Dover
Dover
Nashville
Nashville
Flight Driving

Dover to Nashville

Updated: 29 May 2026

The journey from Dover to Nashville spans approximately 750 miles across the Appalachian region. Most travelers drive via I-70 W and I-64 W to avoid heavy traffic in the D.C. corridor. Alternatively, flying from Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) to Nashville International Airport (BNA) is the most efficient method. You will cross the scenic mountains of West Virginia and Kentucky. Expect a total travel time of 12 hours by car or 4 hours including airport transit. This route connects the mid-Atlantic coast to the heart of the American South.

Total Distance: 1207 km driving, 950 km air distance.
Fastest Way
Flying from PHL to BNA is the fastest, taking roughly 4 hours total.
Cheapest Way
Driving is the cheapest option for groups of two or more people.
Compare Dover to Nashville Routes
Flight
Connecting
Driving
Direct
Duration 4 hours 12 hours
Avg Price $250-$450 $120-$180 in fuel
Operator American Airlines Personal Vehicle
Route PHL to BNA via Charlotte or Chicago. US-13 N to I-95 S, then I-70 W through Maryland and I-64 W into Tennessee.
Tip Book your PHL parking online in advance to secure a lower daily rate. Avoid driving through Baltimore during morning rush hour to save two hours.
Travel Tips
  • Airport Transit
    Use the WeGo Public Transit bus route 18 to get from BNA to downtown Nashville.
  • Traffic Awareness
    Nashville traffic on I-65 and I-40 is heavy between 7 AM and 9 AM.
  • Parking
    Use the ParkWhiz app to find discounted parking garages in downtown Nashville.
  • Dining
    Try the famous Nashville Hot Chicken at Hattie B's, but arrive early to avoid long lines.
  • Weather
    Nashville summers are humid; carry a reusable water bottle at all times.
Safety Tips
  • Vehicle Safety
    Ensure your tires are checked before crossing the Appalachian mountain passes.
  • Pedestrian Safety
    Broadway is extremely crowded at night; stay on sidewalks and use crosswalks.
  • Emergency Prep
    Keep a physical road atlas in your car as cell service can drop in rural West Virginia.
  • Valuables
    Never leave luggage visible in your car while parked in downtown Nashville.
People Also Ask
  • Is there a train to Nashville?
    No, Nashville does not have passenger rail service for long-distance travel.
  • How long is the drive from Dover?
    The drive takes approximately 12 hours depending on traffic and stops.
  • What is the best airport?
    Nashville International Airport (BNA) is the primary hub for the city.
  • Are there tolls on this route?
    Yes, expect tolls on I-95 in Delaware and Maryland.
  • Is Nashville walkable?
    The downtown area is very walkable, but you need a car for the suburbs.
Quick Info
  • From Dover, Delaware, United States
  • To Nashville, Tennessee, United States
  • Modes
Best Time to Travel

September to October for mild weather and fall foliage in the mountains.

Things to Do in Nashville
1
Grand Ole Opry
Experience the world-famous stage that made country music famous. It is located just outside downtown Nashville.
2
Country Music Hall of Fame
Explore the massive collection of artifacts and exhibits detailing the history of American music. It is located in the heart of downtown.
3
Ryman Auditorium
Visit the historic Mother Church of Country Music for a tour or a live concert. The acoustics are world-renowned.
4
Broadway Honky Tonks
Walk down Lower Broadway to hear live music spilling out of every bar. Most venues have no cover charge during the day.
Tags
Dover to Nashville drive flights from PHL to BNA best route to Nashville Delaware to Tennessee travel driving I-70 to Nashville Nashville travel guide Dover travel tips cheapest way to Nashville