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The cheapest and fastest trains from Washington, DC to Raleigh, NC
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 06 Sept
Cheapest price on 06 Sept
£66
Average ticket price on 06 Sept
£108
Fastest journey on 06 Sept
5 h 53 m
Average journey duration on 06 Sept
6 h 7 m
Trains on 06 Sept
4
Distance
375 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Washington, DC to Raleigh, 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 Raleigh, NC will cost around £108 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £66.
Fast trains
On Sun 06 Sept, we found 4 trains from Washington, DC to Raleigh, NC, including 4 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 375 km distance in an average of 6 h 7 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 53 m .
The slowest trains will take 6 h 18 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.
18:486h18Washington, DC1:06Raleigh, NC£661One-way0 changes- 17:106h14Washington, DC23:24Raleigh, NC£971One-way0 changes
- 17:056h02Washington, DC23:07Raleigh, NC£1331One-way0 changes
- 17:485h53Washington, DC23:41Raleigh, NC£1361One-way0 changes
- 17:485h53Washington, DC23:41Raleigh, NC£1361One-way0 changes
- 17:056h02Washington, DC23:07Raleigh, NC£1331One-way0 changes
- 17:106h14Washington, DC23:24Raleigh, NC£971One-way0 changes
- 18:486h18Washington, DC1:06Raleigh, NC£661One-way0 changes
Travel Information
Compare train, coach and flight for Washington, DC to Raleigh, NC
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Washington, DC to Raleigh, NC among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the coach, with an average ticket price of £34 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 3h 14m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.3kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £34, while a flight costs an average of £175.
Distance: 375 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
£54 Average Price | £34 Average Price Cheapest | £175 Average Price | £40 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 33m Average total duration 6h 3m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 49m Average total duration 5h 19m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 14m Average total duration Fastest 1h 14m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 4h 14m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.4 - 0.9kg CO2 emissions | 1.1 - 2.3kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | 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 Raleigh, NC is a coach with an average price of £34.
This is compared to other travel options from Washington, DC to Raleigh, NC:
A coach is £20 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Washington, DC to Raleigh, NC costing on average £54.
A coach is £141 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Washington, DC to Raleigh, NC costing on average £175.
The fastest way to travel from Washington, DC to Raleigh, NC is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 14m.
Other travel options to Raleigh, NC take longer:
Coach takes on average 5h 19m.
Train takes on average 6h 3m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Washington, DC and Raleigh, NC 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 £54 compared to roughly £40 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about £-13.92. The journey takes 6h 3m versus 4h 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 Raleigh, NC train times
The table below shows live departures for Washington, DC to Raleigh, 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 | 6h02 | 19:07 Raleigh Union Station, Raleigh, NC | 0 changesdirect | |
| 41 Floridian | 13:48 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC | 5h53 | 19:41 Raleigh Union Station, Raleigh, 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 Raleigh, 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 Raleigh, NC
USAUSA
Trains from Washington, DC to Raleigh, NC run on average 2 times per day, taking around 6h 3m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £39 but you can travel from only £26 by coach.
There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 08:24, the last at 14:48. The fastest train covers the 375 km distance in 5h 53m.
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 £26
Distance 375 km |
Average train duration 6h 3m |
Cheapest ticket price £39 |
Trains per day 2 |
Direct trains 2 |
Fastest train 5h 53m |
First train 8:24 |
Last train 14:48 |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Thu |
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 £26
Train companies: Amtrak from Washington, DC to Raleigh, NC trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Washington, DC and Raleigh, NC from £26. 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
5h 53m
Cheapest Amtrak Price
£39
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 Raleigh, NC trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Washington, DC and Raleigh, NC from £26. 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
5h 53m
Cheapest Amtrak Price
£39
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 Raleigh, NC
Things to do in Raleigh, NC
Discover the best of Raleigh, NC — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Raleigh, NC trip today.
- Must visit
North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences
Major natural sciences museum with dinosaur displays, live animals, research exhibits, and a nature exploration centre for all ages.
- Must visit
North Carolina Museum of Art
Art museum with American and European works, contemporary galleries, and a sculpture park linked by pleasant outdoor trails.
- Recommended
North Carolina Museum of History
Hands-on history museum covering North Carolina’s past through changing exhibitions, artefacts, and family-friendly interpretation.
- Must visit
Fayetteville Street
Central downtown promenade with public art, shops, and regular events, useful for exploring Raleigh on foot.
- Recommended
Warehouse District
Lively warehouse district with galleries, murals, event spaces, and an easy walk to museums, markets, and nightlife.
- Recommended
Pullen Park
Large urban park with walking paths, pedal boats, sports facilities, and skyline views around a scenic lake.
- Gluten-free
Eastern North Carolina Barbecue
Eastern North Carolina chopped pork barbecue with a sharp vinegar and chilli sauce. It is a defining regional staple across the Raleigh area.
- Gluten-free
Pulled Pork
Slow-cooked pork shoulder, often smoked then pulled and dressed lightly with vinegar sauce. Common at local barbecue joints and community gatherings.
Fried Catfish
Crisp fried cornmeal-coated catfish, usually served with hush puppies and slaw. It reflects the region’s long freshwater fish and fry tradition.
Death & Taxes
Refined downtown dining room focused on North Carolina ingredients, seasonal tasting menus and polished modern Southern cooking.
Raleigh Brewing Company
Laid-back brewery and taproom pouring local beers with a broad range of styles. A good stop to sample Raleigh’s craft beer culture.
Big Ed's City Market Restaurant
Popular casual restaurant serving biscuit sandwiches, Southern breakfast plates and comfort food in a busy, friendly atmosphere.
US dollar ($)
Raleigh is moderate for US city breaks, with mid-priced hotels, fairly affordable dining, and low local transport costs compared with larger East Coast cities.
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
- $3-6 for a coffee.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% in restaurants, more for excellent service. Taxis usually get 10-15%. For cafés, round up or add $1 per drink.
FAQs: Washington, DC to Raleigh, NC train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Washington, DC to Raleigh, 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 Raleigh, NC, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Washington, DC to Raleigh, NC can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £39, while the average price tends to be around £54.
The train journey from Washington, DC to Raleigh, NC covers a distance of 375 km and takes approximately 5h 53m. Trains run 2 per day.
The train distance from Washington, DC to Raleigh, NC is 375 km.
The first train from Washington, DC to Raleigh, NC leaves at 8:24.
The last train from Washington, DC to Raleigh, NC departs at 14:48.
Trains from Washington, DC to Raleigh, NC run approximately 2 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Washington, DC to Raleigh, NC.
Yes, there is a direct train between Washington, DC and Raleigh, NC. The service operates 2 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
To get from Washington, DC to Raleigh, NC, you can choose from several travel options including train, coach and flight.
There is no night train service from Washington, DC to Raleigh, NC.
The train station in Washington, DC that goes to Raleigh, NC is Washington Union Station, Washington, DC, and it arrives at Raleigh Union Station, Raleigh, NC.
The cheapest way to get from Washington, DC to Raleigh, NC is by coach, costing approximately £26.
Booking trains from Washington, DC to Raleigh, 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 Raleigh, NC offers passengers a pleasant experience, passing through picturesque small towns, charming countryside, and glimpses of the rolling hills of the Appalachian region, providing a peaceful and scenic view throughout much of the trip.
A day trip from Washington, DC to Raleigh, NC is not feasible as the journey duration is 5h 53m. Trains operate with a frequency of 2 per day and the distance is 375 km.
In Raleigh, NC, visitors can explore a variety of attractions such as the Raleigh City Market, which offers a historic marketplace with shops, dining, and events. Nature enthusiasts will enjoy the JC Raulston Arboretum, featuring a diverse collection of plants and themed gardens. Families can visit the Marbles Kids Museum for interactive exhibits designed for children or head to Adventure Landing, a fun amusement park with mini-golf, go-karts, and arcade games. Music lovers might appreciate a concert at the Red Hat Amphitheater. Additionally, some of the best sights include the North Carolina Museum of Art with its extensive art collection and outdoor sculpture park, Pullen Park with playgrounds and a carousel, and the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, which offers educational exhibits on natural history. For outdoor activities, William B. Umstead State Park provides hiking, biking, and equestrian trails, while Historic Yates Mill County Park offers scenic trails and a restored 18th-century gristmill.
To fully experience Raleigh, NC, three to four days are ideal. This allows time to explore its vibrant arts scene, visit the museums, enjoy local dining, and discover the area's parks and historical sites.
Yes, you can take the train from Washington, DC to Raleigh, NC.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Washington, DC and Raleigh, NC
Most Washington, DC to Raleigh, NC trains use the Union Station to Raleigh Union Station station pair, with some services arriving at Cary Station. Use this guide to compare Washington, DC and Raleigh, 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 Raleigh
Which Washington, DC station do trains to Raleigh, NC leave from?
Trains from Washington, DC to Raleigh, 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 Raleigh, NC station do trains from Washington, DC arrive at?
Trains from Washington, DC to Raleigh, NC most often arrive at Raleigh Union Station. Some services arrive at Cary Station, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Raleigh, NC arrival station.
Raleigh Union Station510 W Martin St, Raleigh, NC 27601, USA+1 800-872-7245
City-centre transport
Getting to Raleigh Union Station from Raleigh city centre
Bus300, 305 · 5m · every ~5 min
Raleigh Union Station train station facilities and services
Raleigh Union Station 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, Car Rental, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: The Pit Authentic BBQ, Humble Pie, Whiskey Kitchen
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Raleigh Union Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Raleigh Union Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Raleigh Union Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Raleigh Union Station: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Raleigh Union Station: Elevators, ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include The Raleigh Marriott City Center, Sheraton Raleigh Hotel, Residence Inn Raleigh Downtown.
North Carolina State Fair StationNorth Carolina State Fair, 1025 Blue Ridge Rd, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to North Carolina State Fair Station from Raleigh city centre
North Carolina State Fair Station is 6 km from Raleigh city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus9 · 26m · £2 · every ~7 min
9 · 28m · £2 · every ~7 min
North Carolina State Fair Station train station facilities and services
North Carolina State Fair Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at North Carolina State Fair Station. ATMs are available during fair events.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at North Carolina State Fair Station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at North Carolina State Fair Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at North Carolina State Fair Station: Accessible platforms during events.
Most popular train connections from Washington, DC
More options for your journey from Washington, DC to Raleigh, NC
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Raleigh, NC and Washington, DC
Most popular train connections to Raleigh, NC
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