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Portland, OR, USA to Seattle, WA, USA from $7: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Portland, United States of America
to
Seattle, United States of America

How to Get from Portland to Seattle: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$7 by trainBest price
234.96 kmDistance
2h 57m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Portland to Seattle with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
FlixBus
Bus
Average Duration
3h  5m
Estimated price
$16-65
Recommended
Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
3h  25m
Estimated price
$7-100
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 234.96 km
Duration: 2h 57m

See more options

Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
3h  4m
Estimated price
$30-50
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
2h  57m
Estimated price
$80-316
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Portland to Seattle

The journey from Portland to Seattle takes you through stunning landscapes, contrasting Portland's laid-back vibe with Seattle's bustling waterfront and iconic skyline.

Best Neighbourhoods in Seattle

Seattle is home to diverse neighborhoods, each offering unique experiences.

Pike Place Market
• Iconic market with fresh produce and artisan goods.
• Fantastic seafood eateries with waterfront views.
Capitol Hill
• Trendy area known for vibrant nightlife and cafes.
• Eclectic shops and art scenes throughout the neighborhood.
Ballard
• Rich maritime history and a thriving craft beer scene.
• Charming boutiques and soaring views from the Ballard Locks.

Best Times To Visit Seattle's Attractions

Timing your visits can significantly enhance your Seattle experience.

Space Needle
Early mornings or late afternoons offer fewer crowds and stunning views.
Pike Place Market
Weekdays in the morning are best for a leisurely stroll and fresh picks.
Seattle Art Museum
Visit on Thursday evenings for fewer visitors and special late hours.

Seattle Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Seattle experiences a temperate maritime climate with mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers; the best time to visit is generally from late spring to early fall for pleasant weather. Rain may impact your travel plans, but it often brings vibrant greenery and fewer crowds during the off-peak season.

Dining Recommendation

For an unforgettable experience, try the clam chowder at Pike Place Market's famous Pike Place Chowder, where the rich, creamy flavors contrast with Portland's more eclectic food scene. The bustling atmosphere of the market, combined with the use of fresh, local seafood, creates a vibrant dining experience that's distinctly Seattle.

Portland - Seattle operators

Explore transport companies operating between Portland and Seattle, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
flixbus.com

Bus from Portland Curbside Bus Stop to Seattle Bus Station

Average Duration
3h 5m
Estimated price
$16-65
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Portland to Seattle

Average Duration
3h 25m
Estimated price
$7-100
Plane Show flights
Website
alaskaair.com

Plane from Portland (PDX) to Seattle (SEA)

Average Duration
58m
Estimated price
$85-360
Website
delta.com

Plane from Portland Airport to Seattle Airport

Average Duration
1h 1m
Estimated price
$100-420

Portland to Seattle: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Portland and Seattle offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🗺️ Embark on a picturesque road trip from Portland to Seattle, covering 174 miles of stunning Pacific Northwest scenery. Experience the beauty of the region as you journey north towards the Emerald City. 🚗 Travel at your own pace and explore charming towns and scenic stops along the way. Enjoy the freedom of the open road and the flexibility to make spontaneous detours on this approximately 3-hour drive from Portland to Seattle. 💰 With car rental costs ranging from $30 to $50, hitting the road from Portland to Seattle offers an affordable and convenient way to discover the unique charm and vibrant culture of both cities.
Average price
$30 - $50
Useful tips for car travellers
• On your drive along I-5, expect to find gas stations approximately every 20-30 miles; as of October 2023, prices are around $1.10 per liter in Oregon and can go up to $1.25 per liter in Washington, so consider refueling in Portland before heading out.
• Once in Seattle, be aware that parking can be expensive, with rates typically ranging from $25 to $50 per day in downtown areas; consider using parking apps like ParkMobile or SpotHero to find deals and avoid restricted zones primarily around Pike Place Market and Pioneer Square.
• When arriving in Seattle, anticipate heavier traffic during rush hour (7-9 AM and 4-6 PM); use navigation apps like Google Maps or Waze to find real-time routes and avoid potential detours due to construction or accidents.
🚆 Traveling from Portland to Seattle by train is a convenient and scenic journey that takes approximately 3 hours and 25 minutes. The direct train service operated by Amtrak runs every four hours, providing travelers with frequent options to make the trip. 🎟️ The train ticket prices for the Portland to Seattle route range from $7 to $100, offering budget-friendly options for different types of travelers. With a distance of 181 miles between the two cities, the train ride offers a relatively quick and affordable transportation choice.
Departure Point
Portland station
Arrival Point
Seattle station
Useful tips for train travellers
• On the Amtrak Cascades service, you can expect onboard dining options including a café car that serves light snacks, beverages, and some hot meals. Grab a coffee or a quick bite to enjoy during your journey, but remember to check the schedule since service hours may vary.
• The Amtrak Cascades offers several seating options: Coach Class, Business Class, and First Class. Coach Class is the most economical choice, providing comfortable seating with generous legroom. Upgrading to Business Class gets you extra space and complimentary non-alcoholic beverages, while First Class can include amenities such as dedicated seating and enhanced meal options.
• For your train journey, Amtrak is the primary operator between Portland and Seattle. You can find more information about schedules and ticketing on their official website: amtrak.com Other operators may include Sound Transit for local connections once you arrive, which can be found at soundtransit.org
🛫 Flying from Portland to Seattle is a quick and convenient option, with direct flights taking just 54 minutes through carriers like Delta and Alaska Airlines, Inc. 🌲 Enjoy a smooth journey as you cover the distance of approximately 173 miles in under 3 hours by plane, avoiding the long drive along the I-5 corridor. 💸 Flight prices between Portland and Seattle can range from $80 to $316, offering flexibility to fit different budgets and travel preferences.
Departure Point
Portland Airport
Arrival Point
Seattle Airport
🚌 Traveling from Portland to Seattle by bus is a convenient option. The direct bus service operated by Flixbus USA runs three times a day, with a journey time of approximately 3 hours and 5 minutes. 🛤️ The distance between Portland and Seattle is 163 miles, and there are various routes with transfers available for this trip. Some routes involve stops in locations such as Tacoma and Spokane before reaching Seattle. 💰 The bus fares for the Portland to Seattle route can range from $16 to $65, offering budget-friendly travel options for those looking to explore the Pacific Northwest by bus.
Departure Point
Portland Curbside Bus Stop station
Arrival Point
Seattle Bus Station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Book your FlixBus ticket in advance through their website at flixbus.com to secure the best prices, especially as fares range from $16 to $65.
• Arrive early at the Portland Curbside Bus Stop, as it can get busy during peak travel times; check local transport schedules at trimet.org for easy access to the bus station.
• Upon arrival at the Seattle Bus Station, familiarize yourself with the area by checking out maps and transit options at soundtransit.org to efficiently navigate to your final destination or connect to other services.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Portland to Seattle.

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The distance between Portland and Seattle is approximately 146 miles by air, 174 miles by road, and there are various travel times depending on the mode of transportation chosen. By train, it takes approximately 3 hours and 25 minutes to reach Seattle from Portland. By plane, it takes around 2 hours and 56 minutes to travel between the two cities. Driving by car takes approximately 3 hours and 4 minutes from Portland to Seattle. And finally, taking a bus from Portland to Seattle can take around 3 hours and 40 minutes.
The most cost-effective transportation option for traveling from Portland to Seattle is by train, with tickets costing between $7 and $100. The train journey takes approximately 3 hours and 25 minutes. However, if time is of the essence, the fastest way to travel is by plane. Flights from Portland to Seattle take around 2 hours and 56 minutes and cost between $65 and $320. Ultimately, the choice between cost-effectiveness and time efficiency will depend on individual preferences and priorities.
The prices of a train ticket between Portland and Seattle can range from $7 to $100, depending on the class and type of service chosen. On the other hand, the prices for a bus journey between the two cities vary from $16 to $65, depending on the company and amenities provided. It is recommended to check with the specific train or bus service for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.
To travel from Portland to Seattle without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of 174 miles, which takes around 3 hours and 4 minutes. The driving route offers flexibility and allows you to enjoy the scenic beauty of the region. The estimated cost of the trip by car ranges from $30 to $50, depending on factors such as fuel prices and tolls.
The best way to travel from Portland to Seattle without a car is by train. It takes approximately 3 hours and 25 minutes and costs between $7 and $100. Alternatively, you could take a bus, which takes about 3 hours and 40 minutes and costs between $16 and $65. Another option is to fly, which takes around 2 hours and 56 minutes and costs between $65 and $320.
Yes, there are direct transportation options between Portland and Seattle. You can take a direct train operated by Amtrak which departs from Portland station and arrives at Seattle station. The journey takes approximately 3 hours and 25 minutes. Alternatively, you can also take a direct bus operated by Flixbus USA which departs from the Portland Curbside Bus Stop and arrives at Seattle station. The bus journey usually takes around 3 hours and 40 minutes.
The flight between Portland and Seattle typically takes around 53 minutes. However, flight times can vary depending on factors such as weather conditions and flight traffic. In terms of cost, prices for a flight between the two cities can range from $70 to $316. It is advisable to book your ticket in advance and compare prices from different airlines to find the best deal for your travel.
There are many options for accommodations near Seattle. With 1214+ hotels available, you have a wide range to choose from. Prices for hotels in Seattle start at $56, making it possible to find a suitable option within your budget. Whether you prefer a luxury hotel, a budget-friendly motel a cozy bed and breakfast, there are plenty of choices to make your stay in Seattle comfortable and enjoyable.

Trips from Portland