Princeton, NJ to Washington, DC train with Amtrak

Sat 11 Apr
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Amtrak
NJ Transit
Great Western Railway
Avanti West Coast
West Midlands Trains
2,000+ travel companies
Amtrak
NJ Transit
Great Western Railway
Avanti West Coast
West Midlands Trains
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Princeton, NJ to Washington, DC

Showing times and prices for 11 Apr

Cheapest price

£89

Average price

£137

Fastest journey

2 h 26 m

Average duration

2 h 30 m

Trains per day

27

Distance

260 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Princeton, NJ 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 Princeton, NJ to Washington, DC will cost around £137 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £89.

Fast trains

Of the 27 trains that leave Princeton, NJ for Washington, DC every day 27 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

These direct trains cover the 260 km distance in an average of 2 h 30 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 26 m .

The slowest trains will take 2 h 32 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.

  • Amtrak65 Northeast Regional
    0:226h07
    Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ
    6:29Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
    £891One-way
    0 changes
  • Amtrak135 Northeast Regional
    19:032h38
    Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ
    21:41Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
    £891One-way
    0 changes
  • Amtrak19 Crescent
    15:012h46
    Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ
    17:47Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
    £891One-way
    0 changes
  • Amtrak103 Northeast Regional
    9:472h33
    Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ
    12:20Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
    £1171One-way
    0 changes
  • Amtrak109 Northeast Regional
    6:312h34
    Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ
    9:05Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
    £1171One-way
    0 changes

Travel Information

Compare train, coach and flight for Princeton, NJ to Washington, DC

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Princeton, NJ to Washington, DC among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £19. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 24m. 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 coach costs an average of £19, and a flight costs an average of £48.

Distance: 260 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Coach
Flight

£31

Average Price

£26

Average Price

Cheapest

£116

Average Price

3h 11m

Average total duration

2h 41m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 26m

Average total duration

3h 56m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 24m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 24m

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

Princeton, NJ to Washington, DC train times

The table below shows live departures for Princeton, NJ to Washington, DC trains for today, Friday 10 April. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
amtrak79 Carolinian12:07 Princeton Junction Station at West Windsor, West Windsor Township, NJ
3h02
15:09 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC0 changesdirect
amtrak641 Keystone Service · 185 Northeast Regional12:13 Princeton Junction Station at West Windsor, West Windsor Township, NJ
4h44
16:57 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC1 change
amtrak79 Carolinian12:19 Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ
2h50
15:09 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC0 changesdirect
amtrak183 Northeast Regional12:28 Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ
2h48
15:16 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC0 changesdirect
amtrak141 Northeast Regional13:20 Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ
2h25
15:45 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC0 changesdirect
amtrak185 Northeast Regional14:22 Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ
2h35
16:57 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC0 changesdirect
amtrak95 Northeast Regional15:29 Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ
2h36
18:05 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC0 changesdirect
amtrak119 Northeast Regional16:00 Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ
2h32
18:32 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC0 changesdirect
amtrak125 Northeast Regional16:30 Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ
2h41
19:11 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC0 changesdirect
amtrak131 Northeast Regional16:52 New Brunswick Station, New Brunswick, NJ
2h53
19:45 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC0 changesdirect
amtrak131 Northeast Regional17:06 Princeton Junction Station at West Windsor, West Windsor Township, NJ
2h39
19:45 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC0 changesdirect
amtrak131 Northeast Regional17:15 Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ
2h30
19:45 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC0 changesdirect
amtrak171 Northeast Regional17:46 Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ
2h39
20:25 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC0 changesdirect
amtrak19 Crescent19:01 Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ
2h46
21:47 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC0 changesdirect
amtrak97 Silver Meteor19:34 Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ
2h50
22:24 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC0 changesdirect
amtrak85 Northeast Regional20:02 Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ
2h36
22:38 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC0 changesdirect
amtrak173 Northeast Regional21:03 Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ
2h29
23:32 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC0 changesdirect
amtrak129 Northeast Regional21:05 New Brunswick Station, New Brunswick, NJ
2h57
0:02 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC0 changesdirect
amtrak129 Northeast Regional21:19 Princeton Junction Station at West Windsor, West Windsor Township, NJ
2h43
0:02 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC0 changesdirect
amtrak129 Northeast Regional21:30 Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ
2h32
0:02 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC0 changesdirect
amtrak137 Northeast Regional23:22 Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ
2h36
1:58 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC0 changesdirect
amtrak55 Vermonter23:38 Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ
2h28
2:06 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC0 changesdirect
Saturday 11 April
amtrak175 Northeast Regional0:49 Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ
2h34
3:23 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC0 changesdirect
amtrak65 Northeast Regional4:22 Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ
6h07
10:29 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC0 changesdirect
amtrak109 Northeast Regional10:31 Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ
2h34
13:05 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC0 changesdirect
amtrak89 Palmetto10:56 Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ
2h48
13:44 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC0 changesdirect
amtrak79 Carolinian11:51 New Brunswick Station, New Brunswick, NJ
3h18
15:09 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 Princeton, NJ 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 Princeton, NJ to Washington, DC

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Icon of train

Trains from Princeton, NJ to Washington, DC run on average 29 times per day, taking around 2h 41m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £9 if you book in advance.

There are 26 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:20, the last at 23:23. The fastest train covers the 260 km distance in 2h 23m.

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
260 km
Average train duration
2h 41m
Cheapest ticket price
£9
Trains per day
29
Direct trains
26
Fastest train
2h 23m
First train
0:20
Last train
23:23
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, NJ Transit from Princeton, NJ to Washington, DC trainsAmtrak, NJ Transit trains will get you between Princeton, NJ and Washington, DC from £9. 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 23m
Cheapest Price
£9
Amtrak frequency
29 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

NJ Transit

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 52m
Cheapest Price
£176
NJ Transit frequency
2 a day

FAQs: Princeton, NJ to Washington, DC train

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Princeton, NJ 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 Princeton, NJ to Washington, DC can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £9, while the average price tends to be around £31.
The train journey from Princeton, NJ to Washington, DC covers a distance of 260 km and takes approximately 2h 23m. Trains run 29 per day.
The train distance from Princeton, NJ to Washington, DC is 260 km.
The first train from Princeton, NJ to Washington, DC leaves at 0:20.
The last train from Princeton, NJ to Washington, DC departs at 23:23.
Trains from Princeton, NJ to Washington, DC run approximately 29 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Princeton, NJ to Washington, DC.
Yes, there is a direct train between Princeton, NJ and Washington, DC. The service operates 26 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
To get from Princeton, NJ to Washington, DC, you can choose from several travel options including train, coach and flight.
There is no night train service from Princeton, NJ to Washington, DC.
The train station in Princeton, NJ that goes to Washington, DC is Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ, and it arrives at Washington Union Station, Washington, DC.
The cheapest way to get from Princeton, NJ to Washington, DC is by train, costing approximately £9.
Booking trains from Princeton, NJ 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 Princeton, NJ to Washington, DC offers some scenic views, particularly as it travels through the countryside and along the rivers of New Jersey and Maryland. However, much of the route runs through urban and suburban areas, which may not provide continuous scenic landscapes throughout the entire journey.
A day trip from Princeton, NJ to Washington, DC is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 23m. However, with a frequency of 28 per day for trains, there are ample travel options. The distance is 260 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 Princeton, NJ to Washington, DC.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Princeton, NJ and Washington, DC

Princeton
Washington
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 transport 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

Most popular train connections from Princeton, NJ

More options for your journey from Princeton, NJ to Washington, DC

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