The cheapest and fastest trains from Washington, DC to Charlottesville, VA
Cheapest price
$23
Average price
$32
Fastest journey
2 h 25 m
Average duration
2 h 30 m
Trains per day
2
Distance
158 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Washington, DC to Charlottesville, VA 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 Charlottesville, VA will cost around $32 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $23.
Of the 2 trains that leave Washington, DC for Charlottesville, VA on Mon, Feb 02, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Mon, Feb 02 the direct trains cover the 158 km distance in an average of 2 h 30 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 25 m .
On Mon, Feb 02 the slowest trains will take 2 h 34 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.




Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Washington, DC to Charlottesville, VA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Washington, DC to Charlottesville, VA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €17. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 29m. 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 €17, and a flight costs an average of €290.
Distance: 98 miles (158 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight |
|---|---|---|
€31 Average price | €27 Average price Cheapest | €399 Average price |
2h 59m Average total duration Fastest 2h 29m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 45m Average total duration 3h 15m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 26m Average total duration 3h 26m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions | 0.5 - 0.9kg CO2 emissions |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Washington, DC to Charlottesville, VA train times
The table below shows live departures for Washington, DC to Charlottesville, VA trains for today, Sunday, February 1. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
151 Northeast Regional | 12:30 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 2h29 | 2:59 PM Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA | 0 transfersDirect | |
51 Cardinal | 4:39 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 2h44 | 7:23 PM Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA | 0 transfersDirect | |
145 Northeast Regional | 10:00 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 2h32 | 12:32 AM Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA | 0 transfersDirect | |
19 Crescent | 11:30 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 2h17 | 1:47 AM Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA | 0 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 Charlottesville, VA 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.
Feb 02
Feb 03
Feb 04
Feb 05
Feb 06
Feb 07
Feb 08
Feb 09
Feb 10
Feb 11
Feb 12
Feb 13
Feb 14
Feb 15
Feb 16
Feb 17
Feb 18
Feb 19
Feb 20
Feb 21
Feb 22
How far in advance should I book train tickets from Washington, DC to Charlottesville, VA?
Journey information
Overview: Train from Washington, DC to Charlottesville, VA
Trains from Washington, DC to Charlottesville, VA run on average 3 times per day, taking around 2h 29m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $23 (€18) but you can travel from only $22 (€17) by bus.
There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 08:15, the last at 19:01. The fastest train covers the 98 miles (158 km) distance in 2h 25m.
Distance 98 miles (158 km) |
Average train duration 2h 29m |
Cheapest ticket price $23 (€18) |
Trains per day 3 |
Direct trains 3 |
Fastest train 2h 25m |
First train 08:15 |
Last train 19:01 |
Train companies: Amtrak from Washington, DC to Charlottesville, VA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Washington, DC and Charlottesville, VA from $22 (€17). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Amtrak
Traveling by train from Washington, DC to Charlottesville, VA
The train connection between Washington, DC and Charlottesville, VA is a convenient option for travelers looking to explore the scenic beauty of Virginia. Amtrak provides reliable service on this route, allowing passengers to enjoy comfortable seating and picturesque views along the way. With multiple departures throughout the day, it's easy to plan your journey from the bustling capital city to the charming historic town of Charlottesville.
Train Connection: Washington, DC to Charlottesville, VA
Traveling from Washington, DC to Charlottesville, VA takes approximately 2 hours and 17 minutes. There are 3 direct connections available each day. Passengers will depart from Union Station in DC and arrive at Charlottesville Amtrak station in Virginia.
Washington, DC to Charlottesville, VA
The first daily train journey from Washington, DC departs at 12:15 PM, providing travelers with a convenient afternoon option. The last departure for the day is scheduled at 11:30 PM, allowing late-night arrivals in Charlottesville, VA.
Train Tickets Price from Washington, DC to Charlottesville, VA
The cheapest ticket price for the train connection between Washington, DC and Charlottesville, VA is $18 (16.2€). The average ticket price typically hovers around $34 (30.6€), making it a budget-friendly option for travelers looking to explore this charming Virginia city.
Exploring the Legacy of Thomas Jefferson: A Journey Through Charlottesville
Welcome to the University of Virginia, a UNESCO World Heritage site founded by Thomas Jefferson in 1819. This institution is not only significant for its architectural beauty and innovative educational philosophy but also as a symbol of American ideals in higher education. As you stroll through the campus, take note of its unique Rotunda, which reflects Jefferson's vision inspired by ancient Roman architecture.
Next on our journey is Monticello, the iconic plantation home designed and built by Thomas Jefferson himself. This remarkable estate holds great historical significance as it showcases both his achievements and contradictions regarding slavery; it's an exploration into America's complex past. The unique features here include meticulously landscaped gardens and intricate architectural details that reveal Jefferson’s passion for design and nature.
Finally, we arrive at Charlottesville Downtown Mall, one of the longest pedestrian malls in America filled with vibrant shops, restaurants, and cultural venues. Its significance lies in being a hub for community engagement where locals gather to celebrate art festivals or enjoy live music events throughout the year. What makes this mall truly special are its historic buildings interspersed with modern amenities—creating an inviting atmosphere that captures both charm and contemporary life.
FAQs: Trains from Washington, DC to Charlottesville, VA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Washington, DC to Charlottesville, VA 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 Charlottesville, VA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

popular train stations
Popular train stations from Washington, DC to Charlottesville, VA
- Mon - Fri: 04:30 - 22:00
- Sat - Sun: 05:00 - 22:00
- Free Wi-Fi in the station courtesy of Amtrak.
- Amtrak provides temporary luggage storage for $10 per bag for 24 hours for customers holding Amtrak tickets.
- 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
- Elevators, escalators, wheelchair access. Accessible facilities including restrooms, parking, platforms, ticket office, waiting room.
- Hyatt Recency Washington On Capitol Hill
- Phoenix Park Hotel
- Kimpton George Hotel
- Mon - Fri: 04:30 - 22:00
- Sat - Sun: 05:00 - 22:00
- Located on the train concourse of Level G near the Amtrak Waiting Area.
- 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
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
- Free
- Parking is available near the station.
- The Local
- Maya Restaurant
- Public Fish & Oyster
- Outside the main entrance.
- Elevators, ramps.
- $1
- Graduate Charlottesville
- Residence Inn by Marriott Charlottesville Downtown
- Omni Charlottesville Hotel
- Located in the main hall
- Located in the main hall
- Free
- Hall 1: main entrance, ticket office, and waiting area
- Platform area for boarding
- Bus: Charlottesville Area Transit (CAT) services available
Most popular train connections from Washington, DC
More options for your journey from Washington, DC to Charlottesville, VA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
