- Must visit
New York State Museum
Wide-ranging museum covering New York history, nature and culture, with strong exhibits on the Hudson Valley and the September 11 rescue effort.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Washington, DC to Albany, NY
Showing times and prices for 16 Aug
Cheapest price
£156
Average price
£256
Fastest journey
6 h 34 m
Average duration
7 h 20 m
Trains per day
11
Distance
501 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Washington, DC to Albany, NY is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Washington, DC to Albany, NY will cost around £256 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £156.
Fast trains
To travel from Washington, DC to Albany, NY you need to make at least one change.
66 Northeast Regional · 69 Adirondack22:0013h02Washington Union Station, Washington, DC11:02Albany / Rensselaer Amtrak, Rensselaer, NY£1561One-way1 change- 66 Northeast Regional · 69 Adirondack21:1213h50Alexandria Station, Alexandria, VA11:02Albany / Rensselaer Amtrak, Rensselaer, NY£2201One-way1 change
- 162 Northeast Regional · 281 Empire Service6:166h34Washington Union Station, Washington, DC12:50Albany / Rensselaer Amtrak, Rensselaer, NY£2241One-way1 change
- 80 Carolinian · 245 Empire Service16:039h53Alexandria Station, Alexandria, VA1:56Albany / Rensselaer Amtrak, Rensselaer, NY£2521One-way1 change
- 88 Northeast Regional · 237 Empire Service11:257h45Washington Union Station, Washington, DC19:10Albany / Rensselaer Amtrak, Rensselaer, NY£2551One-way1 change
- 162 Northeast Regional · 281 Empire Service6:166h34Washington Union Station, Washington, DC12:50Albany / Rensselaer Amtrak, Rensselaer, NY£2241One-way1 change
- 88 Northeast Regional · 49 Lake Shore Limited11:256h55Washington Union Station, Washington, DC18:20Albany / Rensselaer Amtrak, Rensselaer, NY£2601One-way1 change
- 164 Northeast Regional · 291 Ethan Allen Express9:107h39Washington Union Station, Washington, DC16:49Albany / Rensselaer Amtrak, Rensselaer, NY£2981One-way1 change
- 88 Northeast Regional · 237 Empire Service11:257h45Washington Union Station, Washington, DC19:10Albany / Rensselaer Amtrak, Rensselaer, NY£2551One-way1 change
- 156 Northeast Regional · 241 Empire Service13:267h49Alexandria Station, Alexandria, VA21:15Albany / Rensselaer Amtrak, Rensselaer, NY£2941One-way1 change
Travel Information
Compare train, coach and flight for Washington, DC to Albany, NY
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Washington, DC to Albany, NY among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £30. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 36m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.5kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £30, and a flight costs an average of £116.
Distance: 501 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach | Flight |
|---|---|---|
£108 Average Price | £66 Average Price Cheapest | £253 Average Price |
6h 16m Average total duration 5h 46m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 26m Average total duration 7h 56m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 36m Average total duration Fastest 1h 36m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.5 - 1.3kg CO2 emissions | 1.5 - 3.0kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Washington, DC to Albany, NY train times
The table below shows live departures for Washington, DC to Albany, NY trains for today, Saturday 15 August. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 80 Carolinian · 245 Empire Service | 16:03 Alexandria Station, Alexandria, VA | 9h53 | 1:56 Albany / Rensselaer Amtrak, Rensselaer, NY | 1 change | |
| 80 Carolinian · 63 Maple Leaf | 16:03 Alexandria Station, Alexandria, VA | 17h50 | 9:53 Albany / Rensselaer Amtrak, Rensselaer, NY | 1 change | |
| 66 Northeast Regional · 63 Maple Leaf | 21:12 Alexandria Station, Alexandria, VA | 12h41 | 9:53 Albany / Rensselaer Amtrak, Rensselaer, NY | 1 change | |
| 66 Northeast Regional · 63 Maple Leaf | 22:00 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 11h53 | 9:53 Albany / Rensselaer Amtrak, Rensselaer, NY | 1 change | |
| Sunday 16 August | |||||
| 162 Northeast Regional · 281 Empire Service | 6:16 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 6h34 | 12:50 Albany / Rensselaer Amtrak, Rensselaer, NY | 1 change | |
| 164 Northeast Regional · 291 Ethan Allen Express | 7:57 Alexandria Station, Alexandria, VA | 8h52 | 16:49 Albany / Rensselaer Amtrak, Rensselaer, NY | 1 change | |
| 164 Northeast Regional · 291 Ethan Allen Express | 9:10 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 7h39 | 16:49 Albany / Rensselaer Amtrak, Rensselaer, NY | 1 change | |
| 154 Northeast Regional · 49 Lake Shore Limited | 10:12 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 8h08 | 18:20 Albany / Rensselaer Amtrak, Rensselaer, NY | 1 change | |
| 88 Northeast Regional · 49 Lake Shore Limited | 11:25 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 6h55 | 18:20 Albany / Rensselaer Amtrak, Rensselaer, NY | 1 change | |
| 88 Northeast Regional · 237 Empire Service | 11:25 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 7h45 | 19:10 Albany / Rensselaer Amtrak, Rensselaer, NY | 1 change | |
| 156 Northeast Regional · 241 Empire Service | 13:26 Alexandria Station, Alexandria, VA | 7h49 | 21:15 Albany / Rensselaer Amtrak, Rensselaer, NY | 1 change | |
| 20 Crescent · 243 Empire Service | 14:12 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 9h47 | 23:59 Albany / Rensselaer Amtrak, Rensselaer, NY | 1 change | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Washington, DC to Albany, NY 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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16 Aug
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Why should you book Washington, DC to Albany, NY trains with Omio?
Amtrak as well as Amtrak offer trains services from Washington, DC to Albany, NY.
Omio is the only official third party seller for Amtrak tickets.
Why book with Omio vs Amtrak?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Amtrak, but also compare tickets for the likes of Amtrak to find the best option for your trip from Washington, DC to Albany, NY.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Amtrak with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Washington, DC to Albany, NY.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Washington, DC to Albany, NY
USAUSA
Trains from Washington, DC to Albany, NY run on average 22 times per day, taking around 5h 46m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £52 but you can travel from only £30 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 03:20, the last at 22:00. The fastest train covers the 501 km distance in 7h 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Coach from £30
Distance 501 km |
Average train duration 5h 46m |
Cheapest ticket price £52 |
Trains per day 22 |
Fastest train 7h 23m |
First train 3:20 |
Last train 22:00 |
Cheapest Month Sept |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 14 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 £30
Train companies: Amtrak from Washington, DC to Albany, NY trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Washington, DC and Albany, NY from £30. 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
7h 23m
Cheapest Price
£52
Amtrak frequency
19 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 Albany, NY
Things to do in Albany, NY
Discover the best of Albany, NY — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Albany, NY trip today.
- Recommended
Ten Broeck Mansion
Historic house museum with restored rooms and exhibits on the Ten Broeck family, Albany society and the surrounding formal garden.
- Recommended
Albany Institute of History & Art
Small local museum preserving Albany's Dutch roots, decorative arts and manuscripts in a historic setting near the city centre.
- Must visit
Washington Park
Large urban park with lake views, trails and open lawns. A dependable local favourite for walks, picnics and seasonal colours.
- Recommended
Jennings Landing
Riverfront park with walking paths, event spaces and broad Hudson views. It is a pleasant place for a stroll near downtown attractions.
- Recommended
Lark Street
Historic downtown street lined with 19th-century buildings, shops and cultural venues, useful for exploring Albany on foot between major sights.
- Gluten-free
Albany-Style Soppressata
A peppery dry-cured beef sausage linked to Albany’s historic Italian-American community, often served sliced with bread, cheese, or antipasti.
Mini Hot Dogs With Meat Sauce
A regional hot dog topped with a spicy meat sauce, mustard, and onions. It is a long-standing Capital Region staple at classic luncheonettes.
- Vegetarian
Capital Region Tavern Pizza
Thin-crust bar pizza cut into squares and topped with tomato sauce and cheese. A familiar upstate New York pub and tavern favourite.
Yono's
Refined New American restaurant serving seasonal dishes and cocktails in an elegant yet relaxed warehouse-style space.
Wolff's Biergarten
Historic German-American beer hall known for sausages, schnitzel, and imported beer in a lively traditional setting.
Gus's Hot Dogs
Long-running local spot famous for mini hot dogs with meat sauce, plus other classic diner-style comfort food.
US Dollar ($)
Moderate for a US state capital. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than New York City, while taxis and some downtown stays can still add up.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $10-18 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- $20-40 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- $3-6 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% in restaurants, more for excellent service. Taxis usually get 10-15%. In cafés, small change or about $1 per drink is common.
FAQs: Washington, DC to Albany, NY train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Washington, DC to Albany, NY 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 Albany, NY, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Washington, DC to Albany, NY can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £52, while the average price tends to be around £108.
The train journey from Washington, DC to Albany, NY covers a distance of 501 km and takes approximately 7h 23m. Trains run 22 per day.
The train distance from Washington, DC to Albany, NY is 501 km.
The first train from Washington, DC to Albany, NY leaves at 3:20.
The last train from Washington, DC to Albany, NY departs at 22:00.
Trains from Washington, DC to Albany, NY run approximately 22 times per day.
Yes, there is a high-speed train service from Washington, DC to Albany, NY.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Washington, DC to Albany, NY.
To get from Washington, DC to Albany, NY, you can choose from several travel options including train, coach and flight.
There is no night train service from Washington, DC to Albany, NY.
The train station in Washington, DC that goes to Albany, NY is Washington Union Station, Washington, DC, and it arrives at Albany / Rensselaer Amtrak, Rensselaer, NY.
The cheapest way to get from Washington, DC to Albany, NY is by coach, costing approximately £30.
Booking trains from Washington, DC to Albany, NY in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Washington, DC to Albany, NY offers scenic views, particularly as it travels along portions of the Hudson River, providing picturesque landscapes and glimpses of charming small towns.
A day trip from Washington, DC to Albany, NY is not feasible due to the travel time of 7h 23m each way. However, there are 20 train options per day for this route.
Two to three days are generally sufficient to explore Albany, NY, covering its main attractions like the New York State Capitol, the Empire State Plaza, and the Albany Institute of History & Art.
Yes, you can take the train from Washington, DC to Albany, NY.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Washington, DC and Albany, NY
Most Washington, DC to Albany, NY trains use the Union Station to Albany-Rensselaer Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Washington, DC and Albany, NY train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Washington
Arrival train stations in Albany
Which Washington, DC station do trains to Albany, NY leave from?
Trains from Washington, DC to Albany, NY leave from Union Station. The station is 3 km from Washington, DC city centre at 50 Massachusetts Ave NE, Washington, DC 20002, United States.
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 Washington, DC
More options for your journey from Washington, DC to Albany, NY
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Albany, NY and Washington, DC
Most popular train connections to Albany, NY
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