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Washington, DC, USA to Roanoke, VA, USA from $31: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Washington, United States of America
to
Roanoke, United States of America

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

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$31 by busBest price
386 kmDistance
4h 4m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Washington to Roanoke 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.

Company
Amtrak Northeast Regional
Train
Average Duration
4h  55m
Estimated price
$30-220
Recommended
Company
FlixBus, Greyhound
Bus
Average Duration
6h  45m
Estimated price
$31-108
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 386 km
Duration: 4h 4m

See more options

Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
4h  4m
Estimated price
$40-65
Company
United Airlines
Subway
Plane
Average Duration
4h  8m
Estimated price
$153-420
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Washington to Roanoke

Traveling from Washington offers a bustling urban experience, while Roanoke invites you with its scenic mountains and charming small-town vibe.

Best Neighborhoods in Roanoke

Roanoke boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering its own charm and attractions.

Downtown Roanoke
• Vibrant arts scene with galleries and theaters
• Great restaurants and local shops nearby
Grandin Village
• Quaint atmosphere with unique boutiques
• Access to scenic parks and outdoor space
Wasena
• Beautiful riverfront views and walking trails
• Historic homes adding to the neighborhood's charm

Best Times To Visit Roanoke's Attractions

Timing your visit can enhance your experience at Roanoke's attractions.

Mill Mountain Zoo
Visit weekday mornings for a quieter experience and cooler weather.
Virginia Museum of Transportation
Afternoons on weekdays usually see fewer visitors, perfect for exploration.
Roanoke Star and Overlook
Sunrise or sunset visits offer stunning views and fewer crowds.

Roanoke Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Roanoke experiences a temperate climate with distinct seasons, making spring and fall ideal for outdoor activities. Be prepared for varying temperatures, as they can influence your travel plans and the enjoyment of local attractions.

Dining in Roanoke: A Culinary Contrast

Try the signature dish at The River and Rail, where Southern comfort food takes center stage, featuring dishes like the smoked pork belly with local produce. This dining experience showcases the warm hospitality and rich, bold flavors unique to Roanoke, setting it apart from the more cosmopolitan offerings of Washington.

Washington - Roanoke operators

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

Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from Washington Union Station to Roanoke

Average Duration
4h 55m
Estimated price
$30-220
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
https://www.flixbus.com

Bus from Washington Union Station to Richmond Bus Station

Average Duration
1h 45m
Estimated price
$30-308

Bus from Richmond Bus Station to Roanoke Bus Stop

Average Duration
4h
Estimated price
$30-50
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
https://www.greyhound.com/

Bus from Washington Union Station to Richmond Bus Station

Average Duration
2h 40m
Estimated price
$30-65

Bus from Richmond Bus Station to Roanoke Bus Stop

Average Duration
4h
Estimated price
$40-50
Plane Show flights
Website
https://www.united.com

Plane from Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) to Roanoke (ROA)

Average Duration
1h 14m
Estimated price
$300-301

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

Traveling between Washington and Roanoke 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 the bustling city of Washington to the charming town of Roanoke covering a distance of 240 miles. 💸 Experience budget-friendly travel with car rental prices ranging from $40 to $65 for the journey between these two diverse and dynamic destinations.
Average price
$40 - $65
🚄 Travel from Washington to Roanoke by train is convenient and scenic. Departing from Washington Union Station, the journey takes approximately 4 hours and 55 minutes. 🌄 Enjoy the picturesque landscapes along the route as you make your way from the bustling city of Washington to the charming city of Roanoke. Prices for the train ticket between Washington and Roanoke range from $30 to $220, offering options for different budgets.
Departure Point
Washington Union Station
Arrival Point
Roanoke station
Useful tips for train travellers
• On your train trip from Washington to Roanoke, check for onboard catering services provided by Amtrak. They offer a café car with snacks, beverages, and light meals. If you prefer a sit-down meal, look for the dining car which typically serves a menu featuring regional dishes and classic train fare. It’s a great opportunity to enjoy a meal while admiring the scenic views.
• Amtrak offers several seating options for your journey. Choose from Coach Class, which provides comfortable seating at an affordable price, or upgrade to Business Class for larger seats, extra legroom, and complimentary non-alcoholic beverages. For a more luxurious experience, First Class service is available on certain routes, with premium seating and enhanced meal options.
• The primary operator for the route from Washington to Roanoke is Amtrak. Visit their website at amtrak.com for schedules, ticket bookings, and real-time updates. Note that other travel operators might offer bus services if you're considering alternative routes. For example, Greyhound (greyhound.com) operates bus services that could be an option as well. In Roanoke, the main train station has local bus services available, which you can find at (roanokeva.gov)
🛫 Take a quick and convenient direct flight from Washington Dulles Airport to Roanoke Airport, a journey that lasts only 1 hour and 14 minutes. United Airlines provides flights for this route, ensuring a smooth travel experience.
Departure Point
Washington Dulles Airport
Arrival Point
Roanoke Airport
🚌 While there's no direct bus from Washington to Roanoke, the journey can be completed in approximately 6 hours and 45 minutes with transfers at Richmond Bus Station. Flixbus USA operates the services departing from Washington Union Station. 💰 Prices for the bus between Roanoke and Washington can vary, ranging from $31 to $108.
Departure Point
Washington Union Station
Arrival Point
Roanoke Bus Stop station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Washington to Roanoke.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Washington and Roanoke is 195 miles, with a road distance of 239.8 miles. The typical travel times by various modes of transportation are as follows: 4 hours and 55 minutes by train, 4 hours and 7 minutes by taking the subway and then flying, 4 hours and 4 minutes by car, and 6 hours and 35 minutes by bus. These travel times may vary depending on traffic conditions and other factors.
The most cost-effective way to travel from Washington to Roanoke is by bus, with tickets typically costing between $35 and $75. However, this option also takes the longest time, with a travel duration of 6 hours and 35 minutes. On the other hand, the quickest way to reach Roanoke from Washington is by driving, which typically costs between $40 and $65 and takes approximately 4 hours and 4 minutes.
The prices of a train between Washington and Roanoke can range from $30 to $220, depending on factors such as travel class and booking time. Alternatively, the cost of a bus ticket from Roanoke to Washington can vary between $40 and $75. These prices are subject to change based on current promotions, availability, and demand. It is advisable to check with the respective transportation providers for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.
To get from Washington to Roanoke without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of approximately 240 miles. The average travel time for this route is around 4 hours and 4 minutes. The cost of the trip by car usually ranges from $40 to $65, depending on factors like fuel efficiency and tolls.
To travel from Washington to Roanoke without a car, the best option is to take a train. The train journey takes approximately 4 hours and 55 minutes and tickets range from $30 to $220. This mode of transportation offers a convenient and comfortable way to reach Roanoke, allowing you to enjoy the scenic views along the way.
Yes, there is a direct train link between Washington and Roanoke. The Amtrak Northeast Regional operates this service, which departs twice daily from Washington Union Station and arrives at Roanoke station. The train journey takes approximately 4 hours and 55 minutes. However, there is no direct bus link between the two cities, but there are bus services available with transfers, which take approximately 6 hours and 35 minutes.
The flight between Washington and Roanoke typically takes around 1 hour and 13 minutes. This is for the direct flight from Washington Dulles Airport to Roanoke Airport. The cost of the flight can vary depending on various factors such as the airline, time of booking, and season, but on average it can range from $150 to $300. It is recommended to check with different airlines and online travel agencies for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near Roanoke with over 75 hotels to choose from. Prices start at $49, making it affordable for various budgets. Some popular hotels in the area include the Hotel Roanoke & Conference Center, Hampton Inn & Suites Roanoke Airport, and Comfort Inn Airport. Whether you prefer luxurious amenities or a more budget-friendly option, you will surely find a suitable hotel near Roanoke.

Trips from Washington

Trips to Roanoke