Getting From Atlanta Airport to Downtown: Every Option Explained

Getting from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) to Downtown Atlanta is straightforward once you know your options. Whether you care most about speed, cost, or comfort, there’s a way that fits.

Below is a clear guide to every major way to travel from Atlanta Airport to Downtown, what it costs, where to go in the airport, and when each option makes the most sense.

Quick Overview: Best Ways to Go From ATL to Downtown

Approximate comparison (for typical conditions):

*Travel times depend heavily on traffic, time of day, and weather.

Understanding the Airport Layout: Where You’re Starting

Before you choose a transportation option, it helps to know the two main sides of ATL:

• Domestic Terminal (North and South) – used by most U.S. flights.
• International Terminal (Maynard H. Jackson Jr. International Terminal, Concourse F) – used for many international arrivals and departures.

Most ground transportation options to Downtown Atlanta originate from the Domestic Terminal area, especially the Ground Transportation Center and the MARTA station.

If you arrive internationally and clear customs at Concourse F, you may need to:

• Take the airport shuttle to the Domestic Terminal, or
• Follow signs to ground transportation specific to the International Terminal (options there are more limited, but shuttles and some rideshares/taxis are available).

Option 1: MARTA Train – Fast, Cheap, and Traffic-Free

For many locals and visitors, MARTA (Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority) is the simplest way to get from Atlanta Airport to Downtown.

Where to Find MARTA at ATL

• The MARTA Airport Station is located inside the Domestic Terminal, at the west end of the airport.
• From the baggage claim level:
  • Follow signs for “Ground Transportation” and “MARTA”.
  • Take the escalator or elevator up to the station entrance.
• The station is connected directly to the terminal—no shuttle needed if you arrive at Domestic.

If you arrive at the International Terminal, look for the free shuttle to the Domestic Terminal / Ground Transportation and then walk into the Domestic Terminal to reach MARTA.

Which Line to Take to Downtown

The Airport Station is the southern end of both the:

• Red Line
• Gold Line

For Downtown, you can board either Red or Gold; both go through key Downtown stations:

• Garnett
• Five Points
• Peachtree Center
• Civic Center

Popular Downtown stops:

• Five Points – main hub; easy to transfer lines or connect to some buses.
• Peachtree Center – convenient for many Downtown hotels, office buildings, and attractions in the core business district.

How Long It Takes

• Airport to Downtown: usually 20–25 minutes once you’re on the train.
• Trains generally run every few minutes during peak times and less often late evenings and early mornings.

Cost and Payment

• MARTA uses a Breeze Card or Breeze Mobile system.
• You’ll find vending machines at the Airport Station:
  • Purchase a card or ticket.
  • Load value or a specific fare product.
• Fares are designed to be affordable and consistent across standard rail trips.

When MARTA Is a Good Choice

MARTA is especially useful if:

• You’re staying at a Downtown hotel within walking distance of a station.
• You want to avoid Atlanta traffic, especially during rush hour.
• You’re traveling light and are comfortable with public transportation.

👍 Tip: If you have a suitcase, look for elevators at the stations instead of escalators, especially at Peachtree Center, which has longer escalators and a deeper station layout.

Option 2: Rideshare (Uber, Lyft) – Door-to-Door Convenience

Rideshare services operate widely between Atlanta Airport and Downtown and are a common choice for travelers with luggage or unfamiliar with MARTA.

Where to Meet Rideshares at ATL

The specific pickup area can change, but in general:

• From the Domestic Terminal, after you exit baggage claim:
  • Follow signs for “Rideshare” or “App-Based Rides”.
  • You’ll be directed to a designated pickup zone in the Ground Transportation area or a nearby parking structure.
• From the International Terminal:
  • Follow similar “Rideshare” signs from arrivals.
  • Some riders still choose to take the shuttle to the Domestic Terminal for more predictable pickup locations.

Give yourself time to walk to the pickup point—it may be a short walk, but with crowds and luggage it can take a bit.

Typical Travel Time and Conditions

• 20–40+ minutes from ATL to Downtown, depending on:
  • Time of day (rush hour can add substantial delays).
  • Road construction or special events (sports, conventions, concerts).
• The route generally follows I-85/I-75 North into Downtown.

Cost Considerations

• Prices vary based on:
  • Time of day and demand (surge pricing can apply during busy periods).
  • Vehicle type (standard vs. premium).
  • Exact destination in Downtown.
• Expect a wide range from budget-friendly to relatively high, especially during peak travel times.

When Rideshare Makes Sense

Rideshare is often best if:

• You want direct service from the terminal to your hotel, office, or residence.
• You’re traveling in a small group, splitting the cost.
• You have heavy or bulky luggage and prefer not to handle it on a train or bus.

Option 3: Taxi – Simple and Predictable

Traditional taxis are readily available at Hartsfield-Jackson and remain a straightforward way to get to Downtown Atlanta.

Where to Find Taxis

• From the Domestic Terminal:
  • Follow signs for “Ground Transportation” and “Taxis.”
  • You’ll see taxi stands with attendants helping passengers form queues.
• From the International Terminal:
  • Follow “Taxi” signage from arrivals.
  • A taxi queue is usually located just outside the terminal.

Flat-Rate Zones

The airport uses flat-rate zones for many in-town destinations, including Downtown. That means:

• Travel from ATL to Downtown is generally charged at a standard flat rate, plus possible small surcharges (such as for extra passengers).
• This helps keep the price consistent regardless of traffic delays.

If you’re unsure, you can confirm the flat-rate amount to Downtown with the taxi attendant or driver before you get in.

When a Taxi Is a Good Fit

Consider a taxi if:

• You want no-hassle payment and do not want to use an app.
• You prefer predictable pricing without surge rates.
• You arrive and want to leave immediately without waiting for a rideshare match.

Option 4: Airport and Hotel Shuttles

Some travelers to Downtown Atlanta use shuttle services rather than trains, taxis, or rideshares.

Hotel Shuttles

Most Downtown hotels do not run their own direct shuttles to ATL, unlike some airport-area properties. However:

• A few conference or group travel arrangements may include private shuttles between the airport and specific Downtown hotels.
• If you’re traveling with a convention or large group, check your event info to see if shuttle transportation is included.

Shared or Private Shuttle Services

There are shuttle companies that operate between ATL and various areas of metro Atlanta, including Downtown. These may include:

• Shared-ride vans that group passengers headed to similar areas.
• Private shuttle vans for families or groups.

You’ll usually find:

• Pickup points in the Ground Transportation Center at the airport.
• Service that must be booked in advance or at a designated counter inside the terminal.

When Shuttles Make Sense

Shuttles may be useful if:

• You’re traveling with a group that wants to stay together.
• You prefer a van-style ride and do not mind extra stops or a slightly longer ride.
• Your company, school, or event has arranged a shuttle.

Option 5: Rental Car – Good If You Need a Vehicle in the City

If you plan to explore beyond Downtown—such as neighborhoods like Midtown, Buckhead, Decatur, or the suburbs—renting a car might be practical.

Where to Get a Rental Car

All major rental car agencies at ATL operate from the:

• Rental Car Center (RCC)
  2200 Rental Car Center Parkway
  College Park, GA 30337

To get there from the Domestic Terminal:

1. Follow signs for “Rental Cars”.
2. Board the SkyTrain (an automated people mover).
3. Ride to the Rental Car Center, where counters and garages are located.

From the International Terminal, you may:

• Take a shuttle or follow signs directing you to the RCC connection.

Driving From the Airport to Downtown

Most routes:

• Leave the airport area and merge onto I-85 North / I-75 North, heading toward Downtown.
• Depending on your hotel or destination, you may exit onto streets like Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, Courtland Street, Spring Street, or Peachtree Street.

Travel time:

• Often 20–40 minutes, heavily influenced by rush hour traffic (morning and evening peaks).

Costs Beyond the Rental

Consider:

• Daily rental rate and fees.
• Parking costs Downtown, which can be substantial, especially near major attractions or office buildings.
• Hotel parking fees if you’re staying overnight.

When a Rental Car Is Worth It

Choose a rental if:

• You plan to visit multiple neighborhoods or suburbs beyond reasonable MARTA reach.
• You have several days in Atlanta and want flexible mobility.
• You’re comfortable driving on busy highways and navigating city streets.

Option 6: Private Car, Limo, or Executive Transport

For business travelers, special occasions, or large groups, private car services can offer a more structured experience.

Typical Features

• Professional driver meets you at a set location in the terminal or at curbside, depending on your arrangement.
• Vehicles can range from sedans to SUVs to larger vans or minibuses.
• Some services allow pre-arranged meet-and-greet in the arrivals area.

When This Option Fits

Private transportation can be a good choice if:

• You’re hosting VIP guests or executives.
• You want a fixed price and a reserved vehicle.
• You prefer to avoid waiting for taxis or rideshares, and your schedule is tight.

How to Choose the Best Option for Your Situation

Here’s a simple way to think through your choice from Atlanta Airport to Downtown:

If you care most about saving money

• Best pick:MARTA train
• Why: Low fare, predictable travel time, and frequent service to central Downtown stations.

If you care most about convenience and door-to-door service

• Best picks:Rideshare or Taxi
• Why: Pick up at the terminal and drop off exactly at your hotel, office, or home.

If you’re with a larger group or family

• Best picks:Rideshare XL, Shuttle, or Private Van/Limo
• Why: Shared vehicles can keep everyone together and may be cost-effective when split among multiple people.

If you’ll be driving around Atlanta a lot

• Best pick:Rental car
• Why: Flexibility for multiple neighborhoods and day trips, especially if your plans extend beyond Downtown.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Trip From ATL to Downtown

• Plan around rush hour. Morning and late-afternoon traffic on I-85/I-75 can significantly increase drive times. MARTA is less affected by traffic.
• Know your exact Downtown address. Whether you use a train, taxi, or rideshare, having the full address and building name ready helps avoid confusion.
• Watch for special events. On game days (Mercedes-Benz Stadium, State Farm Arena) or large conventions, Downtown streets may be busier than usual.
• Check service hours. If your flight arrives very late at night or very early in the morning, confirm MARTA operating times and consider taxis or rideshares as a backup.
• Have a backup option. If your first choice has long wait times or delays, be ready to switch—especially during holidays or severe weather.

Traveling from Atlanta Airport to Downtown is usually straightforward once you understand the layout and options. Choose the mode that best fits your budget, schedule, comfort level, and final destination within Downtown, and build a few extra minutes into your plans for crowds, traffic, or navigation.