Raleigh, NC, USA to Washington, DC, USA from $12: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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How to Get from Raleigh to Washington: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$12 by trainBest price

423 kmDistance

3h Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Raleigh to Washington with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

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Raleigh - Washington operators

Explore transport companies operating between Raleigh and Washington, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Plane

Website

aa.com

Plane from Raleigh/Durham (RDU) to Reagan Washington (DCA)

Average Duration

1h 14m

Estimated price

$966-969

Website

delta.com

Plane from Raleigh/Durham (RDU) to Reagan Washington (DCA)

Average Duration

1h 15m

Estimated price

$966-2550

Website

united.com

Plane from Raleigh/Durham (RDU) to Washington Dulles (IAD)

Average Duration

1h 17m

Estimated price

$966-967

Train

Contact phone

+1 800-872-7245

Website

amtrak.com

Train from Raleigh Union Station to Washington Union Station

Average Duration

Estimated price

$12-130

Train from Raleigh Union Station to Alexandria

Average Duration

5h 23m

Estimated price

$12-130

Contact phone

+1 202-637-7000

Website

wmata.com

Train from Washington Dulles International Airport to Farragut West

Average Duration

50m

Estimated price

$2551-2552

Bus

Contact phone

+1 214-849-8100

Website

greyhound.com

Bus from Raleigh Bus Station to Richmond Bus Station

Average Duration

2h 45m

Estimated price

$25557-25585

Bus from Richmond Bus Station to Washington Union Station

Average Duration

3h 10m

Estimated price

$25551-962

Contact phone

+1 (855) 626-8585

Website

flixbus.com

Bus from Richmond Bus Station to Washington Union Station

Average Duration

1h 55m

Estimated price

$25551-2556

Raleigh to Washington: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Raleigh and Washington offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on a scenic road trip from Raleigh to Washington covering a distance of 263 miles. Enjoy the journey through the picturesque landscapes of North Carolina and Virginia. 💰 The cost of driving from Raleigh to Washington ranges from $45 to $70. Plan your budget accordingly and explore the affordability of a car trip compared to other modes of transportation. 🏛️ Arrive in the nation's capital after approximately 4 hours and 37 minutes on the road. Discover the iconic landmarks, diverse culture, and rich history that await you in Washington.

Average price

$45 - $70

🚂 Experience the convenience and comfort of traveling by train from Raleigh to Washington. Departing from Raleigh Union Station, the direct Amtrak service operates twice daily, making the journey to Washington Union Station in approximately 6 hours. 🌆 Sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic views as the train glides through the picturesque landscapes of North Carolina, Virginia, and finally arriving in the bustling capital city of Washington. With tickets ranging from $12 to $130, the train offers an affordable and stress-free way to travel between these two vibrant cities.

Departure Point

Raleigh Union Station

Arrival Point

Washington Union Station

🛫 Flying from Raleigh to Washington is quick and convenient, with a direct flight taking just 1 hour and 8 minutes from Raleigh/Durham Airport to Reagan Washington Airport. 💰 Flight prices between Raleigh and Washington can range from $96 to $255, making it a relatively affordable and efficient way to travel between these two vibrant East Coast cities.

Departure Point

Raleigh/Durham Airport

Arrival Point

Reagan Washington Airport

🌆 The trip includes services departing from GoRaleigh Station and arriving at Washington Union Station via Raleigh Bus Station and Richmond Bus Station. The total travel time is approximately 6 hours and 36 minutes. 💰 Prices for a bus ticket between Raleigh and Washington range from $29 to $106. This bus service is operated by Greyhound USA and Flixbus USA, providing a convenient and affordable way to travel between the two capitals.

Departure Point

Raleigh Bus Station

Arrival Point

Washington Union Station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Raleigh to Washington.

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The distance between Raleigh and Washington is approximately 376.6 km by road. By train, it typically takes about 6 hours to travel between the two cities. Alternatively, by flying to Washington Dulles and then taking the subway, the travel time is around 3 hours and 43 minutes. Another option is to fly directly, which usually takes about 3 hours and 3 minutes. By car, the journey from Raleigh to Washington is approximately 4 hours and 37 minutes, while by bus, it may take around 6 hours and 49 minutes.

The most cost-effective transportation option for traveling from Raleigh to Washington is by bus, with prices ranging from $24 to $85. Although it takes approximately 6 hours and 53 minutes, it is a more affordable choice for budget-conscious travelers. However, for those looking for a quicker journey, flying is the most time-efficient option, taking just 3 hours and 3 minutes. Prices for flights range from $95 to $270.

When traveling from Raleigh to Washington the prices for a train ticket can vary between $12 to $130. On the other hand, the prices for a bus ticket between Washington and Raleigh can range from $29 to $76.

To travel from Raleigh to Washington without public transportation, you can drive the distance of approximately 423.3 km. The drive takes approximately 4 hours and 37 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The cost of driving varies, but you can expect to pay between $45 and $70 for gas and tolls.

To travel from Raleigh to Washington without a car, you have a few options. The most convenient option is to take a train via Alexandria, which takes around 5 hours and 48 minutes and costs between $14 and $130. Another option is to fly, which takes about 3 hours and 3 minutes and costs between $95 and $270. If you're looking for a more budget-friendly option, you can take a bus, which takes approximately 6 hours and 49 minutes and costs between $29 and $80.

Yes, there is a direct train link between Raleigh and Washington. The train services, operated by Amtrak, depart twice daily from Raleigh Union Station and arrive at Washington Union Station, with a journey time of approximately 6 hours. However, there is no direct bus link between Raleigh and Washington. Greyhound USA operates bus services with transfers, and the journey takes approximately 6 hours and 49 minutes.

The flight between Raleigh and Washington typically takes around 1 hour and 12 minutes on a direct flight. The cost of the flight can vary depending on factors such as the airline, time of booking, and availability, with prices ranging from $96 to $265.

There are a wide range of accommodation options available in and around Washington. There are 1297+ hotels to choose from, with prices starting at $63 per night.