National Car Hire
Norfolk

After collecting your luggage from the baggage claim carousels, look for the prominent overhead signs directing you to "Rental Cars." The National Car Rental desk is located within the arrivals terminal building, alongside other rental companies. Once you complete the paperwork at the desk, you will be directed to the adjacent multi-storey car park where the vehicles are staged. The whole process is contained within the main airport complex and requires only a short walk.

The most reliable approach is to ensure your flight number is included in your rental reservation. This allows the local staff to monitor your flight status and anticipate any delays. You can also check the specific opening hours for the Norfolk Airport location on the National Car Rental website. If your flight is significantly delayed, calling the local branch on arrival can provide extra reassurance and confirm staff availability.

The vehicle return process at Norfolk International Airport is designed to be efficient. The rental car return is located in the car park directly opposite the departures terminal. From the moment you hand in your keys, it is typically only a short walk of a few minutes to the airline check-in desks. To be on the safe side, it’s wise to allow about 15 to 20 minutes in total for the return process, including gathering your belongings and walking to the terminal.

For the most straightforward drive to Downtown Norfolk, leave the airport and follow the signs for I-64 West towards Hampton and Richmond. After a few miles on I-64, take exit 284 for I-264 West towards Downtown Norfolk. This interstate route keeps you off complex surface streets and provides clear signage for downtown exits such as City Hall Avenue. A sat‑nav will help, but this main highway route is the most direct and least confusing for visitors.

The most direct and simplest route to Virginia Beach is to follow the airport exit signs for I-64 East. This interstate will soon merge into I-264 East, the main expressway that leads all the way to the Virginia Beach oceanfront. Signage for this major tourist destination is clear, making it an easy drive even for those unfamiliar with the area. This route avoids local roads and minimises the number of turns you need to make.

When driving to Naval Station Norfolk, especially during morning or afternoon rush hours, it is important to plan for potential delays near the base gates. The most direct route is typically I-564 West, but traffic can back up considerably. Check a real‑time traffic app such as Google Maps or Waze before you depart. As a general rule, add at least 20 to 30 minutes to the estimated travel time to allow for possible gate congestion.

While many roads around Naval Station Norfolk are public, it’s critical to heed any posted signs indicating restricted areas or checkpoints. Do not attempt to enter any gate or access road marked for military personnel only. Your sat‑nav may not always distinguish between public roads and secure entry points, so remain vigilant. If you approach a checkpoint by mistake, follow the instructions of the security personnel calmly and precisely.

The most convenient method is to use the hotel’s main entrance and the designated passenger loading zone. Pull up to the front and the hotel’s valet or bell staff can usually assist with your luggage. This allows you to unload your bags quickly and check in without the pressure of finding immediate parking. Once your luggage is handled, you can then proceed to the hotel’s recommended car park or a nearby public lot without carrying your bags a long distance.

Downtown Norfolk uses a grid system with a significant number of one‑way streets, which can be tricky for first‑time visitors. Use a reliable navigation app and pay close attention to street signs indicating traffic flow and turning restrictions. Drive cautiously and plan your turns well in advance to navigate smoothly. While it may seem complex initially, the grid becomes logical once you get a feel for it.

Driving to the Waterside District is straightforward as it’s a major landmark with good signage from I-264. On busy weekend evenings, traffic in the immediate area can be heavy, but parking is generally manageable. There are several large, clearly signposted public car parks within a one‑ or two‑block walk of the district. Arriving a little before your planned time is a good strategy to secure a spot without feeling rushed.

On game nights, the most direct route to Harbor Park is typically via I-264, using either the City Hall Avenue or Waterside Drive exits. Expect increased traffic volume on surrounding streets as the start time approaches. Event parking signs will direct you to designated lots around the stadium. To avoid the worst congestion, plan to arrive at least 30–45 minutes before the game, giving you ample time to park and walk to the entrance.

The primary challenge when driving to Chrysler Hall is the convergence of traffic on St Paul’s Boulevard and Monticello Avenue. Police frequently direct traffic, which can alter normal patterns and lane availability, causing confusion for unfamiliar drivers. The car park attached to Scope Arena is the most convenient, but the entrance can become backed up. To avoid stress, consider using a city car park a few streets away and enjoy a short walk to the venue.

For first‑time visitors, driving through the Downtown or Midtown tunnels can feel narrow and enclosed. Maintain a steady speed, stay centred in your lane and avoid sudden braking. Be aware that traffic often slows or stops at tunnel entrances during peak times. Keep a safe following distance and be prepared for the transition from bright daylight to the tunnel’s artificial lighting.

To minimise delays when travelling between Norfolk and Portsmouth, avoid crossing through the Downtown or Midtown tunnels during weekday commuter rush hours, typically 07:00–09:00 and 16:00–18:00. The lightest traffic is usually mid‑day, between 10:00 and 14:00, or later in the evening. Always check a real‑time traffic app before you depart to see current conditions at the tunnel approaches.

The most direct route from Norfolk to Olde Towne Portsmouth is to take I-264 West through the Downtown Tunnel. Once you exit the tunnel, follow signs for the historic waterfront area. Visitors will find several convenient public car parks, particularly along County Street and Middle Street, providing easy walking access to the shops, restaurants and attractions on High Street. On‑street parking is also available but can be more limited.

Driving to the Peninsula cities of Hampton or Newport News requires crossing a major bridge‑tunnel, most commonly the Hampton Roads Bridge‑Tunnel (HRBT) on I-64. This crossing is notorious for heavy congestion, especially during rush hour and on summer weekends. Always check a traffic app before you go. If the HRBT is heavily backed up, your primary alternate route is the Monitor‑Merrimac Memorial Bridge‑Tunnel (MMMBT) on I‑664, which often has lighter traffic.

Your choice depends on your itinerary’s focus. Staying in Norfolk provides a central base for exploring the wider Hampton Roads region, including Portsmouth and the Peninsula, but requires driving to the beach. Staying in Virginia Beach is ideal if the oceanfront is your main destination, as it reduces beach‑day traffic. However, it can mean longer drives and potential tunnel congestion if you plan frequent trips back to Norfolk or other cities.

The Virginia Beach Oceanfront is laid out on a simple grid, with Atlantic Avenue running one‑way northbound and Pacific Avenue running one‑way southbound. Most hotel access is from Pacific Avenue, which tends to be less congested than beachfront Atlantic Avenue. U‑turns are generally not permitted, so plan to approach your destination from the correct direction. During the busy season, expect substantial pedestrian traffic crossing the main roads.

The main challenges during summer weekends are the sheer volume of vehicle and pedestrian traffic. The I‑264 expressway leading into the oceanfront can back up for miles, and finding parking becomes a significant time commitment. Atlantic Avenue gets very congested with drivers cruising and looking for spots. The best strategy is to arrive early, park in a hotel or municipal car park, and plan to walk or use local trolleys for the rest of the day.

The main entrance to First Landing State Park is on Shore Drive (US‑60). Once inside, you’ll find several large car parks near the trailheads, picnic areas and the Chesapeake Bay beachfront. On pleasant weekends, especially in summer, these car parks can fill up quickly. To ensure you get a parking space, it’s highly recommended to arrive before 10:00.

The most straightforward route is to take I‑64 West from Norfolk directly to the Williamsburg area. For a scenic historic connection between sites, leave I‑64 and follow signs for the Colonial Parkway. This dedicated park road links Jamestown, Williamsburg and Yorktown with clear signage and no commercial traffic. Using your sat‑nav is helpful, but this primary route is well marked for tourists.

A day trip to the Outer Banks needs an early start to maximise your time. The primary route is VA‑168 South, which becomes US‑158 in North Carolina. The biggest bottleneck is often the Wright Memorial Bridge, particularly on summer weekends. To avoid the worst traffic, aim to leave Norfolk before 07:00. Weekday travel will almost always be less congested than a Saturday or Sunday.

Cape Henry Lighthouse is located on the active Joint Expeditionary Base Fort Story, so you cannot simply drive up to it. Civilian visitors must enter through a security gate and present a valid government‑issued photo ID, such as a driving licence or passport, to obtain a temporary pass. Check the base’s official website or call ahead for the most current visitor access policies, hours and requirements before you make the trip.

Several major tunnels and express lanes in the Hampton Roads area use all‑electronic tolling systems like E‑ZPass. Most rental vehicles are equipped with a toll transponder or a similar service that records any tolls you incur during your trip. To understand how this service works and how you will be billed for tolls, it’s good practice to ask the rental agent for a brief explanation when you collect the car.

The most important rule is to never stop, reverse or swerve suddenly if you find yourself in a toll lane by mistake. For your safety and that of others, continue driving forward through the toll gantry. The electronic system will automatically capture the vehicle’s information. The rental company’s tolling programme is designed to manage these occurrences, ensuring the toll is paid and processed correctly without any unsafe action on your part.

During weekday afternoon rush hour, typically 16:00–18:00, the drive from the Virginia Beach Oceanfront to Norfolk International Airport can be unpredictable. Traffic on I‑264 West can become very heavy, easily turning a 30‑minute drive into an hour or more. To be safe, it’s wise to allow at least 90 minutes for the drive itself, in addition to the time needed to refuel and complete the return process at the airport.

The most efficient strategy is to first drive to the main terminal’s upper‑level departures curb. There you can drop off all passengers and luggage, allowing them to proceed directly to the airline check‑in desk. After they are safely on their way, the driver can then proceed alone to the rental car return car park. This approach saves time and avoids the hassle of managing multiple people and bags in the return area.

As you approach the airport car park, look for large overhead signs that clearly direct traffic for "Rental Car Return." Once you enter the designated return area, each rental company, including National, has its own clearly marked lanes and bays. Follow the specific signs for National Car Rental to ensure you are in the correct lane. The traffic flow is designed to be straightforward, even during busy periods.

Before you drive away from the rental lot, take a minute for a final sweep of the vehicle’s interior. Check the glove compartment, centre console, door pockets and under the seats for personal items like mobile phones, wallets, sunglasses or charging cords. It’s also a good idea to glance at your rental agreement to ensure you have it with you. This simple check can prevent the inconvenience of having to return for a forgotten item.

A frequent mistake is taking the wrong ramp onto I‑64. Signage can appear quickly after you leave the airport property. Before you start driving, confirm whether your destination requires I‑64 East (for Virginia Beach and Chesapeake) or I‑64 West (for Hampton, Richmond and Downtown Norfolk via I‑264). Having your sat‑nav set before you leave the rental lot will help you confidently choose the correct lane for the on‑ramp.

Parking in these neighbourhoods requires careful attention to signage. Much of Ghent’s on‑street parking is restricted to residents with permits, especially in the evenings. Similarly, areas around the EVMS medical complex and Old Dominion University have strict parking enforcement. For overnight stays, the most reliable and stress‑free option is to use a designated hotel car park or a public multi‑storey rather than searching for a valid on‑street spot.

Old Dominion University provides designated parking areas for visitors to avoid ticketing in student or faculty lots. Look for signs directing you to visitor car parks, which are typically pay‑by‑the‑hour or a daily flat rate. Before your visit, it’s a good idea to check the university’s website for a campus map that clearly marks the locations of these visitor car parks to ensure a smooth arrival.

During concerts, sporting events or performances, the streets immediately surrounding Norfolk Scope Arena, such as St Paul’s Boulevard, become very congested. The main parking option is the large multi‑level garage directly connected to the venue, with several other city car parks located within a few blocks. To avoid the worst traffic, plan to arrive at least 45 minutes early and follow the guidance of traffic police and electronic signs directing you to available parking.

The Norfolk Botanical Garden is conveniently located just a few minutes’ drive from the airport. The simplest route is to take Norview Avenue east to Azalea Garden Road and then follow the well‑marked signs to the garden entrance. On arrival you will find a large, dedicated visitor car park situated directly in front of the main visitor centre, making access extremely easy and convenient.

Norfolk is a low‑lying coastal city, and heavy rainfall can lead to significant street flooding, particularly in areas like Ghent, near The Hague and on roads approaching the tunnels. Never attempt to drive through standing water, as its depth can be deceptive and cause serious damage to your vehicle. Be prepared for road closures and allow extra travel time during and after intense rainstorms; always choose an alternative route if a road appears flooded.

During hurricane season, which runs from June through November, it’s vital to stay informed about the latest weather forecasts. Keep your rental car’s fuel tank at least half full at all times in case evacuation notices are issued. Be aware of your location’s evacuation route and understand that bridges and tunnels may be closed if wind speeds become too high. Always prioritise safety and follow the guidance of local authorities.

The area along North Military Highway, just a minute or two from the airport exit, is an ideal place to make a preparatory stop. This commercial corridor is lined with petrol stations, fast‑food restaurants and convenience stores. You can safely pull into a car park here to programme your sat‑nav, adjust your seats and purchase any drinks or snacks you need before merging onto the interstate.

For travellers with bulky recreational gear, renting an SUV or a minivan is the most practical choice. These vehicle types offer significantly more cargo space and versatility than a standard saloon. Folding down the rear seats creates a large, flat area ideal for loading and unloading surfboards, coolers and fishing equipment, making beach and outdoor excursions much more convenient.

To minimise driving stress, schedule intercity travel to avoid peak rush hours. The drive from Norfolk to Richmond and then on to Washington, D.C. primarily uses I‑64 and I‑95, which see heavy commuter traffic in the mornings and late afternoons. Plan long‑distance driving for the middle of the day, roughly between 10:00 and 15:00. This strategy helps ensure a smoother, more predictable and more enjoyable road trip.

The most reliable tool for checking real‑time road conditions is the Virginia Department of Transportation’s 511 service. It is available as a free mobile app, a website (511virginia.org) or a phone service. This service provides up‑to‑the‑minute information on traffic congestion, accidents, bridge openings and construction‑related closures. Make a habit of checking 511 before you begin your drive to avoid unexpected delays.