How far is Kittery from Portsmouth?

They are about 5 kilometers apart.

Yes, the Memorial Bridge is pedestrian-friendly.

Yes, local bus services connect the two towns.

Which bridge is best?

The Memorial Bridge is best for scenery; I-95 is best for speed.

Is it a long commute?

No, it is a very short commute of about 10 minutes.

Kittery

Portsmouth

Bus Driving

Kittery to Portsmouth

Updated: 28 May 2026

The distance between Kittery and Portsmouth is a mere 5 kilometers, separated by the Piscataqua River. You can easily cross via the Memorial Bridge or the I-95 high-level bridge. This is a daily commute for many, taking less than 10 minutes by car. Walking or cycling across the Memorial Bridge is a popular way to enjoy the river views.

Total Distance: 5 km driving, 4 km air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving via US-1 is the fastest, taking about 10 minutes.

Cheapest Way

Walking or cycling is free and highly recommended for this short distance.

Compare Kittery to Portsmouth Routes

	Bus Direct	Driving Direct
Duration	15 mins	10 mins
Avg Price	$2	$2 in fuel
Operator	Coastal Connection	Personal Vehicle
Route	Local bus routes connecting Kittery outlets to Portsmouth.	US-1 or I-95.
Tip	Check the local transit schedule as buses run frequently during business hours.	The Memorial Bridge is the most scenic route for local travel.

Travel Tips

Bridge Traffic
Avoid the I-95 bridge during peak rush hour as it can get congested.
Parking
Use the parking garages in Portsmouth to avoid searching for street parking.
Walking
The Memorial Bridge has a dedicated pedestrian path that is very safe.
Cycling
Biking is a great way to commute between these two towns.
Events
Check the Portsmouth event calendar for summer festivals.

Safety Tips

Pedestrian Safety
Use designated crosswalks when walking in downtown Portsmouth.
Bridge Winds
Be aware of high winds when cycling across the Memorial Bridge.
Traffic
Watch for heavy traffic near the Kittery outlet malls.
Night Safety
Downtown Portsmouth is well-lit and safe for evening walks.