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Washington, DC to Boston, MA train with Amtrak

Thu 22 Jan
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Amtrak
Amtrak Acela
Great Western Rail
Avanti West Coast
West Midlands Trains
1,000+ travel companies
Amtrak
Amtrak Acela
Great Western Rail
Avanti West Coast
West Midlands Trains
1,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Washington, DC to Boston, MA

Showing times and prices for 22 Jan

Cheapest price

£102

Average price

£219

Fastest journey

6 h 41 m

Average duration

6 h 59 m

Trains per day

28

Distance

634 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Washington, DC to Boston, MA 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 Boston, MA will cost around £219 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £102.

Fast trains

Of the 28 trains that leave Washington, DC for Boston, MA every day 22 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

These direct trains cover the 634 km distance in an average of 6 h 59 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 6 h 41 m .

The slowest trains will take 7 h 55 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.

Amtrak66 Northeast Regional
22:0012h05
Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
10:05South Station, Boston, MA
£1021One-way
0 changes
Amtrak66 Northeast Regional
22:0011h58
Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
09:58Back Bay station, Boston, MA
£1021One-way
0 changes
Amtrak6076 AMTRAK · 190 Northeast Regional
03:208h39
Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
11:59Back Bay station, Boston, MA
£1061One-way
1 change
Amtrak6076 AMTRAK · 190 Northeast Regional
03:208h46
Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
12:06South Station, Boston, MA
£1061One-way
1 change
Amtrak170 Northeast Regional
05:057h59
Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
13:04Back Bay station, Boston, MA
£1441One-way
0 changes

Travel Information

Compare train, coach and flight for Washington, DC to Boston, MA

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Washington, DC to Boston, MA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £43. 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 0.2 - 0.6kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £43, and a flight costs an average of £68.

Distance: 634 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Coach
Flight

£150

Average Price

£63

Average Price

Cheapest

£180

Average Price

8h 19m

Average total duration

7h 49m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

10h 8m

Average total duration

9h 38m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 36m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 36m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

0.2 - 0.6kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.6 - 1.6kg

CO2 emissions

1.9 - 3.8kg

CO2 emissions

Amtrak

Most popular train company

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

American Airlines

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 Boston, MA train times

The table below shows live departures for Washington, DC to Boston, MA trains for today, Wednesday 21 January. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 11:19
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
amtrak172 Northeast Regional · 233 Empire Service · 448 Lake Shore Limited12:10 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
13h14
01:24 Back Bay station, Boston, MA2 changes
amtrak172 Northeast Regional12:10 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
8h18
20:28 South Station, Boston, MA0 changesdirect
amtrak172 Northeast Regional12:10 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
8h10
20:20 Back Bay station, Boston, MA0 changesdirect
amtrak172 Northeast Regional · 233 Empire Service · 448 Lake Shore Limited12:10 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
13h22
01:32 South Station, Boston, MA2 changes
amtrak86 Northeast Regional13:50 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
7h55
21:45 Back Bay station, Boston, MA0 changesdirect
amtrak86 Northeast Regional13:50 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
8h02
21:52 South Station, Boston, MA0 changesdirect
amtrak174 Northeast Regional15:35 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
8h29
00:04 South Station, Boston, MA0 changesdirect
amtrak174 Northeast Regional15:35 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
8h21
23:56 Back Bay station, Boston, MA0 changesdirect
amtrak134 Northeast Regional · 184 Northeast Regional17:05 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
9h24
02:29 Back Bay station, Boston, MA1 change
amtrak134 Northeast Regional · 184 Northeast Regional17:05 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
9h31
02:36 South Station, Boston, MA1 change
amtrak_acela2166 Acela18:00 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
6h41
00:41 Back Bay station, Boston, MA0 changesdirect
amtrak_acela2166 Acela18:00 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
6h48
00:48 South Station, Boston, MA0 changesdirect
amtrak184 Northeast Regional18:25 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
8h11
02:36 South Station, Boston, MA0 changesdirect
amtrak184 Northeast Regional18:25 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
8h04
02:29 Back Bay station, Boston, MA0 changesdirect
amtrak_acela2168 Acela19:00 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
6h44
01:44 Back Bay station, Boston, MA0 changesdirect
amtrak_acela2168 Acela19:00 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
6h49
01:49 South Station, Boston, MA0 changesdirect
amtrak94 Northeast Regional19:05 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
8h01
03:06 South Station, Boston, MA0 changesdirect
amtrak94 Northeast Regional19:05 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
7h55
03:00 Back Bay station, Boston, MA0 changesdirect
amtrak176 Northeast Regional20:30 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
8h20
04:50 South Station, Boston, MA0 changesdirect
amtrak176 Northeast Regional20:30 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
8h13
04:43 Back Bay station, Boston, MA0 changesdirect
amtrak178 Northeast Regional21:02 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
8h08
05:10 Back Bay station, Boston, MA0 changesdirect
amtrak178 Northeast Regional21:02 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
8h13
05:15 South Station, Boston, MA0 changesdirect
Thursday 22 January
amtrak66 Northeast Regional03:00 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
12h05
15:05 South Station, Boston, MA0 changesdirect
amtrak66 Northeast Regional03:00 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
11h58
14:58 Back Bay station, Boston, MA0 changesdirect
amtrak6076 AMTRAK · 190 Northeast Regional08:20 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
8h39
16:59 Back Bay station, Boston, MA1 change
amtrak6076 AMTRAK · 190 Northeast Regional08:20 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
8h46
17:06 South Station, Boston, MA1 change
amtrak170 Northeast Regional10:05 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
7h59
18:04 Back Bay station, Boston, MA0 changesdirect
amtrak170 Northeast Regional10:05 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
8h06
18:11 South Station, Boston, MA0 changesdirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Washington, DC to Boston, MA 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.

Thu
22 Jan
Fri
23 Jan
Sat
24 Jan
Sun
25 Jan
Mon
26 Jan
Tue
27 Jan
Wed
28 Jan

How far in advance should I book train tickets from Washington, DC to Boston, MA?

The best time to book your train from Washington, DC to Boston, MA is 91 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Washington, DC to Boston, MA route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Washington, DC to Boston, MA per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Washington, DC to Boston, MA.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Washington, DC to Boston, MA

USAUSA
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Trains from Washington, DC to Boston, MA run on average 33 times per day, taking around 7h 49m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £72 but you can travel from only £43 by coach.

There are 30 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 03:20, the last at 22:00. The fastest train covers the 634 km distance in 6h 56m.

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 £43
Distance
634 km
Average train duration
7h 49m
Cheapest ticket price
£72
Trains per day
33
Direct trains
30
Fastest train
6h 56m
First train
03:20
Last train
22:00
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 £43

Train companies: Amtrak, Amtrak Acela from Washington, DC to Boston, MA trainsAmtrak, Amtrak Acela trains will get you between Washington, DC and Boston, MA from £43. 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
8h 1m
Cheapest Price
£101
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

Amtrak Acela

About
Amtrak Acela is the flagship high-speed train service operated by Amtrak, the national rail operator of the United States. Running along the Northeast Corridor, Acela connects major cities such as Washington, D.C., Baltimore, Philadelphia, New York City, Providence, and Boston. It is the fastest train service in the U.S., reaching speeds of up to 150 mph (250 km/h). Passengers can choose between Business Class and First Class. Both offer seat reservations, free Wi-Fi, power outlets, adjustable lighting, conference tables, and large tray tables, with spacious seating and extra legroom. Business Class includes complimentary snacks and beverages, while First Class offers larger seats, complimentary meals, and access to premium lounges. Food and drinks are also available for purchase at Café Acela. Popular routes include Washington, D.C.–New York City, New York City–Boston, and Philadelphia–Washington, D.C.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 56m
Cheapest Price
£129
Amtrak Acela frequency
14 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
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
Coach Class: Not included, can be purchased. Business/First Class: Included
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

FAQs: Washington, DC to Boston, MA train

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Washington, DC to Boston, MA 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 Boston, MA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
The cost of a train ticket from Washington, DC to Boston, MA can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £72, while the average price tends to be around £150.
The train journey from Washington, DC to Boston, MA covers a distance of 634 km and takes approximately 6h 56m. Trains run 33 per day.
The train distance from Washington, DC to Boston, MA is 634 km.
The first train from Washington, DC to Boston, MA leaves at 3:20.
The last train from Washington, DC to Boston, MA departs at 22:00.
Trains from Washington, DC to Boston, MA run approximately 33 times per day.
Yes, there is a high-speed train service from Washington, DC to Boston, MA.
Yes, there is a direct train between Washington, DC and Boston, MA. The service operates 30 times per day, provided by Amtrak, Amtrak Acela.
To get from Washington, DC to Boston, MA, you can choose from several travel options including train, coach and flight.
There is no night train service from Washington, DC to Boston, MA.
The train station in Washington, DC that goes to Boston, MA is Washington Union Station, Washington, DC, and it arrives at South Station, Boston, MA.
The cheapest way to get from Washington, DC to Boston, MA is by coach, costing approximately £43.
Booking trains from Washington, DC to Boston, MA 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 Boston, MA offers a blend of urban and natural scenery, passing through historical cities and picturesque landscapes, with views of the Atlantic coastline and charming New England towns.
A day trip from Washington, DC to Boston, MA is not feasible. The journey takes 6h 56m, covering a distance of 634 km. There are 33 trips per day by train.
In Boston, MA, explore the historic streets of Beacon Hill, take a scenic walk along the Charles River Esplanade, and visit the Boston Public Library. Enjoy a guided tour of the USS Constitution and discover Quincy Market's vibrant atmosphere. Don't miss the Freedom Trail, Fenway Park, the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston Common, and the New England Aquarium.
To fully explore Boston, MA, including its historical sites, cultural attractions, and diverse neighbourhoods, a stay of 3 to 4 days is generally recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Washington, DC to Boston, MA.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Washington, DC and Boston, MA

Washington
Boston
The major train station for departures in Washington is Union Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Union Station for your trip from Washington to Boston.
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

More options for your journey from Washington, DC to Boston, MA

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

Most popular trains to and from Boston, MA and Washington, DC

HomeTrainsTrains in USATrain Times to Boston, MA Washington, DC to Boston, MA train

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