Book Amtrak Train Tickets

Amtrak tickets and fare types

Amtrak offers a variety of fare options tailored to different travel preferences. 

Saver Fare: the most budget-friendly choice, providing discounted rates for those who plan ahead. While changes come with a 25% fee, if you cancel 24h or more after booking, you'll receive an eVoucher worth 75% of the original ticket price. 

Value Fare: strikes a balance between savings and flexibility, allowing for free changes, and also refunds without additional fees. Tickets are fully refundable up to 15 or more days before departure, with a 25% cancellation fee for changes made less than 14 days before departure. 

Flexible Fare, Business class, and First class: while the priciest, these offer the highest level of flexibility, allowing changes and full refunds with minimal restrictions. This option is ideal for travelers with uncertain plans.

Update: new fare types recently announced

Starting Fall 2023, Amtrak is simplifying its fare structure, offering only two fare types: Flex tickets and Value tickets.

• Flex tickets: cater to travelers seeking flexibility, allowing for refunds and changes at no extra cost before departure, albeit at a higher price point. Flex fares will often be more affordable initially, and there will be larger discounts during occasional sales. 

• Value tickets: prioritize affordability over flexibility, offering lower prices but without the option for changes. They also provide a substantial 75% refund if canceled.

Another change is that refunds will be directly credited to the original payment method, rather than being issued as an eVoucher.

Amtrak classes and seats

Coach class: This is the most affordable seating type, and it is offered on all Amtrak trains, except Acela. Coach class seats are typically arranged in rows of two or four, and they offer standard legroom and amenities.

Business Class: This seating type is more expensive than coach class, but it offers more legroom, wider seats, and additional amenities, such as complimentary snacks and beverages. Business class seats are offered on most Amtrak trains, but they are not available on all trains and routes.

First Class: exclusive to Acela high-speed trains, this is the most expensive seating type, and it offers the most legroom, widest seats, and most amenities—including meals and beverage services. First-class seats are arranged in rows of two, and they offer reclining seats, power outlets, and access to first-class lounges at stations. 

Amtrak train stations

Amtrak's main train stations in the United States and Canada include:

• New York Penn Station (Moynihan Train Hall): A vibrant center with 600+ weekly Amtrak trains, including the Acela Express and Northeast Regional. It offers seamless connections to subways, commuter rail, and intercity buses.

• Chicago Union Station: With 500+ weekly Amtrak trains, it's a stage for captivating journeys like the Amtrak Hiawatha and Empire Builder. Commuter rail and intercity buses add to the dynamic scene.

• Los Angeles Union Station: An iconic gateway to adventures, featuring scenic routes like California Zephyr and Coast Starlight. It connects to major destinations with a touch of cinematic flair.

• Washington Union Station: With 300+ weekly Amtrak trains, it's a historic hub for journeys to the nation's capital. It offers seamless connections to subways, commuter rail, and intercity buses.

• Philadelphia 30th Street Station: An architectural gem and dynamic transit center, pivotal for Amtrak's Northeast and Keystone routes.

• Toronto Union Station: Canada's busiest station, connecting travelers with Amtrak, VIA Rail Canada, commuter rail, and intercity buses. It's where city rhythms meet the pulse of the railways for unforgettable journeys.

Other important Amtrak stations include Boston South Station, Newark Liberty International Airport Rail Station, Fort Worth Intermodal Transportation Center, Miami Amtrak Station, and Seattle King Street Station. In Canada, Montreal Central Station, Ottawa Union Station, and Vancouver Pacific Central Station are vital nodes in the rail network.

How to find cheap Amtrak tickets

Here are some tips to help you find affordable Amtrak tickets:

• Book in advance. Amtrak typically releases tickets 11 months in advance, and the earlier you book, the cheaper the tickets are likely to be.

• Be flexible with your travel dates and times. If you can travel during the off-season or on less popular days of the week, you are more likely to find cheaper tickets.

• Consider booking a Saver Fare. Saver Fares are the most affordable Amtrak tickets, but they are also the least flexible. Saver Fares are typically non-refundable and cannot be changed.

• Look for Amtrak discounts and promotions. Amtrak offers a variety of discounts and promotions, and they’re all available on Busbud. Use our search tools and you’ll find a ticket that fits your budget and travel plans.