Raleigh, NC to Charleston, SC train with Amtrak

Tue 04 Aug
+ Add return
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 Raleigh, NC to Charleston, SC

Showing times and prices for 04 Aug

Cheapest price

£65

Average price

£68

Fastest journey

9 h 13 m

Average duration

10 h 51 m

Trains per day

3

Distance

354 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Raleigh, NC to Charleston, SC is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Raleigh, NC to Charleston, SC will cost around £68 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £65.

Fast trains

Of the 3 trains that leave Raleigh, NC for Charleston, SC every day 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

These direct trains cover the 354 km distance in an average of 10 h 51 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 9 h 13 m .

The slowest trains will take 12 h 8 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.

  • Amtrak
    17:139h13
    Raleigh, NC
    2:26Charleston, SC
    £651One-way
    0 changes
  • Amtrak
    15:1311h13
    Raleigh, NC
    2:26Charleston, SC
    £671One-way
    0 changes
  • Amtrak
    14:1312h08
    Raleigh, NC
    2:21Charleston, SC
    £711One-way
    0 changes

Travel Information

Compare coach, train and flight for Raleigh, NC to Charleston, SC

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Raleigh, NC to Charleston, SC among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £31. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 12m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £31, and a flight costs an average of £85.

Distance: 354 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Coach
Flight

£64

Average Price

£61

Average Price

Cheapest

£255

Average Price

6h 13m

Average total duration

5h 43m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 15m

Average total duration

5h 45m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 12m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 12m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

Amtrak

Most popular train company

Greyhound

Most popular bus company

American Airlines

Most popular airline

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Live departures

Raleigh, NC to Charleston, SC train times

The table below shows live departures for Raleigh, NC to Charleston, SC trains for today, Monday 3 August. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
Amtrak14:13 Raleigh, NC
12h08
2:21 Charleston, SC0 changesdirect
Amtrak15:13 Raleigh, NC
11h13
2:26 Charleston, SC0 changesdirect
Amtrak16:13 Raleigh, NC
9h13
1:26 Charleston, SC0 changesdirect
Amtrak17:13 Raleigh, NC
9h13
2:26 Charleston, SC0 changesdirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Raleigh, NC to Charleston, SC 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.

Tue
04 Aug
Wed
05 Aug
Thu
06 Aug
Fri
07 Aug
Sat
08 Aug
Sun
09 Aug
Mon
10 Aug

Journey information

Overview: Train from Raleigh, NC to Charleston, SC

USAUSA
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Icon of train

Trains from Raleigh, NC to Charleston, SC run on average 2 times per day, taking around 5h 43m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £44 but you can travel from only £31 by coach.

The earliest train runs at 09:15, the last at 12:13. The fastest train covers the 354 km distance in 9h 13m.

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 £31
Distance
354 km
Average train duration
5h 43m
Cheapest ticket price
£44
Trains per day
2
Fastest train
9h 13m
First train
9:15
Last train
12:13
Cheapest Month
Sept
Cheapest Day
Thu
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Jul - Sept
Best time to book
28 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 £31

Train companies: Amtrak from Raleigh, NC to Charleston, SC trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Raleigh, NC and Charleston, SC from £31. 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
9h 13m
Cheapest Price
£44
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 Charleston, SC

Things to do in Charleston, SC

Discover the best of Charleston, SC — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Charleston, SC trip today.

  • Must visit

Gibbes Museum of Art

A leading art museum with American works, Charleston history objects and a fine collection in a grand Beaux-Arts building by the waterfront.

  • Recommended

Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon

A compact museum interpreting Charleston's role in the American Revolution through artefacts, immersive displays and a central location near the harbour.

  • Recommended

Medal of Honor Museum at Patriots Point

A former naval site presenting medal recipients' stories with immersive galleries and harbour views. It offers a modern perspective on military service.

US dollar ($)

Charleston is pricier than many Southern US cities, with higher hotel and restaurant costs in the historic centre; public transport is limited, so visitors often also pay for taxis or parking.

Average meal costs

Budget
$12-18 for fast food or a casual lunch.
Mid-range
$25-45 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
$80+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
$4-6 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Tip 18-20% in restaurants, more for excellent service. Taxis usually get 10-15%. Round up or leave $1-2 at cafés for counter service.

FAQs: Raleigh, NC to Charleston, SC train

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Raleigh, NC to Charleston, SC 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 Charleston, SC, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
The cost of a train ticket from Raleigh, NC to Charleston, SC can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £44, while the average price tends to be around £64.
The train journey from Raleigh, NC to Charleston, SC covers a distance of 354 km and takes approximately 9h 13m. Trains run 2 per day.
The train distance from Raleigh, NC to Charleston, SC is 354 km.
The first train from Raleigh, NC to Charleston, SC leaves at 9:15.
The last train from Raleigh, NC to Charleston, SC departs at 12:13.
Trains from Raleigh, NC to Charleston, SC run approximately 2 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Raleigh, NC to Charleston, SC.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Raleigh, NC to Charleston, SC.
To get from Raleigh, NC to Charleston, SC, you can choose from several travel options including coach, train and flight.
There is no night train service from Raleigh, NC to Charleston, SC.
The train station in Raleigh, NC that goes to Charleston, SC is Raleigh Union Station, Raleigh, NC, and it arrives at Charleston Station, North Charleston, SC.
The cheapest way to get from Raleigh, NC to Charleston, SC is by coach, costing approximately £31.
Booking trains from Raleigh, NC to Charleston, SC in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Raleigh, NC to Charleston, SC offers a scenic experience with views of the American South's charming landscapes, including lush greenery, picturesque small towns, and glimpses of the coastal plains.
A day trip from Raleigh, NC to Charleston, SC is not feasible as the journey takes 9h 13m. There are 2 trains available per day for this 354 km journey.
To fully experience Charleston, SC, and its historic sites, culinary scene, and nearby beaches, a visit of 3 to 4 days is recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Raleigh, NC to Charleston, SC.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Raleigh, NC and Charleston, SC

Most Raleigh, NC to Charleston, SC trains use the Raleigh Union Station to Charleston Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Raleigh, NC and Charleston, SC train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Raleigh
Arrival train stations in Charleston

Which Raleigh, NC station do trains to Charleston, SC leave from?

Trains from Raleigh, NC to Charleston, SC leave from Raleigh Union Station. The station is 1 km from Raleigh, NC city centre at 510 W Martin St, Raleigh, NC 27601, USA.
Raleigh Union Station510 W Martin St, Raleigh, NC 27601, USA+1 800-872-7245WifiLockersParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
City-centre transport

Getting to Raleigh Union Station from Raleigh city centre

Bus300, 305 · 5m · every ~5 min

Raleigh Union Station train station facilities and services

Raleigh Union Station 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, Car Rental, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.

Food and drink

Food options include: The Pit Authentic BBQ, Humble Pie, Whiskey Kitchen

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free.

Tickets and information

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

Luggage and lost property

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

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Raleigh Union Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Raleigh Union Station: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Raleigh Union Station: Elevators, ramps.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include The Raleigh Marriott City Center, Sheraton Raleigh Hotel, Residence Inn Raleigh Downtown.

Most popular train connections from Raleigh, NC

More options for your journey from Raleigh, NC to Charleston, SC

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

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