The cheapest and fastest trains from Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ
Cheapest price
$119
Average price
$237
Fastest journey
2 h 16 m
Average duration
2 h 18 m
Trains per day
32
Distance
260 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ 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 Princeton, NJ will cost around $237 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $119.
Of the 32 trains that leave Washington, DC for Princeton, NJ on Tue, Nov 25, 29 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Tue, Nov 25 the direct trains cover the 260 km distance in an average of 2 h 18 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 16 m .
On Tue, Nov 25 the slowest trains will take 2 h 20 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.
170 Northeast Regional
114 Northeast Regional
56 Vermonter
172 Northeast Regional
1172 Northeast Regional
56 Vermonter
1172 Northeast Regional
80 Carolinian
114 Northeast Regional
134 Northeast RegionalTravel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €19. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 19m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €19, and a flight costs an average of €56.
Distance: 161 miles (260 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight |
|---|---|---|
€62 Average price | €30 Average price Cheapest | €183 Average price |
2h 53m Average total duration 2h 23m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 25m Average total duration 3h 55m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 19m Average total duration Fastest 1h 19m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions | 0.8 - 1.6kg 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 Princeton, NJ train times
The table below shows live departures for Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ trains for today, Monday, November 24. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
184 Northeast Regional | 6:25 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 2h26 | 8:51 PM Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ | 0 transfersDirect | |
94 Northeast Regional | 7:05 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 2h21 | 9:26 PM Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ | 0 transfersDirect | |
20 Crescent | 7:35 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 2h52 | 10:27 PM Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ | 0 transfersDirect | |
148 Northeast Regional | 7:55 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 2h27 | 10:22 PM Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ | 0 transfersDirect | |
176 Northeast Regional | 8:30 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 2h30 | 11:00 PM Princeton Junction Station at West Windsor, West Windsor Township, NJ | 0 transfersDirect | |
40 Floridian · 48 Lake Shore Limited · 657 Keystone Service | 8:57 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 29h16 | 2:13 AM Princeton Junction Station at West Windsor, West Windsor Township, NJ | 2 transfers | |
40 Floridian · 48 Lake Shore Limited · 657 Keystone Service | 8:57 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 29h26 | 2:23 AM Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ | 2 transfers | |
178 Northeast Regional | 9:02 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 2h23 | 11:25 PM Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ | 0 transfersDirect | |
136 Northeast Regional | 10:05 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 2h23 | 12:28 AM Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ | 0 transfersDirect | |
80 Carolinian | 10:15 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 2h17 | 12:32 AM Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ | 0 transfersDirect | |
138 Northeast Regional | 11:35 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 2h51 | 2:26 AM New Brunswick Station, New Brunswick, NJ | 0 transfersDirect | |
138 Northeast Regional | 11:35 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 2h37 | 2:12 AM Princeton Junction Station at West Windsor, West Windsor Township, NJ | 0 transfersDirect | |
138 Northeast Regional | 11:35 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 2h28 | 2:03 AM Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Tuesday, November 25 | |||||
192 Northeast Regional | 12:12 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 2h28 | 2:40 AM Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ | 0 transfersDirect | |
90 Palmetto | 12:57 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 2h26 | 3:23 AM Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ | 0 transfersDirect | |
186 Northeast Regional · 624 Keystone Service | 1:30 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 3h08 | 4:38 AM Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ | 1 transfer | |
170 Northeast Regional | 10:05 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 2h22 | 12:27 PM Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ | 0 transfersDirect | |
130 Northeast Regional | 11:30 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 2h30 | 2:00 PM Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ | 0 transfersDirect | |
172 Northeast Regional | 12:10 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 2h37 | 2:47 PM Princeton Junction Station at West Windsor, West Windsor Township, NJ | 0 transfersDirect | |
172 Northeast Regional | 12:10 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 2h27 | 2:37 PM Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ | 0 transfersDirect | |
112 Northeast Regional | 12:45 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 2h31 | 3:16 PM Princeton Junction Station at West Windsor, West Windsor Township, NJ | 0 transfersDirect | |
112 Northeast Regional | 12:45 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 2h46 | 3:31 PM New Brunswick Station, New Brunswick, NJ | 0 transfersDirect | |
56 Vermonter | 1:10 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 2h16 | 3:26 PM Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ | 0 transfersDirect | |
1172 Northeast Regional | 1:30 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 2h17 | 3:47 PM Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ | 0 transfersDirect | |
86 Northeast Regional | 1:50 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 2h25 | 4:15 PM Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ | 0 transfersDirect | |
114 Northeast Regional | 3:13 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 2h20 | 5:33 PM Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ | 0 transfersDirect | |
174 Northeast Regional | 3:35 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 2h49 | 6:24 PM New Brunswick Station, New Brunswick, NJ | 0 transfersDirect | |
174 Northeast Regional | 3:35 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 2h36 | 6:11 PM Princeton Junction Station at West Windsor, West Windsor Township, NJ | 0 transfersDirect | |
174 Northeast Regional | 3:35 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 2h26 | 6:01 PM Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ | 0 transfersDirect | |
84 Northeast Regional | 4:10 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 2h24 | 6:34 PM Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ | 0 transfersDirect | |
134 Northeast Regional | 5:05 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 2h20 | 7:25 PM Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ | 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 Princeton, NJ 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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Dec 01
Why should you book Washington to Princeton trains with Omio?
Amtrak as well as Amtrak Acela offer trains services from Washington to Princeton. Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Washington to Princeton.
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 Acela to find the best option for your trip from Washington to Princeton.
- 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 to Princeton.
Why book with Omio over Trainline and Rail Europe?
- Multiple travel company options: While Amtrak tickets can be bought on Amtrak's website or third party sellers, Omio allows you to compare with the likes of Amtrak Acela to help you choose the right option for your journey from Washington to Princeton.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Washington to Princeton.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ
Trains from Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ run on average 25 times per day, taking around 2h 23m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $12 (€10) if you book in advance.
There are 23 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:20, the last at 23:23. The fastest train covers the 161 miles (260 km) distance in 2h 20m.
Distance 161 miles (260 km) |
Average train duration 2h 23m |
Cheapest ticket price $12 (€10) |
Trains per day 25 |
Direct trains 23 |
Fastest train 2h 20m |
First train 00:20 |
Last train 23:23 |
Key Takeaways
Train Ticket Prices
- Budget Options: Train tickets from Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ start from as low as $12 (€10) if booked well in advance.
- Standard Fares: Typically, trains cost $76 (€62) depending on the train type and class.
Journey Duration & Frequency
- On average there are 25 daily trains from Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ with 23 direct service.
- The fastest trains can take as little as 2h 20m but the average duration is 2h 23m
Train Operators
- Travel from Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ with Amtrak and Amtrak Acela
- The most booked train company for this route on Omio is Amtrak.
- High-speed trains are available.
Stations & Schedule
- Most trains depart from Washington Union Station, Washington, DC and arrive in Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ
- First train typically departs at 12:20 AM and the last at 11:23 PM
Train companies: Amtrak, Amtrak Acela from Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ trainsAmtrak, Amtrak Acela trains will get you between Washington, DC and Princeton, NJ from $12 (€10). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Amtrak
Amtrak Acela
Traveling by train from Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ
Traveling between Washington, DC and Princeton, NJ is a convenient journey made easy by Amtrak. The train service offers comfortable rides with scenic views along the way, making it an enjoyable experience for travelers. With multiple departures throughout the day, you can easily plan your trip to explore the rich history of Washington or the charming atmosphere of Princeton.
Train Connection: Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ
The train journey from Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ takes approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes. There are no direct connections available; however, there is typically 1 connection per day. Passengers will need to transfer during their trip as the route does not offer a non-stop service.
Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ
The first daily train departs from Washington, DC at 09:05 AM and the last journey of the day leaves Princeton, NJ at 10:35 PM. This schedule allows travelers ample time to explore both cities while enjoying a convenient rail connection between them.
Train Tickets Price for Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ
The cheapest ticket price for the train connection between Washington, DC and Princeton, NJ is $11 (10€). The average ticket price typically hovers around $69 (62.1€), making it a budget-friendly option for travelers looking to explore these two cities.
Exploring Princeton University: A Journey Through History and Culture
Princeton University, founded in 1746, is one of the oldest and most prestigious institutions of higher learning in the United States. Its significance lies not only in its academic excellence but also as a birthplace for many influential leaders and thinkers who have shaped American history. As you stroll through its picturesque campus, you'll notice unique features like the stunning Collegiate Gothic architecture that reflects both tradition and innovation.
Nassau Hall, completed in 1756, stands as Princeton University's oldest building and has played a pivotal role throughout American history; it even served briefly as the capital of the United States during the Revolutionary War. This iconic structure symbolizes resilience and continuity within an ever-evolving educational landscape. Be sure to admire its grand façade adorned with intricate details that tell stories from centuries past while housing generations of scholars.
The McCarter Theatre Center opened its doors in 1930 and has since become a cultural cornerstone for performing arts enthusiasts across New Jersey. Renowned for hosting world-class productions ranging from theater to music concerts, this venue fosters creativity while nurturing local talent alongside international artists. Don't miss your chance to experience live performances here—it's where art comes alive against a backdrop steeped in rich artistic heritage!
FAQs: Trains from Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ 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 Princeton, NJ, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

popular train stations
Popular train stations from Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ
- 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
Most popular train connections from Washington, DC
More options for your journey from Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ
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