and a celebrated courtyard; one of Boston’s most memorable cultural sites.

  • Must visit

Museum of Science

A major science museum with interactive exhibits, family-friendly displays, and a planetarium on the Charles River.

United States Dollar

Boston is expensive by U.S. standards, especially for hotels and dining, though casual eats and transit are manageable.

Average meal costs

Budget
USD 10-18 for fast food or a casual lunch.
Mid-range
USD 25-45 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
Fine dining
USD 75+ per person before drinks and tip.
Coffee
USD 4-7 for drip coffee or a latte.

Tipping culture

Tip 18-20% in restaurants; 20%+ for great service. USD 1-2 per drink at bars, round up taxis, and tip hotel staff and delivery drivers.

Traveling by train from Washington, DC to Boston, MA

Traveling between Washington, DC and Boston, MA is a convenient journey made easy by Amtrak. The train service offers comfortable seating and scenic views along the way, making it an enjoyable experience for travelers. With multiple daily departures, you can choose a schedule that fits your plans perfectly. Whether you're heading to explore historical landmarks in D.C. or enjoy the vibrant culture of Boston, Amtrak provides a reliable connection between these two iconic cities.

Train Connection: Washington, DC to Boston, MA

Traveling from Washington, DC to Boston, MA takes approximately 8 hours and 2 minutes. There are 17 connections available each day on this route, all of which are direct services. Passengers will depart from Union Station in DC and arrive at either Back Bay Station or South Station in Boston.

Washington, DC to Boston, MA

The first daily train journey departs from Washington, DC at 12:10 PM and the last departure is scheduled for 8:02 PM. This connection offers travelers a convenient way to explore the vibrant culture and historical landmarks of both cities throughout the day.

Train Tickets Price for Washington, DC to Boston, MA

The cheapest ticket price for the train connection between Washington, DC and Boston, MA is $106 (95.4€). The average ticket price tends to be around $181 (162.9€), making it a convenient option for travelers looking to explore these vibrant cities along the East Coast.

Exploring Boston's Historic Treasures

Welcome to Boston Common, the oldest public park in America, established in 1634. This historic green space has served as a gathering place for citizens throughout centuries, from Revolutionary War rallies to modern-day concerts and events. Its unique features include beautiful walking paths, tranquil ponds, and iconic monuments that tell the story of our nation's fight for freedom.

As we stroll along the Freedom Trail, you'll discover a 2.5-mile path lined with significant sites that chronicle America's revolutionary history. This trail connects 16 historical landmarks—from churches to museums—each offering insight into pivotal moments leading up to independence. What makes it truly special is how it seamlessly blends education with exploration; you can walk through history while enjoying Boston's vibrant atmosphere.

Finally, we'll visit the Paul Revere House, where this legendary patriot lived during his famous midnight ride in 1775. As one of the few remaining structures from colonial times in downtown Boston, its significance lies not only in its connection to Revere but also as a symbol of American resilience and spirit during tumultuous times. The house offers an intimate glimpse into life during the Revolution with original artifacts and engaging exhibits that bring Paul's remarkable story alive.

FAQs: Trains from Washington, DC to Boston, MA

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

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Washington, DC to Boston, MA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $74 (€60), while the average price is around $226 (€183).
The train from Washington, DC to Boston, MA takes 8h 2m and runs 31 per day.
The distance by train from Washington, DC to Boston, MA is 393 miles (634 km).
The first train from Washington, DC to Boston, MA leaves at 3:00 AM.
The last train from Washington, DC to Boston, MA leaves at 10:00 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Washington, DC to Boston, MA.
Yes, there is a direct train from Washington, DC to Boston, MA. This service operates 28 times per day, provided by Amtrak, Amtrak.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Washington, DC to Boston, MA.
The train station in Washington, DC that goes to Boston, MA is Washington Union Station, Washington, DC, which connects to South Station, Boston, MA.
The cheapest way to get from Washington, DC to Boston, MA is by bus, with a cost of around $45 (€37).
The train journey from Washington, DC to Boston, MA offers a mix of urban and natural scenery, including views of historic cities, rivers, and coastal landscapes, especially as it passes through regions like the Connecticut shoreline.
A day trip from Washington, DC to Boston, MA is not feasible as the journey takes 8h 2m. However, you have 33 train options available per day.
Explore the historic streets of Beacon Hill and take a scenic walk along the Charles River Esplanade. Visit the Boston Public Library and enjoy a guided tour of the USS Constitution. Discover Quincy Market's vibrant atmosphere. Don't miss the Freedom Trail, Fenway Park, the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston Common, and the New England Aquarium.
To fully experience Boston, MA, plan for 3 to 4 days to explore its historic sites, museums, and neighborhoods.
Yes, you can take the train from Washington, DC to Boston, MA.
Since neither Washington, DC nor Boston, MA 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 Boston, MA include Providence, RI, New London, CT, Kingston, RI, Wells, ME, Old Saybrook, CT.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Washington, DC to Boston, MA 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 Boston, MA, travelers should be aware of pickpocketing and bag theft, especially in crowded areas like public transit and popular tourist spots. Common scams include fake charity solicitations and overcharging by unlicensed taxi drivers. It's advisable to use official transportation services, stay alert in busy areas, and avoid sharing personal information with strangers to ensure 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 Boston, MA

Washington
Boston
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 Boston.
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 Boston, MA and Washington, DC

HomeTrainsTrains in USATrain Times to Boston, MAWashington, DC to Boston, MA train

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