Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ train with Amtrak

Tue, 18 Nov
+ Add return
Amtrak
Amtrak Acela
Great Western Rail
Avanti West Coast
Regionale
1,000+ travel companies
Amtrak
Amtrak Acela
Great Western Rail
Avanti West Coast
Regionale
1,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ

Showing times and prices for 18 Nov

Cheapest price

£31

Average price

£37

Fastest journey

2 h 20 m

Average duration

2 h 32 m

Trains per day

5

Distance

260 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ 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 Princeton, NJ will cost around £37 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £31.

Fast trains

Of the 5 trains that leave Washington, DC for Princeton, NJ 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 260 km distance in an average of 2 h 32 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 20 m .

The slowest trains will take 2 h 47 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
11:402h47
Washington, DC
14:27Princeton, NJ
£311One-way
0 changes
Amtrak
12:502h27
Washington, DC
15:17Princeton, NJ
£311One-way
0 changes
Amtrak
21:002h28
Washington, DC
23:28Princeton, NJ
£311One-way
0 changes
Amtrak
12:052h20
Washington, DC
14:25Princeton, NJ
£451One-way
0 changes
Amtrak
14:322h39
Washington, DC
17:11Princeton, NJ
£481One-way
0 changes

Travel Information

Compare train, coach and flight for Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £17. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 19m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £17, and a flight costs an average of £52.

Distance: 260 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Coach
Flight

£58

Average Price

£28

Average Price

Cheapest

£170

Average Price

2h 53m

Average total duration

2h 23m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 25m

Average total duration

3h 55m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 19m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 19m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

-

CO2 emissions

0.8 - 1.6kg

CO2 emissions

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

Live departures

Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ train times

The table below shows live departures for Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ trains for today, Monday 17 November. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 10:10
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
amtrak130 Northeast Regional11:23 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
2h30
13:53 Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ0 changesdirect
amtrak172 Northeast Regional12:05 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
2h39
14:44 Princeton Junction Station at West Windsor, West Windsor Township, NJ0 changesdirect
amtrak172 Northeast Regional12:05 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
2h29
14:34 Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ0 changesdirect
amtrak112 Northeast Regional12:40 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
2h47
15:27 New Brunswick Station, New Brunswick, NJ0 changesdirect
amtrak112 Northeast Regional12:40 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
2h29
15:09 Princeton Junction Station at West Windsor, West Windsor Township, NJ0 changesdirect
amtrak56 Vermonter13:05 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
2h20
15:25 Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ0 changesdirect
amtrak86 Northeast Regional13:50 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
2h27
16:17 Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ0 changesdirect
amtrak114 Northeast Regional15:18 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
2h25
17:43 Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ0 changesdirect
amtrak174 Northeast Regional15:32 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
2h39
18:11 Princeton Junction Station at West Windsor, West Windsor Township, NJ0 changesdirect
amtrak174 Northeast Regional15:32 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
2h54
18:26 New Brunswick Station, New Brunswick, NJ0 changesdirect
amtrak174 Northeast Regional15:32 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
2h29
18:01 Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ0 changesdirect
amtrak84 Northeast Regional16:10 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
2h26
18:36 Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ0 changesdirect
amtrak134 Northeast Regional17:00 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
2h23
19:23 Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ0 changesdirect
amtrak184 Northeast Regional18:15 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
2h29
20:44 Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ0 changesdirect
amtrak94 Northeast Regional19:00 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
2h23
21:23 Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ0 changesdirect
amtrak20 Crescent19:35 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
2h52
22:27 Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ0 changesdirect
amtrak148 Northeast Regional19:55 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
2h26
22:21 Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ0 changesdirect
amtrak176 Northeast Regional20:30 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
2h36
23:06 Princeton Junction Station at West Windsor, West Windsor Township, NJ0 changesdirect
amtrak40 Floridian · 48 Lake Shore Limited · 657 Keystone Service20:57 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
29h16
02:13 Princeton Junction Station at West Windsor, West Windsor Township, NJ2 changes
amtrak40 Floridian · 48 Lake Shore Limited · 657 Keystone Service20:57 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
29h26
02:23 Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ2 changes
amtrak178 Northeast Regional21:02 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
2h23
23:25 Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ0 changesdirect
amtrak136 Northeast Regional22:00 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
2h28
00:28 Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ0 changesdirect
amtrak138 Northeast Regional23:35 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
2h37
02:12 Princeton Junction Station at West Windsor, West Windsor Township, NJ0 changesdirect
amtrak138 Northeast Regional23:35 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
2h55
02:30 New Brunswick Station, New Brunswick, NJ0 changesdirect
amtrak138 Northeast Regional23:35 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
2h28
02:03 Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ0 changesdirect
amtrak192 Northeast Regional00:12 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
2h28
02:40 Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ0 changesdirect
amtrak90 Palmetto00:57 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
2h26
03:23 Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ0 changesdirect
amtrak186 Northeast Regional · 624 Keystone Service01:30 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
3h08
04:38 Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ1 change

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ 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.

Tue
18 Nov
Wed
19 Nov
Thu
20 Nov
Fri
21 Nov
Sat
22 Nov
Sun
23 Nov
Mon
24 Nov

Journey information

Overview: Train from Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ

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Trains from Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ run on average 25 times per day, taking around 2h 23m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £9 if you book in advance.

There are 23 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:20, the last at 23:23. The fastest train covers the 260 km distance in 2h 20m.

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
260 km
Average train duration
2h 23m
Cheapest ticket price
£9
Trains per day
25
Direct trains
23
Fastest train
2h 20m
First train
00:20
Last train
23:23
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

Train companies: Amtrak, Amtrak Acela from Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ trainsAmtrak, Amtrak Acela trains will get you between Washington, DC and Princeton, NJ from £9. 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
2h 20m
Cheapest Price
£17
Amtrak frequency
24 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
3h 7m
Cheapest Price
£394
Amtrak Acela 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
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 Princeton, NJ train

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

FAQs
To fully experience Princeton, NJ, a stay of two to three days is recommended. This allows time to explore the Princeton University campus, visit the Princeton University Art Museum, and enjoy the local dining and shopping options.
The cost of a train ticket from Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £9, while the average price tends to be around £58.
The cheapest way to get from Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ is by train, costing approximately £9.
The train distance from Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ is 260 km.
Booking trains from Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The last train from Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ departs at 23:23.
Yes, there is a direct train between Washington, DC and Princeton, NJ. The service operates 23 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
The train journey from Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ covers a distance of 260 km and takes approximately 2h 20m. Trains run 25 per day.
There is no night train service from Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ.
The train station in Washington, DC that goes to Princeton, NJ is Washington Union Station, Washington, DC, and it arrives at Trenton Transit Center, Trenton, NJ.
The first train from Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ leaves at 0:20.
Trains from Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ run approximately 25 times per day.
Yes, there is a high-speed train service from Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ.
Yes, you can take the train from Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ.
To get from Washington, DC to Princeton, NJ, you can choose from several travel options including train, coach and flight.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Washington, DC and Princeton, NJ

Washington
Princeton
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 Princeton, NJ

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Most popular train connections to Princeton, NJ

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