Bedroom
- Power plugs
- Extra legroom
- Free Drinks
- Free meal
- Lounge Access
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Charlottesville, VA to Washington, DC
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 07 Sept
Cheapest price on 07 Sept
£53
Average ticket price on 07 Sept
£60
Fastest journey on 07 Sept
2 h 27 m
Average journey duration on 07 Sept
2 h 36 m
Trains on 07 Sept
3
Distance
158 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Charlottesville, VA 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 Charlottesville, VA to Washington, DC will cost around £60 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £53.
Fast trains
On Mon 07 Sept, we found 3 trains from Charlottesville, VA to Washington, DC, including 3 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 158 km distance in an average of 2 h 36 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 27 m .
The slowest trains will take 2 h 48 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.
156 Northeast Regional11:182h33Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA13:51Washington Union Station, Washington, DC£531One-way0 changes- 66 Northeast Regional19:012h27Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA21:28Washington Union Station, Washington, DC£611One-way0 changes
- 20 Crescent10:592h48Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA13:47Washington Union Station, Washington, DC£671One-way0 changes
- 66 Northeast Regional19:012h27Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA21:28Washington Union Station, Washington, DC£611One-way0 changes
- 156 Northeast Regional11:182h33Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA13:51Washington Union Station, Washington, DC£531One-way0 changes
- 20 Crescent10:592h48Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA13:47Washington Union Station, Washington, DC£671One-way0 changes
Travel Information
Compare train, coach and flight for Charlottesville, VA to Washington, DC
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Charlottesville, VA to Washington, DC among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of £19 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 4m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.0 - 0.1kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of £19, while a flight costs an average of £277.
Distance: 158 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
£19 Average Price Cheapest | £24 Average Price | £277 Average Price | £17 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 4m Average total duration Fastest 2h 34m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 32m Average total duration 3h 2m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 51m Average total duration 2h 51m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 2h 19m 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.
The cheapest way to travel from Charlottesville, VA to Washington, DC is a train with an average price of £19.
This is compared to other travel options from Charlottesville, VA to Washington, DC:
A train is £5 less than a coach for this route with tickets for a coach from Charlottesville, VA to Washington, DC costing on average £24.
A train is £258 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Charlottesville, VA to Washington, DC costing on average £277.
The fastest way to travel from Charlottesville, VA to Washington, DC is by train with an average journey time of 2h 34m.
Other travel options to Washington, DC take longer:
Flight takes on average 2h 51m.
Coach takes on average 3h 2m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Charlottesville, VA and Washington, DC including taking a train, coach 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 £19 compared to roughly £17 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about £-1.78. The journey takes 2h 34m versus 2h 19m 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
Charlottesville, VA to Washington, DC train times
The table below shows live departures for Charlottesville, VA 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 66 Northeast Regional | 19:01 Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA | 2h27 | 21:28 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 changesdirect | |
| Monday 7 September | |||||
| 20 Crescent | 10:59 Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA | 2h48 | 13:47 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 changesdirect | |
| 156 Northeast Regional | 11:18 Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA | 2h33 | 13:51 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Charlottesville, VA 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.
Mon
07 Sept
07 Sept
Tue
08 Sept
08 Sept
Wed
09 Sept
09 Sept
Thu
10 Sept
10 Sept
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11 Sept
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12 Sept
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13 Sept
13 Sept
Journey information
Overview: Train from Charlottesville, VA to Washington, DC
USAUSA
Trains from Charlottesville, VA to Washington, DC run on average 3 times per day, taking around 2h 34m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £13 if you book in advance.
There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 07:30, the last at 19:01. The fastest train covers the 158 km distance in 2h 27m.
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 158 km |
Average train duration 2h 34m |
Cheapest ticket price £13 |
Trains per day 3 |
Direct trains 3 |
Fastest train 2h 27m |
First train 7:30 |
Last train 19:01 |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 4 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
Train companies: Amtrak from Charlottesville, VA to Washington, DC trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Charlottesville, VA and Washington, DC from £13. 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
2h 27m
Cheapest Amtrak Price
£13
Amtrak frequency
3 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 Charlottesville, VA to Washington, DC trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Charlottesville, VA and Washington, DC from £13. 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
2h 27m
Cheapest Amtrak Price
£13
Amtrak frequency
3 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: Charlottesville, VA to Washington, DC train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Charlottesville, VA 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 Charlottesville, VA to Washington, DC can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £13, while the average price tends to be around £19.
The train journey from Charlottesville, VA to Washington, DC covers a distance of 158 km and takes approximately 2h 27m. Trains run 3 per day.
The train distance from Charlottesville, VA to Washington, DC is 158 km.
The first train from Charlottesville, VA to Washington, DC leaves at 7:30.
The last train from Charlottesville, VA to Washington, DC departs at 19:01.
Trains from Charlottesville, VA to Washington, DC run approximately 3 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Charlottesville, VA to Washington, DC.
Yes, there is a direct train between Charlottesville, VA and Washington, DC. The service operates 3 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
To get from Charlottesville, VA to Washington, DC, you can choose from several travel options including train, coach and flight.
There is no night train service from Charlottesville, VA to Washington, DC.
The train station in Charlottesville, VA that goes to Washington, DC is Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA, and it arrives at Washington Union Station, Washington, DC.
The cheapest way to get from Charlottesville, VA to Washington, DC is by train, costing approximately £13.
Booking trains from Charlottesville, VA 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 Charlottesville, VA to Washington, DC offers picturesque views of the Virginia countryside, including rolling hills and lush landscapes, providing a pleasant and scenic travel experience.
A day trip from Charlottesville, VA to Washington, DC is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 27m. However, there are 3 trains available per day.
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 Charlottesville, VA to Washington, DC.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Charlottesville, VA and Washington, DC
Most Charlottesville, VA to Washington, DC trains use the Charlottesville Amtrak to Union Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Charlottesville, VA 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 Charlottesville
Arrival train stations in Washington
Which Charlottesville, VA station do trains to Washington, DC leave from?
Trains from Charlottesville, VA to Washington, DC leave from Charlottesville Amtrak. The station is 1 km from Charlottesville, VA city centre at 810 West Main Street, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA.
Charlottesville Amtrak810 West Main Street, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA1-800-USA-RAIL
City-centre transport
Getting to Charlottesville Amtrak from Charlottesville city centre
Charlottesville Amtrak is 1 km from Charlottesville city centre. Public transport options include:
BusAfton Express · 5m · £0.90
T, 7, 9 · 5m · £0.90 · every ~9 min
Charlottesville Amtrak train station facilities and services
Charlottesville Amtrak has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: The Local, Maya Restaurant, Public Fish & Oyster
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Charlottesville Amtrak. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Charlottesville Amtrak. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Charlottesville Amtrak: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Charlottesville Amtrak: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Charlottesville Amtrak: Elevators, ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Graduate Charlottesville, Residence Inn by Marriott Charlottesville Downtown, Omni Charlottesville Hotel.
Which Washington, DC station do trains from Charlottesville, VA arrive at?
Trains from Charlottesville, VA 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 Charlottesville, VA
More options for your journey from Charlottesville, VA to Washington, DC
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Washington, DC and Charlottesville, VA
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