Washington, DC to Virginia Beach, VA train with Amtrak

Fri 18 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 Virginia Beach, VA

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 18 Sept

Cheapest price on 18 Sept

£39

Average ticket price on 18 Sept

£77

Fastest journey on 18 Sept

5 h 13 m

Average journey duration on 18 Sept

5 h 26 m

Trains on 18 Sept

7

Distance

245 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Washington, DC to Virginia Beach, 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 Virginia Beach, VA will cost around £77 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £39.

Fast trains

On Fri 18 Sept, we found 7 trains from Washington, DC to Virginia Beach, VA, including 7 direct services.

These direct trains cover the 245 km distance in an average of 5 h 26 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 13 m .

The slowest trains will take 5 h 45 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
    12:205h45
    Washington, DC
    18:05Virginia Beach, VA
    £391One-way
    0 changes
  • Amtrak
    0:125h13
    Washington, DC
    5:25Virginia Beach, VA
    £661One-way
    0 changes
  • Amtrak
    21:555h30
    Washington, DC
    3:25Virginia Beach, VA
    £671One-way
    0 changes
  • Amtrak
    11:205h45
    Washington, DC
    17:05Virginia Beach, VA
    £771One-way
    0 changes
  • Amtrak
    22:555h30
    Washington, DC
    4:25Virginia Beach, VA
    £781One-way
    0 changes

Travel Information

Compare coach, train and flight for Washington, DC to Virginia Beach, VA

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Washington, DC to Virginia Beach, VA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the coach, with an average ticket price of £24 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 3h 3m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.2kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £24, while a flight costs an average of £249.

Distance: 245 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Coach
Flight
Driving

£44

Average Price

£24

Average Price

Cheapest

£249

Average Price

£31

Average Price

(fuel + tolls)

5h 55m

Average total duration

5h 25m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 0m

Average total duration

4h 30m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 3m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 3m

Onboard

+

2h 0m

Additional time*

3h 23m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.2 - 0.6kg

CO2 emissions

0.7 - 1.5kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Amtrak

Most popular train company

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

United

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 Virginia Beach, VA is a coach with an average price of £24.

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

A coach is £21 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Washington, DC to Virginia Beach, VA costing on average £44.

A coach is £226 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Washington, DC to Virginia Beach, VA costing on average £249.

The fastest way to travel from Washington, DC to Virginia Beach, VA is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 3m.

Other travel options to Virginia Beach, VA take longer:

Coach takes on average 4h 30m.

Train takes on average 5h 25m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Washington, DC and Virginia Beach, VA including taking a coach, train 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 £44 compared to roughly £31 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about £-12.80. The journey takes 5h 25m versus 3h 23m 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 Virginia Beach, VA train times

The table below shows live departures for Washington, DC to Virginia Beach, VA trains for today, Thursday 17 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
Amtrak67 · 60677:20 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
5h45
13:05 Virginia Beach, VA1 change
Amtrak95 · 609514:35 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
5h35
20:10 Virginia Beach, VA1 change
Amtrak125 · 612515:50 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
6h10
22:00 Virginia Beach, VA1 change
Amtrak93 · 619317:55 Washington Union Station, Washington, DC
5h30
23:25 Virginia Beach, VA1 change
Friday 18 September
Amtrak0:12 Washington, DC
5h13
5:25 Virginia Beach, VA0 changesdirect

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Washington, DC to Virginia Beach, VA by coach, train or flight

Compare coach, train 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.

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

Journey information

Overview: Train from Washington, DC to Virginia Beach, VA

USAUSA
USAUSA
Icon of train

Trains from Washington, DC to Virginia Beach, VA run on average 4 times per day, taking around 5h 25m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £34 but you can travel from only £19 by coach.

The earliest train runs at 05:15, the last at 19:12. The fastest train covers the 245 km distance in 5h 25m.

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
245 km
Average train duration
5h 25m
Cheapest ticket price
£34
Trains per day
4
Fastest train
5h 25m
First train
5:15
Last train
19:12
Cheapest Month
Jan
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Fri
Least Busy Day
Thu
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 Virginia Beach, VA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Washington, DC and Virginia Beach, 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 45m
Cheapest Amtrak Price
£19
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 Virginia Beach, VA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Washington, DC and Virginia Beach, 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 45m
Cheapest Amtrak Price
£19
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

Complete guide to Virginia Beach, VA

Things to do in Virginia Beach, VA

Discover the best of Virginia Beach, VA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Virginia Beach, VA trip today.

  • Must visit

Military Aviation Museum

Hands-on military aviation museum with historic aircraft, flying demonstrations and restoration hangars at the airport.

  • Recommended

First Landing State Park

State park museum and aquarium with live exhibits, wetlands trails and detailed interpretation of the area’s natural history.

  • Recommended

Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art

Contemporary art museum presenting changing exhibitions, large-scale installations and sculpture near the oceanfront.

US dollar ($)

Moderate for a US beach city: hotels rise in summer, dining is mid-priced, and most visitors need a car as public transport is limited.

Average meal costs

Budget
$10-18 for fast food or casual takeaway.
Mid-range
$20-40 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
$60+ per person for upscale restaurants.
Coffee
$3-6 for a coffee.

Tipping culture

Tip 18-20% in restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, and 10-15% for taxis. Cafés often have optional tip screens; small tips are appreciated.

FAQs: Washington, DC to Virginia Beach, VA train

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

FAQs
The cost of a train ticket from Washington, DC to Virginia Beach, VA can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £34, while the average price tends to be around £44.
The train journey from Washington, DC to Virginia Beach, VA covers a distance of 245 km and takes approximately 5h 25m. Trains run 4 per day.
The train distance from Washington, DC to Virginia Beach, VA is 245 km.
The first train from Washington, DC to Virginia Beach, VA leaves at 5:15.
The last train from Washington, DC to Virginia Beach, VA departs at 19:12.
Trains from Washington, DC to Virginia Beach, VA run approximately 4 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Washington, DC to Virginia Beach, VA.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Washington, DC to Virginia Beach, VA.
To get from Washington, DC to Virginia Beach, VA, you can choose from several travel options including coach, train and flight.
There is no night train service from Washington, DC to Virginia Beach, VA.
The cheapest way to get from Washington, DC to Virginia Beach, VA is by coach, costing approximately £19.
Booking trains from Washington, DC to Virginia Beach, 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 Virginia Beach, VA offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, with stretches of picturesque landscapes, forests, and glimpses of the Chesapeake Bay, providing a pleasant visual experience.
A day trip from Washington, DC to Virginia Beach, VA is not feasible as the journey takes 5h 25m. However, there are 5 train trips available per day.
In Virginia Beach, VA, visitors can explore the Military Aviation Museum with vintage aircraft and live demonstrations, enjoy family fun at Ocean Breeze Waterpark, and observe wildlife at Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge. For adventure seekers, the Adventure Park at Virginia Aquarium offers zip lines and aerial challenges. Fishing and ocean views can be enjoyed at the Virginia Beach Fishing Pier. Notable sights include the 3-mile long Virginia Beach Boardwalk, First Landing State Park with its hiking trails and beach access, the educational Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Centre, the historic Cape Henry Lighthouse with views of the Chesapeake Bay, and the serene Sandbridge Beach.
To fully enjoy Virginia Beach, VA, plan for a stay of three to four days. This allows enough time to explore the beach, visit attractions like the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Centre, and enjoy the local dining scene.
Yes, you can take the train from Washington, DC to Virginia Beach, VA.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Washington, DC and Virginia Beach, VA

Most Washington, DC to Virginia Beach, VA trains use the Union Station to Norfolk Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Washington, DC and Virginia Beach, 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 Virginia Beach

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

Trains from Washington, DC to Virginia Beach, 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 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 Virginia Beach, VA

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

HomeTrainsTrains in USATrain Times to Virginia Beach, VA Washington, DC to Virginia Beach, VA train

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