Washington, DC, USA to Philadelphia, PA, USA from $5: 8 ways by bus, train, flight or car
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How to Get from Washington to Philadelphia: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way
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$5 by busBest price
200.37 kmDistance
1h 34m Fastest
Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options
Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Washington to Philadelphia 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 Washington to Philadelphia
The journey from Washington to Philadelphia offers you a fascinating transition from the political pulse of the capital to the vibrant historical tapestry of the city of brotherly love.
Best Neighbourhoods in Philadelphia
Philadelphia boasts diverse neighborhoods, each rich in culture and history.
Old City
• Home to Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell.
• Charming cobblestone streets filled with art galleries.
Rittenhouse Square
• Elegant park surrounded by upscale shops and restaurants.
• Vibrant area popular for people-watching and dining.
Fishtown
• Trendy district known for its music scene and breweries.
• Eclectic mix of cafes, art spaces, and boutiques.
Best Times To Visit Philadelphia's Attractions
Timing your visits can elevate your experience in Philadelphia's top spots.
Philadelphia Museum of Art
Visit on weekday mornings to avoid the weekend crowds and enjoy the art in peace.
Independence National Historical Park
Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal for fewer tourists and a more intimate experience.
Reading Terminal Market
Weekdays before noon offer a relaxed atmosphere to savor local delicacies.
Philadelphia Weather: What to Expect Year-Round
Philadelphia experiences a humid continental climate, with hot summers and cold winters, making spring and fall the best times to visit for comfortable temperatures. During your travels, be prepared for seasonal variations, as weather conditions can significantly shape your sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Dining Recommendation in Philadelphia
For a truly Philly experience, try the iconic cheesesteak at Pat's King of Steaks, where the savory flavors and vibrant atmosphere contrast with the more polished dining scene often found in Washington. This unofficial culinary symbol of the city showcases local ingredients and a casual vibe that invites you to savor every bite.
Washington - Philadelphia operators
Explore transport companies operating between Washington and Philadelphia, 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 Washington Union Station to 30th Street Station
Average Duration
1h 34mEstimated price
$35-420Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245Website
https://www.amtrak.com/northeast-regional-train
Train from Washington Union Station to 30th Street Station
Average Duration
1h 55mEstimated price
$24-210Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html
Train from Washington Union Station to 30th Street Station
Average Duration
2h 1mEstimated price
$5-90Contact phone
+1-877-462-6342Website
https://us.megabus.com
Bus from Washington Union Station to Philadelphia, PA
Average Duration
3hEstimated price
$8-40Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585Website
https://flixbus.com
Bus from Washington Union Station to Philadelphia
Average Duration
2h 50mEstimated price
$13-55Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100Website
https://www.greyhound.com/
Bus from Washington Union Station to Philadelphia
Average Duration
3h 40mEstimated price
$15-50Contact phone
1-800-343-9999Website
https://peterpanbus.com
Bus from Union Station, Washington, DC to 520 N Christopher Columbus Blvd., Philadelphia, PA
Average Duration
3hEstimated price
$5-50Website
http://aa.com
Plane from Reagan Washington (DCA) to Philadelphia (PHL)
Average Duration
1h 4mEstimated price
$260-650Website
http://united.com
Plane from Washington Dulles (IAD) to Philadelphia (PHL)
Average Duration
1h 6mEstimated price
$130-440Contact phone
+1 202-637-7000Website
https://www.wmata.com
Other from Farragut West to Washington Dulles International Airport
Average Duration
49mEstimated price
$2-6Washington to Philadelphia: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips
Traveling between Washington and Philadelphia 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 Washington to Philadelphia spanning 138 miles of picturesque landscapes and historic countryside. Enjoy a leisurely drive that typically takes around 2 hours and 34 minutes to complete.
💰 Experience the flexibility of travel as the prices for the journey from Washington to Philadelphia by car can range from $25 to $40. With various routes to choose from, you can tailor your trip based on budget and preferred travel time.
Average price
$25 - $40
🚆 Traveling by train from Washington to Philadelphia is a convenient and efficient option for a quick journey. The direct train departs from Washington Union Station and arrives at 30th Street Station in Philadelphia.
🕒 The train services between Washington and Philadelphia run frequently, with departures every 30 minutes, making it easy to plan your trip. Operated by Amtrak Acela, the journey typically takes around 1 hour and 34 minutes to reach your destination.
💰 Ticket prices for the Washington to Philadelphia train route can vary, ranging from $5 to $420 depending on factors such as class of service, time of booking, and availability. Enjoy the scenic ride and arrive in Philadelphia ready to explore the city's rich history and culture.
Departure Point
Washington Union Station
Arrival Point
30th Street Station
Useful tips for train travellers
Onboard Services: Amtrak is the primary operator for the Washington to Philadelphia route, and they offer café service on many of their trains. You can find a variety of snacks, beverages, and light meals available for purchase. Be sure to check the Amtrak menu available online prior to your trip for an overview of what’s offered.
Seating Options: Amtrak provides multiple seating classes on this route. You have the option of Business Class, which offers larger seats and complimentary non-alcoholic beverages; First Class generally provides even more space and additional amenities but may not be available on all trains. Economy Class is the most budget-friendly option with standard seating. Ensure you book your preferred class early, especially during peak travel times.
Arrival Station Tip: When you arrive at 30th Street Station in Philadelphia, you can easily navigate the terminal as it is well-signposted. There are restrooms available, and while there are no dedicated luggage storage services, you can find lockers in the Amtrak waiting area. Make sure to use the nearby Greyhound or SEPTA services for public transport. Additionally, the station hosts several dining options on-site if you want to grab a bite before heading into the city.
🛫 Flying from Washington to Philadelphia is a convenient and quick option. The direct flight from Reagan Washington Airport to Philadelphia Airport only takes 1 hour and 2 minutes with American Airlines.
✈️ Travelers can expect a total journey time of approximately 3 hours and 8 minutes to reach Philadelphia from Washington by plane. This provides a seamless and efficient way to travel between these two cities.
💸 The cost of a flight between Philadelphia and Washington can range from $116 to $410, offering travelers a variety of pricing options to fit their budget and travel preferences.
Departure Point
Reagan Washington Airport
Arrival Point
Philadelphia Airport
🚍 Hop on a Megabus at Washington Union Station for a convenient and affordable journey to Philadelphia. The bus departs hourly and takes approximately 3 hours to reach its destination.
🎟️ Ticket prices for the Washington to Philadelphia bus route range from $5 to $55, making it a budget-friendly travel option for those looking to explore a new city or visit friends and family.
Departure Point
Washington Union Station
Arrival Point
Philadelphia, PA station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Check the Megabus website for real-time schedules and to book your tickets in advance to secure the best prices, as fares can range from $5 to $55 depending on demand: Megabus Website.
• During your bus trip from Washington to Philadelphia, consider bringing snacks and drinks since the journey takes around 3 hours, and while many buses provide amenities, it's always nice to have your own favorites.
• Upon arrival at Philadelphia's bus station, make sure to familiarize yourself with the local transport options available, including SEPTA trains and buses, to easily access popular destinations in the city. The SEPTA website offers schedules and maps: SEPTA Website.
Frequently asked questions
Find out more about the route from Washington to Philadelphia.
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The distance between Washington and Philadelphia is approximately 125 miles by air and 138.2 miles by road. Traveling by train from Washington to Philadelphia typically takes about 1 hour and 34 minutes, while a plane journey takes around 3 hours and 12 minutes. Driving by car takes approximately 2 hours and 34 minutes, and taking a bus usually takes about 3 hours. These travel times may vary depending on traffic conditions and other factors.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Washington to Philadelphia is by taking a bus. This option typically costs between $5 and $55 and takes about 3 hours. If time efficiency is a priority, the quickest option is to take a train, which takes 1 hour and 34 minutes and costs between $5 and $420.
When traveling from Washington to Philadelphia the prices for a train ticket can range from $5 to $420, depending on factors such as the class of the ticket and the time of booking. On the other hand, bus tickets between Philadelphia and Washington can cost anywhere from $5 to $55, with prices varying based on the bus company, departure time, and seat type. It is recommended to compare prices from different providers and book in advance to secure the best deal.
To get from Washington to Philadelphia without using public transportation, the best option would be to drive. The distance between the two cities is approximately 138 miles, and it takes around 2 hours and 34 minutes to drive from Washington to Philadelphia. The cost of driving varies depending on factors such as the type of vehicle and gas prices, but it typically ranges from $25 to $40 for one-way travel.
To travel from Washington to Philadelphia without a car, the best option is to take a train. The train journey takes approximately 1 hour and 34 minutes and costs between $5 and $420. You can also consider taking a bus, which takes around 3 hours and costs between $5 and $55. Another option is to fly, which takes about 3 hours and 12 minutes and costs between $110 and $430.
Yes, there is a direct link between Washington and Philadelphia. The most convenient mode of transportation is by train, with frequent departures from Washington Union Station and a travel time of approximately 1 hour and 34 minutes. Another option is traveling by bus, with hourly departures from Washington DC and a travel time of around 3 hours. Both the train and bus services operate daily, providing easy and efficient connections between the two cities.
The flight between Washington and Philadelphia typically takes around 1 hour and 3 minutes. The quickest option is a direct flight from Reagan Washington Airport to Philadelphia Airport. However, the cost of the flight can vary between $116 and $421, depending on factors such as the airline, time of booking, and availability. It is recommended to compare prices and book in advance to secure the best deal for your travel needs.
There are numerous options for accommodations near Philadelphia. With over 626 hotels available, travelers can find a range of choices to suit their preferences and budget. Prices for hotels in Philadelphia start at $51 per night, making it possible to find affordable options. From luxury hotels to budget-friendly options, visitors have a wide variety of choices when it comes to finding a place to stay in Philadelphia.
Trips from Washington
- Washington to Charlottesville
- Washington to Pittsburgh
- Washington to Annapolis
- Washington to Atlantic City
- Washington to Asheville
- Washington to Nashville
- Washington to New Haven
- Washington to Orlando
- Washington to Roanoke
- Washington to Raleigh
- Washington to Charlotte
- Washington to Richmond
- Washington to Virginia Beach
- Washington to Harrisburg
- Washington to Providence
- Washington to Boston
- Washington to Miami
- Washington to Ocean City
- Washington to Chicago
- Washington to Indianapolis
- Washington to Baltimore
- Washington to New York City
- Washington to Williamsburg
- Washington to Atlanta
- Washington to Mount Vernon
- Washington to Norfolk
- Washington to Seattle
- Washington to Nantucket
- Washington to Pullman
- Washington to TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS
- Washington to National Harbor
- Washington to Vienna
- Washington to Leavenworth
- Washington to Niagara Falls
- Washington to Denver
- Washington to Cabo San Lucas
- Washington to Tulum
- Washington to Forks
- Washington to Natural Bridge
- Washington to Paris
Trips to Philadelphia
- Princeton to Philadelphia
- Jersey City to Philadelphia
- Malvern to Philadelphia
- Bethlehem to Philadelphia
- Providence to Philadelphia
- Trenton to Philadelphia
- Baltimore to Philadelphia
- Buffalo to Philadelphia
- Charlotte to Philadelphia
- Reading to Philadelphia
- Boston to Philadelphia
- Hartford to Philadelphia
- Toronto to Philadelphia
- Chicago to Philadelphia
- Hershey to Philadelphia
- Albany to Philadelphia
- Scranton to Philadelphia
- New Haven to Philadelphia
- Pittsburgh to Philadelphia
- Atlanta to Philadelphia
- Raleigh to Philadelphia
- Syracuse to Philadelphia
- Tampa to Philadelphia
- New York City to Philadelphia
- Newark to Philadelphia
- Fort Lauderdale to Philadelphia
- Austin to Philadelphia
- Allentown to Philadelphia
- West Chester to Philadelphia
- Harrisburg to Philadelphia
- Phoenix to Philadelphia
- Johnstown to Philadelphia
- Wilmington to Philadelphia
- Lancaster to Philadelphia
- Denver to Philadelphia
- Wilkes-Barre to Philadelphia
- York to Philadelphia
- Richmond to Philadelphia
- State College to Philadelphia
- Atlantic City to Philadelphia