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Find Arlington to Philadelphia bus tickets

from
Arlington, United States of America
to
Philadelphia, United States of America

Why Choose Bus from Arlington to Philadelphia

Traveling from Arlington to Philadelphia offers a variety of transportation options, each with its own advantages and drawbacks. Choosing the right mode of transport can significantly enhance your travel experience, making it essential to compare your choices.

💰 Cost-Effectiveness

pros
  • Bus tickets from Arlington to Philadelphia start as low as $12, making it one of the most affordable options compared to flights and trains.
  • Bus service often includes promotional fares, providing additional savings for travelers looking to keep expenses low.
cons
  • While the bus can be cheaper, prices can fluctuate greatly, reaching up to $101 during peak travel times.

🛎️ Scenic Views

pros
  • The bus route provides passengers with scenic views of the Northern Virginia countryside and parts of urban Washington D.C. along the way.
  • Travelers can enjoy a relaxed atmosphere, allowing them to take in the sights without the stress of road navigation.
cons
  • Some stretches of the ride may not offer stunning views, particularly in more urban areas where buildings obstruct the scenery.

⭐ Convenient Departures

pros
  • Buses depart from Washington Union Station, which is easily accessible from Arlington, minimizing the hassle of reaching the departure point.
  • Flexible schedules allow for multiple departure times throughout the day, accommodating various travel plans.
cons
  • Passengers must still account for time spent transferring from Arlington to Washington before beginning their bus journey to Philadelphia.

highlights:

Traveling by bus may require additional time due to transfers, and overall journey duration can approach 5 hours, which is longer compared to trains or flights.

Affordability makes bus travel an attractive choice for budget-conscious travelers.

Scenic views offer an enjoyable experience during the journey, enhancing the overall travel ambiance.

Convenient departure locations and schedules provide flexibility for both short and long trips.

Bus Options from Arlington to Philadelphia

Typecompanydeparture stationarrival stationdeparture timearrival timeFrequencyDurationPrice Rangelayover city
ConnectingFlixbus USAWashington Union Station, Washington D.C.Philadelphia Station, Philadelphia, PA09:00, 12:00, 15:00, 18:0013:00, 16:00, 19:00, 22:00Every 3 hours4h 52m
$
12-101
K Street and 17th Street NW, Washington D.C.

Comparison of Bus Operators from Arlington to Philadelphia

Comparing bus operators on the route from Arlington to Philadelphia is crucial for travelers seeking the best combination of price, amenities, and travel convenience. With no direct service available, understanding the differences among operators can help you make informed decisions based on your budget and preferences.

CriteriaFlixbus USAGreyhoundMegabus
Price Range$ 12 - $ 101$ 20 - $ 90$ 10 - $ 75
pricing policies
refund policyTickets are refundable up to 30 minutes before departure.Tickets can be refunded with a 20% cancellation fee until one hour before departure.Non-refundable after purchase.
Ticket ChangesChanges can be made for a fee of $10 up to 24 hours before departure.Changes subject to a $20 fee and fare difference.Changes available for a $5 fee plus fare difference.
discountsStudent and senior discounts available.Frequent traveler program and youth discounts offered.Monthly deals and group discounts available.
amenitiesWi-Fi, Power outlets, Restrooms, Air conditioning, Extra legroomFree Wi-Fi, Reserved seating, Restrooms, Reclining seatsWi-Fi, Power outlets, Onboard refreshments, Restrooms
baggage allowance
free allowanceOne carry-on bag under 7kg and one checked bag up to 23kg are included.One carry-on and one checked bag under 50lbs included.One carry-on bag and one checked bag included, no weight limit for carry-ons.
Additional FeesExtra checked baggage costs $15 and oversized baggage incurs a $30 fee.Each extra checked bag is $15, oversized baggage is $40.Checked bags over 50lbs incur a fee of $25.
accessibilityBuses are equipped with wheelchair ramps and designated seating for passengers with disabilities.Features include wheelchair access and assistance available at request.Buses offer low floors and are equipped for wheelchair accessibility.

Travelers should consider their priorities when choosing a bus operator between Arlington and Philadelphia. If budget is your main concern, Flixbus offers the lowest prices with decent amenities. For those seeking more flexible pricing policies, Greyhound might be more suitable, while Megabus provides an economical option with modern amenities. Each operator has its strengths, so select based on the travel experience you desire.

Bus Stops and Stations from Arlington to Philadelphia

Knowing about bus stops and stations is crucial for a smooth travel experience between Arlington and Philadelphia.

Main Bus Stations in Arlington

Arlington Bus Station

Located at 901 N. Glebe Rd, Arlington, VA, near major shopping centers and only a short distance from the Metro station.
facilities
  • Restrooms
  • Waiting areas with seating
  • Ticket counters and self-service kiosks
  • Luggage storage lockers
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Food and beverage options (café and vending machines)
  • ATMs and currency exchange services
  • Accessibility features (ramps, elevators)
Transportation Links
  • Metro Bus service to various locations around Arlington
  • Metro's Orange and Silver lines connecting to Washington, D.C.
  • Local taxis and rideshare services available outside the station
  • Parking facilities for private vehicles with hourly and daily rates
  • Arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure for check-in and boarding.
  • Familiarize yourself with security procedures regarding luggage and personal items.
  • Avoid peak commuting hours (7am-9am and 5pm-7pm) for a less crowded experience.
  • Explore nearby amenities like restaurants and shops at Ballston Quarter if you have extra time.

Main Bus Stations in Philadelphia

Philadelphia Greyhound Terminal

Situated at 1001 Filbert St, Philadelphia, PA, centrally located near the iconic Reading Terminal Market and other downtown attractions.
facilities
  • Restrooms
  • Waiting areas with ample seating
  • Ticket counters and self-service kiosks
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Food court with various dining options
  • Luggage storage services
  • ATMs located on-site
  • Accessibility features (elevators, ramps)
Transportation Links
  • SEPTA bus service and regional rail connections to various Philadelphia neighborhoods
  • Amtrak service for regional and long-distance travel
  • Taxis and rideshare options available at the terminal
  • Parking facilities with short and long-term options nearby
  • Plan to arrive 20-30 minutes before your scheduled arrival to ensure a smooth disembarkation.
  • Be aware of your belongings when navigating through the busy terminal.
  • Check for events or peak times at nearby attractions for a more pleasant visit.
  • Visit Reading Terminal Market for a quick bite or to explore local flavors.

En Route Stops

Baltimore, MD

Duration: 15m

facilities

  • Restrooms
  • Seating area
  • Coffee shop

Wilmington, DE

Duration: 10m

facilities

  • Restrooms
  • Quick snack shop
  • Seating available

Newark, DE

Duration: 20m

facilities

  • Restrooms
  • Waiting area
  • Vending machines

Familiarizing yourself with the Arlington and Philadelphia bus stations can enhance your travel experience, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey.

Travel Tips

  • ⛰ Explore Scenic Stops

    Take advantage of the unique stops along the way, such as the picturesque Delaware River or quaint towns like Wilmington. Plan your trip around these stops for photo opportunities and a taste of local culture.

  • 📍 Pack Snacks for the Journey

    Bring along some local treats such as Philly cheesesteaks or soft pretzels from Arlington. Having your own snacks can make the journey more enjoyable and save you from overpriced bus fare concessions.

  • 🚍 Stay Updated on Local Events

    Check for local events or festivals happening in Philadelphia during your visit. This can enhance your trip, giving you a chance to experience the city’s local culture and enjoy special activities.

  • 🎭 Utilize Bus Amenities

    Take full advantage of onboard amenities like Wi-Fi and power outlets. Bring your own entertainment—download movies or books before hitting the road to make your time on the bus more pleasant.

  • 🏛 Plan for Arrival and Local Transport

    Familiarize yourself with local transport options in Philadelphia, such as the SEPTA transit system, to ensure you can navigate the city easily upon arrival. Consider booking your local travel in advance.

FAQ

Most buses on this route offer comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, power outlets, and sometimes even complimentary snacks. Make sure to check with your bus provider for specific amenities.
The journey typically takes around 2 to 3 hours, depending on traffic conditions and any scheduled stops along the way.
Make sure to have a valid ID available for check-in and to adhere to local rules regarding masks and safety protocols, especially in busy bus terminals.
To avoid heavy traffic, consider traveling during mid-morning or late afternoon. Early departures or late evening buses can also provide a smoother ride.
Yes, most buses allow one piece of carry-on luggage and one checked bag for free. Be sure to check your bus company’s specific policy for any additional fees.

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