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BLADE Blog10 min read
NYC Airports

Your Guide to the Best Routes from Philadelphia Airport to Newark DE

This guide covers the train, bus and car options from Philadelphia Airport to Newark, DE, with tips on fares and what to expect along the way.

Key Takeaways

  • Travelers have multiple transit options from Philadelphia Airport to Newark DE, including train services like SEPTA and AMTRAK (with a transfer at 30th Street Station) for speed and convenience, economical bus routes by Greyhound, and flexible car and shuttle services like the Delaware Express.

  • Advance booking can secure significant savings and guaranteed seats for travelers, with cheaper ticket prices available during certain times like Amtrak’s 25% discount for 14-day advance purchases and off-peak travel times such as weekdays.

  • Navigating through the Philadelphia Airport and Newark DE Station is made easier with available amenities, apps like FLIO, and public transportation like the Unicity Bus System, ensuring a smooth travel experience from start to finish.

Getting from Philadelphia Airport to Newark DE: An Overview

There are several ways to get from Philadelphia Airport to Newark, DE. Train services are an attractive option for those prioritizing speed and convenience. From the airport, the SEPTA Airport Line runs to 30th Street Station, where you can transfer to the SEPTA Wilmington/Newark line or the AMTRAK Northeast Regional for Newark, DE.

A light business jet parked on an empty apron under a clear blue sky.

If you’re traveling on a budget, bus routes present an economical alternative. Greyhound runs regular buses from Philadelphia to Wilmington-Newark, DE.

Car rental and shuttle services cater to travelers valuing flexibility and comfort. The Delaware Express Shuttle offers door-to-door transportation service, making it an efficient choice for direct rides. Each option suits a different budget and schedule.

Train Services: Quick and Convenient

Train services stand out for their speed and convenience. From the airport, take the SEPTA Airport Line to 30th Street Station and transfer to the SEPTA Wilmington/Newark line (only weekday peak trains run to Newark) or the AMTRAK Northeast Regional for Newark, DE. The Amtrak Northeast Regional offers:

  • spacious seats

  • extra legroom

  • free WiFi

  • clean bathrooms

The average journey takes about 31 minutes. The earliest train departs at 6

am, and the last train at 6
pm, offering you the flexibility to plan your journey as per your schedule. Trains are also affordable. Train fares vary by operator, route and time of travel, so check SEPTA and Amtrak for current prices.

Bus Routes: A Budget-Friendly Alternative

Bus routes are a cost-effective solution for budget-conscious travelers. Greyhound offers up to 4 buses per day from Philadelphia to Wilmington-Newark DE, with travel times as short as 50 minutes.

A Greyhound bus ticket can cost you as low as $9.99, making it a highly affordable choice for travelers. Even at such pocket-friendly prices, the amenities onboard do not disappoint. Buses have free WiFi and power sockets.

Car and Shuttle Options: Flexibility and Comfort

For those cherishing the freedom and comfort of individual travel, car rental and shuttle services are ideal. At Philadelphia International Airport, you have access to rental car services from:

  • Alamo

  • Avis

  • Budget

  • Dollar

  • Enterprise

  • Hertz

  • National

These services also offer vehicles with hand controls for those with mobility impairments, given prior notice.

For a more luxurious option, the Delaware Express Shuttle offers a door-to-door transportation service between Philadelphia International Airport and Newark, DE, which is an efficient option for travelers preferring direct rides. Alternatively, Uber offers a range of ride services, from UberX and UberXL for groups up to 6, to premium Black car services, all available at varying prices based on the vehicle type and other factors such as traffic and time of day.

Booking Your Trip in Advance: Savings and Certainty

Advance trip planning brings benefits such as ticket price savings and guaranteed seating. Whether you take the train, the bus or a car service, booking in advance usually means cheaper tickets and a confirmed seat.

Moreover, advanced reservations for shuttle van or limousine service are recommended to ensure availability upon arrival at Philadelphia Airport. By planning your trip in advance, you pave the way for a seamless travel experience, complete with savings and certainty.

Best Times to Book for Optimal Prices

Timing is everything when it comes to securing the best prices for your journey. For instance, Amtrak offers a 25% discount on Northeast Regional trains with a 14-day advance purchase. That’s a significant saving on your travel expenses, making it possible to find cheap train tickets!

Moreover, ticket prices can be discounted up to 80% during Amtrak’s Weekly Specials, available from Tuesday to Friday. Interestingly, October generally offers the lowest fares for train tickets from Philadelphia to Newark due to seasonal price variations, so planning your trip during this month could save you quite a bit.

Avoiding Peak Times: Weekdays vs. Weekends

Apart from booking in advance, avoiding peak times can also lead to savings on your ticket prices. It’s been observed that Saturday is the peak travel day from Philadelphia to Newark by train, which can impact ticket availability and potentially increase ticket prices.

On the other hand, Tuesday is usually less crowded and offers cheaper travel options. So, if you have the flexibility to choose your travel day, opting for a weekday over the weekend could result in a more cost-effective and less crowded trip.

Navigating through stations can sometimes be a daunting task, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the surroundings. But worry not. This guide aims to simplify that for you, providing a detailed overview of the Philadelphia Airport and Newark DE stations, complete with key amenities and tips to ensure a smooth travel experience.

Whether it’s information about parking options at Philadelphia International Airport or details about services at the Newark DE station, we’ve got it all covered. Here is what to know about each station.

Philadelphia Airport Transit Hub

Philadelphia International Airport offers a range of services to ensure a seamless travel experience for passengers, including:

  • Various parking options

  • Complimentary airport shuttle bus

  • Cell Phone Waiting Lot

  • Elevator access to the SEPTA platforms

The airport caters to all your needs.

What’s more, you can utilize the FLIO app for airport information such as lounge locations, transportation options, and layout, often with discounts at airport amenities. These services ensure that your time at the Philadelphia Airport is convenient and comfortable.

Newark DE Station Essentials

Newark DE station, located near the University of Delaware campus, provides convenient access for students and visitors alike. The station is serviced by the Unicity Bus System on weekdays with free public transportation on Routes N-1, N-2 AM, and N-2 PM.

Moreover, during weekends, when SEPTA service is unavailable, the Newark Train Station continues to provide access via limited AMTRAK and DART Route 33 services. This ensures that you always have a mode of transport available, regardless of the day of the week.

Duration and Distance: What to Expect on Your Trip

A clear understanding of the duration and distance is key when planning your journey from Philadelphia to Newark DE. Here are some key details:

A modern passenger train in motion at twilight, seen as a blur of light against the dark sky.
  • The distance between Philadelphia and Newark, DE is about 36 miles, which is equivalent to approximately 58 kilometers.

  • The approximate distance from Philadelphia to Newark, DE is 36 miles, or 58 kilometers.

  • The travel time can vary based on your chosen mode of transport, with trains offering the quickest travel time.

Bear in mind, travel time can be affected by numerous factors like road conditions, traffic, and weather. Therefore, it’s always a good idea to allow some extra time beyond the average duration for unforeseen delays to ensure a stress-free journey.

Additional Travel Tips: Making the Most of Your Journey

Travel extends beyond reaching your destination; it encompasses the journey itself. A few apps can make the trip easier. Whether it’s tracking your travel expenses with TravelSpend, managing shared expenses with Splittr and Splitwise, or learning a new language with Duolingo, the world of travel apps is at your disposal to enhance your journey.

And who said travel had to be all serious? Sprinkle some fun into your journey with creative games like the ‘Sleeping Beauty’ game or the ‘License Plate Number Game,’ or engage in crafting activities such as making masks or coloring in adult coloring books. Keep an activity log or journal to document memorable experiences and use Travel Scavenger Hunt Cards to keep kids occupied. These help pass the time, especially with kids.

Exploring Your Destination: Newark DE Highlights

After your journey from Philadelphia Airport to Newark DE, it’s time to delve into the attractions of your destination. Newark DE is a charming town with a rich history and an array of landmarks and historical buildings that visitors can explore, such as a bridge where a battle was fought on September 3rd, 1777, which is also rumored to be haunted.

A lamp-lit brick pathway on a university campus at dusk in Newark, Delaware.

Besides, there’s a beautiful park located in historical Old New Castle that offers a different ambiance with each season. And for history buffs, Delaware is home to National Historic Landmarks with significance to the state’s and nation’s history, offering educational and interesting visit opportunities. So, take some time to explore and immerse yourself in the local culture and history.

Seamless Connections: Continuing Beyond Newark

Your travel doesn’t have to conclude in Newark DE. If you intend to venture beyond Newark, a host of seamless connections are available. Delaware Express provides a variety of transportation services, including:

  • Airport shuttles

  • Charter buses

  • Limousine services

  • Town car services

Operating in areas such as Philadelphia and Delaware.

Moreover, an express bus operated by DART connects the Newark Train Station with the Wilmington Train Station, offering midday service on weekdays. There is more robust service available from Wilmington Train Station than Newark Train Station, facilitating better connectivity to other cities. With these options at hand, you can continue your journey with ease and comfort. Find airline terminal locations at Newark airport

Bottom Line: Your Guide to the Best Routes from Philadelphia Airport to Newark DE

Embarking on a journey from Philadelphia Airport to Newark DE offers an opportunity to experience diverse modes of transport, each with its unique allure. Whether it’s the convenience of train services, the budget-friendliness of bus routes, or the flexibility offered by car and shuttle services, you’re sure to find a travel option that suits your needs.

With this guide, we hope to have provided you a comprehensive understanding of the various travel options, the benefits of booking in advance, tips to navigate the stations, and what to expect in terms of duration and distance. We’ve also shared some handy travel tips and a glimpse of what awaits you in Newark DE. Choose the option that fits your schedule and budget, and check current timetables before you go.

FAQs: Your Guide to the Best Routes from Philadelphia Airport to Newark DE

How much is an Uber from Philadelphia airport to Newark Delaware?

The average price for an Uber from Philadelphia airport to Newark, Delaware is around $100.

How can I get from Philadelphia Airport to Newark Airport?

The easiest and most convenient way to travel from Philadelphia Airport to Newark Airport is by taking a SEPTA Regional Rail to Trenton Transit Center, then transferring to a New Jersey Transit train. This route takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes, and costs approximately $18.

How much is a train from Philadelphia to Newark Delaware?

The train from Philadelphia to Newark, Delaware takes about 1 hour and 9 minutes and costs between $7 and $9. The train departs from Suburban Station five times a day.

Does Philadelphia airport have a train station?

Yes, Philadelphia International Airport has a train station served by SEPTA Regional Rail via the Airport Line, with stops at all major terminals and accessibility features.

What are the best routes from Philadelphia Airport to Newark DE?

You have various options to travel from Philadelphia Airport to Newark DE, including train services, budget-friendly bus routes, and car and shuttle services. The best route for you will depend on your preference for speed, convenience, and cost.

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