- Must visit
Virginia Museum of Transportation
Compact transport museum focused on the city’s rail past, with locomotives, rolling stock and hands-on railway interpretation.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Washington, DC to Roanoke, VA
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 19 Sept
Cheapest price on 19 Sept
£23
Average ticket price on 19 Sept
£32
Fastest journey on 19 Sept
5 h 1 m
Average journey duration on 19 Sept
5 h 7 m
Trains on 19 Sept
5
Distance
312 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Washington, DC to Roanoke, 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 Roanoke, VA will cost around £32 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £23.
Fast trains
On Sat 19 Sept, we found 5 trains from Washington, DC to Roanoke, VA, including 5 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 312 km distance in an average of 5 h 7 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 1 m .
The slowest trains will take 5 h 10 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.
12:155h01Washington, DC17:16Roanoke, VA£231One-way0 changes- 22:005h06Washington, DC3:06Roanoke, VA£321One-way0 changes
- 12:305h10Washington, DC17:40Roanoke, VA£321One-way0 changes
- 21:005h06Washington, DC2:06Roanoke, VA£321One-way0 changes
- 11:305h10Washington, DC16:40Roanoke, VA£401One-way0 changes
- 12:155h01Washington, DC17:16Roanoke, VA£231One-way0 changes
- 22:005h06Washington, DC3:06Roanoke, VA£321One-way0 changes
- 21:005h06Washington, DC2:06Roanoke, VA£321One-way0 changes
- 12:305h10Washington, DC17:40Roanoke, VA£321One-way0 changes
- 11:305h10Washington, DC16:40Roanoke, VA£401One-way0 changes
Travel Information
Compare train, coach and flight for Washington, DC to Roanoke, VA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Washington, DC to Roanoke, VA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of £26 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 3h 17m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of £26, while a flight costs an average of £205.
Distance: 312 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
£26 Average Price Cheapest | £34 Average Price | £205 Average Price | £35 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 36m Average total duration 5h 6m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 48m Average total duration 5h 18m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 17m Average total duration Fastest 1h 17m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 3h 36m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
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 |
The cheapest way to travel from Washington, DC to Roanoke, VA is a train with an average price of £26.
This is compared to other travel options from Washington, DC to Roanoke, VA:
A train is £9 less than a coach for this route with tickets for a coach from Washington, DC to Roanoke, VA costing on average £34.
A train is £180 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Washington, DC to Roanoke, VA costing on average £205.
The fastest way to travel from Washington, DC to Roanoke, VA is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 17m.
Other travel options to Roanoke, VA take longer:
Train takes on average 5h 6m.
Coach takes on average 5h 18m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Washington, DC and Roanoke, 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 £26 compared to roughly £35 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about £9. The journey takes 5h 6m versus 3h 36m 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.
Direct services run with Amtrak.
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 Roanoke, VA train times
The table below shows live departures for Washington, DC to Roanoke, VA trains for today, Friday 18 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 21:00 Washington, DC | 5h13 | 2:13 Roanoke, VA | 0 changesdirect | |
| 22:00 Washington, DC | 5h13 | 3:13 Roanoke, VA | 0 changesdirect | |
| Saturday 19 September | |||||
| 11:30 Washington, DC | 5h10 | 16:40 Roanoke, VA | 0 changesdirect | |
| 12:15 Washington, DC | 5h01 | 17:16 Roanoke, VA | 0 changesdirect | |
| 12:30 Washington, DC | 5h10 | 17:40 Roanoke, VA | 0 changesdirect | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Washington, DC to Roanoke, 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
19 Sept
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20 Sept
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21 Sept
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25 Sept
Journey information
Overview: Train from Washington, DC to Roanoke, VA
USAUSA
Trains from Washington, DC to Roanoke, VA run on average 2 times per day, taking around 5h 6m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £17 if you book in advance.
There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 06:15, the last at 17:00. The fastest train covers the 312 km distance in 5h 1m.
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 312 km |
Average train duration 5h 6m |
Cheapest ticket price £17 |
Trains per day 2 |
Direct trains 2 |
Fastest train 5h 1m |
First train 6:15 |
Last train 17:00 |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Wed |
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
Train companies: Amtrak from Washington, DC to Roanoke, VA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Washington, DC and Roanoke, VA from £17. 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 1m
Cheapest Amtrak Price
£17
Amtrak frequency
1 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 Roanoke, VA
Things to do in Roanoke, VA
Discover the best of Roanoke, VA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Roanoke, VA trip today.
- Recommended
Taubman Museum of Art
Major local museum with art, history and science collections, plus a planetarium and regional exhibitions for broad appeal.
- Recommended
History Museum of Western Virginia
Regional history museum in Centre in the Square, covering Roanoke Valley stories through objects, photographs and changing displays.
- Must visit
Roanoke City Market
Lively open-air market district with stalls, historic architecture and easy access to shops, galleries and downtown walking routes.
- Must visit
Mill Mountain Park
Mountain park with scenic drives, trails and picnic spots, best known for nature access and wide views above the city.
- Recommended
Market Square
Downtown pedestrian market and square area hosting events, public art and a walkable mix of historic streets and local businesses.
FAQs: Washington, DC to Roanoke, VA train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Washington, DC to Roanoke, 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 Roanoke, VA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Washington, DC to Roanoke, VA can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £17, while the average price tends to be around £26.
The train journey from Washington, DC to Roanoke, VA covers a distance of 312 km and takes approximately 5h 1m. Trains run 2 per day.
The train distance from Washington, DC to Roanoke, VA is 312 km.
The first train from Washington, DC to Roanoke, VA leaves at 6:15.
The last train from Washington, DC to Roanoke, VA departs at 17:00.
Trains from Washington, DC to Roanoke, VA run approximately 2 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Washington, DC to Roanoke, VA.
Yes, there is a direct train between Washington, DC and Roanoke, VA. The service operates 2 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
To get from Washington, DC to Roanoke, VA, you can choose from several travel options including train, coach and flight.
There is no night train service from Washington, DC to Roanoke, VA.
The train station in Washington, DC that goes to Roanoke, VA is Washington Union Station, Washington, DC, and it arrives at Roanoke Station, Roanoke, VA.
The cheapest way to get from Washington, DC to Roanoke, VA is by train, costing approximately £17.
Booking trains from Washington, DC to Roanoke, 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 Roanoke, VA offers scenic views, particularly through the Blue Ridge Mountains and the picturesque Shenandoah Valley, providing a visually appealing experience.
A day trip from Washington, DC to Roanoke, VA is not feasible as the journey takes 5h 1m. Trains operate 2 times per day over a distance of 312 km.
To fully experience Roanoke, VA, three to four days are ideal, allowing time to explore its vibrant arts scene, enjoy outdoor activities in the Blue Ridge Mountains, and visit local attractions like the Taubman Museum of Art and the Roanoke Star.
Yes, you can take the train from Washington, DC to Roanoke, VA.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Washington, DC and Roanoke, VA
Most Washington, DC to Roanoke, VA trains use the Union Station to Roanoke Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Washington, DC and Roanoke, 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 Roanoke
Which Washington, DC station do trains to Roanoke, VA leave from?
Trains from Washington, DC to Roanoke, 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 Roanoke, VA station do trains from Washington, DC arrive at?
Trains from Washington, DC to Roanoke, VA arrive at Roanoke Station. Roanoke Station is from Roanoke, VA city centre.
Roanoke Station55 Norfolk Avenue SW, Roanoke, VA 24011, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Roanoke Station from Roanoke city centre
BusThruway bus connections available between Roanoke and Virginia Tech and Blacksburg
Roanoke Station train station facilities and services
Roanoke Station has practical services for this route, including Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Roanoke Station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Roanoke Station. Information desks are located near the platform.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Roanoke Station: Taxis.
Bike and car services
Available at Roanoke Station: Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Roanoke Station: Ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Roanoke & Conference Center, Hampton Inn & Suites Roanoke-Downtown, Cambria Hotel Downtown Roanoke.
Most popular train connections from Washington, DC
More options for your journey from Washington, DC to Roanoke, VA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Roanoke, VA and Washington, DC
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