- Must visit
Ackland Art Museum
University art museum with rotating exhibitions, modern and global works, and a sculpture garden. Strong choice for a thoughtful cultural visit.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Washington, DC to Chapel Hill, NC
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 12
Cheapest price on Oct 12
€48
Average ticket price on Oct 12
€57
Fastest journey on Oct 12
6 h 18 m
Average journey duration on Oct 12
6 h 30 m
Trains on Oct 12
3
Distance
376 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Washington, DC to Chapel Hill, NC 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 Chapel Hill, NC will cost around €57 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €48.
Fast trains
On Mon, Oct 12, we found 3 trains from Washington, DC to Chapel Hill, NC, including 3 direct services.
On Mon, Oct 12 the direct trains cover the 376 km distance in an average of 6 h 30 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 6 h 18 m .
On Mon, Oct 12 the slowest trains will take 6 h 53 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.
5:48 PM6h18Washington, DC12:06 AMChapel Hill, NC€481One-way0 transfers- 6:48 PM6h18Washington, DC1:06 AMChapel Hill, NC€501One-way0 transfers
- 5:10 PM6h53Washington, DC12:03 AMChapel Hill, NC€731One-way0 transfers
- 6:48 PM6h18Washington, DC1:06 AMChapel Hill, NC€501One-way0 transfers
- 5:48 PM6h18Washington, DC12:06 AMChapel Hill, NC€481One-way0 transfers
- 5:10 PM6h53Washington, DC12:03 AMChapel Hill, NC€731One-way0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Train from Washington, DC to Chapel Hill, NC
USAUSA
Trains from Washington, DC to Chapel Hill, NC run on average 3 times per day, taking around 6h 36m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €44 but you can travel from only €36 by bus.
There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 08:24, the last at 13:58. The fastest train covers the 233 miles (376 km) distance in 6h 18m.
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 €36
Distance 233 miles (376 km) |
Average train duration 6h 36m |
Cheapest ticket price €44 |
Trains per day 3 |
Direct trains 3 |
Fastest train 6h 18m |
First train 8:24 AM |
Last train 1:58 PM |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 63 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 €36
Live departures
Washington, DC to Chapel Hill, NC train times
The table below shows live departures for Washington, DC to Chapel Hill, NC trains for today, Sunday, October 11. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5:10 PM Washington, DC | 6h53 | 12:03 AM Chapel Hill, NC | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 5:48 PM Washington, DC | 6h18 | 12:06 AM Chapel Hill, NC | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 6:48 PM Washington, DC | 6h18 | 1:06 AM Chapel Hill, NC | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Train companies: Amtrak from Washington, DC to Chapel Hill, NC trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Washington, DC and Chapel Hill, NC from €36. 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 Amtrak Duration
6h 18m
Cheapest Amtrak Price
€44
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
Complete guide to Chapel Hill, NC
Things to do in Chapel Hill, NC
Discover the best of Chapel Hill, NC — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Chapel Hill, NC trip today.
- Recommended
Carolina Basketball Museum
Compact museum tracing Carolina basketball history through trophies, photos, and memorabilia inside the Dean E. Smith Center.
- Recommended
Morehead Planetarium and Science Center
Free planetarium and science center offering astronomy exhibits and live shows. Great for families and visitors interested in space science.
- Must visit
Franklin Street
Lively main street lined with shops, bookstores, and music venues. It is the classic place to feel Chapel Hill's college-town energy.
- Must visit
North Carolina Botanical Garden
Garden landscapes and natural areas with themed plant collections and walking paths. A calm stop for nature and seasonal color.
- Recommended
Polk Place
Landscaped campus quadrangle near key landmarks. Ideal for a short walk, photos, and seeing the historic heart of UNC.
- Gluten-free
Eastern North Carolina Pulled Pork Barbecue
Eastern North Carolina pulled pork is whole-hog or pork shoulder barbecue with a sharp vinegar-pepper sauce, a defining regional style widely eaten around Chapel Hill.
- Gluten-free
Carolina Barbecue Ribs
Barbecue pork ribs are slow-smoked and often finished with a tangy Carolina sauce, reflecting the region's strong pit-cooking tradition.
- Vegetarian
Fried Green Tomatoes
Fried green tomatoes are sliced unripe tomatoes breaded and fried, a classic Southern side popular in North Carolina restaurants.
Sunrise Biscuit Kitchen
Popular bakery and cafe for Southern breakfasts, biscuits, sandwiches, and coffee in a busy, informal neighborhood atmosphere.
Hawthorne & Wood
Warm, contemporary restaurant focused on seasonal Southern cooking, craft cocktails, and refined comfort food near downtown Chapel Hill.
Crook's Corner
Lively Southern restaurant known for shrimp and grits, biscuits, and local flavors in a polished but relaxed setting on Franklin Street.
US Dollar ($)
Moderate for a U.S. college town: hotels can rise on event weekends, dining is mid-priced, and local transit is limited but some buses are fare-free.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $10-15 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- $20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- $3-6 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, more for excellent service. Taxis usually 10-15%. Cafes: round up or add $1.
FAQs: Trains from Washington, DC to Chapel Hill, NC
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Washington, DC to Chapel Hill, 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 Chapel Hill, NC, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Washington, DC to Chapel Hill, NC can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €44, while the average price is around €96.
The train from Washington, DC to Chapel Hill, NC takes 6h 18m and runs 3 per day.
The first train from Washington, DC to Chapel Hill, NC leaves at 8:24 AM.
The distance by train from Washington, DC to Chapel Hill, NC is 233 miles (376 km).
The last train from Washington, DC to Chapel Hill, NC leaves at 1:58 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Washington, DC to Chapel Hill, NC.
Yes, there is a direct train from Washington, DC to Chapel Hill, NC. This service operates 3 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Washington, DC to Chapel Hill, NC.
The train station in Washington, DC that goes to Chapel Hill, NC is Washington Union Station, Washington, DC, which connects to Cary Station, Cary, NC.
The train journey from Washington, DC to Chapel Hill, NC offers scenic views of the Virginia countryside, with rolling hills and lush green landscapes, particularly beautiful during the fall foliage season. The route also passes through historic towns and offers glimpses of rivers and natural beauty.
Yes, you can take the train from Washington, DC to Chapel Hill, NC.
Popular day trips by train from Chapel Hill, NC include Salisbury, NC.
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 Chapel Hill, NC, travelers should be mindful of common urban safety concerns such as petty theft, especially in crowded areas like downtown and near the University of North Carolina campus. Scams are relatively rare but can include overcharging by unofficial taxi or ride-share drivers. It is advisable to use licensed transportation services and remain aware of personal belongings in public spaces.
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 Chapel Hill, NC
Most Washington, DC to Chapel Hill, NC trains use the Union Station to Cary Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Washington, DC and Chapel Hill, NC train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Washington
Arrival train stations in Chapel Hill
Which Washington, DC station do trains to Chapel Hill, NC leave from?
Trains from Washington, DC to Chapel Hill, NC leave from Union Station. The station is 1 miles (3 km) from Washington, DC city centre at 50 Massachusetts Ave NE, Washington, DC 20002, United States.
Union Station50 Massachusetts Ave NE, Washington, DC 20002, United States+1 202 2891908
City-centre transport
Getting to Union Station from Washington city centre
Union Station is 2 km from Washington city centre. Public transport options include:
BusD30 · 15m · €3 · every ~10 min
281, 481, 483, 484, 486 · 19m · €2 · every ~1 min
SubwayR · 5m · €2 · every ~27 min
Union Station train station facilities and services
Union Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: 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
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi in the station courtesy of Amtrak. ATMs are there are 2 ATM machines located on Level G.
Tickets and information
The ticket office is open Mon - Fri: 04:30 - 22:00, Sat - Sun: 05:00 - 22:00. Information desks are located on the train concourse of Level G near the Amtrak Waiting Area.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is amtrak provides temporary luggage storage for $10 per bag for 24 hours for customers holding Amtrak tickets.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Union Station: Parking, Taxis.
Bike and car services
Available at Union Station: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Union Station: Elevators, escalators, wheelchair access. Accessible facilities including restrooms, parking, platforms, ticket office, waiting room.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hyatt Recency Washington On Capitol Hill, Phoenix Park Hotel, Kimpton George Hotel.
Most popular train connections from Washington, DC
More options for your journey from Washington, DC to Chapel Hill, NC
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Chapel Hill, NC and Washington, DC
Most popular train connections to Chapel Hill, NC
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