If you’re planning a road trip from Nashville to Louisville, you’re in for a treat. This route will take you through the heart of the South, past rolling hills, charming small towns, and picturesque countryside. In this ultimate road trip guide, we’ll give you all the information you need to plan your trip, including the distance, drive hours, stops, and best driving route.
Hertz
J.D. Power ranks Hertz as the best car rental company in North America, and for good reason. Their focus on customer satisfaction means you’ll have a great time renting from them – from start to finish.
Enterprise
Enterprise Rent-A-Car has locations all over the world, so they’re bound to have one close by. Plus, they offer a wide selection of cars – from economy to luxury – so you can find the perfect ride for your trip.
Fox Rent-A-Car
Fox Rent-A-Car is the perfect solution for budget-minded travelers. They offer low rates on all of our vehicles, so you can hit the open road without breaking the bank.
* With Expedia member prices, you could save 10% or more right now on thousands of cars.
Nashville to Louisville Drive
The distance between Nashville and Louisville is approximately 175.6 miles (282.6 km), and the driving time is approximately 2 hours and 59 minutes. The fastest way to get from Nashville to Louisville is to take I-65N, which will drive past cities like Bowling Green and Elizabethtown. This is the most direct route and will get you to your destination in the shortest amount of time. However, if you’re looking to take in some of the sights along the way, consider taking one of the scenic routes listed below.
How Far Is Nashville from Louisville?
The driving distance from Nashville to Louisville is approximately 175.6 miles (282.6 km), and it takes about 2 hours and 59 minutes to complete the drive. This distance is calculated using the fastest route, which takes you through I-65N. However, depending on the route you choose, the distance may vary slightly.
How Far Is Nashville to Louisville by Plane?
The flight distance from Nashville to Louisville is approximately 151 miles (243 km). The flight time from Nashville to Louisville is approximately 1 hour and 5 minutes.
There are several flights that depart from Nashville International Airport (BNA) and arrive at Louisville International Airport (SDF), so be sure to check the schedule in advance and book your tickets early.
What Is the Time Difference between Nashville and Louisville?
Nashville and Louisville are both in the Central Time Zone (CT). There is no time difference between the two cities.
The Cheapest Way to Get from Nashville to Louisville
The cheapest way to get from Nashville to Louisville is to drive. Gas prices will vary depending on where you fill up, but you can expect to spend around $50 for a full tank. This is based on an average of $3.5 per gallon and a standard car that holds 15 gallons of gas. You can also consider taking a bus or train, but keep in mind that these options may take longer than driving.
Nashville to Louisville Drive – Rent A Car In Nashville
Here are some rental car companies to rent a car from in Nashville:
- Alamo: starts at $54 per day
- Avis: starts at $62 per day
- Budget: starts at $52 per day
- Enterprise: starts at $55 per day
- Hertz: starts at $59 per day
- National: starts at $67 per day
Gas prices will vary depending on where you fill up, but you can expect to spend around $40 for a full tank. This is based on an average of $2.50 per gallon, and a standard car that holds 15 gallons of gas.
Nashville to Louisville – Driving Stops Along The Way
While the drive from Nashville to Louisville is relatively short, there are still plenty of interesting stops to make along the way. Here are some of the best places to visit:
Mammoth Cave National Park
Mammoth Cave National Park is located in central Kentucky, about halfway between Nashville and Louisville. This park is home to the world’s longest-known cave system, and it’s a great place to explore if you’re interested in geology or history. There are several guided tours available, ranging from easy to challenging, so be sure to choose one that fits your interests and abilities.
Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park
If you’re a history buff, be sure to stop at the Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park in Hodgenville, Kentucky. This site commemorates the birthplace of the 16th president of the United States and features a replica of the log cabin where he was born. You can also explore the visitor center, watch a short film about Lincoln’s life, and take a walk along the Sinking Spring Trail.
Jim Beam Distillery
If you’re a whiskey lover, a visit to the Jim Beam Distillery in Clermont, Kentucky, is a must. This distillery has been producing bourbon since 1795 and offers guided tours that show you how the famous whiskey is made. You can also sample some of their award-winning bourbon and purchase bottles to take home as souvenirs.
Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest
For nature enthusiasts, a stop at the Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest in Clermont, Kentucky, is a must. This 16,000-acre forest features over 40 miles of hiking trails, a canopy tree walk, and a lake for fishing and boating. You can also explore the visitor center, which features exhibits on the history and ecology of the forest.
Nashville to Louisville – Best Driving Route
The fastest and most direct route from Nashville to Louisville is to take I-65N. However, if you’re looking to take a more scenic route, consider taking one of the following:
Natchez Trace Parkway
The Natchez Trace Parkway is a 444-mile scenic drive that runs from Natchez, Mississippi, to Nashville, Tennessee. If you take this route, you’ll drive through beautiful countryside, past historic sites, and through charming small towns. This is a great option if you’re looking to take your time and enjoy the journey.
Bluegrass Parkway
The Bluegrass Parkway is a 71-mile scenic drive that runs from Elizabethtown to Danville, Kentucky. This route takes you through the heart of Kentucky’s Bluegrass region, past horse farms, rolling hills, and charming towns. It’s a great option if you’re looking to take a shorter, but still scenic, route.
US-31E
If you’re looking for a route that takes you through small towns and past historic sites, consider taking US-31E. This route runs from Nashville to Louisville and takes you through towns like Gallatin, Portland, and Bardstown. Along the way, you can stop at historic sites like the President James K. Polk Home and Museum or the My Old Kentucky Home State Park.
Wrapping Up
In conclusion, the road trip from Nashville to Louisville is a relatively short but scenic journey that takes you through the heart of the South. Whether you choose to take the most direct route or explore some of the scenic options, you’ll find plenty of interesting stops and attractions along the way. From exploring the world’s longest-known cave system at Mammoth Cave National Park to experiencing the charm of small towns like Bowling Green and Elizabethtown, there’s something for everyone on this road trip. So pack your bags, rent a car, and hit the road for an unforgettable a
