What is the exact distance from Nashville to Louisville?

The driving distance from Nashville to Louisville is 280 kilometers (174 miles). The straight-line distance is 249 km.

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

The estimated driving time from Nashville to Louisville is 2.8 hours under normal traffic conditions. This can vary based on traffic, road conditions, and your driving speed.

What is the fastest route from Nashville to Louisville?

The fastest route is typically 280km and takes about 2.8 hours. This route is optimized for time and usually uses major highways and roads.

Are there alternative routes from Nashville to Louisville?

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 Nashville to Louisville include tolls?

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

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

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.

Nashville to Louisville Distance

174 miles•280 km•2.8 hours

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

⭐

FASTEST ROUTE

174.24 mi

(280.42 km)

⏱️2h 46m

Via US 70, South 5th Street

US 70 → South 5th Street

🛣️ 70% Highway💰 Tolls

📏

SHORTEST ROUTE

205.38 mi

(330.53 km)

⏱️3h 14m

Via US 70, South 5th Street

US 70 → South 5th Street

🛣️ 70% Highway💰 Tolls

📏 Straight-line distance: 155 miles (249 km)

See crow flies distance →

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Complete Driving Guide: Nashville to Louisville

Essential Route Information

TOTAL DISTANCE

174 mi

280 kilometers

DRIVING TIME

2.8 hours

168 minutes

FUEL ESTIMATE

23 L

$35 cost

📍 Route Overview

Starting PointNashville, Tennessee

DestinationLouisville, Kentucky

Route Options2 available routes

Countries Crossed1 country

Time Zone ChangesCheck local times

🚗 Driving Details

Average Speed100 km/h

Straight-line Distance249 km

Route Efficiency89%

Toll RoadsYes - Budget required

Ferry CrossingsNo ferries

Compare All Routes from Nashville to Louisville

Route Type	Distance	Drive Time	Avg Speed	Tolls
⭐ Fastest Route	174 mi (280 km)	2.8 hours	101 km/h	✅ Yes
Alternative 1	205 mi (331 km)	3.2 hours	102 km/h	✅ Yes

Complete Journey Overview: Nashville to Louisville

The road journey from Nashville to Louisville spans approximately 174 miles (280 kilometers), making it a medium-distance drive that typically requires 2.8 hours of continuous driving under normal traffic conditions.

This route connects Tennessee, United States with Kentucky, 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 Nashville to Louisville follows major highways and arterial roads, maintaining an average speed of approximately 100 km/h. This route has been optimized for speed, though it includes toll roads that require payment.

🗺️ Travel Planning Essentials

✓

Fuel Planning: Expect to use approximately 7 gallons (23 liters) of fuel for this 174 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: 3.2 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)$24

Toll Costs$9

Vehicle Wear (per mile)$43

Total Trip Cost$77

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

Alternative Transportation Options

🚗

By Car

2.8 hours

174 miles

✈️

By Plane

0.3 hours flight

249 km direct

🚌

By Bus

3.6 hours

Multiple stops

🚂

By Train

Check availability

Scenic route