What is the exact distance from Chicago to Nashville?

The driving distance from Chicago to Nashville is 759 kilometers (472 miles). The straight-line distance is 640 km.

How long does it take to drive from Chicago to Nashville?

The estimated driving time from Chicago to Nashville is 7.5 hours under normal traffic conditions. This can vary based on traffic, road conditions, and your driving speed.

What is the fastest route from Chicago to Nashville?

The fastest route is typically 759km and takes about 7.5 hours. This route is optimized for time and usually uses major highways and roads.

Are there alternative routes from Chicago to Nashville?

Yes, we provide up to 2 different route options including the fastest route, shortest distance route, and alternative paths that may offer different scenery or avoid certain road types.

Does the route from Chicago to Nashville include tolls?

Yes, some routes from Chicago to Nashville may include toll roads. Check the detailed route information below for specific toll road indicators.

Can I get turn-by-turn directions from Chicago to Nashville?

While we provide the route overview and key information, for detailed turn-by-turn directions, we recommend using the route data with your preferred GPS navigation app or mapping service.

Chicago to Nashville Distance

472 miles•759 km•7.5 hours

Driving distance and route information from Chicago, United Statesto Nashville, United States. Compare multiple routes and get detailed travel information.

⭐

FASTEST ROUTE

471.51 mi

(758.83 km)

⏱️7h 29m

Via South Michigan Avenue, East Balbo Drive

South Michigan Avenue → East Balbo Drive

🛣️ 70% Highway💰 Tolls

📏

SHORTEST ROUTE

441.7 mi

(710.85 km)

⏱️7h 48m

Via South Michigan Avenue, East Balbo Drive

South Michigan Avenue → East Balbo Drive

🛣️ 70% Highway💰 Tolls

📏 Straight-line distance: 398 miles (640 km)

See crow flies distance →

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Complete Driving Guide: Chicago to Nashville

Essential Route Information

TOTAL DISTANCE

472 mi

759 kilometers

DRIVING TIME

7.5 hours

450 minutes

FUEL ESTIMATE

63 L

$95 cost

📍 Route Overview

Starting PointChicago, Illinois

DestinationNashville, Tennessee

Route Options2 available routes

Countries Crossed1 country

Time Zone ChangesCheck local times

🚗 Driving Details

Average Speed101 km/h

Straight-line Distance640 km

Route Efficiency84%

Toll RoadsYes - Budget required

Ferry CrossingsNo ferries

Compare All Routes from Chicago to Nashville

Route Type	Distance	Drive Time	Avg Speed	Tolls
⭐ Fastest Route	472 mi (759 km)	7.5 hours	101 km/h	✅ Yes
Alternative 1	442 mi (711 km)	7.8 hours	91 km/h	✅ Yes

Complete Journey Overview: Chicago to Nashville

The road journey from Chicago to Nashville spans approximately 472 miles (759 kilometers), making it a long-distance drive that typically requires 7.5 hours of continuous driving under normal traffic conditions.

This route connects Illinois, United States with Tennessee, United States, traversing through various regions within United States. The journey offers 2 distinct routing options, each with unique advantages in terms of distance, time, or scenic value.

The most efficient route from Chicago to Nashville follows major highways and arterial roads, maintaining an average speed of approximately 101 km/h. This route has been optimized for speed, though it includes toll roads that require payment.

🗺️ Travel Planning Essentials

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Fuel Planning: Expect to use approximately 19 gallons (63 liters) of fuel for this 472 mile journey. Plan fuel stops every 250-300 miles.

✓

Rest Stops: For safety, plan a 15-minute break every 2 hours of driving. Total journey with breaks: 8.6 hours.

✓

Best Travel Times: Avoid peak traffic hours (7-9 AM and 5-7 PM) in major cities along your route for optimal travel time.

✓

Weather Check: Monitor weather conditions along the entire route, especially during winter months or rainy seasons.

💰 Cost Estimation Guide

Fuel Cost (approximate)$66

Toll Costs$24

Vehicle Wear (per mile)$118

Total Trip Cost$208

* Costs are estimates based on average fuel prices and vehicle maintenance. Actual costs may vary.

Alternative Transportation Options

🚗

By Car

7.5 hours

472 miles

✈️

By Plane

0.8 hours flight

640 km direct

🚌

By Bus

9.8 hours

Multiple stops

🚂

By Train

Check availability

Scenic route