Is Washington DC worth visiting?

Yes, it offers a rich history, world-class museums, and iconic monuments.

How long is the train ride to DC?

The Amtrak Northeast Regional takes approximately 4 hours from Newport News.

Are there tolls between Portsmouth and DC?

No, the I-64/I-95 route is generally toll-free.

What is the best way to travel to DC?

Amtrak is the most relaxing, while driving offers the most flexibility for local travel.

Does DC have a good public transit system?

The Metro system provides extensive and reliable service throughout the city.

Portsmouth

Washington

Train Driving

Portsmouth to Washington

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from Portsmouth to Washington DC covers approximately 200 miles. By car, the drive takes about 3.5 to 4.5 hours, depending on traffic on the I-95 corridor. Alternatively, you can drive to the Newport News Amtrak station and take the train directly to Union Station in Washington DC. This route is a major artery for travel, connecting the Hampton Roads region to the nation's capital, offering a mix of historic and modern experiences.

Total Distance: 320 km driving, 260 km straight-line.

Fastest Way

Driving is typically faster than the train, provided you avoid major traffic congestion.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the most economical choice, especially for multiple travelers.

Compare Portsmouth to Washington Routes

	Train Direct	Driving Direct
Duration	4 hours	4 hours
Avg Price	$50-$120	$40-$60 in fuel
Operator	Amtrak	Personal Vehicle
Route	Northeast Regional line from Newport News to Union Station.	I-64 W to I-95 N through Richmond.
Tip	Union Station is centrally located, making it easy to reach the National Mall.	Traffic on the I-95 beltway can be extremely heavy during rush hour.

Travel Tips

Amtrak Station
Union Station is a major transit hub with easy access to the Metro system.
Traffic Timing
Try to avoid I-95 during the morning and evening rush hours.
Parking
Parking in DC is expensive and limited; consider using the Metro system.
Booking
Book your train tickets online to receive digital boarding passes for easier travel.
Walking
DC is a very walkable city, perfect for exploring the National Mall and surrounding areas.

Safety Tips

Highway Safety
Maintain a safe following distance on I-95, as traffic patterns change rapidly.
Personal Belongings
Keep your bags in sight at all times while in the train station or on the Metro.
Night Travel
If driving at night, ensure your headlights are clear and your windshield is clean.
Emergency Prep
Have a physical map or offline GPS downloaded in case of cellular dead zones.