Charlotte, NC to Washington, DC train with Amtrak

Wed 02 Sept
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Amtrak
Avanti West Coast
Great Western Railway
Regionale
West Midlands Trains
2,000+ travel companies
Amtrak
Avanti West Coast
Great Western Railway
Regionale
West Midlands Trains
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Charlotte, NC to Washington, DC

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 02 Sept

Cheapest price on 02 Sept

£97

Average ticket price on 02 Sept

£108

Fastest journey on 02 Sept

8 h 16 m

Average journey duration on 02 Sept

9 h 14 m

Trains on 02 Sept

2

Distance

529 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Charlotte, NC 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 Charlotte, NC to Washington, DC will cost around £108 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £97.

Fast trains

On Wed 02 Sept, we found 2 trains from Charlotte, NC to Washington, DC, including 2 direct services.

These direct trains cover the 529 km distance in an average of 9 h 14 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 8 h 16 m .

The slowest trains will take 10 h 11 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.

  • Amtrak80 Carolinian
    6:4510h11
    Charlotte Station, Charlotte, NC
    16:56Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
    £971One-way
    0 changes
  • Amtrak20 Crescent
    5:318h16
    Charlotte Station, Charlotte, NC
    13:47Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
    £1191One-way
    0 changes

Travel Information

Compare train, coach and flight for Charlotte, NC to Washington, DC

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Charlotte, NC to Washington, DC among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the coach, with an average ticket price of £47 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 3h 32m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.2 - 0.5kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £47, while a flight costs an average of £183.

Distance: 529 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Coach
Flight

£104

Average Price

£47

Average Price

Cheapest

£183

Average Price

9h 48m

Average total duration

9h 18m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

9h 10m

Average total duration

8h 40m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 32m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 32m

Onboard

+

2h 0m

Additional time*

0.2 - 0.5kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.5 - 1.3kg

CO2 emissions

1.6 - 3.2kg

CO2 emissions

Amtrak

Most popular train company

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

American Airlines

Most popular airline

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

Live departures

Charlotte, NC to Washington, DC train times

The table below shows live departures for Charlotte, NC to Washington, DC trains for today, Tuesday 1 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
Amtrak80 Carolinian6:45 Charlotte Station, Charlotte, NC
10h11
16:56 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC0 changesdirect
Wednesday 2 September
Amtrak20 Crescent5:31 Charlotte Station, Charlotte, NC
8h16
13:47 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC0 changesdirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Charlotte, NC to Washington, DC by train, coach or flight

Compare train, coach 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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Journey information

Overview: Train from Charlotte, NC to Washington, DC

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Icon of train

Trains from Charlotte, NC to Washington, DC run on average 2 times per day, taking around 9h 18m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £59 but you can travel from only £33 by coach.

There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:04, the last at 18:49. The fastest train covers the 529 km distance in 7h 48m.

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 £33
Distance
529 km
Average train duration
9h 18m
Cheapest ticket price
£59
Trains per day
2
Direct trains
2
Fastest train
7h 48m
First train
4:04
Last train
18:49
Cheapest Month
May
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Jul - Sept
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Fri
Least Busy Day
Wed
Best time to book
21 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
Coach from £33

Train companies: Amtrak from Charlotte, NC to Washington, DC trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Charlotte, NC and Washington, DC from £33. 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
7h 48m
Cheapest Amtrak Price
£59
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

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.

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.

FAQs: Charlotte, NC to Washington, DC train

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Charlotte, NC 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.

FAQs
The cost of a train ticket from Charlotte, NC to Washington, DC can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £59, while the average price tends to be around £104.
The train journey from Charlotte, NC to Washington, DC covers a distance of 529 km and takes approximately 7h 48m. Trains run 2 per day.
The train distance from Charlotte, NC to Washington, DC is 529 km.
The first train from Charlotte, NC to Washington, DC leaves at 4:04.
The last train from Charlotte, NC to Washington, DC departs at 18:49.
Trains from Charlotte, NC to Washington, DC run approximately 2 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Charlotte, NC to Washington, DC.
Yes, there is a direct train between Charlotte, NC and Washington, DC. The service operates 2 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
To get from Charlotte, NC to Washington, DC, you can choose from several travel options including train, coach and flight.
There is no night train service from Charlotte, NC to Washington, DC.
The train station in Charlotte, NC that goes to Washington, DC is Charlotte Station, Charlotte, NC, and it arrives at Washington Union Station, Washington, DC.
The cheapest way to get from Charlotte, NC to Washington, DC is by coach, costing approximately £33.
Booking trains from Charlotte, NC 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 Charlotte, NC to Washington, DC offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, with views of the rolling landscapes of the Piedmont region, picturesque small towns, and glimpses of the Appalachian foothills, providing a pleasant and varied visual experience.
A day trip from Charlotte, NC to Washington, DC is not feasible as the journey takes 7h 48m. Trains run 2 times per day over a distance of 529 km.
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 Charlotte, NC to Washington, DC.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Charlotte, NC and Washington, DC

Most Charlotte, NC to Washington, DC trains use the Charlotte Station to Union Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Charlotte, NC 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 Charlotte
Arrival train stations in Washington

Which Charlotte, NC station do trains to Washington, DC leave from?

Trains from Charlotte, NC to Washington, DC leave from Charlotte Station. The station is 2 km from Charlotte, NC city centre at 1914 North Tryon Street, Charlotte, NC 28206, United States.
Charlotte Station1914 North Tryon Street, Charlotte, NC 28206, United States1-800-USA-RAILWifiLockersParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation DeskLuggage Carts
City-centre transport

Getting to Charlotte Station from Charlotte city centre

Charlotte Station is 2 km from Charlotte city centre. Public transport options include:

Bus11 · 7m · £2 · every ~4 min
11 · 9m · £2 · every ~4 min

Charlotte Station train station facilities and services

Charlotte Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.

Food and drink

Food options include: Alexander Michael's, The King's Kitchen

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Charlotte Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Charlotte Station. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Charlotte Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Charlotte Station: Bike Parking.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Charlotte Station: Elevators, ramps.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include The Westin Charlotte, Hilton Charlotte Uptown, Omni Charlotte Hotel.

More options for your journey from Charlotte, NC to Washington, DC

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

HomeTrainsTrains in USATrain Times to Washington, DC Charlotte, NC to Washington, DC train

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