Train from Boston to Washington, DC – Route Overview
The train from Boston to Washington DC is a major intercity rail route along the U.S. Northeast Corridor, connecting two key cities on the East Coast. Covering approximately 393 miles (634 km), the fastest trains complete the journey in around 6 hours 40 minutes, while average travel time depends on service type. With 30+ daily departures, this route offers frequent and convenient long-distance travel throughout the day.
Traveling from Boston, MA to Washington DC by Train
Traveling by train from Boston to Washington DC is one of the most convenient and comfortable ways to move between the two cities. Direct Amtrak trains run multiple times a day, offering spacious seating, Wi-Fi, power outlets, and scenic views along the Northeast Corridor. Unlike flights, train travel eliminates long security lines, airport transfers, and baggage restrictions, allowing passengers to enjoy a smooth city-center to city-center journey.
Most trains depart from Boston South Station and arrive at Washington Union Station, making it easy to connect to local transport, hotels, and major landmarks. Whether you’re traveling for business or leisure, the Boston to Washington DC train route offers flexible schedules, reliable service, and comfortable onboard experience.
Cheapest Train from Boston to Washington DC
The cheapest train tickets from Boston to Washington DC usually start around $70–$110 when booked in advance. Prices can increase significantly for last-minute bookings or peak travel times. Travelers often find lower fares when booking 30–50 days in advance, avoiding weekends, and choosing Northeast Regional trains instead of Acela.
On average, same-day tickets can cost between $200 and $300, depending on demand, seat class, and departure time. Budget travelers may also consider off-peak departures or early-morning trains to secure better prices.
Fastest Train from Boston to Washington DC
The fastest train from Boston to Washington DC is the high-speed Amtrak Acela, which completes the journey in approximately 6 hours 35 minutes to 6 hours 45 minutes. Standard Northeast Regional trains usually take 7 hours 20 minutes to 8 hours, depending on stops and timetable.
Late-evening or slower services may take longer, but most trains run direct without transfers. With multiple daily departures and reliable schedules, passengers can choose between faster premium travel or more affordable options based on their budget and travel needs.
Boston to Washington DC Train Time & Schedule
Boston to Washington DC Train Times Today
The Boston to Washington DC train schedule runs frequently throughout the day, with direct Amtrak services connecting Boston South Station and Back Bay Station to Washington Union Station. On average, there are 30–37 daily departures, with trains operating from early morning until late evening.
The first train from Boston to Washington DC typically departs around 5:00 AM, while the last train leaves close to 6:45 PM–7:00 PM, depending on the day. Most services are direct, meaning no transfers are required.
Travel time ranges between:
Acela High-Speed
Premium Flagship Service
Northeast Regional
Reliable Daily Corridor
Overnight Connections
Night Owl Travel
Schedules may vary slightly on weekends and holidays, so checking live departure boards before travel is recommended.
Boston ↔ Washington DC Daily Schedule
Select a time range to filter typical departures. All listed trains are direct.
| Service Type | Departs Boston | Arrives DC | Duration | Fare From |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
AcelaHigh-Speed
|
5:05 AMBBY | 12:00 PM | ~6h 55m | $292+ |
|
Northeast RegionalRegional
|
5:15 AMBOS | 1:15 PM | ~8h 00m | $170+ |
|
AcelaHigh-Speed
|
7:00 AMBBY | 1:58 PM | ~6h 58m | $292+ |
|
Northeast RegionalRegional
|
8:00 AMBOS | 4:01 PM | ~8h 01m | $173+ |
|
Northeast RegionalRegional
|
9:30 AMBOS | 5:39 PM | ~8h 09m | $180+ |
|
AcelaHigh-Speed
|
11:10 AMBBY | 6:00 PM | ~6h 50m | $292+ |
|
Northeast RegionalRegional
|
12:30 PMBOS | 8:28 PM | ~7h 58m | $180+ |
|
Northeast RegionalRegional
|
2:00 PMBOS | 10:04 PM | ~8h 04m | $180+ |
|
AcelaHigh-Speed
|
3:30 PMBBY | 10:20 PM | ~6h 50m | $292+ |
|
Northeast RegionalRegional
|
5:15 PMBOS | 1:16 AM | ~8h 01m | $170+ |
|
OvernightOvernight Regional
|
6:45 PMBOS | 6:54 AM | ~12h 09m | $170+ |
|
OvernightOvernight
|
7:00 PMBOS | 6:30 AM | ~11h 30m | $170+ |
Boston, MA to Washington DC Train Duration & Distance
How Long Is the Train from Boston to Washington DC?
The train from Boston to Washington DC takes around 6 hours 35 minutes to 8 hours, depending on the train service. The fastest trains (Amtrak Acela) complete the journey in about 6h 40m, while most Northeast Regional trains take 7h 20m to 8h. Some late-evening or overnight services may take up to 10–12 hours.
All trains run direct between Boston South Station / Back Bay Station and Washington Union Station, offering a smooth downtown-to-downtown journey without airport delays or transfers.
Boston to Washington DC Train Distance
The rail distance between Boston and Washington DC is approximately 393 miles (634 km). The route passes through major Northeast Corridor cities including New York, Philadelphia, and Baltimore, making it one of the busiest and most reliable train routes in the U.S.
Train Duration by Service Type
Quick Tip:
Choose Acela for the fastest travel experience, or Northeast Regional for a more affordable but slightly longer journey.
Boston, MA to Washington DC Train Ticket Prices
How Much Is the Train from Boston to Washington DC?
Train ticket prices from Boston to Washington DC typically start from $60–$90 one-way when booked in advance. Prices increase closer to departure and during weekends, holidays, or peak travel hours.
Boston ↔ Washington DC Train Price Overview
Prices vary depending on:
📅 How Far in Advance Should You Book?
The best time to book your train from Boston to Washington DC is around 6–10 weeks (up to 70 days) before departure. Prices tend to be lowest during this window and gradually increase as the travel date approaches.
* Last-minute bookings often cost significantly more, especially on Fridays, Sundays, and holidays.
How to Find Cheap Boston to Washington DC Train Tickets
Bus vs Train vs Flight from Boston to Washington DC
If you’re deciding how to travel from Boston to Washington DC, here’s a clear comparison of train, bus, and flight based on price, travel time, comfort, and environmental impact.
The total travel distance between Boston and Washington DC is 393 miles (634 km).
Boston to Washington DC Travel Comparison
A comprehensive breakdown of transit options for the Northeast Corridor.
Train (Amtrak)
Bus (FlixBus, etc.)
Flight (American, etc.)
**Flight time is ~3h 30m, but airport security, boarding, and transfers add ~3 additional hours.
The Boston to Washington DC train is the most popular travel option because it offers:
For travelers who want speed without airport hassle, Amtrak Acela offers the fastest rail journey in about 6h 35m.
The bus is usually the cheapest way to travel from Boston to Washington DC, with fares starting around $35. However, travel time is longer (often 9–10 hours), and comfort levels vary by operator.
Flights take about 3h 30m airborne, but once you factor in airport arrival (1–2 hours early), security screening, boarding, and airport-to-city transfers, the total journey often becomes 6–7 hours, similar to train travel.
Flights also produce significantly higher carbon emissions compared to trains.
If reducing your environmental impact matters, the train is the most sustainable choice, emitting significantly less CO₂ per passenger compared to bus or flight.
Boston, MA to Washington, DC by bus, train, or flight – Daily Fare Comparison
Compare daily bus, train, and flight prices from Boston to Washington, DC over the next three weeks using the fare calendar. Prices change each day based on demand, travel time, and booking date. Trains are usually the fastest and most convenient, buses are often the cheapest, and flights can be useful for flexible schedules. Check the calendar to quickly spot the best deals, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Boston, MA → Washington, DC
Live Route Intelligence: Bus vs Train vs Flight
Rolling 21-Day Fare Grid
TrainFromTo Partner Reviews: Omio Ratings & Traveler Feedback
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