If you’re planning a road trip from Richmond to Virginia Beach, you’re in for a treat. This drive will take you through some of the most scenic routes in Virginia, with breathtaking views of the ocean and beautiful towns along the way. To make the most of your trip, we’ve put together this comprehensive guide with everything you need to know about driving from Richmond to Virginia Beach, including the distance, drive hours, stops, and the 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.
Richmond to Virginia Beach Drive
Driving from Richmond to Virginia Beach will take you approximately 1 hour and 53 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The fastest way to get from Richmond to Virginia Beach is to take I-64 E. This route takes you through scenic towns like Williamsburg, Newport News, and Hampton, so you can take in the sights and sounds of Virginia while you’re on the road.
However, if you want to take a more leisurely drive and enjoy the scenic beauty of Virginia, consider taking one of the scenic routes listed below.
Richmond to Virginia Beach: How far is Richmond from Virginia Beach?
The distance from Richmond to Virginia Beach is approximately 106.9 miles (172 kilometers). This distance can be covered in about 1 hour and 53 minutes by car, depending on traffic conditions.
How far is Richmond to Virginia Beach by plane?
The flight time from Richmond to Virginia Beach is approximately 109 miles (175.4 km). The flight time from Richmond to Virginia Beach is approximately 1 hour and 5 minutes.
There are several flights that depart from Richmond International Airport (RIC) and arrive at Norfolk International Airport (ORF), so be sure to check the schedule in advance and book your tickets early.
What is the time difference between Richmond and Virginia Beach?
Richmond and Virginia Beach are both in the Eastern Time Zone, so there is no time difference between the two cities.
The Cheapest Way to Get from Richmond
If you’re looking for the cheapest way to get from Richmond to Virginia Beach, consider taking the bus. Greyhound offers several daily trips from Richmond to Virginia Beach, with fares starting at just $38. Alternatively, you can take the train, with Amtrak offering daily service from Richmond to Norfolk with fares starting at $14. However, keep in mind that taking public transportation may take longer than driving.
Richmond to Virginia Beach Drive – Rent A Car In Richmond
If you want to have the flexibility to explore Virginia at your own pace, consider renting a car in Richmond. Here are some car rental companies to choose from:
- Alamo: starts at $72 per day
- Avis: starts at $67 per day
- Budget: starts at $60 per day
- Enterprise: starts at $65 per day
- Hertz: starts at $67 per day
- National: starts at $72 per day
Gas prices will also vary depending on where you fill up, but you can expect to spend around $51 for a full tank. This is based on an average of $3.390 per gallon and a standard car that holds 15 gallons of gas.
Richmond to Virginia Beach – Driving Stops Along The Way
There are several stops you can make along the way from Richmond to Virginia Beach. Here are some of our top picks:
Williamsburg, Virginia
Williamsburg is a must-visit destination in Virginia, with its beautiful colonial architecture and historic charm. Take a walk along the Duke of Gloucester Street, where you’ll find a variety of shops, restaurants, and historic sites like the Governor’s Palace, Capitol Building, and the famous Bruton Parish Church. You can also visit the Colonial Williamsburg Visitor Center to learn more about the town’s history and see demonstrations of colonial life.
Newport News, Virginia
Newport News is a waterfront city located on the northern shore of the James River. It is home to the Virginia War Museum, which showcases exhibits on American military history, and the Mariners’ Museum and Park, which features exhibits on maritime history. You can also visit Newport News Park, a 7,711-acre park with hiking trails, fishing, and camping opportunities.
Hampton, Virginia
Hampton is a historic town located on the southern shore of the Chesapeake Bay. It is home to the Hampton History Museum, which showcases the town’s history from its Native American roots to the present day. You can also visit the Fort Monroe National Monument, a historic military installation that played a key role in American history, or take a walk along the Virginia Air and Space Center, which showcases the history of aviation and space travel.
Best Driving Route from Richmond to Virginia Beach
The best driving route from Richmond to Virginia Beach is to take I-64 E, which is the most direct and fastest route. However, if you want to take a more scenic route, consider taking one of the following options:
Route 5
Route 5 is a historic scenic byway that runs from Richmond to Williamsburg. Along the way, you’ll pass by historic plantations, beautiful countryside, and stunning views of the James River. This route will add about 30 minutes to your drive, but it’s well worth the extra time.
Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel
The Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel is a 23-mile-long bridge-tunnel complex that connects Virginia’s Eastern Shore to the mainland. It offers stunning views of the Chesapeake Bay and is a popular scenic drive for tourists. To take this route, take I-64 E to exit 282, then follow US-13 S to the bridge-tunnel entrance. This route will add about an hour to your drive, but it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Wrapping Up
In conclusion, driving from Richmond to Virginia Beach is a wonderful way to experience the natural beauty and historic charm of Virginia. Whether you choose to take the fastest route or a more leisurely scenic drive, there are plenty of opportunities to explore along the way. From the charming town of Williamsburg to the sandy beaches of Virginia Beach, this road trip offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or just looking for a relaxing getaway, this drive is definitely worth adding to your travel itinerary.