- 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.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Washington, DC to Charleston, SC
Showing times and prices for 16 Aug
Cheapest price
£266
Average price
£286
Fastest journey
9 h 3 m
Average duration
9 h 37 m
Trains per day
7
Distance
729 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Washington, DC 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 Washington, DC to Charleston, SC will cost around £286 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £266.
Fast trains
Of the 7 trains that leave Washington, DC for Charleston, SC every day 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
These direct trains cover the 729 km distance in an average of 9 h 37 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 9 h 3 m .
The slowest trains will take 11 h 3 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.
97 Silver Meteor19:249h24Washington Union Station, Washington, DC4:48Charleston Station, North Charleston, SC£2661One-way0 changes- 97 Silver Meteor19:459h03Alexandria Station, Alexandria, VA4:48Charleston Station, North Charleston, SC£2661One-way0 changes
- 161 Northeast Regional · 97 Silver Meteor17:2211h26New Carrollton Amtrak Station, New Carrollton, MD4:48Charleston Station, North Charleston, SC£2841One-way1 change
- 89 Palmetto12:559h26Washington Union Station, Washington, DC22:21Charleston Station, North Charleston, SC£2881One-way0 changes
- 89 Palmetto13:149h07Alexandria Station, Alexandria, VA22:21Charleston Station, North Charleston, SC£2881One-way0 changes
- 97 Silver Meteor19:459h03Alexandria Station, Alexandria, VA4:48Charleston Station, North Charleston, SC£2661One-way0 changes
- 89 Palmetto13:149h07Alexandria Station, Alexandria, VA22:21Charleston Station, North Charleston, SC£2881One-way0 changes
- 97 Silver Meteor19:249h24Washington Union Station, Washington, DC4:48Charleston Station, North Charleston, SC£2661One-way0 changes
- 89 Palmetto12:559h26Washington Union Station, Washington, DC22:21Charleston Station, North Charleston, SC£2881One-way0 changes
- 153 Northeast Regional · 89 Palmetto11:1811h03New Carrollton Amtrak Station, New Carrollton, MD22:21Charleston Station, North Charleston, SC£3181One-way1 change
Travel Information
Compare coach, train and flight for Washington, DC to Charleston, SC
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Washington, DC to Charleston, SC among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £47. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 8m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £47, and a flight costs an average of £61.
Distance: 729 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Coach |
|---|---|---|
£122 Average Price | £198 Average Price | £107 Average Price Cheapest |
10h 0m Average total duration 9h 30m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 8m Average total duration Fastest 2h 8m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 11h 40m Average total duration 11h 10m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Live departures
Washington, DC to Charleston, SC train times
The table below shows live departures for Washington, DC to Charleston, SC 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 161 Northeast Regional · 97 Silver Meteor | 17:22 New Carrollton Amtrak Station, New Carrollton, MD | 11h26 | 4:48 Charleston Station, North Charleston, SC | 1 change | |
| 97 Silver Meteor | 19:24 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 9h24 | 4:48 Charleston Station, North Charleston, SC | 0 changesdirect | |
| 97 Silver Meteor | 19:45 Alexandria Station, Alexandria, VA | 9h03 | 4:48 Charleston Station, North Charleston, SC | 0 changesdirect | |
| Sunday 16 August | |||||
| 89 Palmetto | 9:24 New Carrollton Amtrak Station, New Carrollton, MD | 12h57 | 22:21 Charleston Station, North Charleston, SC | 0 changesdirect | |
| 153 Northeast Regional · 89 Palmetto | 11:18 New Carrollton Amtrak Station, New Carrollton, MD | 11h03 | 22:21 Charleston Station, North Charleston, SC | 1 change | |
| 89 Palmetto | 12:55 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 9h26 | 22:21 Charleston Station, North Charleston, SC | 0 changesdirect | |
| 89 Palmetto | 13:14 Alexandria Station, Alexandria, VA | 9h07 | 22:21 Charleston Station, North Charleston, SC | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
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Compare prices and tickets Washington, DC 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.
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Washington, DC to Charleston, SC
USAUSA
Trains from Washington, DC to Charleston, SC run on average 2 times per day, taking around 9h 30m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £55 but you can travel from only £47 by coach.
There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 09:15, the last at 21:34. The fastest train covers the 729 km distance in 9h 24m.
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 £47
Distance 729 km |
Average train duration 9h 30m |
Cheapest ticket price £55 |
Trains per day 2 |
Direct trains 2 |
Fastest train 9h 24m |
First train 9:15 |
Last train 21:34 |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 63 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 £47
Train companies: Amtrak from Washington, DC to Charleston, SC trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Washington, DC and Charleston, SC from £47. 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 24m
Cheapest Price
£55
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
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.
- 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: Washington, DC to Charleston, SC train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Washington, DC 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 Washington, DC to Charleston, SC can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £55, while the average price tends to be around £122.
The train journey from Washington, DC to Charleston, SC covers a distance of 729 km and takes approximately 9h 24m. Trains run 2 per day.
The train distance from Washington, DC to Charleston, SC is 729 km.
The first train from Washington, DC to Charleston, SC leaves at 9:15.
The last train from Washington, DC to Charleston, SC departs at 21:34.
Trains from Washington, DC to Charleston, SC run approximately 2 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Washington, DC to Charleston, SC.
Yes, there is a direct train between Washington, DC and Charleston, SC. The service operates 2 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
To get from Washington, DC to Charleston, SC, you can choose from several travel options including coach, train and flight.
There is no night train service from Washington, DC to Charleston, SC.
The train station in Washington, DC that goes to Charleston, SC is Washington Union Station, Washington, DC, and it arrives at Charleston Station, North Charleston, SC.
The cheapest way to get from Washington, DC to Charleston, SC is by coach, costing approximately £47.
Booking trains from Washington, DC 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 Washington, DC to Charleston, SC offers scenic views of the American South, with stretches of lush green landscapes, historic sites, and glimpses of charming small towns along the way.
A day trip from Washington, DC to Charleston, SC is not feasible as the journey takes 9h 24m one way. The distance is 729 km, and there are 2 train trips available per day.
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 Washington, DC to Charleston, SC.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Washington, DC and Charleston, SC
Most Washington, DC to Charleston, SC trains use the Union Station to Charleston Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Washington, DC 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 Washington
Arrival train stations in Charleston
Which Washington, DC station do trains to Charleston, SC leave from?
Trains from Washington, DC to Charleston, SC 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 Charleston, SC
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Charleston, SC and Washington, DC
Most popular train connections to Charleston, SC
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