Charleston, SC to Washington, DC train with Amtrak

Thu, Apr 02
+ Add return
Amtrak
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
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Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
Amtrak
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Charleston, SC to Washington, DC

Showing times and prices for Apr 02

Cheapest price

$193

Average price

$272

Fastest journey

9 h 51 m

Average duration

9 h 53 m

Trains per day

2

Distance

729 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Charleston, SC to Washington, DC is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Charleston, SC to Washington, DC will cost around $272 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $193.

Fast trains

Of the 2 trains that leave Charleston, SC for Washington, DC on Thu, Apr 02, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Thu, Apr 02 the direct trains cover the 729 km distance in an average of 9 h 53 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 9 h 51 m .

On Thu, Apr 02 the slowest trains will take 9 h 55 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.

  • Amtrak90 Palmetto
    9:15 AM9h55
    Charleston Station, North Charleston, SC
    7:10 PMWashington Union Station, Washington, DC
    $1931One-way
    0 transfers
  • Amtrak98 Silver Meteor
    8:34 PM9h51
    Charleston Station, North Charleston, SC
    6:25 AMWashington Union Station, Washington, DC
    $3521One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus, train, and flight for Charleston, SC to Washington, DC

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Charleston, SC to Washington, DC among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $74. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 13m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $74, and a flight costs an average of $82.

Distance: 452 miles (729 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Flight
Bus

$174

Average price

$255

Average price

$159

Average price

Cheapest

10h 24m

Average total duration

9h 54m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 13m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 13m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

12h 8m

Average total duration

11h 38m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

Amtrak

Most popular train company

United

Most popular airline

Greyhound

Most popular bus company

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Live departures

Charleston, SC to Washington, DC train times

The table below shows live departures for Charleston, SC to Washington, DC trains for tomorrow, Wednesday, April 1. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
amtrak98 Silver Meteor12:34 AM Charleston Station, North Charleston, SC
9h51
10:25 AM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC0 transfersDirect
amtrak90 Palmetto1:15 PM Charleston Station, North Charleston, SC
9h55
11:10 PM Washington Union Station, Washington, DC0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Charleston, SC to Washington, DC by bus, train, or flight

Compare bus, 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.

Thu
Apr 02
Fri
Apr 03
Sat
Apr 04
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Apr 05
Mon
Apr 06
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Wed
Apr 08

Journey information

Overview: Train from Charleston, SC to Washington, DC

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Trains from Charleston, SC to Washington, DC run on average 2 times per day, taking around 9h 54m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $76 (€61) but you can travel from only $74 (€60) by bus.

There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 09:15, the last at 21:34. The fastest train covers the 452 miles (729 km) distance in 9h 51m.

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
Bus from $74 (€60)
Distance
452 miles (729 km)
Average train duration
9h 54m
Cheapest ticket price
$76 (€61)
Trains per day
2
Direct trains
2
Fastest train
9h 51m
First train
9:15 AM
Last train
9:34 PM
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
Bus from $74 (€60)

Train companies: Amtrak from Charleston, SC to Washington, DC trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Charleston, SC and Washington, DC from $74 (€60). 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
9h 51m
Cheapest Price
$76 (€61)
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

FAQs: Trains from Charleston, SC to Washington, DC

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

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Charleston, SC to Washington, DC can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $76 (€61), while the average price is around $174 (€141).
The train from Charleston, SC to Washington, DC takes 9h 51m and runs 2 per day.
The distance by train from Charleston, SC to Washington, DC is 452 miles (729 km).
The first train from Charleston, SC to Washington, DC leaves at 9:15 AM.
The last train from Charleston, SC to Washington, DC leaves at 9:34 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Charleston, SC to Washington, DC.
Yes, there is a direct train from Charleston, SC to Washington, DC. This service operates 2 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Charleston, SC to Washington, DC.
The train station in Charleston, SC that goes to Washington, DC is Charleston Station, North Charleston, SC, which connects to Washington Union Station, Washington, DC.
The cheapest way to get from Charleston, SC to Washington, DC is by bus, with a cost of around $74 (€60).
The train journey from Charleston, SC to Washington, DC offers scenic views of the Lowcountry's marshlands and rivers, transitioning into the rolling landscapes and historic landmarks of the Mid-Atlantic region.
A day trip from Charleston, SC to Washington, DC is not feasible as the journey takes 9h 51m. Trains run 2 times per day for this 452 miles (729 km) journey.
In Washington, DC, you can discover the National Gallery of Art, stroll through the historic Georgetown neighborhood, visit the world's largest library at the Library of Congress, explore the vibrant Eastern Market, and enjoy a performance at the Kennedy Center. Key sights include the National Mall, the White House, the United States Capitol, the Smithsonian Institution, and the Lincoln Memorial.
To explore Washington, DC's main attractions such as the National Mall, museums, and monuments, a stay of three to four days is recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Charleston, SC to Washington, DC.
Since neither Charleston, SC nor Washington, DC are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of United States and United States. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
Popular day trips by train from Washington, DC include Baltimore, MD, Wilmington, DE, Fredericksburg, VA, Newark, DE, Quantico, VA.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Charleston, SC to Washington, DC among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
The currency used in the United States is the US Dollar (USD). For travelers, using cards is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially credit and debit cards, while cash is useful for small purchases or places that do not accept cards.
In Washington, DC, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like the National Mall and Metro stations. Common scams include overpriced taxi rides and unofficial tour operators. It's advisable to use licensed transportation services and stay aware of surroundings, particularly at night or in less busy neighborhoods.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Charleston, SC to Washington, DC

Charleston
Washington
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 transit 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

Most popular trains to and from Washington, DC and Charleston, SC

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