Is it better to drive or take the train?

Driving offers more flexibility, while the train allows you to relax without navigating traffic.

How long is the drive?

The drive typically takes 15 to 17 hours depending on traffic and stops.

Are there tolls on this route?

Yes, the I-95 route has multiple tolls between Connecticut and Virginia.

What is the best stopover city?

Richmond, Virginia, is a convenient halfway point with plenty of lodging.

Do I need a car in Savannah?

The historic district is very walkable, so a car is not strictly necessary once you arrive.

Riverside

Savannah

Train Driving

Riverside to Savannah

Updated: 29 May 2026

The journey from Riverside to Savannah spans approximately 1,450 kilometers along the Atlantic coast. You can drive via the I-95 corridor, which passes through major hubs like New York City and Washington D.C. Alternatively, take the Metro-North train to New York Penn Station and transfer to an Amtrak Silver Service train. The route offers a transition from the rocky New England coastline to the historic Southern charm of Georgia. Expect heavy traffic near major metropolitan areas during peak commute hours. This trip is best enjoyed by breaking it into two days if driving to appreciate the changing landscape.

Total Distance: 1,450 km driving distance; 1,280 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving via I-95, assuming minimal traffic delays in the D.C. area.

Cheapest Way

Amtrak coach class tickets booked at least three weeks in advance.

Compare Riverside to Savannah Routes

	Train Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	18 hours	15 hours 30 mins
Avg Price	$140 - $300	$180 - $250 in fuel
Operator	Amtrak	Personal Vehicle
Route	Metro-North to Grand Central, subway to Penn Station, then Amtrak Silver Meteor.	I-95 South through New York, New Jersey, Maryland, Virginia, and the Carolinas.
Tip	Book a roomette on the overnight train for a comfortable sleeping experience.	Use the E-ZPass transponder to save time at tolls throughout the Northeast corridor.

Travel Tips

Toll Planning
Ensure your E-ZPass is mounted correctly to avoid fines on the New Jersey Turnpike.
Traffic Avoidance
Try to pass through Washington D.C. and Baltimore outside of the 7 AM to 9 AM window.
Packing
Bring layers, as the climate shifts significantly from Connecticut to the humid Georgia coast.
Booking
Reserve your Savannah hotel well in advance if visiting during the St. Patrick's Day festival.
Hydration
Keep a reusable water bottle in your car, as the southern heat can be dehydrating during long drives.

Safety Tips

Driver Fatigue
Switch drivers every four hours to maintain alertness on the long I-95 stretch.
Vehicle Check
Check your tire pressure and oil levels before departing, as high-speed highway driving is demanding.
Emergency Kit
Carry a basic roadside emergency kit including jumper cables and a flashlight.
Navigation
Download offline maps in case you lose cellular service in rural parts of the Carolinas.