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The cheapest and fastest trains from Washington, DC to Charlotte, NC
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 06 Sept
Cheapest price on 06 Sept
£76
Average ticket price on 06 Sept
£97
Fastest journey on 06 Sept
8 h
Average journey duration on 06 Sept
9 h 12 m
Trains on 06 Sept
3
Distance
529 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Washington, DC to Charlotte, NC 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 Charlotte, NC will cost around £97 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £76.
Fast trains
On Sun 06 Sept, we found 3 trains from Washington, DC to Charlotte, NC, including 3 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 529 km distance in an average of 9 h 12 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 8 h .
The slowest trains will take 9 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.
79 Carolinian13:059h40Washington Union Station, Washington, DC22:45Charlotte Station, Charlotte, NC£761One-way0 changes- 79 Carolinian13:059h55Washington Union Station, Washington, DC23:00Charlotte Station, Charlotte, NC£971One-way0 changes
- 19 Crescent18:308h00Washington Union Station, Washington, DC2:30Charlotte Station, Charlotte, NC£1191One-way0 changes
- 19 Crescent18:308h00Washington Union Station, Washington, DC2:30Charlotte Station, Charlotte, NC£1191One-way0 changes
- 79 Carolinian13:059h40Washington Union Station, Washington, DC22:45Charlotte Station, Charlotte, NC£761One-way0 changes
- 79 Carolinian13:059h55Washington Union Station, Washington, DC23:00Charlotte Station, Charlotte, NC£971One-way0 changes
Travel Information
Compare train, coach and flight for Washington, DC to Charlotte, NC
Omio recommends booking the coach as it is the most popular option from Washington, DC to Charlotte, NC among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the coach, with an average ticket price of £48 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 3h 37m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.2 - 0.5kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £48, while a flight costs an average of £163.
Distance: 529 km
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Coach | Flight |
|---|---|---|
£84 Average Price | £48 Average Price Cheapest | £163 Average Price |
9h 52m Average total duration 9h 22m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 13m Average total duration 8h 43m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 37m Average total duration Fastest 1h 37m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* |
0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.5 - 1.3kg CO2 emissions | 1.6 - 3.2kg 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.
The cheapest way to travel from Washington, DC to Charlotte, NC is a coach with an average price of £48.
This is compared to other travel options from Washington, DC to Charlotte, NC:
A coach is £36 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Washington, DC to Charlotte, NC costing on average £84.
A coach is £115 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Washington, DC to Charlotte, NC costing on average £163.
The fastest way to travel from Washington, DC to Charlotte, NC is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 37m.
Other travel options to Charlotte, NC take longer:
Coach takes on average 8h 43m.
Train takes on average 9h 22m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Washington, DC and Charlotte, NC including taking a train, coach and flight.
Live departures
Washington, DC to Charlotte, NC train times
The table below shows live departures for Washington, DC to Charlotte, NC trains for today, Saturday 5 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 79 Carolinian | 13:05 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 9h55 | 23:00 Charlotte Station, Charlotte, NC | 0 changesdirect | |
| 19 Crescent | 18:30 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 8h00 | 2:30 Charlotte Station, Charlotte, NC | 0 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 Charlotte, NC 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 Washington, DC to Charlotte, NC
USAUSA
Trains from Washington, DC to Charlotte, NC run on average 2 times per day, taking around 9h 22m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £60 but you can travel from only £34 by coach.
There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:04, the last at 18:30. The fastest train covers the 529 km distance in 8h 0m.
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 £34
Distance 529 km |
Average train duration 9h 22m |
Cheapest ticket price £60 |
Trains per day 2 |
Direct trains 2 |
Fastest train 8h 0m |
First train 4:04 |
Last train 18:30 |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Thu |
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 £34
Train companies: Amtrak from Washington, DC to Charlotte, NC trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Washington, DC and Charlotte, NC from £34. 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
8h 0m
Cheapest Amtrak Price
£60
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 Washington, DC to Charlotte, NC trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Washington, DC and Charlotte, NC from £34. 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
8h 0m
Cheapest Amtrak Price
£60
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
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 Charlotte, NC
Things to do in Charlotte, NC
Discover the best of Charlotte, NC — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Charlotte, NC trip today.
- Must visit
Mint Museum Uptown
Major Uptown art museum with American, European and modern works, plus rotating exhibitions and strong decorative arts holdings.
- Recommended
Levine Museum of the New South
Interactive museum on the New South, with thoughtful exhibits on Charlotte, civil rights and the region's changing identity.
- Recommended
Mint Museum Randolph
Museum in the historic former US Mint building, featuring craft, design and decorative arts in a quieter setting.
- Must visit
NoDa
Lively arts district with murals, breweries, design shops and galleries, popular for walking and seeing Charlotte's creative side.
- Must visit
Freedom Park
Large urban park with lake views, trails, sports facilities and regular festivals, popular with both locals and visitors.
- Must visit
South End
Fast-growing district known for converted warehouses, skyline views, the Rail Trail and a busy mix of shops and nightlife.
- Gluten-free
Carolina-Style Pulled Pork
Carolina-style pulled pork is slow-smoked pork shoulder, usually chopped or shredded and dressed with a sharp vinegar-based sauce common across the Carolinas.
- Gluten-free
Lexington-Style Barbecue
Lexington-style barbecue uses smoked pork shoulder with a tangy red dip made from vinegar, ketchup and spices. It is a defining regional barbecue style near Charlotte.
Southern Fried Chicken
Fried chicken is a Southern staple in Charlotte, with seasoned chicken coated and fried until crisp. It is deeply tied to local comfort-food traditions.
Beef 'N Bottle
Long-running Southern steakhouse celebrated for prime rib, Southern sides and old-school hospitality in an upscale setting.
Midwood Smokehouse
Casual barbecue restaurant known for Carolina chopped pork, ribs and classic sides in a lively, no-fuss setting.
Haberdish
Popular Southern restaurant serving fried chicken, shrimp and grits, biscuits and pies in a stylish yet relaxed dining room.
US dollar ($)
Moderate for a US city. Hotels and dining are mid-priced, while Lynx light rail and buses keep local travel fairly affordable for visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $10-18 for fast food or a casual meal.
- Mid-range
- $20-40 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $70+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- $4-6 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% in restaurants, more for excellent service. Taxis usually 10-15%. In cafés, round up or add $1-2 for barista service.
FAQs: Washington, DC to Charlotte, NC train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Washington, DC to Charlotte, NC 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 Charlotte, NC, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Washington, DC to Charlotte, NC can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £60, while the average price tends to be around £84.
The train journey from Washington, DC to Charlotte, NC covers a distance of 529 km and takes approximately 8h 0m. Trains run 2 per day.
The train distance from Washington, DC to Charlotte, NC is 529 km.
The first train from Washington, DC to Charlotte, NC leaves at 4:04.
The last train from Washington, DC to Charlotte, NC departs at 18:30.
Trains from Washington, DC to Charlotte, NC run approximately 2 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Washington, DC to Charlotte, NC.
Yes, there is a direct train between Washington, DC and Charlotte, NC. The service operates 2 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
To get from Washington, DC to Charlotte, NC, you can choose from several travel options including train, coach and flight.
There is no night train service from Washington, DC to Charlotte, NC.
The train station in Washington, DC that goes to Charlotte, NC is Washington Union Station, Washington, DC, and it arrives at Charlotte Station, Charlotte, NC.
The cheapest way to get from Washington, DC to Charlotte, NC is by coach, costing approximately £34.
Booking trains from Washington, DC to Charlotte, NC 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 Charlotte, NC offers diverse scenery, with views of picturesque countryside, charming small towns, and stretches of lush forests, particularly during the autumn months when the foliage is vibrant.
A day trip from Washington, DC to Charlotte, NC is not feasible due to the travel duration of 8h 0m for one way and the distance of 529 km. There are 2 trains per day.
In Charlotte, NC, visitors can enjoy a variety of attractions and activities. Carowinds offers thrilling roller coasters and a water park, while the U.S. National Whitewater Center provides outdoor adventures like whitewater rafting and rock climbing. Explore NoDa, the historic arts and entertainment district, for galleries, music venues, and unique dining. Motorsport enthusiasts can visit Charlotte Motor Speedway for NASCAR races. For cultural experiences, the Billy Graham Library offers insights into the evangelist's life. Key sights include the interactive NASCAR Hall of Fame, Discovery Place Science with its hands-on exhibits and IMAX theatre, and the scenic Freedom Park. Art lovers will appreciate the Mint Museum Uptown, and the Levine Museum of the New South offers a deep dive into post-Civil War Southern history.
To fully experience Charlotte, NC, a stay of three to four days is generally recommended. This allows time to explore key attractions such as the NASCAR Hall of Fame, the Levine Museum of the New South, and the U.S. National Whitewater Center, as well as enjoy local dining and shopping experiences.
Yes, you can take the train from Washington, DC to Charlotte, NC.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Washington, DC and Charlotte, NC
Most Washington, DC to Charlotte, NC trains use the Union Station to Charlotte Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Washington, DC and Charlotte, NC 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 Charlotte
Which Washington, DC station do trains to Charlotte, NC leave from?
Trains from Washington, DC to Charlotte, NC 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.
Which Charlotte, NC station do trains from Washington, DC arrive at?
Trains from Washington, DC to Charlotte, NC most often arrive at Charlotte Station. Some services arrive at Kannapolis Train Station, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Charlotte, NC arrival station.
Charlotte Station1914 North Tryon Street, Charlotte, NC 28206, United States1-800-USA-RAIL
City-centre transport
Getting to Charlotte Station from Charlotte city centre
Charlotte Station is 2 km from Charlotte city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus11 · 7m · £2 · every ~4 min
11 · 9m · £2 · every ~4 min
Charlotte Station train station facilities and services
Charlotte 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: Alexander Michael's, The King's Kitchen
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Charlotte Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Charlotte Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Charlotte Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Charlotte Station: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Charlotte Station: Elevators, ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include The Westin Charlotte, Hilton Charlotte Uptown, Omni Charlotte Hotel.
Most popular train connections from Washington, DC
More options for your journey from Washington, DC to Charlotte, NC
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Charlotte, NC and Washington, DC
Most popular train connections to Charlotte, NC
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