If you’re planning a road trip from Virginia to Florida, you’re in for a treat. This route takes you through several states and offers a mix of stunning natural landscapes, historic sites, and vibrant cities. Here’s a guide to help you plan the perfect road trip from Virginia to Florida.
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.
Virginia to Florida Drive
Driving from Virginia to Florida will take you approximately 13 hours and 18 minutes, depending on your starting point and final destination. The fastest way to get from Virginia to Florida is to take I-95 S, which will take you through states like North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, and finally Florida.
The I-95 S highway is the most direct route and will get you to your destination in the shortest amount of time.
One of the primary factors to consider when planning a road trip is distance and time. The driving distance from Virginia to Florida ranges from 800 to 1,000 miles, depending on the route you choose. Given that the average speed on highways is around 60-70 mph, the drive could take approximately 12 to 17 hours. For more details on how travel time relates to distance, check out this resource on “how long is 500 miles in hours.”
A non-stop drive may not be the most feasible or enjoyable option, considering the long hours on the road. Therefore, planning some stops for rest, food, and sightseeing is an excellent idea to break up the journey.
How far is Virginia from Florida?
The distance between Virginia and Florida can vary depending on your starting and final destination. However, the most direct route between the two states is the I-95 S highway, which covers approximately 799.9 miles (1,287.3 kilometers). This distance can be covered by car or bus, which may take around 13 hours and 18 minutes depending on traffic and driving speed.
How far is Virginia to Florida by plane?
The flight distance from Virginia to Florida is approximately 693 miles (1,116 km). The flight time from Virginia to Florida is approximately 1 hour and 55 minutes, depending on your starting point and final destination.
There are several flights that depart from major airports in Virginia, such as Richmond International Airport (RIC), Norfolk International Airport (ORF), and Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD), and arrive at major airports in Florida, such as Miami International Airport (MIA), Orlando International Airport (MCO), and Tampa International Airport (TPA). Be sure to check the schedule in advance and book your tickets early.
What is the time difference between Virginia and Florida?
Virginia and Florida are located in the Eastern Time Zone, which means they share the same standard time. However, the states differ in their observance of Daylight Saving Time.
Virginia observes Daylight Saving Time, while Florida does not.
This means that when Daylight Saving Time is in effect (from March to November), Virginia is one hour ahead of Florida. Visitors traveling from one state to another during this period should be mindful of the time difference to avoid any scheduling confusion.
The Cheapest Way to Get from Virginia
The cheapest way to get from Virginia to Florida is to drive. Depending on the size of your group and the duration of your trip, renting a car might be more cost-effective than using your own vehicle. Additionally, there are several bus companies that operate routes between Virginia and Florida, such as Greyhound and Megabus, which offer affordable fares.
Virginia to Florida Drive – Rent A Car In Virginia
Here are rental car companies to rent a car from in Virginia:
- Alamo: starts at $75 per day
- Avis: starts at $60 per day
- Budget: starts at $80 per day
- Enterprise: starts at $70 per day
- Hertz: starts at $80 per day
- Thrifty: starts at $75 per day
- Dollar: starts at $70 per day
Gas prices will also 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 $3.317 per gallon, and a standard car that holds 15 gallons of gas. You’re expected to pay anywhere between $250 to $350 for a one-way trip (including car rental and gas). If you’re accounting for a full family of 4 with luggage, it’s cheaper to rent a car and drive than it is to fly.
Car Rental Options
Before we delve into the journey details, it’s important to address the means of travel. If you’re considering renting a car for your trip, it’s crucial to choose the right rental service and the perfect vehicle for your needs. For instance, you may be wondering about renting a car in various cities along the way like Washington, Jacksonville, Orlando, Miami, and Atlanta.
Deciding “should I rent a car in Washington” or “should I rent a car in Jacksonville” can be made easier with the proper resources. It’s essential to balance factors like cost, convenience, and the kind of experience you’re looking for.
The Route
With car rental sorted, let’s move on to the exciting part – the route! We’ll start in Virginia, with the question of how to best navigate the state. A commonly traveled path is from Richmond to Virginia Beach. To know more about this route, head over to the article on “Richmond to Virginia Beach“.
Once you’ve made your way through Virginia and crossed into North Carolina, you might be interested in a detour from “Raleigh to Asheville“. This route offers a scenic journey through the heart of the Tar Heel State and provides an opportunity to experience the culture and charm of the South.
Next, you’ll cross into South Carolina. Here, we recommend taking a break in the beautiful city of Savannah. After some rest and exploration, your journey continues from “Savannah to Jacksonville“. It’s a relatively short drive and marks your entry into Florida, the Sunshine State. The final stretch will take you through Jacksonville, Orlando, and Miami.
During these last segments, considering the questions, “should I rent a car in Orlando” and “should I rent a car in Miami” could be pertinent, especially if you’re planning on extending your stay in these cities.
Virginia to Florida – Driving Stops Along The Way
Here are some stops you can make on your road trip from Virginia to Florida:
Richmond, Virginia
Visit the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, explore the Virginia State Capitol building, or take a stroll through the Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden.
Williamsburg, Virginia
Richmond is the capital city of the state of Virginia, located in the eastern part of the United States. The city played a significant role in American history as the capital of the Confederacy during the Civil War. Today, Richmond is a thriving city with a rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and plenty of outdoor activities.
Wilmington, North Carolina
Wilmington is a coastal city located in the southeastern region of North Carolina. It is known for its historic downtown, which features a scenic riverwalk along the Cape Fear River, and its beautiful beaches. The city also has a rich cultural and arts scene, with numerous museums, galleries, and theaters to explore.
Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston, South Carolina is a historic city located on the coast of the state. It is known for its charming southern architecture, cobblestone streets, and historic landmarks. Visitors can explore the city’s rich history by visiting attractions like the Charleston City Market, Fort Sumter National Monument, and the Charleston Battery.
Savannah, Georgia
Savannah, Georgia, is a charming city located on the coast. It is known for its picturesque historic district, which features oak-lined streets, parks, and squares. The city has a rich history and is home to several museums and historic sites, including the Savannah Historic District, the Savannah History Museum, and the Wormsloe Historic Site. Savannah is also famous for its delicious Southern cuisine and is a popular destination for foodies.
Jacksonville, Florida
Jacksonville is the largest city in Florida by area, located in the northeastern part of the state. It has a vibrant downtown area with a mix of modern and historic buildings, as well as a bustling port. Jacksonville is also home to several beaches and natural parks, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Orlando, Florida
Orlando, Florida is a popular tourist destination known for its theme parks, such as Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and SeaWorld. The city is located in central Florida and has a subtropical climate with hot and humid summers and mild winters. In addition to theme parks, Orlando also offers a range of other attractions, such as museums, nature parks, and shopping areas.
Miami, Florida
Miami is a vibrant coastal city located in the southeastern part of Florida. Known for its stunning beaches, colorful Art Deco architecture, and lively nightlife, Miami attracts millions of visitors each year. It is also a major center for finance, commerce, and international trade, with a diverse population that includes a large number of immigrants from Latin America and the Caribbean.
Best Driving Route from Virginia to Florida
The best driving route from Virginia to Florida depends on your starting point and final destination. If you’re starting in northern Virginia, the I-95 S highway is the most direct route. However, if you’re looking to take in some scenic routes along the way, consider taking one of the following routes:
The Coastal Route
The Coastal Route from Virginia to Florida is a scenic drive that follows the Atlantic Ocean coastline. The route passes through several coastal cities and towns, providing breathtaking views of the ocean, beaches, and wetlands. Some of the notable stops along the way include Wilmington in North Carolina, Charleston in South Carolina, Savannah in Georgia,
The Appalachian Route
Take the I-81 S highway through Virginia and Tennessee, then switch to the I-75 S highway through Georgia. This route takes you through the Appalachian Mountains and offers stunning views of the natural landscape.
Wrapping Up
In conclusion, a road trip from Virginia to Florida can be an enjoyable and memorable experience, with a mix of natural beauty, historic landmarks, and vibrant cities along the way. While the most direct route is via the I-95 S highway, taking one of the scenic routes can offer more opportunities to take in the sights. Whether you choose to drive, fly, or take a bus, there are several options available to suit different budgets and preferences. With proper planning and preparation, a Virginia to Florida road trip can be a fun and exciting adventure.