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The cheapest and fastest trains from Raleigh, NC to Charleston, SC
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 18 Sept
Cheapest price on 18 Sept
£65
Average ticket price on 18 Sept
£67
Fastest journey on 18 Sept
9 h 13 m
Average journey duration on 18 Sept
10 h 27 m
Trains on 18 Sept
4
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 £67 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £65.
Fast trains
On Fri 18 Sept, we found 4 trains from Raleigh, NC to Charleston, SC, including 4 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 354 km distance in an average of 10 h 27 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.
15:1311h13Raleigh, NC2:26Charleston, SC£651One-way0 changes- 17:139h13Raleigh, NC2:26Charleston, SC£661One-way0 changes
- 16:139h13Raleigh, NC1:26Charleston, SC£671One-way0 changes
- 14:1312h08Raleigh, NC2:21Charleston, SC£701One-way0 changes
- 17:139h13Raleigh, NC2:26Charleston, SC£661One-way0 changes
- 16:139h13Raleigh, NC1:26Charleston, SC£671One-way0 changes
- 15:1311h13Raleigh, NC2:26Charleston, SC£651One-way0 changes
- 14:1312h08Raleigh, NC2:21Charleston, SC£701One-way0 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 an average ticket price of £52 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 5h 6m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £52, while a flight costs an average of £399.
Distance: 354 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach | Flight |
|---|---|---|
£68 Average Price | £52 Average Price Cheapest | £399 Average Price |
6h 29m Average total duration 5h 59m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 42m Average total duration 8h 12m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 6m Average total duration Fastest 3h 6m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Raleigh, NC to Charleston, SC is a coach with an average price of £52.
This is compared to other travel options from Raleigh, NC to Charleston, SC:
A coach is £16 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Raleigh, NC to Charleston, SC costing on average £68.
A coach is £347 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Raleigh, NC to Charleston, SC costing on average £399.
The fastest way to travel from Raleigh, NC to Charleston, SC is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 6m.
Other travel options to Charleston, SC take longer:
Train takes on average 5h 59m.
Coach takes on average 8h 12m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Raleigh, NC and Charleston, SC including taking a coach, train and flight.
Live departures
Raleigh, NC to Charleston, SC train times
The table below shows live departures for Raleigh, NC to Charleston, SC trains for today, Thursday 17 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 14:13 Raleigh, NC | 12h08 | 2:21 Charleston, SC | 0 changesdirect | |
| 16:13 Raleigh, NC | 9h13 | 1:26 Charleston, SC | 0 changesdirect | |
| 17:13 Raleigh, NC | 9h13 | 2:26 Charleston, SC | 0 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.
Fri
18 Sept
18 Sept
Sat
19 Sept
19 Sept
Sun
20 Sept
20 Sept
Mon
21 Sept
21 Sept
Tue
22 Sept
22 Sept
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23 Sept
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24 Sept
24 Sept
Journey information
Overview: Train from Raleigh, NC to Charleston, SC
USAUSA
Trains from Raleigh, NC to Charleston, SC run on average 2 times per day, taking around 5h 59m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £45 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 5h 39m.
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 59m |
Cheapest ticket price £45 |
Trains per day 2 |
Fastest train 5h 39m |
First train 9:15 |
Last train 12:13 |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
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 £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 Amtrak Duration
5h 39m
Cheapest Amtrak Price
£45
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 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 Amtrak Duration
9h 17m
Cheapest Amtrak 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
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 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.
- Must visit
The Battery
A palm-lined waterfront promenade with harbour breezes, grand houses and easy access to views, benches and major historic sights.
- Must visit
Charleston City Market
A lively historic district of market buildings and lanes filled with local crafts, architecture and a central base for exploring downtown on foot.
- Recommended
Marion Square
A landscaped public park with fountains, monuments and seasonal events. It is a useful stop between museums, shops and nearby historic streets.
- Gluten-free
Hoppin’ John
A Lowcountry staple of rice cooked with onions, peppers and sausage or bacon. It reflects Charleston’s Gullah Geechee and rice-growing heritage.
- Gluten-free
She-crab soup
A rich soup of blue crab, crab roe and cream or stock, long associated with Charleston hospitality and local coastal cooking.
- Gluten-free
Stone-ground grits
Stone-ground grits cooked creamy, often with butter and cheese. Grits are a defining Southern side deeply rooted in Lowcountry meals.
167 Raw
Busy oyster bar and seafood spot serving she-crab soup, po’ boys and shellfish in a relaxed, traditional market atmosphere.
Magnolias
Upscale dining room focused on refined Lowcountry cooking, with polished service and dishes rooted in Charleston ingredients.
Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit
Popular bakery and café for biscuits, shrimp and grits, Southern breakfasts and pastries in a smart-casual setting.
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.
The cost of a train ticket from Raleigh, NC to Charleston, SC can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £45, while the average price tends to be around £68.
The train journey from Raleigh, NC to Charleston, SC covers a distance of 354 km and takes approximately 5h 39m. 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 5h 39m. 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+1 800-872-7245
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
Most popular trains to and from Charleston, SC and Raleigh, NC
Most popular train connections to Charleston, SC
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