Atlanta to Miami: Best Ways to Get From the 404 to South Florida 🌴

Traveling from Atlanta to Miami is one of the most popular routes for Atlantans looking for beaches, cruises, nightlife, or a quick winter warm-up. Whether you live in Atlanta, are flying through Hartsfield-Jackson, or planning a road trip down I‑75, there are several solid options—each with different costs, travel times, and trade-offs.

This guide breaks down how to get from Atlanta to Miami, what to expect with each option, and tips tailored specifically to Atlanta travelers.

Key Ways to Travel From Atlanta to Miami

Here’s a quick comparison of the main options from Atlanta to Miami:

*Total trip time will be longer once you include check-in, traffic, and transfers.

Flying From Atlanta to Miami ✈️

For most people in Atlanta, flying is the easiest and fastest way to get to Miami.

Where You’ll Depart in Atlanta

All major commercial flights to Miami and nearby South Florida airports depart from:

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL)
6000 N Terminal Pkwy
Atlanta, GA 30320

This is the primary airport for metro Atlanta and one of the busiest in the world, so you’ll usually have several daily flight options.

Main Airports in South Florida

When people say “Miami,” they often mean Miami and the broader South Florida area. Depending on your plans, you can fly from Atlanta to:

• Miami International Airport (MIA) – Closest to downtown Miami, Miami Beach, Coral Gables.
• Fort Lauderdale–Hollywood International Airport (FLL) – Often used for cruise ports, Broward County, parts of north Miami-Dade.
• Palm Beach International Airport (PBI) – Better for West Palm Beach and northern areas, though farther from central Miami.

Most Atlanta-to-Miami trips use MIA or FLL.

Time and Experience

• Flight time: Around 1.5–2 hours in the air.
• Airport time: Add time for:
  • Security at ATL (can be busy, especially early mornings and evenings)
  • Getting to your gate
  • Baggage claim in Miami

From many parts of metro Atlanta, you can reach ATL by:

• MARTA rail:
  • Take the Red or Gold Line directly to Airport Station, attached to the Domestic Terminal.
• Driving/ride-share:
  • Plan extra time for I‑75/I‑85 traffic near downtown and around the airport.

When Flying Makes the Most Sense

Flying from Atlanta to Miami is usually best if:

• You want to maximize time in Miami and minimize travel time.
• You’re connecting to a Caribbean or Latin America flight or a cruise.
• You’re fine with airport security and baggage rules.

If you live outside the Perimeter (OTP), factor in your drive to ATL; sometimes early-morning or late-night departures can help you skip peak traffic.

Driving From Atlanta to Miami 🚗

If you prefer control over your schedule or you’re traveling with family, driving from Atlanta to Miami can be a good option.

Main Route: I‑75 South

Most Atlantans drive:

1. Leave metro Atlanta via:
   • I‑75 South from the city or the northwest suburbs, or
   • I‑675 or I‑285 to I‑75 if coming from other parts of the metro.
2. Continue I‑75 South through Macon and South Georgia.
3. In Florida, stay on I‑75 (sometimes called “Alligator Alley” in South Florida).
4. Follow signs toward Miami/Fort Lauderdale, then connect to local routes (like I‑595, I‑95, or the Florida Turnpike) depending on where in Miami you’re heading.

Approximate Driving Time

• Total drive: Usually 9–11 hours without extended stops.
• Time varies with:
  • Atlanta traffic when leaving (especially I‑75/I‑85 downtown connector)
  • Road work or congestion in Florida
  • Weather and rest breaks

Many Atlanta drivers break the trip with quick stops in Macon, Tifton, or Valdosta, and later in Ocala or Fort Myers/Naples depending on their route.

Things to Consider Before You Drive

• Tolls:
  Parts of South Florida’s highway system and some stretches connecting toward Miami may involve toll roads. Check whether you’ll need a toll transponder or will be paying by plate.
• Weather:
  In summer and fall, be aware of heavy rain and possible storms as you get closer to Florida.
• Rental cars:
  If you’re flying into Atlanta and driving to Miami in a rental car, confirm one-way rental policies and drop-off fees with your rental agency at ATL or other metro locations.

Driving is often appealing if:

• You’re traveling with several people and want to avoid multiple plane tickets.
• You want to bring more luggage, beach gear, or supplies.
• You plan to explore other Florida cities on the way.

Bus Options From Atlanta to Miami 🚌

If you don’t want to drive and you’re trying to keep your trip more affordable, intercity bus service is another Atlanta-to-Miami option.

Where Buses Typically Depart in Atlanta

Most long-distance buses use locations near downtown or central Atlanta, including areas around:

• Downtown Atlanta (near the Five Points area and major streets)
• Other designated bus terminals or curbside locations in the Midtown or Downtown corridor, depending on the company

Before you go, confirm:

• The exact pickup address
• Check-in or boarding times
• Any luggage limits

Travel Time and Experience

• Typical bus time: Around 13–15 hours or more, depending on:
  • Number of stops
  • Transfers
  • Traffic patterns in Georgia and Florida

Buses are usually most attractive if:

• You’re budget-focused.
• You don’t mind a longer ride and overnight or very early departures are okay.
• You want to avoid driving or airport processes.

Bring:

• A small pillow or jacket for comfort
• Snacks and water (within company rules)
• Chargers and headphones for entertainment

Train Travel (Amtrak) From Atlanta to Miami 🚆

Atlanta does not have a high-speed or direct commuter train to Miami, but you can travel between the two by Amtrak, with some planning.

Atlanta’s Amtrak Station

Atlanta Peachtree Station (Amtrak)
1688 Peachtree St NW
Atlanta, GA 30309

Located in the Brookwood area between Midtown and Buckhead, Peachtree Station is a small station with limited parking and services, so it’s wise to:

• Arrive early.
• Consider MARTA bus, ride-share, or a taxi if you don’t want to deal with parking.

Route Overview

The exact route and schedules can change, but typically:

• There is limited Amtrak service in Atlanta compared to some East Coast cities.
• Travelers going from Atlanta to Miami by train often:
  • Take a train from Atlanta to a connecting city (such as in the Carolinas or Virginia) and then
  • Transfer to a train heading down the East Coast toward Florida and Miami.

Because of those connections:

• Total trip time can reach 15–18 hours or more.
• It’s more about comfort and scenery than speed.

When the Train Might Make Sense

Train travel from Atlanta to Miami can appeal if:

• You prefer not to fly and don’t want to drive long-distance.
• You enjoy more spacious seating than typical buses or planes.
• You’re flexible on timing and comfortable with overnight or long-haul travel.

Check current timetables, as departure days and times can be limited out of Atlanta.

Using MARTA and Local Transit for Your Trip

If you’re staying in Atlanta and heading to Miami by plane, bus, or train, MARTA can get you to your departure point without needing a car.

Getting to the Airport (ATL) by MARTA

• Take the Red or Gold Line directly to Airport Station.
• The station connects to the Domestic Terminal; if you’re flying from the International Terminal, you can:
  • Use the airport shuttle from the Domestic side, or
  • Take the Plane Train inside security if you’re already checked in.

This is especially helpful if you’re staying in:

• Downtown Atlanta
• Midtown
• Buckhead along Peachtree, where MARTA rail is easy to access.

Getting to Amtrak Peachtree Station

MARTA rail does not stop directly at Peachtree Station, but you can:

• Take MARTA to Arts Center Station (Red/Gold Line) and then:
  • Use a short ride-share or taxi to 1688 Peachtree St NW, or
  • Check local bus routes connecting that corridor.

Planning Tips for Atlantans Traveling to Miami

A few Atlanta-specific considerations when planning your Atlanta to Miami trip:

1. Time Your Departure Around Atlanta Traffic

Atlanta traffic can significantly affect your trip:

• Morning: 6:30–9:00 a.m. is often heavy inbound and on major interstates.
• Afternoon/evening: 3:30–7:00 p.m. can be slow, especially on:
  • I‑75/I‑85 Downtown Connector
  • I‑285
  • GA 400 through Sandy Springs and North Fulton

If you’re driving south or heading to the airport:

• Consider midday departures when possible.
• Build in extra time if you’re coming from Alpharetta, Marietta, Lawrenceville, or other outer suburbs.

2. Consider Airport Parking vs. Transit

If you live inside or near the Perimeter:

• Compare the cost and time of driving and parking at ATL vs. using MARTA or a ride-share.
• Long-term airport parking can add to your overall trip cost, especially for longer Miami stays.

3. Check Weather Both in Atlanta and Miami

• Summer in Atlanta and Miami can bring thunderstorms that affect airline schedules.
• Allow extra buffer time if you need to catch cruises or connecting flights from Miami or Fort Lauderdale.

4. Choose the Best South Florida Airport for Your Plans

From Atlanta, nonstop flights are common to MIA and FLL, and sometimes to PBI. Think about:

• MIA if you’re staying in Downtown Miami, Brickell, Coral Gables, or Miami Beach.
• FLL if your lodging or cruise port is closer to Fort Lauderdale or northern Miami-Dade.
• PBI for trips focusing on Palm Beach County, not central Miami.

Sometimes flying from Atlanta to a slightly different South Florida airport can lower costs or fit your schedule better, depending on your flexibility.

Choosing the Best Atlanta-to-Miami Option for You

For someone in Atlanta, the best way to get to Miami usually comes down to three questions:

1. How fast do you need to get there?

   • Fastest: Flying from ATL to MIA or FLL.
   • Moderate but longer: Driving straight through.
   • Slowest: Bus or train with connections.

2. What’s your budget?

   • Lowest cost: Bus, especially when booked early.
   • Moderate and flexible: Driving, depending on fuel and tolls.
   • Higher but quickest: Flying, especially at last-minute prices.

3. How much do you value comfort and flexibility?

   • Maximum flexibility: Driving your own car from Atlanta.
   • Less hassle getting to departure point in Atlanta: Using MARTA to ATL and flying.
   • More relaxed, scenic travel: Train, if you’re okay with the longer duration.

With Atlanta’s large airport, major highways, and multiple bus and rail options, you can match your time, budget, and comfort preferences to the route that works best for your trip from Atlanta to Miami.