Guide to Fares

Choose From Various Fare Types to Meet Your Travel Needs

Everyone likes choices. When you book your trip through Amtrak.com, you have fare options and the freedom to travel your way. With more booking options, you can choose the best fare type for your travel needs. Plus, you'll be alerted when seat and room inventory is low for the train and fare you're searching, so you'll know when you need to act fast. Here are some helpful tips on getting the optimal fares:

  • Typically, make your reservations early to get the best fares.
  • Fares are generally higher during holidays and peak travel periods.
  • In the Northeast fares typically vary based on the day of travel and the time of day.
  • You can make reservations up to 11 months in advance of travel.

Saver Fares

Saver Fares are the lowest available fares and require advance purchase. Saver Fares are limited in availability and generally require advance purchase. Book early to take advantage of Saver Fares.

Value Fares

Available on all Amtrak routes, Value Fares offer several change and refund options. These are the regular rate for fares. Like Saver Fares, the availability of Value Fares is limited.

Flexible Fares

Flexible Fares are fully refundable without any change or cancellation fees and reservations are easily modified. For those whose plans frequently change, even at the last minute, Flexible Fares are the perfect option.

Business Fares

Business Class offers an affordable, enhanced travel experience on many of our trains across the country. While the specific features vary by train, many include extra legroom and complimentary non-alcoholic drinks. All Business Class seats are located in a dedicated car or section of the train. And to make it even more rewarding, Amtrak Guest Rewards members earn a 25% qualifying point bonus for Business Class travel.

First Class Fares

First Class services include Acela First Class and private rooms.

Acela First Class passengers enjoy premium amenities, complimentary onboard food and beverage services and receive privileged access to ClubAcela lounges. Additionally, Amtrak Guest Rewards members earn a 50% qualifying point bonus for Acela First Class travel.

Private rooms are the perfect option for customers seeking privacy and space on a short trip and added comfort and amenities when traveling overnight. Several room options are available to best fit your needs and budget — and all include a variety of amenities aimed to enhance your trip.

Ticket Refunds

Refund rules and options vary by fare type, type of service purchased and when you request a refund. See the Refund and Cancellation Policy for more information.

Applying Discounts

When booking a passenger discount other than child or senior discounts (such as military and Rail Passengers Association) you can select your discount type after you enter your travel dates at the beginning of your search. Also, any promotion codes will need to be added during this first step of the reservation process so we can provide you with the most accurate fares.

In addition to displaying all available travel options for the date(s) you've selected, including total itinerary price, departure/arrival times, duration and transfers, we'll also show you the following price adjustments when applicable:

  • Any discount already applied
  • Accommodation charges (where applicable)
  • Applied promotion codes
  • Special web-only fares

Onboard Fares

On most Amtrak trains, only the Flexible Fare will be available for purchase onboard. This is regardless of reservations made or fares previously quoted by ticket agents, Amtrak.com or elsewhere. Higher fares usually apply when purchasing tickets onboard the train. To secure the best available fare, purchase tickets prior to boarding the train.