The cheapest and fastest trains from Washington, DC to Richmond, VA
Cheapest price
$34
Average price
$62
Fastest journey
1 h 58 m
Average duration
2 h 6 m
Trains per day
10
Distance
154 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Washington, DC to Richmond, 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 Richmond, VA will cost around $62 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $34.
Of the 10 trains that leave Washington, DC for Richmond, VA on Mon, May 25, 10 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Mon, May 25 the direct trains cover the 154 km distance in an average of 2 h 6 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 58 m .
On Mon, May 25 the slowest trains will take 2 h 10 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.
87 Northeast Regional7:00 PM2h15Washington Union Station, Washington, DC9:15 PMStaples Mill Road Station, Richmond, VA$341One-way0 transfers
65 Northeast Regional7:00 AM2h03Washington Union Station, Washington, DC9:03 AMStaples Mill Road Station, Richmond, VA$341One-way0 transfers
65 Northeast Regional7:00 AM2h32Washington Union Station, Washington, DC9:32 AMMain Street Station, Richmond, VA$351One-way0 transfers
99 Northeast Regional5:10 PM2h08Washington Union Station, Washington, DC7:18 PMStaples Mill Road Station, Richmond, VA$561One-way0 transfers
99 Northeast Regional5:10 PM2h37Washington Union Station, Washington, DC7:47 PMMain Street Station, Richmond, VA$571One-way0 transfers
89 Palmetto12:55 PM1h58Washington Union Station, Washington, DC2:53 PMStaples Mill Road Station, Richmond, VA$961One-way0 transfers
65 Northeast Regional7:00 AM2h03Washington Union Station, Washington, DC9:03 AMStaples Mill Road Station, Richmond, VA$341One-way0 transfers
99 Northeast Regional5:10 PM2h08Washington Union Station, Washington, DC7:18 PMStaples Mill Road Station, Richmond, VA$561One-way0 transfers
41 Floridian1:48 PM2h09Washington Union Station, Washington, DC3:57 PMStaples Mill Road Station, Richmond, VA$861One-way0 transfers
79 Carolinian1:05 PM2h10Washington Union Station, Washington, DC3:15 PMStaples Mill Road Station, Richmond, VA$671One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Washington, DC to Richmond, VA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Washington, DC to Richmond, 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 9m. 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 $166.
Distance: 95 miles (154 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$37 Average price | $27 Average price Cheapest | $413 Average price | $22 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 39m Average total duration Fastest 2h 9m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 40m Average total duration 2h 10m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 49m Average total duration 2h 49m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 1h 50m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions | 0.5 - 0.9kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular bus company | ![]() Most popular airline | 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.
This is compared to other travel options from Washington, DC to Richmond, VA:
A bus is $10 (€8) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Washington, DC to Richmond, VA costing on average $37 (€30).
A bus is $386 (€313) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Washington, DC to Richmond, VA costing on average $413 (€334).
Other travel options to Richmond, VA take longer:
Bus takes on average 2h 10m.
Flight takes on average 2h 49m.
Tickets start at around $37 (€30) compared to roughly $22 (€18) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-14.48 (€-11.72). The journey takes 2h 9m versus 1h 50m 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 Richmond, VA train times
The table below shows live departures for Washington, DC to Richmond, VA trains for today, Sunday, May 24. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
65 Northeast Regional | 7:00 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 2h03 | 9:03 AM Staples Mill Road Station, Richmond, VA | 0 transfersDirect | |
65 Northeast Regional | 7:00 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 2h32 | 9:32 AM Main Street Station, Richmond, VA | 0 transfersDirect | |
89 Palmetto | 12:55 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 1h58 | 2:53 PM Staples Mill Road Station, Richmond, VA | 0 transfersDirect | |
79 Carolinian | 1:05 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 2h10 | 3:15 PM Staples Mill Road Station, Richmond, VA | 0 transfersDirect | |
155 Northeast Regional | 1:10 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 2h16 | 3:26 PM Staples Mill Road Station, Richmond, VA | 0 transfersDirect | |
41 Floridian | 1:48 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 2h09 | 3:57 PM Staples Mill Road Station, Richmond, VA | 0 transfersDirect | |
99 Northeast Regional | 5:10 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 2h08 | 7:18 PM Staples Mill Road Station, Richmond, VA | 0 transfersDirect | |
99 Northeast Regional | 5:10 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 2h37 | 7:47 PM Main Street Station, Richmond, VA | 0 transfersDirect | |
87 Northeast Regional | 7:00 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 2h15 | 9:15 PM Staples Mill Road Station, Richmond, VA | 0 transfersDirect | |
97 Silver Meteor | 7:24 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 2h15 | 9:39 PM Staples Mill Road Station, Richmond, VA | 0 transfersDirect | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Washington, DC to Richmond, 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.
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How far in advance should I book train tickets from Washington, DC to Richmond, VA?
Journey information
Overview: Train from Washington, DC to Richmond, VA
Trains from Washington, DC to Richmond, VA run on average 12 times per day, taking around 2h 9m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $16 (€13) if you book in advance.
There are 12 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 03:52, the last at 19:24. The fastest train covers the 95 miles (154 km) distance in 2h 3m.
Distance 95 miles (154 km) |
Average train duration 2h 9m |
Cheapest ticket price $16 (€13) |
Trains per day 12 |
Direct trains 12 |
Fastest train 2h 3m |
First train 3:52 AM |
Last train 7:24 PM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 42 days |
Train companies: Amtrak from Washington, DC to Richmond, VA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Washington, DC and Richmond, VA from $16 (€13). 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 Richmond, VA
The train connection between Washington, DC and Richmond, VA is a convenient option for travelers looking to explore the vibrant culture of Virginia's capital. Amtrak provides reliable service on this route, allowing passengers to enjoy comfortable seating and scenic views along the way. With multiple departures daily, it's easy to plan your trip whether you're visiting for business or leisure.
Train Connection: Washington, DC to Richmond, VA
The train connection between Washington, DC and Richmond, VA takes approximately 2 hours and 3 minutes. There are 3 direct connections available each day. Passengers can depart from Union Station in DC and arrive at either Main Street Station or Staples Mill Road Station in Virginia.
Washington, DC to Richmond, VA
The first daily train journey from Washington, DC to Richmond, VA departs at 11:00 AM. The last departure for this route is scheduled for 11:24 PM.
Train Tickets Price for Washington, DC to Richmond, VA
The cheapest ticket price for the train connection between Washington, DC and Richmond, VA is $15 (13.5€). The average ticket price typically hovers around $27 (24.3€), making it a budget-friendly option for travelers looking to explore these two cities in the United States.
Exploring Richmond: A Journey Through History and Nature
Welcome to the Virginia State Capitol, a stunning architectural masterpiece designed by Thomas Jefferson in 1788. This historic building not only serves as the seat of government for Virginia but also symbolizes the state's rich political heritage and commitment to democracy. As you explore its grand rotunda and impressive chambers, you'll discover unique features like the statue of George Washington that stands proudly at its center.
Next, we find ourselves on Monument Avenue, an iconic boulevard lined with striking monuments commemorating key figures from Virginia's past. While originally celebrated for honoring Confederate leaders, this avenue has evolved into a space for reflection on history and social change in America today. Take note of how each monument tells a story through intricate sculptures and inscriptions that invite deeper contemplation about our shared legacy.
Finally, let’s stroll through Maymont Park—a breathtaking estate transformed into a public park featuring lush gardens and wildlife exhibits nestled within 100 acres of natural beauty. Originally owned by wealthy philanthropists James and Sallie Dooley in the late 19th century, it showcases exquisite Italian Renaissance gardens alongside native flora—making it truly one-of-a-kind in Richmond. Don’t miss visiting the mansion itself; it's filled with original furnishings that transport you back to an era of elegance while highlighting their dedication to conservation efforts still relevant today!
FAQs: Trains from Washington, DC to Richmond, VA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Washington, DC to Richmond, 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 Richmond, VA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

popular train stations
Popular train stations from Washington, DC to Richmond, 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 on-site with spaces for short-term and long-term parking.
- Outside the main entrance.
- Ramps, restrooms.
- $1
- Located in the main hall
- Located in the main hall
- Free
- The station has a single-level layout with an enclosed waiting area and ticketing services.
- Bus: GRTC Route 19
- Taxi services available
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
- Free
- Parking is available at the station with access from Main Street.
- The Roosevelt
- Lemaire Restaurant
- Outside the main entrance.
- Ramps.
- $1
- The Berkeley Hotel
- Omni Richmond Hotel
- The Commonwealth
- Located in the main hall
- Located in the main hall
- Free
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform access, ticket office, and waiting area
- Bus: GRTC Pulse
- Several local bus lines available
Most popular train connections from Washington, DC
More options for your journey from Washington, DC to Richmond, VA
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