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- Free Drinks
- Free meal
- Lounge Access
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Charleston, SC to Washington, DC
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 07 Sept
Cheapest price on 07 Sept
£176
Average ticket price on 07 Sept
£230
Fastest journey on 07 Sept
9 h 16 m
Average journey duration on 07 Sept
9 h 51 m
Trains on 07 Sept
5
Distance
729 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Charleston, SC to Washington, DC is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Charleston, SC to Washington, DC will cost around £230 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £176.
Fast trains
On Mon 07 Sept, we found 5 trains from Charleston, SC to Washington, DC, including 5 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 729 km distance in an average of 9 h 51 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 9 h 16 m .
The slowest trains will take 10 h 52 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.
98 Silver Meteor20:349h51Charleston Station, North Charleston, SC6:25Washington Union Station, Washington, DC£1761One-way0 changes- 98 Silver Meteor20:349h20Charleston Station, North Charleston, SC5:54Alexandria Station, Alexandria, VA£1761One-way0 changes
- 90 Palmetto9:159h55Charleston Station, North Charleston, SC19:10Washington Union Station, Washington, DC£2651One-way0 changes
- 90 Palmetto9:159h16Charleston Station, North Charleston, SC18:31Alexandria Station, Alexandria, VA£2651One-way0 changes
- 90 Palmetto9:1510h52Charleston Station, North Charleston, SC20:07New Carrollton Amtrak Station, New Carrollton, MD£2681One-way0 changes
- 90 Palmetto9:159h16Charleston Station, North Charleston, SC18:31Alexandria Station, Alexandria, VA£2651One-way0 changes
- 98 Silver Meteor20:349h20Charleston Station, North Charleston, SC5:54Alexandria Station, Alexandria, VA£1761One-way0 changes
- 98 Silver Meteor20:349h51Charleston Station, North Charleston, SC6:25Washington Union Station, Washington, DC£1761One-way0 changes
- 90 Palmetto9:159h55Charleston Station, North Charleston, SC19:10Washington Union Station, Washington, DC£2651One-way0 changes
- 90 Palmetto9:1510h52Charleston Station, North Charleston, SC20:07New Carrollton Amtrak Station, New Carrollton, MD£2681One-way0 changes
Travel Information
Compare coach, train and flight for Charleston, SC to Washington, DC
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Charleston, SC to Washington, DC among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the coach, with an average ticket price of £79 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 4h 22m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £79, while a flight costs an average of £159.
Distance: 729 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Coach | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
£97 Average Price | £159 Average Price | £79 Average Price Cheapest | £75 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
10h 22m Average total duration 9h 52m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 22m Average total duration Fastest 2h 22m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 12h 37m Average total duration 12h 7m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 55m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
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 |
The cheapest way to travel from Charleston, SC to Washington, DC is a coach with an average price of £79.
This is compared to other travel options from Charleston, SC to Washington, DC:
A coach is £19 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Charleston, SC to Washington, DC costing on average £97.
A coach is £80 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Charleston, SC to Washington, DC costing on average £159.
The fastest way to travel from Charleston, SC to Washington, DC is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 22m.
Other travel options to Washington, DC take longer:
Train takes on average 9h 52m.
Coach takes on average 12h 7m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Charleston, SC and Washington, DC including taking a coach, train and flight.
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 £97 compared to roughly £75 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about £-22.31. The journey takes 9h 52m versus 7h 55m 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
Charleston, SC to Washington, DC train times
The table below shows live departures for Charleston, SC to Washington, DC trains for today, Sunday 6 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 98 Silver Meteor · 164 Northeast Regional | 20:34 Charleston Station, North Charleston, SC | 12h47 | 9:21 New Carrollton Amtrak Station, New Carrollton, MD | 1 change | |
| 98 Silver Meteor | 20:34 Charleston Station, North Charleston, SC | 9h51 | 6:25 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 changesdirect | |
| 98 Silver Meteor | 20:34 Charleston Station, North Charleston, SC | 9h20 | 5:54 Alexandria Station, Alexandria, VA | 0 changesdirect | |
| Monday 7 September | |||||
| 90 Palmetto | 9:15 Charleston Station, North Charleston, SC | 9h55 | 19:10 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 changesdirect | |
| 90 Palmetto | 9:15 Charleston Station, North Charleston, SC | 9h16 | 18:31 Alexandria Station, Alexandria, VA | 0 changesdirect | |
| 90 Palmetto | 9:15 Charleston Station, North Charleston, SC | 10h52 | 20:07 New Carrollton Amtrak Station, New Carrollton, MD | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Charleston, SC to Washington, DC by coach, train or flight
Compare coach, 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.
Mon
07 Sept
07 Sept
Tue
08 Sept
08 Sept
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09 Sept
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10 Sept
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13 Sept
13 Sept
Journey information
Overview: Train from Charleston, SC to Washington, DC
USAUSA
Trains from Charleston, SC to Washington, DC run on average 2 times per day, taking around 9h 52m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £62 but you can travel from only £55 by coach.
There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 09:15, the last at 21:34. The fastest train covers the 729 km distance in 9h 51m.
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
Coach from £55
Distance 729 km |
Average train duration 9h 52m |
Cheapest ticket price £62 |
Trains per day 2 |
Direct trains 2 |
Fastest train 9h 51m |
First train 9:15 |
Last train 21:34 |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 1 day |
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
Coach from £55
Train companies: Amtrak from Charleston, SC to Washington, DC trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Charleston, SC and Washington, DC from £55. 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 Amtrak Duration
9h 51m
Cheapest Amtrak Price
£62
Amtrak 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 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
Train companies: Amtrak from Charleston, SC to Washington, DC trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Charleston, SC and Washington, DC from £55. 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 Amtrak Duration
9h 51m
Cheapest Amtrak Price
£62
Amtrak 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 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
What's included in each class
Compare Amtrak classes and the amenities included in each one.
Business Class Seat
- Free Wi-Fi
- Power plugs
- Wide seats
- Extra legroom
- Free Drinks
- Meals to buy
- Snacks to buy
- WC
Business Travel Roomette
- Power plugs
- Extra legroom
- Free Drinks
- Free meal
- Lounge Access
Coach Lower Level Seat
- Free Wi-Fi
- Power plugs
- Extra legroom
- Meals to buy
- Snacks to buy
Coach Reserved Seat
- Free Wi-Fi
- Power plugs
- Extra legroom
- Meals to buy
- Snacks to buy
Coach Seat
- Free Wi-Fi
- Power plugs
Coach Unreserved Seat
- Free Wi-Fi
- Power plugs
- Extra legroom
- Meals to buy
- Snacks to buy
Family Bedroom
- Power plugs
- Extra legroom
- Free Drinks
- Free meal
- Lounge Access
Superliner Roomette
- Power plugs
- Extra legroom
- Free Drinks
- Free meal
- Lounge Access
Viewliner Roomette
- Power plugs
- Extra legroom
- Free Drinks
- Free meal
- Lounge Access
Complete guide to Washington, DC
Things to do in Washington, DC
Discover the best of Washington, DC — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Washington, DC trip today.
- Must visit
National Air and Space Museum
Vast air and space museum displaying historic aircraft, spacecraft and interactive exhibits for all ages.
- Must visit
National Museum of African American History and Culture
Museum exploring the history, culture and contributions of African Americans through powerful exhibitions.
- Must visit
National Gallery of Art
Leading art museum with European and American masterpieces, sculpture garden and free permanent collection.
- Must visit
National Mall
Grand landscaped park linking memorials, museums and monuments, ideal for walking and classic city views.
- Must visit
Georgetown
Historic waterfront district with cobbled streets, canal paths, shops and scenic walks by the Potomac.
- Recommended
Adams Morgan
Vibrant neighbourhood known for murals, music venues, independent shops and one of the city’s liveliest streets.
Half-smoke
Half-smoke sausage, usually smoked pork and beef, served on a bun with chilli and toppings. It is a long-standing Washington street food linked to the city’s carry-outs.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Mumbo sauce
Mumbo sauce is a sweet, tangy, slightly spicy condiment popular with fried chicken and chips in Washington carry-outs. It is a distinctive local takeaway staple.
- Vegetarian
Jumbo slice
Jumbo slice is an oversized pizza slice sold late at night in Washington, especially around nightlife areas. It is a local post-night-out food ritual.
Iron Gate
Polished American dining with a focus on seasonal produce and Chesapeake influences. Sophisticated setting suited to a celebratory meal.
The Hamilton
Refined Mid-Atlantic seafood restaurant known for oyster dishes, crab, and seasonal ingredients. Elegant but approachable atmosphere in Penn Quarter.
Tryst
Beloved bakery and café serving Ethiopian coffee, pastries, and light meals. Relaxed community feel in Adams Morgan.
US dollar ($)
Washington is pricier than many US cities for hotels and dining near central sights, though museums are often free and public transport is reasonably priced.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $12-20 for fast food or casual takeaway.
- Mid-range
- $25-45 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $80+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- $4-6 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% in restaurants if service is not included, $1-2 per drink at bars, 10-15% for taxis, and spare change or up to 10% in cafés.
Metro Pulse
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- $2.25
- Day pass
- $13.00
To the city centre
Washington Union Station -> Metro Center, Washington, DC
- Distance
- 2 km
- Travel time
- 5 min
- Tap contactless bank card, phone wallet, or SmarTrip at Metrorail faregates and Metrobus fareboxes.
- Metrorail fares vary by distance and time; $2.25 is the lowest full single fare, while longer trips cost more.
FAQs: Charleston, SC to Washington, DC train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Charleston, SC to Washington, DC 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 Washington, DC, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Charleston, SC to Washington, DC can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £62, while the average price tends to be around £97.
The train journey from Charleston, SC to Washington, DC covers a distance of 729 km and takes approximately 9h 51m. Trains run 2 per day.
The train distance from Charleston, SC to Washington, DC is 729 km.
The first train from Charleston, SC to Washington, DC leaves at 9:15.
The last train from Charleston, SC to Washington, DC departs at 21:34.
Trains from Charleston, SC to Washington, DC run approximately 2 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Charleston, SC to Washington, DC.
Yes, there is a direct train between Charleston, SC and Washington, DC. The service operates 2 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
To get from Charleston, SC to Washington, DC, you can choose from several travel options including coach, train and flight.
There is no night train service from Charleston, SC to Washington, DC.
The train station in Charleston, SC that goes to Washington, DC is Charleston Station, North Charleston, SC, and it arrives at Washington Union Station, Washington, DC.
The cheapest way to get from Charleston, SC to Washington, DC is by coach, costing approximately £55.
Booking trains from Charleston, SC to Washington, DC in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Charleston, SC to Washington, DC offers scenic views of the southern countryside, with glimpses of historical towns, lush forests, and the occasional river, providing a pleasant and picturesque experience for travellers.
A day trip from Charleston, SC to Washington, DC is not feasible as the journey takes 9h 51m. The distance is 729 km and there are 2 trips per day by train.
In Washington, DC, you can discover the National Gallery of Art, stroll through the historic Georgetown neighbourhood, visit the Library of Congress, explore the vibrant Eastern Market, and enjoy a performance at the Kennedy Centre. Best sights include the National Mall, the White House, the United States Capitol, the Smithsonian Institution, and the Lincoln Memorial.
For a comprehensive experience of Washington, DC, plan to spend about three to four days. This allows time to visit major attractions such as the National Mall, Smithsonian Museums, and landmarks like the Lincoln Memorial and the US Capitol.
Yes, you can take the train from Charleston, SC to Washington, DC.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Charleston, SC and Washington, DC
Most Charleston, SC to Washington, DC trains use the Charleston Station to Union Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Charleston, SC and Washington, DC train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Charleston
Arrival train stations in Washington
Which Washington, DC station do trains from Charleston, SC arrive at?
Trains from Charleston, SC to Washington, DC most often arrive at Union Station. Some services arrive at Alexandria Station, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Washington, DC arrival station.
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 · £3 · 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.
Most popular train connections from Charleston, SC
More options for your journey from Charleston, SC to Washington, DC
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Washington, DC and Charleston, SC
Most popular train connections to Washington, DC
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