Trip to Charlottesville, the United States: how to get there, how many days and when to go

Charlottesville – Virgínia Destination Washington

How to get there

Charlottesville Albemarle Airport (CHO) Charlottesville · 15 km

Approximate road distances. Check flights and bus schedules before you travel.

There are trains from Washington to Charlottesville station; by car, head into inland Virginia. CHO handles domestic connections.

How many days

Two days allow for separate visits to the university and Monticello and leave time for walking around the downtown.

When to go

April to June and September to October typically make it easier to combine the Lawn and Monticello. From December to February, the cold alters the pace of the gardens.

The seasons shown are the most usual ones; nature doesn't always follow the calendar.

Do you need a car?

A car makes Monticello and the hills easier to reach. The university and downtown can be explored on foot in separate circuits.

Suggested itinerary

An order that works

Built with the places on this page. No rush: it's paced so you have time to see them.

One day in Charlottesville

Morning
Monticello
Dedicate the start of the itinerary to Monticello. Prioritize the main part of the visit and arrival time, leaving a break before continuing in Charlottesville.
Afternoon
University of Virginia: Rotunda and Academical Village
After the break, go to the University of Virginia: Rotunda and Academical Village. Check access and explore the site without turning your Charlottesville afternoon into a string of transfers.
Late afternoon
Return via the Monticello area
Finish walks in the part of Charlottesville you already visited and return to lodging before planning another trip. Light and weather can change the length of this stage.
Evening
Evening free in Charlottesville
Dine near your base in Charlottesville and keep the evening free to rest after visiting Monticello and the University of Virginia: Rotunda and Academical Village.

Check before you go. Opening hours and days change, and places may close for renovations, holidays or events. This itinerary is a suggestion from Cidade Turismo, not a commitment: plan yours by checking directly with each place you intend to visit.

Before you go

Frequently asked questions

How to get to Charlottesville and start the visit?

Train and road connect the city with the U.S. capital.

How many days to set aside for Charlottesville?

Two nights provide leeway for the university and Monticello.

How to get around during your stay in Charlottesville?

Use road transport to reach Monticello.

Can Monticello and the university be seen in the same day?

Yes, with transport and a planned Monticello visit arranged in advance. Do not treat the trip from Washington as part of a free afternoon.

Your trip to Charlottesville.