Downtown Austin is walkable, but you need a car for the rest of the city.

What is the best airport?

Austin-Bergstrom (AUS) is the primary airport serving the city.

How long is the flight?

Flights typically take 6 to 8 hours with a connection.

Is there a direct bus?

No, bus travel would require multiple transfers and take over 30 hours.

What is the best highway?

I-20 W is the main artery for reaching Texas from the East.

Portsmouth

Austin

Flight Driving

Portsmouth to Austin

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from Portsmouth to Austin spans roughly 2,200 km. Flying from Norfolk International Airport (ORF) to Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) is the most efficient method. Driving involves taking I-85 S and I-20 W, passing through cities like Charlotte and Birmingham. This route takes you through the heart of the American South and into the Texas Hill Country. Expect a travel time of approximately 20 hours by car.

Total Distance: Driving distance 2,200 km, straight-line air distance 1,900 km.

Fastest Way

Flight, 6 hours including layover time.

Cheapest Way

Driving is often cheaper if traveling with multiple passengers.

Compare Portsmouth to Austin Routes

	Flight Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	6 hours	20 hours
Avg Price	$300 - $600	$300 - $500 in fuel
Operator	American Airlines	Personal Vehicle
Route	ORF to AUS via CLT or DFW.	I-85 S to I-20 W through Atlanta and Shreveport.
Tip	Check for flights into AUS as it is much closer to downtown than other Texas airports.	Plan for heavy traffic when passing through Atlanta.

Travel Tips

Traffic
Avoid I-35 in Austin during morning and evening rush hours.
Music
Check the local event calendar for live music shows on 6th Street.
Food
Try authentic Texas barbecue at one of the famous local smokehouses.
Weather
Austin summers are extremely hot; carry extra water if visiting then.
Parking
Use the city's parking apps to find spots in downtown Austin easily.

Safety Tips

Driving
Stay alert on I-20 as it has high volumes of commercial truck traffic.
Heat
Never leave pets or children in a parked car in Texas heat.
Night Travel
Avoid driving through rural stretches of Louisiana at night due to wildlife.
Personal Safety
Stick to well-lit areas when walking downtown at night.