- Must visit
National Air and Space Museum
Vast air and space museum displaying historic aircraft, spacecraft and interactive exhibits for all ages.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Richmond, VA to Washington, DC
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 29 Aug
Cheapest price on 29 Aug
£16
Average ticket price on 29 Aug
£38
Fastest journey on 29 Aug
2 h 20 m
Average journey duration on 29 Aug
2 h 25 m
Trains on 29 Aug
10
Distance
154 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Richmond, 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 Richmond, VA to Washington, DC will cost around £38 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £16.
Fast trains
On Sat 29 Aug, we found 10 trains from Richmond, VA to Washington, DC, including 10 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 154 km distance in an average of 2 h 25 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 20 m .
The slowest trains will take 2 h 27 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.
128 Northeast Regional18:212h27Staples Mill Road Station, Richmond, VA20:48Washington Union Station, Washington, DC£161One-way0 changes- 124 Northeast Regional17:262h26Staples Mill Road Station, Richmond, VA19:52Washington Union Station, Washington, DC£251One-way0 changes
- 158 Northeast Regional15:032h43Staples Mill Road Station, Richmond, VA17:46Washington Union Station, Washington, DC£251One-way0 changes
- 124 Northeast Regional16:493h03Main Street Station, Richmond, VA19:52Washington Union Station, Washington, DC£261One-way0 changes
- 90 Palmetto16:412h29Staples Mill Road Station, Richmond, VA19:10Washington Union Station, Washington, DC£401One-way0 changes
- 40 Floridian12:522h20Staples Mill Road Station, Richmond, VA15:12Washington Union Station, Washington, DC£491One-way0 changes
- 164 Northeast Regional5:582h24Staples Mill Road Station, Richmond, VA8:22Washington Union Station, Washington, DC£401One-way0 changes
- 124 Northeast Regional17:262h26Staples Mill Road Station, Richmond, VA19:52Washington Union Station, Washington, DC£251One-way0 changes
- 80 Carolinian14:042h27Staples Mill Road Station, Richmond, VA16:31Washington Union Station, Washington, DC£491One-way0 changes
- 128 Northeast Regional18:212h27Staples Mill Road Station, Richmond, VA20:48Washington Union Station, Washington, DC£161One-way0 changes
Travel Information
Compare train, coach and flight for Richmond, VA to Washington, DC
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Richmond, VA to Washington, DC among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the coach, with an average ticket price of £15 For those with little time, consider booking a coach, which has an average total journey time of 2h 44m. 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 coach costs an average of £15, while a flight costs an average of £276.
Distance: 154 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach | Flight |
|---|---|---|
£20 Average Price | £15 Average Price Cheapest | £276 Average Price |
2h 57m Average total duration 2h 27m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 44m Average total duration Fastest 2h 14m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 46m Average total duration 6h 46m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions | 0.5 - 0.9kg CO2 emissions |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Richmond, VA to Washington, DC train times
The table below shows live departures for Richmond, VA to Washington, DC trains for today, Friday 28 August. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 94 Northeast Regional | 11:01 Staples Mill Road Station, Richmond, VA | 2h22 | 13:23 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 changesdirect | |
| 4051 AMTRAK · 40 Floridian | 11:30 Main Street Station, Richmond, VA | 3h42 | 15:12 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 1 change | |
| 40 Floridian | 12:52 Staples Mill Road Station, Richmond, VA | 2h20 | 15:12 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 changesdirect | |
| 80 Carolinian | 14:04 Staples Mill Road Station, Richmond, VA | 2h27 | 16:31 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 changesdirect | |
| 138 Northeast Regional | 15:06 Staples Mill Road Station, Richmond, VA | 2h36 | 17:42 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 changesdirect | |
| 90 Palmetto | 16:41 Staples Mill Road Station, Richmond, VA | 2h29 | 19:10 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 changesdirect | |
| 186 Northeast Regional | 16:51 Main Street Station, Richmond, VA | 3h04 | 19:55 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 changesdirect | |
| 186 Northeast Regional | 17:26 Staples Mill Road Station, Richmond, VA | 2h29 | 19:55 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 changesdirect | |
| Saturday 29 August | |||||
| 98 Silver Meteor | 3:52 Staples Mill Road Station, Richmond, VA | 2h33 | 6:25 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 changesdirect | |
| 164 Northeast Regional | 5:26 Main Street Station, Richmond, VA | 2h56 | 8:22 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 0 changesdirect | |
| 164 Northeast Regional | 5:58 Staples Mill Road Station, Richmond, VA | 2h24 | 8:22 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 Richmond, 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.
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Richmond, VA to Washington, DC
USAUSA
Trains from Richmond, VA to Washington, DC run on average 12 times per day, taking around 2h 27m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £12 if you book in advance.
There are 11 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 03:52, the last at 19:27. The fastest train covers the 154 km distance in 2h 22m.
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 154 km |
Average train duration 2h 27m |
Cheapest ticket price £12 |
Trains per day 12 |
Direct trains 11 |
Fastest train 2h 22m |
First train 3:52 |
Last train 19:27 |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 5 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 Richmond, VA to Washington, DC trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Richmond, VA and Washington, DC from £12. 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 20m
Cheapest Amtrak Price
£12
Amtrak frequency
11 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 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: Richmond, VA to Washington, DC train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Richmond, 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 Richmond, VA to Washington, DC can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £12, while the average price tends to be around £20.
The train journey from Richmond, VA to Washington, DC covers a distance of 154 km and takes approximately 2h 22m. Trains run 12 per day.
The train distance from Richmond, VA to Washington, DC is 154 km.
The first train from Richmond, VA to Washington, DC leaves at 3:52.
The last train from Richmond, VA to Washington, DC departs at 19:27.
Trains from Richmond, VA to Washington, DC run approximately 12 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Richmond, VA to Washington, DC.
Yes, there is a direct train between Richmond, VA and Washington, DC. The service operates 11 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
To get from Richmond, VA to Washington, DC, you can choose from several travel options including train, coach and flight.
There is no night train service from Richmond, VA to Washington, DC.
The train station in Richmond, VA that goes to Washington, DC is Staples Mill Road Station, Richmond, VA, and it arrives at Washington Union Station, Washington, DC.
The cheapest way to get from Richmond, VA to Washington, DC is by train, costing approximately £12.
Booking trains from Richmond, 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 Richmond, VA to Washington, DC offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, passing through historic towns, lush landscapes, and along parts of the Potomac River, providing a pleasant visual experience.
A day trip from Richmond, VA to Washington, DC is not feasible as the journey duration is 2h 22m. However, there are 12 trains available per day for this route, covering a distance of 154 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 Richmond, VA to Washington, DC.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Richmond, VA and Washington, DC
Most Richmond, VA to Washington, DC trains use the Staples Mill Road Station to Union Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Richmond, 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 Richmond
Arrival train stations in Washington
Which Richmond, VA station do trains to Washington, DC leave from?
Trains from Richmond, VA to Washington, DC leave from Staples Mill Road Station. The station is 8 km from Richmond, VA city centre at 7519 Staples Mill Rd, Richmond, Virginia, United States.
Staples Mill Road Station7519 Staples Mill Rd, Richmond, Virginia, United States
City-centre transport
Getting to Staples Mill Road Station from Richmond city centre
Staples Mill Road Station is 7 km from Richmond city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus18 · 18m · every ~2 min
Staples Mill Road Station train station facilities and services
Staples Mill Road Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Staples Mill Road Station.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Staples Mill Road Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Staples Mill Road Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Staples Mill Road Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Staples Mill Road Station: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Staples Mill Road Station: Ramps, restrooms.
Main Street Station1500 E. Main St. Richmond, VA 23219(804) 646-3800
City-centre transport
Getting to Main Street Station from Richmond city centre
Main Street Station is 3 km from Richmond city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus14, Brt · 14m · every ~14 min
Brt · 17m · every ~10 min
14 · 18m · every ~4 min
Main Street Station train station facilities and services
Main Street 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: The Roosevelt, Lemaire Restaurant
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Main Street Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Main Street Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Main Street Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Main Street Station: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Main Street Station: Ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include The Berkeley Hotel, Omni Richmond Hotel, The Commonwealth.
Which Washington, DC station do trains from Richmond, VA arrive at?
Trains from Richmond, 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.
More options for your journey from Richmond, 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 Richmond, VA
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