Washington, DC to Portsmouth, VA train with Amtrak

Sat 19 Sept
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Amtrak
Avanti West Coast
Great Western Railway
Regionale
West Midlands Trains
2,000+ travel companies
Amtrak
Avanti West Coast
Great Western Railway
Regionale
West Midlands Trains
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Washington, DC to Portsmouth, VA

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 19 Sept

Cheapest price on 19 Sept

£39

Average ticket price on 19 Sept

£53

Fastest journey on 19 Sept

4 h 38 m

Average journey duration on 19 Sept

4 h 41 m

Trains on 19 Sept

4

Distance

238 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Washington, DC to Portsmouth, 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 Portsmouth, VA will cost around £53 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £39.

Fast trains

On Sat 19 Sept, we found 4 trains from Washington, DC to Portsmouth, VA, including 4 direct services.

These direct trains cover the 238 km distance in an average of 4 h 41 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 38 m .

The slowest trains will take 4 h 43 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.

  • Amtrak
    19:104h39
    Washington, DC
    23:49Portsmouth, VA
    £391One-way
    0 changes
  • Amtrak
    0:124h43
    Washington, DC
    4:55Portsmouth, VA
    £401One-way
    0 changes
  • Amtrak
    23:124h43
    Washington, DC
    3:55Portsmouth, VA
    £671One-way
    0 changes
  • Amtrak
    23:004h38
    Washington, DC
    3:38Portsmouth, VA
    £671One-way
    0 changes

Travel Information

Compare train, coach and flight for Washington, DC to Portsmouth, VA

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Washington, DC to Portsmouth, VA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the coach, with an average ticket price of £21 For those with little time, consider booking a coach, which has an average total journey time of 4h 50m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £21, while a flight costs an average of £312.

Distance: 238 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Coach
Flight
Driving

£37

Average Price

£21

Average Price

Cheapest

£312

Average Price

£30

Average Price

(fuel + tolls)

5h 13m

Average total duration

4h 43m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 50m

Average total duration

Fastest

4h 20m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 45m

Average total duration

3h 45m

Onboard

+

2h 0m

Additional time*

3h 14m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Washington, DC to Portsmouth, VA is a coach with an average price of £21.

This is compared to other travel options from Washington, DC to Portsmouth, VA:

A coach is £17 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Washington, DC to Portsmouth, VA costing on average £37.

A coach is £292 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Washington, DC to Portsmouth, VA costing on average £312.

The fastest way to travel from Washington, DC to Portsmouth, VA is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 45m.

Other travel options to Portsmouth, VA take longer:

Coach takes on average 4h 20m.

Train takes on average 4h 43m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Washington, DC and Portsmouth, VA including taking a train, coach and flight.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.

Tickets start at around £37 compared to roughly £30 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about £-7.45. The journey takes 4h 43m versus 3h 14m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.

Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.

Live departures

Washington, DC to Portsmouth, VA train times

The table below shows live departures for Washington, DC to Portsmouth, VA trains for today, Friday 18 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
Amtrak19:50 Washington, DC
5h35
1:25 Portsmouth, VA0 changesdirect
Saturday 19 September
Amtrak0:12 Washington, DC
4h43
4:55 Portsmouth, VA0 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 Portsmouth, VA 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.

Sat
19 Sept
Sun
20 Sept
Mon
21 Sept
Tue
22 Sept
Wed
23 Sept
Thu
24 Sept
Fri
25 Sept

Journey information

Overview: Train from Washington, DC to Portsmouth, VA

USAUSA
USAUSA
Icon of train

Trains from Washington, DC to Portsmouth, VA run on average 7 times per day, taking around 4h 43m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £22 but you can travel from only £19 by coach.

There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:15, the last at 19:12. The fastest train covers the 238 km distance in 4h 21m.

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 £19
Distance
238 km
Average train duration
4h 43m
Cheapest ticket price
£22
Trains per day
7
Direct trains
2
Fastest train
4h 21m
First train
5:15
Last train
19:12
Cheapest Month
Jan
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Jul - Sept
Busiest Day
Fri
Least Busy Day
Fri
Best time to book
28 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 £19

Train companies: Amtrak from Washington, DC to Portsmouth, VA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Washington, DC and Portsmouth, VA from £19. 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
4h 20m
Cheapest Amtrak Price
£19
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 Portsmouth, VA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Washington, DC and Portsmouth, VA from £19. 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
4h 20m
Cheapest Amtrak Price
£19
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.

Bedroom
  • Power plugs
  • Extra legroom
  • Free Drinks
  • Free meal
  • Lounge Access
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

FAQs: Washington, DC to Portsmouth, VA train

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

FAQs
The cost of a train ticket from Washington, DC to Portsmouth, VA can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £22, while the average price tends to be around £37.
The train journey from Washington, DC to Portsmouth, VA covers a distance of 238 km and takes approximately 4h 21m. Trains run 7 per day.
The train distance from Washington, DC to Portsmouth, VA is 238 km.
The first train from Washington, DC to Portsmouth, VA leaves at 5:15.
The last train from Washington, DC to Portsmouth, VA departs at 19:12.
Trains from Washington, DC to Portsmouth, VA run approximately 7 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Washington, DC to Portsmouth, VA.
Yes, there is a direct train between Washington, DC and Portsmouth, VA. The service operates 2 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
To get from Washington, DC to Portsmouth, VA, you can choose from several travel options including train, coach and flight.
There is no night train service from Washington, DC to Portsmouth, VA.
The cheapest way to get from Washington, DC to Portsmouth, VA is by coach, costing approximately £19.
Booking trains from Washington, DC to Portsmouth, 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 Portsmouth, VA offers a mix of urban and rural landscapes, featuring views of Virginia's countryside, small towns, and occasional glimpses of rivers and forests, providing a moderately scenic travel experience.
A day trip from Washington, DC to Portsmouth, VA is not feasible as the duration is 4h 21m. There are 10 services per day for trains covering the 238 km distance.
To fully experience Portsmouth, VA, a stay of 2 to 3 days is recommended. This allows enough time to explore its historic sites, enjoy the scenic waterfront, and visit local attractions such as the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Museum and the Children's Museum of Virginia.
Yes, you can take the train from Washington, DC to Portsmouth, VA.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Washington, DC and Portsmouth, VA

Most Washington, DC to Portsmouth, VA trains use the New Carrollton Amtrak Station to Norfolk Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Washington, DC and Portsmouth, 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 Portsmouth

Which Washington, DC station do trains to Portsmouth, VA leave from?

Trains from Washington, DC to Portsmouth, VA leave from New Carrollton Amtrak Station. The station is 3 km from Washington, DC city centre at 4300 Garden City Drive, New Carrollton, MD 20784, USA.
Union Station50 Massachusetts Ave NE, Washington, DC 20002, United States+1 202 2891908WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityHotelTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
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.

More options for your journey from Washington, DC to Portsmouth, VA

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

HomeTrainsTrains in USATrain Times to Portsmouth, VA Washington, DC to Portsmouth, VA train

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