The distance between Portland (Portland International Airport) and Seattle (Seattle-Tacoma International Airport) is 112 nautical miles, 129 miles, and 208 kilometers. However, the driving time from Seattle (SEA) to Portland (PDX) is around 3 hours and 14 minutes, depending on traffic conditions, route, and type of transportation.
Seattle, WA, is a thriving metropolis in the Pacific Northwest, famed for its famous Space Needle and strong tech culture. Portland, Oregon, is only a few hours south and is known for its eccentric culture and gorgeous green landscapes.
If you’re flying, the distance between Seattle, Washington, and Portland, Oregon, is around 145 miles (233 kilometers), with a travel time of around 1 hour.
We’ve described the distance, the best routes, rush hours, and easy ways to get there below for a hassle-free trip. Exploring the transportation alternatives uncovers some different ways to make the trip, each with its distinct attraction.
Portland From Seattle Airport Distance and Travel Time
The car is the most commonly used mode of travel between Seattle and Portland. The primary route travels along Interstate 5 (I-5), which is an essential roadway between both metropolises. Here’s what you need to know:
- Distance: approximately 180 miles (290 kilometers).
- Travel Time: 2.5 to 3.5 hours, depending on traffic.
- Best Route: I-5 South from Seattle to Portland.
Rush Hour vs. Off-Peak Hours
Rush Hour: If you travel during peak times, usually between 7-9 AM and 4-6 PM on weekdays, you will be delayed, especially around Tacoma and Olympia. Then it could take as long as 4 hours or more.
Off-Peak Hours: Weekends and late-night drives offer much less traffic, allowing the trip to often be completed in under 3 hours.
Best Routes from Portland to Seattle
Although I-5 is the most direct, several scenic alternative routes exist for those who wish to drive a bit slower:
- Highway 99 (Pacific Highway): A scenic, slower alternative that goes through several small communities and some beautiful stretches along the Puget Sound.
- Highway 101: You can have more time to spend when you take this route on the Olympic Peninsula, which is rich in offering stunning ocean views.
How do you get from Seattle to Portland?
Whether you are a driver, a flyer, or a public transportation user, there are several ways to get from Seattle to Portland. Each option has its benefits regarding price, time, and ease. Below is an outline of the most popular methods:
1. Car Rentals
Car hire is your best choice if you need the flexibility and independence to tour a region at your own pace. Large car rental companies such as Hertz, Enterprise, and Avis are well-represented in both Seattle and Portland airports.
Luxury Car Service provides a private, high-end travel experience between Seattle, Washington, and Portland, Oregon. This service delivers a comfortable and exclusive ride, ensuring a smooth journey with skilled chauffeurs and quality automobiles.
This service is great for business passengers, families, or anybody looking for an exceptional travel experience. For the best experience, book during off-peak hours and organize your trip ahead of time.
- Duration: 2.5–3.5 hours (depending on traffic)
- Distance: 175 miles via I-5 South
2. Train
Trains are a shared, low-cost option that offers a comfortable and peaceful travel experience. They operate on an organized timetable, making it simple to organize your journey.
Amtrak’s Cascades and Coast Starlight trains provide an attractive and quiet alternative to driving from Seattle’s King Street Station to Portland’s Union Station. The trip takes approximately 3.5 to 4 hours, during which passengers enjoy onboard seating, free Wi-Fi, and food service. Furthermore, these trains leave from King Street Station in Seattle and arrive at Union Station in Portland.
Train travel is great for individuals who desire a relaxing and scenic journey without the hassles of driving. Book early and consider traveling during off-peak hours to get the greatest experience.
- Duration: 3 hours, 50 minutes
- Cost: $30–$60 (one way)
3. Bus
Bus transportation is an affordable option that offers a shared travel experience between Seattle, Washington, and Portland, Oregon. Several bus companies, including Greyhound, FlixBus, and BoltBus, make the journey between Seattle and Portland. These have lots of daily trips for tourists. Buses leave from downtown Seattle and arrive at Portland’s main bus station.
There are four daily Flixbus departures, including pickups at SeaTac Airport, downtown, and the University of Washington. Prices vary by ticket availability and when they’re purchased, but start around $18. Buses are equipped with wifi, restrooms, charging stations, and a movie-watching entertainment portal. It is the best choice for visitors on a tight budget who prefer a hassle-free vacation. Schedule your visit for off-peak hours and buy your tickets in advance for a smoother experience.
Bus travel is an affordable, comfortable way to travel, allowing you to enjoy the journey without the headache of driving. In addition to these key benefits, this service has drawbacks in terms of traffic delays and less flexibility compared to driving or flying.
- Duration: 3.5–4 hours
- Cost: $20–$40 (one way)
4. Shuttle Services
Shuttle service is a simple and cheap way to travel from Seattle, WA, to Portland, OR. This shared ride option provides a nice journey with multiple pick-up and drop-off spots, making it a good choice for those wanting easy travel.
Shuttle service is ideal for budget-conscious travelers looking for an affordable and social experience. It is good to book in advance and check traffic updates to ensure a smooth trip.
Things like busy hours, early bookings, and different service levels can change the price. Moreover, discounts may be offered for early reservations or when traveling in groups.
- Duration: 3 to 4 hours
- Cost: $30 to $50 per person (one way)
5. Flight
With travel times of approximately an hour, flying from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) to Portland International Airport (PDX) is the fastest route for individuals who prioritize speed.
Alaska and Delta Airlines operate the majority of the more than 20 daily flights from Sea-Tac Airport to PDX. It takes less than an hour. The journey to and from the airport and those annoying TSA waits to make flying slower than driving.
Flying is the best choice for business people with busy schedules who value comfort. Although flights cost more than trains or buses, they save a lot of time, making them suitable for workers who need efficiency and comfort.
- Duration: around 1 hour, 3 hours with check-in/security
- Cost: $100-$250 (one way)
Whether you are driving, flying, or taking public transport, a little planning and consideration of factors like traffic, weather, and cost will ensure an easy and enjoyable journey. Typically, the most preferred route is via I-5; however, there are different routes you can take, and different modes of transport are available depending on your preference and budget.
While each of the cities is quite different from the others in terms of experience, no matter which way you go, the direction you are headed is unforgettable in the Pacific Northwest.
FAQs
Seattle, Washington, is 112 nautical miles, 129 miles, and 208 kilometers from Portland, Oregon. The journey usually takes 3 to 3.5 hours, depending on route choice and traffic circumstances.
The bus is the cheapest way to get from Seattle to Portland. If price is not a concern and time is not an issue, taking the bus is the best choice to travel.
Flying is the fastest way to get from Seattle to Portland, which takes 2 hours and 46 minutes. Furthermore, it costs $60-$360, and be ready to spend upwards of $100 during peak travel times.
Yes, a direct shuttle service exists from Seattle Bus Station to Portland Curbside Bus Stop. It departs four times every day and takes approximately three hours and ten minutes.
Depending on the class and time of purchase, a train ticket from Seattle to Portland, Oregon, typically costs between $27 and $33.However, costs can change depending on the time of year and how far in advance you purchase your tickets.
Yes, there are bus services available for travel from Seattle to Portland. These bus includes Flixbus, Boltbus, and Greyhound, offer numerous departures.
The Amtrak Cascades and Amtrak Coast Starlight are scenic train routes that run through the Pacific Northwest, between Seattle and Portland.
In addition to driving, flying, or taking the bus, the Amtrak train is another option. It takes roughly three and a half hours to get from Seattle King Street Station to Portland Union Station, and a one-way ticket costs at least $18.
