Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ train with Amtrak

Tue, Nov 25
+ Add return
Amtrak
Amtrak Acela
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
Italo
1,000+ travel companies
Amtrak
Amtrak Acela
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
Italo
1,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ

Showing times and prices for Nov 25

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

Cheap tickets

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.

Fast trains

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.

Amtrak170 Northeast Regional
05:05AM2h22
Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
07:27AMTrenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ
$1191One-way
0 transfers
Amtrak114 Northeast Regional
10:13AM2h20
Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
12:33PMTrenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ
$1581One-way
0 transfers
Amtrak56 Vermonter
08:10AM2h16
Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
10:26AMTrenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ
$1581One-way
0 transfers
Amtrak172 Northeast Regional
07:10AM2h27
Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
09:37AMTrenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ
$1581One-way
0 transfers
Amtrak1172 Northeast Regional
08:30AM2h17
Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
10:47AMTrenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ
$1581One-way
0 transfers

Travel 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.

Last updated at 6:11 PM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
amtrak184 Northeast Regional6:25 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
2h26
8:51 PM Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ0 transfersDirect
amtrak94 Northeast Regional7:05 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
2h21
9:26 PM Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ0 transfersDirect
amtrak20 Crescent7:35 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
2h52
10:27 PM Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ0 transfersDirect
amtrak148 Northeast Regional7:55 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
2h27
10:22 PM Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ0 transfersDirect
amtrak176 Northeast Regional8:30 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
2h30
11:00 PM Princeton Junction Station at West Windsor, West Windsor Township, NJ0 transfersDirect
amtrak40 Floridian · 48 Lake Shore Limited · 657 Keystone Service8:57 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
29h16
2:13 AM Princeton Junction Station at West Windsor, West Windsor Township, NJ2 transfers
amtrak40 Floridian · 48 Lake Shore Limited · 657 Keystone Service8:57 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
29h26
2:23 AM Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ2 transfers
amtrak178 Northeast Regional9:02 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
2h23
11:25 PM Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ0 transfersDirect
amtrak136 Northeast Regional10:05 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
2h23
12:28 AM Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ0 transfersDirect
amtrak80 Carolinian10:15 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
2h17
12:32 AM Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ0 transfersDirect
amtrak138 Northeast Regional11:35 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
2h51
2:26 AM New Brunswick Station, New Brunswick, NJ0 transfersDirect
amtrak138 Northeast Regional11:35 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
2h37
2:12 AM Princeton Junction Station at West Windsor, West Windsor Township, NJ0 transfersDirect
amtrak138 Northeast Regional11:35 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
2h28
2:03 AM Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ0 transfersDirect
Tuesday, November 25
amtrak192 Northeast Regional12:12 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
2h28
2:40 AM Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ0 transfersDirect
amtrak90 Palmetto12:57 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
2h26
3:23 AM Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ0 transfersDirect
amtrak186 Northeast Regional · 624 Keystone Service1:30 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
3h08
4:38 AM Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ1 transfer
amtrak170 Northeast Regional10:05 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
2h22
12:27 PM Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ0 transfersDirect
amtrak130 Northeast Regional11:30 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
2h30
2:00 PM Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ0 transfersDirect
amtrak172 Northeast Regional12:10 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
2h37
2:47 PM Princeton Junction Station at West Windsor, West Windsor Township, NJ0 transfersDirect
amtrak172 Northeast Regional12:10 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
2h27
2:37 PM Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ0 transfersDirect
amtrak112 Northeast Regional12:45 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
2h31
3:16 PM Princeton Junction Station at West Windsor, West Windsor Township, NJ0 transfersDirect
amtrak112 Northeast Regional12:45 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
2h46
3:31 PM New Brunswick Station, New Brunswick, NJ0 transfersDirect
amtrak56 Vermonter1:10 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
2h16
3:26 PM Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ0 transfersDirect
amtrak1172 Northeast Regional1:30 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
2h17
3:47 PM Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ0 transfersDirect
amtrak86 Northeast Regional1:50 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
2h25
4:15 PM Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ0 transfersDirect
amtrak114 Northeast Regional3:13 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
2h20
5:33 PM Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ0 transfersDirect
amtrak174 Northeast Regional3:35 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
2h49
6:24 PM New Brunswick Station, New Brunswick, NJ0 transfersDirect
amtrak174 Northeast Regional3:35 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
2h36
6:11 PM Princeton Junction Station at West Windsor, West Windsor Township, NJ0 transfersDirect
amtrak174 Northeast Regional3:35 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
2h26
6:01 PM Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ0 transfersDirect
amtrak84 Northeast Regional4:10 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
2h24
6:34 PM Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ0 transfersDirect
amtrak134 Northeast Regional5:05 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
2h20
7:25 PM Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ0 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.

Tue
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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 modes of transport
  • 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

USAUSA
USAUSA
Icon of train

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.

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
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
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

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

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
2h 20m
Cheapest Price
$23 (€19)
Amtrak frequency
24 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

Amtrak Acela

About
Amtrak Acela is the flagship high-speed train service operated by Amtrak, the national rail operator of the United States. Running along the Northeast Corridor, Acela connects major cities such as Washington, D.C., Baltimore, Philadelphia, New York City, Providence, and Boston. It is the fastest train service in the U.S., reaching speeds of up to 150 mph (250 km/h). Passengers can choose between Business Class and First Class. Both offer seat reservations, free Wi-Fi, power outlets, adjustable lighting, conference tables, and large tray tables, with spacious seating and extra legroom. Business Class includes complimentary snacks and beverages, while First Class offers larger seats, complimentary meals, and access to premium lounges. Food and drinks are also available for purchase at Café Acela. Popular routes include Washington, D.C.–New York City, New York City–Boston, and Philadelphia–Washington, D.C.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 7m
Cheapest Price
$522 (€425)
Amtrak Acela frequency
2 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
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
Coach Class: Not included, can be purchased. Business/First Class: Included
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

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.

FAQs
A stay of 2 to 3 days in Princeton, NJ, is ideal to explore key attractions such as Princeton University, the Princeton University Art Museum, and the historic downtown area.
The distance by train from Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ is 161 miles (260 km).
The first train from Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ leaves at 12:20 AM.
The last train from Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ leaves at 11:23 PM.
A day trip from Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ is not feasible, as the travel duration is 2h 20m. The journey covers a distance of 161 miles (260 km), with a frequency of 25 trips per day for trains.
Train ticket prices from Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $12 (€10), while the average price is around $76 (€62).
The cheapest way to get from Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ is by train, with a cost of around $12 (€10).
The train journey from Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ offers a mix of urban and suburban scenery, including views of the Potomac River, rolling landscapes of Maryland, and glimpses of the Delaware River as you approach New Jersey, providing a pleasant but not dramatically scenic experience.
The train from Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ takes 2h 20m and runs 25 per day.
The train station in Washington, DC that goes to Princeton, NJ is Washington Union Station, Washington, DC, which connects to Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ.
Yes, you can take the train from Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ.
Yes, there is a direct train from Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ. This service operates 23 times per day, provided by Amtrak.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ

Washington
Princeton
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
HomeTrainsTrains in USATrain Times to Princeton, NJWashington, DC to Princeton, NJ train

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