- Must visit
Portland Museum of Art
Leading regional museum with strong American and European art, notable Winslow Homer works, and a handsome historic campus.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Washington, DC to Portland, ME
Showing times and prices for Aug 24
Cheapest price
$118
Average price
$231
Fastest journey
9 h 23 m
Average duration
10 h 45 m
Trains per day
13
Distance
775 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Washington, DC to Portland, ME 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 Portland, ME will cost around $231 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $118.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Washington, DC to Portland, ME without transferring at least once.
66 Northeast Regional · 8254 AMTRAK10:00 PM15h10Washington Union Station, Washington, DC1:10 PMPortland Transportation Center, Portland, ME$1181One-way1 transfer- 170 Northeast Regional · 685 Downeaster5:05 AM13h10Washington Union Station, Washington, DC6:15 PMPortland Transportation Center, Portland, ME$1851One-way1 transfer
- 66 Northeast Regional · 683 Downeaster10:00 PM16h20Washington Union Station, Washington, DC2:20 PMPortland Transportation Center, Portland, ME$1871One-way1 transfer
- 174 Northeast Regional · 689 Downeaster10:35 AM14h25Washington Union Station, Washington, DC1:00 AMPortland Transportation Center, Portland, ME$1871One-way1 transfer
2162 NextGen Acela+687 Downeaster4:20 PM27h30Washington Union Station, Washington, DC7:50 PMPortland Transportation Center, Portland, ME$2261One-way1 transfer
- 2150 Acela+8270 AMTRAK4:47 AM9h23Washington Union Station, Washington, DC2:10 PMPortland Transportation Center, Portland, ME$3131One-way1 transfer
- 2150 Acela+8257 AMTRAK4:47 AM10h23Washington Union Station, Washington, DC3:10 PMPortland Transportation Center, Portland, ME$3131One-way1 transfer
- 172 Northeast Regional · 8259 AMTRAK7:06 AM11h04Washington Union Station, Washington, DC6:10 PMPortland Transportation Center, Portland, ME$2421One-way1 transfer
- 170 Northeast Regional · 8258 AMTRAK5:05 AM11h05Washington Union Station, Washington, DC4:10 PMPortland Transportation Center, Portland, ME$2421One-way1 transfer
- 6076 AMTRAK · 190 Northeast Regional · 8257 AMTRAK3:20 AM11h50Washington Union Station, Washington, DC3:10 PMPortland Transportation Center, Portland, ME$2381One-way2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Washington, DC to Portland, ME
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Washington, DC to Portland, ME among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $72. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 49m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.2 - 0.7kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $72, and a flight costs an average of $125.
Distance: 481 miles (775 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$265 Average price | $349 Average price | $134 Average price Cheapest | $161 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
10h 39m Average total duration 10h 9m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 49m Average total duration Fastest 1h 49m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 13h 13m Average total duration 12h 43m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 7m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.2 - 0.7kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 2.3 - 4.7kg CO2 emissions | 0.8 - 1.9kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |  Most popular bus company | 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 Portland, ME is a bus with an average price of $107.
This is compared to other travel options from Washington, DC to Portland, ME:
A bus is $158 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Washington, DC to Portland, ME costing on average $265.
A bus is $242 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Washington, DC to Portland, ME costing on average $349.
The fastest way to travel from Washington, DC to Portland, ME is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 49m.
Other travel options to Portland, ME take longer:
Train takes on average 10h 9m.
Bus takes on average 12h 43m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Washington, DC and Portland, ME including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Washington, DC to Portland, ME 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 $265 compared to roughly $163 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-102.73. The journey takes 10h 9m versus 9h 7m 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, DC to Portland, ME train times
The table below shows live departures for Washington, DC to Portland, ME trains for today, Sunday, August 23. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 160 Northeast Regional · 8258 AMTRAK | 5:20 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 10h50 | 4:10 PM Portland Transportation Center, Portland, ME | 1 transfer | |
| 162 Northeast Regional · 8246 AMTRAK | 6:16 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 10h54 | 5:10 PM Portland Transportation Center, Portland, ME | 1 transfer | |
| 162 Northeast Regional · 8259 AMTRAK | 6:16 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 11h54 | 6:10 PM Portland Transportation Center, Portland, ME | 1 transfer | |
| 162 Northeast Regional · 695 Downeaster | 6:16 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 11h59 | 6:15 PM Portland Transportation Center, Portland, ME | 1 transfer | |
| 2252 Acela+8262 AMTRAK | 6:40 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 13h35 | 8:15 PM Portland Transportation Center, Portland, ME | 1 transfer | |
| 2254 Acela+697 Downeaster | 7:46 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 12h04 | 7:50 PM Portland Transportation Center, Portland, ME | 1 transfer | |
| 164 Northeast Regional · 8262 AMTRAK | 9:10 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 11h05 | 8:15 PM Portland Transportation Center, Portland, ME | 1 transfer | |
| 88 Northeast Regional · 8261 AMTRAK | 11:25 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 11h20 | 10:45 PM Portland Transportation Center, Portland, ME | 1 transfer | |
| 88 Northeast Regional · 8266 AMTRAK | 11:25 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 12h45 | 12:10 AM Portland Transportation Center, Portland, ME | 1 transfer | |
| 88 Northeast Regional · 699 Downeaster | 11:25 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 13h35 | 1:00 AM Portland Transportation Center, Portland, ME | 1 transfer | |
| 96 Northeast Regional · 699 Downeaster | 1:16 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 11h44 | 1:00 AM Portland Transportation Center, Portland, ME | 1 transfer | |
| 66 Northeast Regional · 683 Downeaster | 10:00 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 16h20 | 2:20 PM Portland Transportation Center, Portland, ME | 1 transfer | |
| 66 Northeast Regional · 8254 AMTRAK | 10:00 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 15h10 | 1:10 PM Portland Transportation Center, Portland, ME | 1 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 Portland, ME by bus, train, or flight
Compare bus, train, 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 Portland, ME trains with Omio?
Amtrak as well as Amtrak offer trains services from Washington, DC to Portland, ME.
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 Portland, ME.
- 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 bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Washington, DC to Portland, ME.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Washington, DC to Portland, ME
USAUSA
Trains from Washington, DC to Portland, ME run on average 12 times per day, taking around 10h 9m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $89 but you can travel from only $52 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 03:15, the last at 22:00. The fastest train covers the 481 miles (775 km) distance in 10h 25m.
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 $52
Distance 481 miles (775 km) |
Average train duration 10h 9m |
Cheapest ticket price $89 |
Trains per day 12 |
Fastest train 10h 25m |
First train 3:15 AM |
Last train 10:00 PM |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 49 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 $52
Train companies: Amtrak from Washington, DC to Portland, ME trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Washington, DC and Portland, ME from $72. 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
10h 45m
Cheapest Price
$89
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 Portland, ME
Things to do in Portland, ME
Discover the best of Portland, ME — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Portland, ME trip today.
- Recommended
Portland Head Light Museum
Hands-on history museum inside Portland Head Light exploring lighthouse technology, shipwrecks, and Maine's maritime past.
- Recommended
Wadsworth-Longfellow House Museum
Historic home and museum focused on Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, with original furnishings and insight into early Portland life.
- Must visit
Old Port
Historic district of brick streets, shops, and harbor views; Portland's classic place to stroll, browse, and absorb local character.
- Must visit
Eastern Promenade
Eastern Promenade offers broad Casco Bay views, walking paths, lawns, and one of Portland's best spots for relaxing outdoors.
- Recommended
Munjoy Hill
Hilltop neighborhood with historic homes, local feel, and rewarding lookout points around the Portland Observatory area.
- Gluten-free
Maine Lobster
Sweet, cold-water Maine lobster served steamed, in rolls, or with drawn butter. It is the city’s signature catch and a cornerstone of working waterfront food culture.
Clam Chowder
A creamy New England-style chowder made with local clams, potatoes, and salt pork. It is a classic Maine coastal comfort dish found across Portland.
- Gluten-free
Maine Oysters
Freshly shucked oysters from Maine farms such as the Damariscotta River. They are prized for their cold-water brininess and strong connection to local aquaculture.
Fore Street
Refined destination restaurant serving seasonal Maine tasting menus with local seafood and produce. Elegant but warm, and one of Portland’s top fine dining rooms.
The Holy Donut
Historic market-style venue known for potato donuts, sandwiches, coffee, and local pantry goods. Casual, busy, and deeply rooted in Portland food culture.
Eventide Oyster Co.
Beloved casual seafood shack known for excellent lobster rolls, fried seafood, and harbor views. A classic Portland stop with a relaxed waterfront feel.
United States Dollar ($)
Moderate for a U.S. coastal city: hotels peak in summer, seafood dining is mid-priced to high, and local transit is limited so visitors may rely on walking, rideshares, or cars.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $10-18 for fast food, deli, or casual takeaway.
- Mid-range
- $20-40 per person for a casual sit-down meal.
- Fine dining
- $60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- $3-6 for drip coffee or a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, 15-20% for taxis, and $1-2 per drink or coffee at cafes and bars.
FAQs: Trains from Washington, DC to Portland, ME
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Washington, DC to Portland, ME 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 Portland, ME, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Washington, DC to Portland, ME can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $89, while the average price is around $265.
The train from Washington, DC to Portland, ME takes 10h 25m and runs 12 per day.
The first train from Washington, DC to Portland, ME leaves at 3:15 AM.
The distance by train from Washington, DC to Portland, ME is 481 miles (775 km).
The last train from Washington, DC to Portland, ME leaves at 10:00 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Washington, DC to Portland, ME.
There is no direct train service currently available from Washington, DC to Portland, ME.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Washington, DC to Portland, ME.
The train station in Washington, DC that goes to Portland, ME is Washington Union Station, Washington, DC, which connects to Portland Transportation Center, Portland, ME.
The cheapest way to get from Washington, DC to Portland, ME is by bus, with a cost of around $72.
The train journey from Washington, DC to Portland, ME offers scenic views of the Eastern Seaboard, including glimpses of the Chesapeake Bay, lush forests, and charming New England towns, providing a picturesque travel experience.
A day trip from Washington, DC to Portland, ME is not feasible as the journey takes 10h 25m, covering 481 miles (775 km). The frequency is 12 per day for trains.
In Portland, ME, you can enjoy a craft beer tour sampling local brews, take a scenic ferry ride to the nearby Casco Bay Islands, and visit the Children's Museum & Theatre of Maine. Attend a live performance at the historic State Theatre or explore the Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad Co. & Museum. Visit sights like the Portland Head Light at Fort Williams Park, the vibrant Old Port district, the Eastern Promenade with its panoramic views, the Portland Museum of Art, and the intricate Victoria Mansion.
For a well-rounded experience in Portland, ME, plan for 2 to 3 days to explore its vibrant arts district, historic Old Port, and scenic waterfront.
Yes, you can take the train from Washington, DC to Portland, ME.
Since neither Washington, DC nor Portland, ME 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 Portland, ME include Brunswick, ME, Dover, NH, Wells, ME, Exeter, NH, Durham, NH.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Washington, DC to Portland, ME 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 Portland, ME, travelers should be cautious of petty theft, especially in crowded areas like the Old Port district. Common scams include overcharging by unlicensed taxi or ride-share drivers and parking meter fraud. It’s advisable to use official transportation services and remain vigilant with personal belongings to ensure a safe visit.
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 Portland, ME
Most Washington, DC to Portland, ME trains use the Union Station to Portland Transportation Center station pair. Use this guide to compare Washington, DC and Portland, ME 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 Portland
Which Washington, DC station do trains to Portland, ME leave from?
Trains from Washington, DC to Portland, ME 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 · $4 · 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.
Which Portland, ME station do trains from Washington, DC arrive at?
Trains from Washington, DC to Portland, ME most often arrive at Portland Transportation Center. Some services arrive at Freeport Station, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Portland, ME arrival station.
Portland Transportation Center100 Thompson's Point Road, Portland, ME 04102, USA+1 800-872-7245
City-centre transport
Getting to Portland Transportation Center from Portland city centre
Portland Transportation Center is 3 km from Portland city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus1, Brz · 18m · $5 · every ~5 min
9A, 7, 5 · 20m · $5 · every ~9 min
Portland Transportation Center train station facilities and services
Portland Transportation Center has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Portland Transportation Center. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Portland Transportation Center: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Portland Transportation Center: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Portland Transportation Center: Ramps, restrooms.
Most popular train connections from Washington, DC
More options for your journey from Washington, DC to Portland, ME
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Portland, ME and Washington, DC
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