Traveling From Norfolk, VA to Atlanta, GA: Your Complete Guide

If you’re planning a trip from Norfolk, Virginia to Atlanta, Georgia, you have several solid options for getting into and around Atlanta. Whether you live in Atlanta and are coming back home, you’re visiting the city, or you’re comparing ways to make this trip, this guide walks through the major choices—driving, flying, bus, and train—with a focus on what they mean once you actually arrive in Atlanta.

How Far Is It From Norfolk, VA to Atlanta, GA?

The distance and travel time will shape almost every decision:

• Driving distance: Around 550–600 miles, depending on your route
• Typical driving time: About 9–10 hours in normal traffic
• Direct flight distance (air): Roughly 500–550 miles
• Typical flight time (in the air): About 1.5 hours, not counting airport time

For most people headed to Atlanta, the choice often comes down to time vs. cost vs. flexibility.

Option 1: Driving From Norfolk to Atlanta

Driving is the most flexible way to travel between Norfolk and Atlanta and gives you your own car once you arrive in the city.

Common Driving Route

A typical route from Norfolk to Atlanta includes:

• Leaving Norfolk via I‑64 W
• Connecting to I‑95 S
• Transitioning toward I‑85 S into Atlanta

Depending on traffic and exact roads chosen, you’ll likely enter the metro Atlanta area from the northeast on I‑85.

What to Expect as You Enter Atlanta

Atlanta traffic is known for being busy, especially during:

• Morning rush: roughly 7:00 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.
• Evening rush: roughly 4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.

You’ll encounter major interchanges such as:

• I‑85 / I‑285 (Perimeter)
• Downtown Connector (I‑75 / I‑85) if you head into central Atlanta

If you can plan your Norfolk departure so that you arrive in Atlanta outside peak rush hours, you’ll likely have a smoother experience parking and getting to your final destination.

Parking in Atlanta

Where you’re staying or visiting matters:

• Downtown / Midtown / Buckhead: Expect paid parking in decks and lots; street parking is limited in busier areas.
• Neighborhoods like Virginia‑Highland, Inman Park, or Grant Park: More street parking, but it can still be tight near popular restaurants, parks, and venues.
• Airbnb or private rentals: Check ahead about driveway or reserved space availability.

If you’re heading to major attractions:

• Georgia Aquarium & World of Coca‑Cola: Large garages and lots near Centennial Olympic Park.
• Mercedes‑Benz Stadium / State Farm Arena: Event parking is plentiful but can be expensive; pre-booking is often recommended.
• Hartsfield‑Jackson Atlanta International Airport: Multiple on-site and off-airport parking options if you’re leaving your car and taking a flight elsewhere.

Option 2: Flying From Norfolk to Atlanta

For many travelers, especially those on a schedule, flying from Norfolk to Atlanta is the most time-efficient option.

Departure: Norfolk International Airport (ORF)

You’ll depart from Norfolk International Airport (ORF), a mid-size airport serving the Hampton Roads region.

Arrival: Hartsfield‑Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL)

Most flights from Norfolk land at Hartsfield‑Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL):

• Address: 6000 N Terminal Pkwy, Atlanta, GA 30320
• ATL is a major international hub and one of the busiest airports in the world.
• It is located south of downtown Atlanta, roughly 10–20 minutes by car from central areas, depending on traffic.

Getting From ATL Into Atlanta

Once you arrive in Atlanta, you have several ways to reach your final destination:

1. MARTA Rail

MARTA is Atlanta’s primary public transit system.

• The Airport Station is located inside the Domestic Terminal, just past baggage claim.
• You can ride directly to:
  • Downtown (Five Points, Peachtree Center, etc.)
  • Midtown (Arts Center, Midtown Station)
  • Buckhead (Buckhead, Lenox, Lindbergh Center)

MARTA is useful if your hotel or destination is near a station or if you’re planning to stay mainly in central Atlanta without needing a car.

2. Rideshare & Taxis

Rideshare pickup areas at ATL are clearly marked and serve most parts of the metro area, including:

• Downtown, Midtown, Buckhead
• Decatur, College Park, East Point
• Surrounding suburbs (cost and time will vary based on distance and traffic)

Licensed taxis are available outside the terminal with standardized rates for some key zones.

3. Rental Cars

If you want your own vehicle in Atlanta:

• Rental car facilities are located at the ATL Rental Car Center, reachable via the SkyTrain from the airport.
• This can be convenient if you plan to explore multiple neighborhoods or suburbs, or if you’re staying somewhere not well-served by MARTA.

Option 3: Bus Travel From Norfolk to Atlanta

Bus travel between Norfolk, VA and Atlanta, GA is often one of the more budget-friendly options, though it can take longer than driving or flying.

General Experience

• Trips may be direct or have transfers in cities like Richmond, Raleigh, or Charlotte.
• Travel time is usually much longer than flying and often longer than driving, but you avoid driving fatigue and parking concerns in Atlanta.

Typical Arrival Points in Atlanta

Bus companies often use centrally located stops in or near Downtown Atlanta. Depending on the operator, you may arrive near:

• Downtown / South Downtown area, not far from attractions and MARTA stations

From there, you can:

• Walk or use MARTA to get around central Atlanta.
• Take a rideshare or taxi to your hotel, home, or another neighborhood.

If you’re planning to use the bus:

• Check your specific carrier for the exact Atlanta stop address and estimated arrival times.
• Plan your onward local transit or rideshare in advance, especially if you arrive late at night.

Option 4: Train Travel (Amtrak) Between Norfolk and Atlanta

Traveling by train from Norfolk to Atlanta can be scenic and more relaxed, though it typically requires more time and sometimes connections.

Departing Norfolk

Trains serving Norfolk area passengers depart from the Norfolk Amtrak station. You may need to transfer in another city (such as Washington, D.C. or another hub) depending on the route.

Arriving in Atlanta by Train

Amtrak service into Atlanta uses:

• Atlanta Peachtree Station
• Address: 1688 Peachtree St NW, Atlanta, GA 30309

This station is in northwest Midtown, close to major corridors and not far from:

• Midtown and Buckhead
• The Arts Center area
• Major surface streets like Peachtree Street

From Peachtree Station, you can:

• Take a rideshare or taxi into Midtown, Downtown, Buckhead, or nearby neighborhoods.
• Use bus connections or short car rides to reach the MARTA rail network (for example, at Arts Center Station or Lindbergh Center Station).

Train travel is typically chosen by those who prefer more legroom, the ability to move around, or a more relaxed pace over speed.

Comparing Your Main Options: Norfolk, VA to Atlanta, GA

Below is a simplified comparison focused on what matters once you reach Atlanta:

*Total time varies based on route, layovers, connections, and traffic.

Choosing the Best Option for Your Atlanta Plans

When deciding how to travel from Norfolk, VA to Atlanta, GA, consider:

1. Where You’re Staying in Atlanta

• Downtown / Midtown: Flying into ATL and taking MARTA, or bus/train into central/midtown areas, can be very convenient.
• Buckhead or northside suburbs: Train to Peachtree Station or car travel (driving or rental) may reduce your local travel time.
• Outlying suburbs (Marietta, Alpharetta, Peachtree City, etc.): Having a car (either driving your own or renting at ATL) usually makes day-to-day travel easier.

2. How Much You Need a Car in Atlanta

Atlanta is a driving-oriented city overall, though some central areas are walkable and well served by MARTA:

• Mostly staying in central areas, walking, and using MARTA: Flying or bus/train without a car can work well.
• Planning day trips, exploring suburbs, or staying outside MARTA’s core coverage: Bringing your own car or renting one is often more practical.

3. Budget vs. Time

• Tight budget: Bus or a carefully planned train trip may be more affordable.
• Tight schedule: Flying is usually the fastest, especially if you’re comfortable navigating ATL’s airport.
• Balanced approach: Driving lets you control your schedule, share costs with companions, and avoid airport procedures.

Getting Around Atlanta Once You Arrive

No matter how you travel from Norfolk to Atlanta, you’ll want to understand basic local transportation options:

MARTA (Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority)

• Rail and bus system covering key parts of Atlanta and nearby areas.
• Useful for:
  • Airport-to-city travel
  • Downtown, Midtown, and Buckhead trips
  • Accessing some major attractions, universities, and event venues

Rideshare and Taxis

• Widely available throughout the Atlanta metro area.
• Common for:
  • Late-night travel
  • Areas not well-covered by MARTA
  • Door-to-door trips to hotels, homes, and venues

Walking and Micromobility

• Walkable pockets: Downtown, Midtown, Inman Park, Virginia‑Highland, and parts of the Atlanta BeltLine.
• Scooter and bike rentals are available in some neighborhoods, useful for short trips.

Driving and Parking

• Expect traffic congestion during rush hours and near major events.
• Look for public parking decks and clearly marked paid lots, especially in central business and entertainment districts.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Norfolk–Atlanta Trip

• Plan arrival timing: Try to reach Atlanta’s core areas outside of peak rush hour whenever possible.
• Know your neighborhood: Look up the Atlanta neighborhood where you’ll be staying (Downtown, Midtown, Buckhead, Decatur, etc.) and plan how you’ll get around from there.
• Combine modes: It’s common to fly or take the bus/train into Atlanta, then rely on MARTA plus occasional rideshare for flexibility.
• Check event calendars: Big events at Mercedes‑Benz Stadium, State Farm Arena, Georgia World Congress Center, or area colleges can significantly affect traffic and hotel availability.

By weighing time, budget, and how you plan to move around Atlanta, you can choose the Norfolk–Atlanta travel option that fits your trip best and arrive ready to navigate the city with confidence.