Philadelphia, PA, USA to Washington, DC, USA from $5: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car
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How to Get from Philadelphia to Washington: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way
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$5 by busBest price
200.37 kmDistance
1h 44m Fastest
Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options
Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Philadelphia 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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Traveling From Philadelphia to Washington
Your journey from Philadelphia to Washington offers a striking contrast between Philadelphia's historic charm and Washington's vibrant political energy.
Best Neighbourhoods in Washington
Washington, D.C. features diverse neighborhoods, each offering unique experiences.
Dupont Circle
• Known for its historic architecture.
• Vibrant dining and nightlife scene.
Georgetown
• Charming cobblestone streets and waterfront views.
• Boutique shopping and rich history.
Capitol Hill
• Home to the U.S. Capitol and Supreme Court.
• Quaint parks and local cafes abound.
Best Times To Visit Washington's Attractions
Timing your visit can elevate your experience at Washington's top spots.
National Mall
Early mornings on weekdays offer peaceful strolls without the crowds.
Smithsonian Museums
Visit on Tuesdays and Wednesdays for quieter galleries and exhibits.
Lincoln Memorial
Sunset visits provide stunning views with fewer visitors to distract.
Washington Weather: What to Expect Year-Round
Washington experiences a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters, making spring and fall the ideal times to visit. Weather influences your travel plans, so be prepared for heat in summer and occasional snow in winter, as both can shape your outdoor adventures.
Dining Recommendation in Washington
Try a spicy, mouthwatering half-smoke at Ben's Chili Bowl, a beloved local institution that diverges from Philadelphia's cheesesteak scene. This dish captures the essence of Washington's rich culinary history with its vibrant flavors and casual atmosphere that invite you to savor not just the food but the city's unique spirit.
Philadelphia - Washington operators
Explore transport companies operating between Philadelphia and Washington, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245Website
https://www.amtrak.com/acela-train
Train from 30th Street Station to Washington Union Station
Average Duration
1h 44mEstimated price
$5-420Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585Website
https://flixbus.com
Bus from Philadelphia to Washington Union Station
Average Duration
2h 50mEstimated price
$5-55Contact phone
+1-877-462-6342Website
https://us.megabus.com
Bus from Philadelphia, PA to Washington Union Station
Average Duration
3hEstimated price
$8-40Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100Website
https://www.greyhound.com/
Bus from Philadelphia to Washington Union Station
Average Duration
3h 35mEstimated price
$15-50Contact phone
1-800-343-9999Website
https://peterpanbus.com
Bus from 520 N Christopher Columbus Blvd., Philadelphia, PA to Union Station, Washington, DC
Average Duration
3hEstimated price
$5-50Website
http://aa.com
Plane from Philadelphia Airport (PHL) to Reagan Washington Airport (DCA)
Average Duration
1h 7mEstimated price
$260-650Website
http://united.com
Plane from Philadelphia Airport (PHL) to Washington Dulles (IAD)
Average Duration
1h 8mEstimated price
$130-440Contact phone
+1 202-637-7000Website
https://www.wmata.com
Subway from Washington Dulles International Airport to Farragut West
Average Duration
50mEstimated price
$2-6Philadelphia to Washington: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips
Traveling between Philadelphia 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 picturesque road trip from Philadelphia to Washington, covering a distance of 223.7 km.
💸 Experience budget-friendly travel with car prices ranging from $25 to $40 for the journey between these vibrant cities.
🏛️ Indulge in history, culture, and iconic landmarks as you reach the captivating capital city of Washington after a smooth 2-hour and 34-minute drive from Philadelphia.
Average price
$25 - $40
🚂 Travel from Philadelphia to Washington by train is convenient and efficient. The direct train operated by Amtrak Acela departs from 30th Street Station and arrives at Washington Union Station.
🕒 Services run every 30 minutes, making it easy to plan your journey between these vibrant East Coast cities. The trip typically takes around 1 hour and 44 minutes, allowing for a quick and stress-free travel experience.
💰 Ticket prices for the Philadelphia to Washington train range from $5 to $420, providing options for different budgets.
Departure Point
30th Street Station
Arrival Point
Washington Union Station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard your Amtrak train, you can enjoy various dining options. Amtrak provides a café car that offers a selection of snacks, sandwiches, and beverages for purchase. In First Class, you might experience complementary meals and drinks served to your seat, providing a more comfortable dining experience during the trip.
• The Amtrak Northeast Regional service, which operates between Philadelphia and Washington D.C., offers several seating options: First Class, Business Class, and Coach (Economy). First Class features larger, more comfortable seats with extra legroom and complimentary meals, while Business Class provides a quieter atmosphere and additional amenities including exclusive access to the lounge at select stations. Coach/economy seats are more affordable but still reasonably comfortable for the journey.
• When you arrive at Union Station in Washington D.C., you'll find it quite busy but well-organized. Be aware that there are luggage storage services available, allowing you to explore the city without your bags. The restrooms are located throughout the station, and while there are no showers, you can rent lockers to store your belongings securely. To navigate easily, follow the signage pointing towards the D.C. Metro system, which will take you directly to the city center.
🛫 Flying from Philadelphia to Washington is a quick and convenient journey, with a direct flight taking just 1 hour and 4 minutes from Philadelphia Airport to Reagan Washington Airport.
💸 The prices for flights between Philadelphia and Washington can vary, with ticket costs ranging from $117 to $410, giving travelers options to choose from based on their budget and preferences.
Departure Point
Philadelphia Airport
Arrival Point
Reagan Washington Airport
🚌 Traveling from Philadelphia to Washington by bus is a convenient option with a direct route from Philadelphia to Washington Union Station station operated by Flixbus USA. The journey typically takes around 2 hours and 50 minutes.
🚌 With ticket prices ranging from $5 to $55, taking the bus from Philadelphia to Washington offers an affordable way to travel while enjoying the scenic views along the route. Sit back, relax, and let the bus take you from the City of Brotherly Love to the bustling streets of the nation's capital.
Departure Point
Philadelphia station
Arrival Point
Washington Union Station
Frequently asked questions
Find out more about the route from Philadelphia to Washington.
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The cheapest way to get from Philadelphia to Washington is by bus. Several bus companies offer affordable fares, ranging from $5 to $55, with an average travel time of around 3 hours.
The fastest way to travel from Philadelphia to Washington is by train. Amtrak offers frequent and efficient service between the two cities, with a journey time of around 1 hour and 44 minutes. Prices for train tickets can vary depending on the time and date of travel, with fares ranging from $5 to $420.
It is approximately 201 km from Philadelphia to Washington. If driving, the road distance is slightly longer at 224 km. The journey typically takes around 2-3 hours depending on traffic conditions.
The train is the fastest mode of transportation to get from Philadelphia to Washington taking approximately 1 hour and 44 minutes. Trains depart every 30 minutes, providing travelers with frequent options throughout the day.
The most convenient and efficient way to travel from Philadelphia to Washington is by train. The journey takes about 1 hour and 44 minutes and prices range from $5 to $420, depending on class and availability. Alternatively, you can choose to take a bus, which takes approximately 3 hours and costs between $5 and $55. If time is a constraint, flying is an option, with flights ranging from $110 to $420 and a travel duration of around 2 hours and 55 minutes.
There are many accommodations available near Washington. You can choose from a wide range of options, including hotels, hostels, and vacation rentals. Prices start at $63 per night for budget-friendly options.
Yes, you can drive from Philadelphia to Washington. The driving distance between the two cities is 224 km, and it takes approximately 2 hours and 34 minutes to complete the journey by car.
Yes, there is a direct bus service between Philadelphia and Washington. The bus departs from Philadelphia and arrives in Washington DC. There are hourly departures and the bus operates every day. The journey takes approximately 3 hours.
To catch the bus from Philadelphia to Washington you will need to head to the Philadelphia station. This is where Megabus operates its bus services for this route.
The Philadelphia to Washington bus operated by Megabus arrives at the Washington DC station.
To get to Washington from Philadelphia Airport, you can take a train from the airport to 30th Street Station in Philadelphia. From there, you can catch an Amtrak train or a bus that will take you directly to Washington. Alternatively, you can also consider taking a taxi, Uber, or a shuttle service from the airport to a train station in Philadelphia that offers direct trains to Washington.
American Airlines offers flights between Philadelphia and Washington. The flights operate from Philadelphia Airport to Reagan Washington Airport.
The fastest way to get from Philadelphia to Washington is by plane. The quickest flight, offered by American Airlines, takes about 1 hour and 7 minutes from Philadelphia Airport to Reagan Washington Airport. The total travel time by plane is approximately 2 hours and 55 minutes. The cost of a flight between the two cities ranges from $117 to $420.
The flight from Philadelphia to Washington typically takes around 1 hour and 7 minutes for a direct flight.
Trains from Philadelphia to Washington operated by Amtrak Acela, arrive at Washington Union Station. Washington Union Station is conveniently located in the heart of downtown Washington, making it easy for travelers to access various attractions and accommodations. It is also a major transportation hub, connecting passengers to other train and bus services, as well as the Washington Metro system for convenient onward travel.
Yes, there is a direct train between Philadelphia and Washington. The service runs every day and departs every 30 minutes. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 44 minutes.
To catch the train from Philadelphia to Washington you can go to Philadelphia station. This is where Amtrak Acela trains depart from. Philadelphia station is located conveniently in the city, making it easily accessible for travelers.
The cost of a flight from Philadelphia to Washington can range from $117 to $420.
The cost of a train ticket from Philadelphia to Washington can range from $5 to $420, depending on the class, time of travel, and availability. Prices tend to be lower for Economy class, while Business class and Acela Express tickets are generally more expensive.
The cost of a bus ticket from Philadelphia to Washington ranges between $5 to $55 depending on the type of bus and time of travel.
The cost of driving from Philadelphia to Washington typically ranges from $25 to $40, depending on various factors such as gas prices and tolls.