- Recommended
The Fralin Museum of Art
Compact museum at the University of Virginia with global art collections, changing exhibitions, and an easy stop near the Lawn.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Washington, DC to Charlottesville, VA
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 09 Oct
Cheapest price on 09 Oct
£31
Average ticket price on 09 Oct
£137
Fastest journey on 09 Oct
2 h 17 m
Average journey duration on 09 Oct
2 h 31 m
Trains on 09 Oct
4
Distance
158 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Washington, DC to Charlottesville, VA 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 Charlottesville, VA will cost around £137 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £31.
Fast trains
On Fri 09 Oct, we found 4 trains from Washington, DC to Charlottesville, VA, including 4 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 158 km distance in an average of 2 h 31 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 17 m .
The slowest trains will take 2 h 44 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.
171 Northeast Regional17:002h34Washington Union Station, Washington, DC19:34Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA£311One-way0 changes- 19 Crescent18:302h17Washington Union Station, Washington, DC20:47Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA£421One-way0 changes
- 151 Northeast Regional7:302h29Washington Union Station, Washington, DC9:59Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA£421One-way0 changes
- 51 Cardinal11:392h44Washington Union Station, Washington, DC14:23Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA£4321One-way0 changes
- 19 Crescent18:302h17Washington Union Station, Washington, DC20:47Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA£421One-way0 changes
- 151 Northeast Regional7:302h29Washington Union Station, Washington, DC9:59Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA£421One-way0 changes
- 171 Northeast Regional17:002h34Washington Union Station, Washington, DC19:34Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA£311One-way0 changes
- 51 Cardinal11:392h44Washington Union Station, Washington, DC14:23Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA£4321One-way0 changes
Journey information
Overview: Train from Washington, DC to Charlottesville, VA
USAUSA
Trains from Washington, DC to Charlottesville, VA run on average 3 times per day, taking around 2h 28m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £13 if you book in advance.
There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 07:30, the last at 19:01. The fastest train covers the 158 km distance in 1h 58m.
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 158 km |
Average train duration 2h 28m |
Cheapest ticket price £13 |
Trains per day 3 |
Direct trains 3 |
Fastest train 1h 58m |
First train 7:30 |
Last train 19:01 |
Cheapest Month Sept |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
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
Live departures
Washington, DC to Charlottesville, VA train times
The table below shows live departures for Washington, DC to Charlottesville, VA trains for today, Thursday 8 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 151 Northeast Regional | 7:30 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 2h29 | 9:59 Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA | 0 changesdirect | |
| 171 Northeast Regional | 17:00 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 2h34 | 19:34 Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA | 0 changesdirect | |
| 19 Crescent | 18:30 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 2h17 | 20:47 Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Train companies: Amtrak from Washington, DC to Charlottesville, VA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Washington, DC and Charlottesville, VA from £13. 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
1h 58m
Cheapest Amtrak Price
£13
Amtrak frequency
3 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 Charlottesville, VA
Things to do in Charlottesville, VA
Discover the best of Charlottesville, VA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Charlottesville, VA trip today.
- Recommended
Virginia Discovery Museum
Hands-on science museum for families with interactive exhibits on the body, physics, and engineering in a central downtown location.
- Recommended
Jefferson School African American Heritage Center
Small museum preserving local Black history through documents, photographs, and exhibitions about community life and resilience.
- Must visit
Downtown Mall
Pedestrian-friendly main street lined with shops, venues, public art, and historic buildings; ideal for strolling and people-watching.
- Must visit
The Lawn, University of Virginia
Historic university green framed by pavilions and student rooms, offering one of Charlottesville’s most memorable walks.
- Recommended
Darden Towe Park
Large riverside park with woodland trails, sports facilities, picnic areas, and space for a relaxed local outdoor visit.
- Gluten-free
Virginia Ham
Virginia ham is salt-cured and aged, with a deep savoury flavour long tied to the state’s farming and smokehouse traditions.
Biscuits With Sausage Gravy
Southern biscuits with sausage gravy are a regional breakfast staple, featuring soft baked biscuits topped with rich peppery meat gravy.
- Gluten-free
Pulled Pork Barbecue
Barbecue pork, often slow-smoked and pulled, reflects central Virginia’s strong barbecue culture and is commonly served with regional sauces.
Ace Biscuit & Barbecue
Casual barbecue favourite known for smoked meats, hearty sides and a laid-back neighbourhood atmosphere.
Bizou
Lively downtown restaurant known for wood-fired pizzas, house-cured meats and a bustling, modern atmosphere.
The Local
Popular spot on the Downtown Mall serving Southern-inspired small plates, craft cocktails and a relaxed brasserie feel.
US dollar ($)
Moderate for a US college town: hotels can rise on event weekends, dining is varied, and car use often adds costs as public transport is limited.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $10-$18 for fast food or a casual lunch.
- Mid-range
- $20-$40 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- $3-$6 for a coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% in restaurants, more for excellent service. In cafés, small change or $1 is common. Taxis usually get 10-15%.
FAQs: Washington, DC to Charlottesville, VA train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Washington, DC to Charlottesville, VA 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 Charlottesville, VA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Washington, DC to Charlottesville, VA can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £13, while the average price tends to be around £54.
The train journey from Washington, DC to Charlottesville, VA covers a distance of 158 km and takes approximately 1h 58m. Trains run 3 per day.
The train distance from Washington, DC to Charlottesville, VA is 158 km.
The first train from Washington, DC to Charlottesville, VA leaves at 7:30.
The last train from Washington, DC to Charlottesville, VA departs at 19:01.
Trains from Washington, DC to Charlottesville, VA run approximately 3 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Washington, DC to Charlottesville, VA.
Yes, there is a direct train between Washington, DC and Charlottesville, VA. The service operates 3 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
There is no night train service from Washington, DC to Charlottesville, VA.
The train station in Washington, DC that goes to Charlottesville, VA is Washington Union Station, Washington, DC, and it arrives at Charlottesville Union Station, Charlottesville, VA.
Booking trains from Washington, DC to Charlottesville, VA 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 Charlottesville, VA is considered scenic, offering views of the rolling hills and picturesque landscapes of Virginia's countryside, including sections of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Yes, you can take the train from Washington, DC to Charlottesville, VA.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Washington, DC and Charlottesville, VA
Most Washington, DC to Charlottesville, VA trains use the Union Station to Charlottesville Amtrak station pair. Use this guide to compare Washington, DC and Charlottesville, VA 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 Charlottesville
Which Washington, DC station do trains to Charlottesville, VA leave from?
Trains from Washington, DC to Charlottesville, VA 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 Charlottesville, VA station do trains from Washington, DC arrive at?
Trains from Washington, DC to Charlottesville, VA arrive at Charlottesville Amtrak. Charlottesville Amtrak is 1 km from Charlottesville, VA city centre.
Charlottesville Amtrak810 West Main Street, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA1-800-USA-RAIL
City-centre transport
Getting to Charlottesville Amtrak from Charlottesville city centre
Charlottesville Amtrak is 1 km from Charlottesville city centre. Public transport options include:
BusAfton Express · 5m · £0.89
T, 7, 9 · 5m · £0.89 · every ~9 min
Charlottesville Amtrak train station facilities and services
Charlottesville Amtrak has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: The Local, Maya Restaurant, Public Fish & Oyster
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Charlottesville Amtrak. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Charlottesville Amtrak. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Charlottesville Amtrak: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Charlottesville Amtrak: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Charlottesville Amtrak: Elevators, ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Graduate Charlottesville, Residence Inn by Marriott Charlottesville Downtown, Omni Charlottesville Hotel.
Most popular train connections from Washington, DC
More options for your journey from Washington, DC to Charlottesville, VA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Charlottesville, VA and Washington, DC
Most popular train connections to Charlottesville, VA
HomeTrainsTrains in USATrain Times to Charlottesville, VA Washington, DC to Charlottesville, VA train
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