🍁 How to Get to Vermont From Philadelphia [2025–2026 Guide]
Vermont is about 250–400 miles from Philadelphia, depending on the destination. Driving takes 5–7 hours, direct flights to Burlington take 1.5 hours ($150–$300 round trip), while trains and buses take 7–11 hours ($50–$130). This 2025–2026 guide covers routes, times, and costs.
Vermont, famous for its Green Mountains, maple syrup, and fall foliage, is a popular getaway from Philadelphia. Whether you’re headed to Burlington, Stowe, or ski towns like Killington, you can get there by car, plane, train, or bus. Each method balances cost, comfort, and convenience differently.
🚗 Driving From Philadelphia to Vermont
Driving is the most flexible way to reach Vermont, especially if you’re exploring multiple towns or mountain areas. Burlington is about 370 miles from Philadelphia, and the trip usually takes 6.5–7 hours via I-95 North and I-87 North through New York before cutting into Vermont.
Expect to spend around $40–$70 on gas and tolls each way. Driving gives you the freedom to stop at scenic spots in upstate New York or explore rural Vermont at your own pace.
✈️ Flying From Philadelphia to Vermont
The quickest option is flying from Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) to Burlington International Airport (BTV). Nonstop flights are about 1.5 hours, though total travel time including check-in and airport transfers is closer to 3–4 hours.
Round-trip fares usually range from $150–$300, depending on season. Once you arrive, Burlington is only 10–15 minutes from the airport, and car rentals cost about $40–$70 per day if you plan to explore ski resorts or rural areas.
🚆 Train From Philadelphia to Vermont
Amtrak operates trains from Philadelphia’s 30th Street Station to Vermont destinations via the Vermonter Line, which travels north through New York, Connecticut, and Massachusetts before reaching towns like Brattleboro, White River Junction, Montpelier, and Essex Junction (near Burlington).
The full trip can take 9–11 hours, depending on your stop. Tickets cost about $60–$130 one way. While slower than flying, the train is comfortable and scenic, with Wi-Fi and food service onboard.
🚍 Bus From Philadelphia to Vermont
Buses are the most budget-friendly option, though also the slowest. Greyhound and FlixBus offer service from Philadelphia to Vermont towns like Burlington, usually with a transfer in New York City.
The total trip takes about 7–9 hours, with tickets costing $50–$90 one way. Buses are a good option for solo travelers looking to save money, though they lack the flexibility of driving.
🚖 Rideshare or Taxi From Philadelphia
Taking Uber, Lyft, or a private taxi all the way from Philadelphia to Vermont is technically possible but very expensive. The one-way fare would likely cost $500–$700 or more, depending on the destination.
This is not a practical choice unless cost is being split among several travelers or if it’s for a unique situation where door-to-door service is required.
📝 Travel Summary
| Method | Duration | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🚗 Drive | 6–7 hrs | $40–$70 | Flexible; best for exploring multiple Vermont towns. |
| ✈️ Fly (PHL → BTV) | 3–4 hrs total | $150–$300 | Fastest; rental car may be needed on arrival. |
| 🚆 Train (Amtrak Vermonter) | 9–11 hrs | $60–$130 | Scenic and comfortable; slower but direct to towns. |
| 🚍 Bus | 7–9 hrs | $50–$90 | Budget-friendly; usually requires transfer in NYC. |
| 🚖 Rideshare/Taxi | 6–7 hrs | $500–$700 | Door-to-door but costly; rarely practical. |
❓ FAQ
Q1: What’s the fastest way to get to Vermont from Philadelphia?
Flying to Burlington International Airport is the fastest, with total travel time around 3–4 hours.
Q2: What’s the cheapest way to get there?
Taking a bus is the cheapest, usually $50–$90 one way, though it requires longer travel times.
Q3: Is there a direct train to Vermont?
Yes, Amtrak’s Vermonter Line runs directly from Philadelphia to multiple Vermont towns, including Brattleboro, Montpelier, and Essex Junction.
Q4: Do I need a car in Vermont?
Yes, if you’re planning to explore ski resorts, small towns, or rural areas. Burlington itself is walkable, but the rest of Vermont is car-dependent.
Q5: When is the best time to visit Vermont?
Fall (September–October) is famous for foliage, while winter is best for skiing. Summer is popular for lakes and hiking.
✅ If you want speed, fly to Burlington. For budget-friendly travel, buses or Amtrak work best. If you’re planning a road trip or ski vacation, driving gives you the most flexibility.