City to city
Vancouver to Portland by Train
Passengers can travel directly between Vancouver and Portland on the Amtrak Cascades train, a daytime journey that takes about 6 hours 30 minutes to 8 hours.
| Train | Approx. time | Runs | Overnight | Change needed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak Cascades | about 6 hours 30 minutes to 8 hours | Several trains a day Seattle to Portland, fewer to Eugene and Vancouver | No | No, direct |
Riding the rails from British Columbia down into Oregon is a relaxing way to travel the Pacific Northwest. The route connects two major cultural hubs while passing through Washington state. Since the journey crosses an international border, passengers will clear customs before departure. You can skip the airport lines and enjoy the scenery from large windows. The service is supported by Washington and Oregon, and new trainsets are being introduced as of 2026. Whether you are traveling for business or leisure, the train provides a comfortable alternative to driving Interstate 5.
Your train options
The only direct service on this route is the Amtrak Cascades. This train runs entirely during the day, meaning there is no overnight travel on this trip. The journey takes about 6 hours 30 minutes to 8 hours from end to end. As of 2026, there are several trains a day between Seattle and Portland, but fewer services run the full length up to Vancouver.
Passengers can choose between Coach and Business Class. Coach offers comfortable seating with plenty of legroom. Business Class provides a few extra perks, such as fully refundable tickets and a dedicated carriage. Both classes have access to the Bistro car, where you can purchase snacks and drinks throughout the trip. Because the journey is relatively long, Business Class might be a worthwhile upgrade for the extra space. Be sure to read our Amtrak and VIA booking tips before securing your tickets.
The journey
The journey southbound offers excellent views of the Pacific Northwest, provided you travel during daylight hours. Departing Canada, the train crosses the Fraser River. Between Vancouver and Bellingham, you will see the coastal landscapes of Mud Bay and Boundary Bay. As the train continues south from Bellingham toward Seattle, the tracks hug the Puget Sound shoreline. This stretch is known for excellent water views, especially around Samish Bay and Chuckanut Drive.
After passing through the major hub of Seattle, the route heads inland through Washington. The train makes several stops along the way, calling at Everett, Edmonds, Tukwila, Tacoma, Lacey, Centralia and Kelso. You will also stop at the Washington city of Vancouver before crossing the Columbia River into Oregon. The scenery on the final leg into Portland features forests and towns, completing a varied coastal and inland trip.
The stations
Your trip begins at Vancouver Pacific Central Station, a historic 1919 building. It serves VIA Rail, Amtrak Cascades and intercity buses. US preclearance for southbound passengers happens right here at the station. The Main Street-Science World SkyTrain station is located just across the park. Note that the Rocky Mountaineer uses its own separate station nearby.
You will arrive at Portland Union Station, which opened in 1896. This station is famous for its tall clock tower and illuminated Go By Train sign. Upon arrival, you can easily connect to the MAX light rail and the Portland Streetcar.
Tips
- Arrive early at Pacific Central Station to complete US border preclearance before boarding.
- Read our guide on Crossing the US and Canada border by train for required documentation.
- Visit the Bistro car early in the trip for the best selection of local snacks.
- Check the current timetable as the number of daily departures from Vancouver is limited.
Questions travellers ask
Do I need to change trains between Vancouver and Portland?
No, you do not need to change trains. The Amtrak Cascades provides direct service between Vancouver Pacific Central Station and Portland Union Station. The entire trip takes about 6 hours 30 minutes to 8 hours.
Are there sleeper cars on the train to Portland?
There are no sleeper cars on this route. The Amtrak Cascades only operates during the day and does not feature overnight travel. Passengers can choose between standard Coach or Business Class seating for the journey.