Getting from Atlanta Airport to Downtown: Your Complete Local Guide

If you’re flying into Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) and need to get to Downtown Atlanta, you have several reliable options. The airport sits about 10–12 miles south of downtown, and the trip can be quick and simple if you know what to expect.

This guide walks through every major way to travel from Atlanta Airport to Downtown, with local tips, typical costs and travel times, and what makes each option a good (or bad) fit.

Main Ways to Get from Atlanta Airport to Downtown

Most common options:

• MARTA train (rail transit)
• Taxi
• Rideshare (Uber, Lyft, etc.)
• Airport shuttles and hotel shuttles
• Rental car
• Private car services

Here’s a quick comparison:

*Times and costs vary with traffic, time of day, and exact downtown destination.

Taking MARTA from ATL Airport to Downtown

For many locals and visitors, MARTA (Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority) is the fastest and most predictable way from the airport to downtown.

Where to Catch MARTA at the Airport

• Follow signs inside the airport for “Ground Transportation” and “MARTA”.
• The MARTA Airport Station is inside the Domestic Terminal, at the west end of the main terminal, just past the baggage claim area.
• If you arrive at the International Terminal (Concourse F):
  • Take the free ATL airport shuttle labeled for the Domestic Terminal / Ground Transportation / MARTA.
  • Then walk into the terminal and follow signs to the MARTA station.

You do not need to go back through TSA security to reach the MARTA station.

MARTA Trains to Downtown

• The airport is the southern terminus of both the Red Line and Gold Line.
• To get to downtown, take either Red or Gold northbound.
• Popular downtown MARTA stations include:
  • Five Points – central transfer hub, convenient for most of Downtown.
  • Peachtree Center – good for hotels and offices near Peachtree Street.
  • Georgia State – near Georgia State University and parts of eastern downtown.
  • Garnett – closer to courts and some government offices.

📌 Local tip: If you’re staying at a major downtown hotel, Peachtree Center Station is often the closest stop.

Travel Time and Frequency

• Ride time from Airport Station to Five Points: usually about 15–20 minutes.
• Trains typically run:
  • Every few minutes during weekday rush periods.
  • Less frequently late nights and early mornings.

It’s smart to allow extra time late at night or on weekends, when train intervals can be longer.

Fares and Payment

• MARTA uses reloadable fare cards sold at vending machines in the station area.
• Machines generally accept cash and major cards.
• You will tap your card at the fare gate to enter.

For day trips or short stays, a single trip or daily pass is usually enough; frequent riders and locals may use longer passes.

Pros and Cons of MARTA to Downtown

Pros

• Often the fastest option during rush hour.
• Budget-friendly, with a flat rail fare.
• Drops you straight into Downtown Atlanta without parking hassles.
• Reliable during large events when roads are congested.

Cons

• You may still need to walk or take a short ride from your MARTA station to your final address.
• Luggage can be awkward on crowded trains.
• Train frequency is less frequent very late at night or early morning.

MARTA is a strong choice if you value speed, cost savings, and predictability more than door-to-door convenience.

Taxis from Atlanta Airport to Downtown

If you prefer a straightforward, door-to-door ride, taxis from ATL to Downtown Atlanta are widely used.

Where to Find Taxis at ATL

• Follow airport signs for “Ground Transportation” and “Taxi”.
• At the Domestic Terminal, taxis line up outside the North and South Baggage Claim areas.
• At the International Terminal, there is a taxi zone just outside the arrivals area.

Airport staff are usually present to direct you to the official taxi queue.

Typical Travel Time and Cost

• Drive time to downtown:
  • About 20–30 minutes in light to moderate traffic.
  • 30–45+ minutes during rush hour, severe weather, or major events.
• The airport-to-downtown taxi ride is often covered by a flat-rate or regulated fare structure.
• Additional charges may apply for:
  • Extra passengers.
  • Late-night or airport fees.
  • Tolls (if applicable to your route).

Costs can be higher than MARTA but competitive with many rideshare fares during busy periods.

Pros and Cons of Taxis

Pros

• Door-to-door convenience—no transfers or additional rides needed.
• No smartphone or app required.
• Easy to use if you’re unfamiliar with the city.

Cons

• Usually more expensive than MARTA.
• Can be slower during heavy traffic.
• You’ll need to budget for tip on top of the fare.

Taxis are especially helpful if you have heavy luggage, are arriving late at night, or are heading to a specific downtown address that isn’t an easy walk from MARTA.

Rideshare (Uber, Lyft) from ATL to Downtown

Rideshare services are widely used between the Atlanta airport and downtown.

Where to Meet Your Rideshare Driver

The pickup process at ATL is different for the Domestic and International Terminals:

• Domestic Terminal:

  • Rideshare pickups are typically consolidated in a designated pickup zone within the Ground Transportation area.
  • Follow signs for “Rideshare” or look for markers directing you to the proper level or island for app-based rides.

• International Terminal:

  • Follow signs for “Ground Transportation / Rideshare”.
  • Pickup areas are usually near the arrivals hall, in a clearly marked section.

Be sure to double-check the terminal and door number in your app to match your driver.

Travel Time and Pricing

• Travel times are similar to taxis:
  • 20–30 minutes in light to moderate traffic.
  • 30–45+ minutes or more at peak times.
• Prices can vary more than taxis because of:
  • Surge or dynamic pricing during busy periods.
  • Service type (standard, larger vehicle, premium, etc.).

If your schedule is flexible, waiting a few minutes can sometimes significantly change the fare.

Pros and Cons of Rideshare

Pros

• App-based convenience: request, pay, and tip in the app.
• Wide range of vehicle options for individuals, families, or groups.
• Door-to-door service.

Cons

• Price can fluctuate significantly depending on demand.
• May require walking to a specific pickup area outside.
• Requires a smartphone, app, and payment method set up in advance.

Rideshare works well if you’re comfortable with app-based services and want flexibility in vehicle type and price.

Hotel Shuttles and Shared Airport Shuttles

Depending on your destination in downtown, you may have shuttle options that run between ATL and your hotel or conference site.

Hotel Shuttles

• Some downtown hotels may offer airport shuttle services, though this is more common for hotels near the airport.
• If you’re staying downtown:
  • Check with your hotel in advance to see if they provide a scheduled or on-demand airport shuttle.
  • Ask whether there is a fee or if the shuttle is complimentary for guests.
• Hotel shuttles usually pick up from a designated shuttle area in the Ground Transportation section.

Shared or Private Shuttles

• Certain regional shuttles or private transportation companies operate door-to-door or shared-ride service between the airport and central locations, including Downtown Atlanta.
• These often require advance reservations and can be more predictable in cost than a rideshare during high-demand periods.

Pros

• Often simpler for groups or families.
• Cost can be shared among multiple riders.
• May be more comfortable than standard rideshare or taxi.

Cons

• You may share rides with other passengers and make multiple stops.
• Departure times may be fixed or less flexible than trains or rideshare.
• Must coordinate pickup location and schedule in advance.

Shuttles are useful for pre-planned trips, conferences, and larger parties that want a semi-private option.

Renting a Car at Atlanta Airport

If your trip involves travel beyond downtown or multiple stops around the metro, renting a car at ATL can be practical.

Getting to the Rental Car Center

All major rental car companies at ATL are located at the Rental Car Center (RCC):

• From either the North or South baggage claim in the Domestic Terminal, follow signs for “Rental Cars”.
• Take the SkyTrain, a free elevated train, directly to the Rental Car Center.
• At the center, you will find multiple rental agencies in one complex.

If you arrive at the International Terminal, you can either:

• Take the airport shuttle to the Domestic Terminal and then the SkyTrain, or
• Use a shuttle that goes directly to the Rental Car Center, depending on airport routing at the time.

Driving from ATL to Downtown Atlanta

Once you have your car:

• The most common route is:
  • Exit the airport area and take I-85 North (or the combined I-75/I-85 North known locally as the Downtown Connector).
  • Follow signs for Downtown Atlanta and your specific exit (such as Courtland St, Williams St, Central Ave, etc., depending on your destination).
• Travel time:
  • Often 20–30 minutes in good traffic.
  • Can exceed 45 minutes or more in rush hours or when there are incidents on the Downtown Connector.

Parking in Downtown Atlanta

If you rent a car, plan ahead for downtown parking:

• Many hotels charge nightly parking fees for guest vehicles.
• Downtown has numerous public garages and surface lots, often with daily or hourly rates.
• Street parking is limited and heavily regulated in many core downtown blocks.

Pros of Renting a Car

• Full flexibility to explore beyond downtown—Midtown, Buckhead, Decatur, suburbs, and attractions farther out.
• Convenient for families or groups with luggage.
• Suitable for longer stays or business trips requiring multiple on-site visits.

Cons

• Rental cost + gas + parking fees add up.
• Driving on the Downtown Connector can be stressful for those not used to dense interstate traffic.
• For stays focused mostly on downtown, a car may be unnecessary.

For many downtown-focused visitors, relying on MARTA, taxis, and rideshare can be easier than dealing with traffic and parking.

Private Car Services and Executive Transport

If you’re traveling for business, with a large group, or want a higher-comfort experience from airport to downtown, a private car or executive transport service can be arranged.

• Typically booked in advance, either:
  • As a point-to-point trip from ATL to your downtown address, or
  • By the hour, if you need multiple stops.
• Vehicles range from standard sedans to SUVs, vans, and sometimes mini-buses.

Pros

• Meet-and-greet service at the airport is often available.
• Good for corporate groups, events, or travelers with mobility concerns.
• Cost can be reasonable per person when split among several riders.

Cons

• Usually the most expensive option.
• Requires advance scheduling and clear communication about arrival time, terminal, and changes.

This is often the choice for VIP visitors, formal events, or companies bringing guests into downtown.

Choosing the Best Option for Your Situation

Here are some quick scenarios to help you decide how to get from Atlanta Airport to Downtown:

You want the cheapest, most predictable trip

• Use MARTA:
  • Board at Airport Station, ride north to a downtown stop like Five Points or Peachtree Center.
  • Expect about 15–20 minutes of ride time plus a short walk or rideshare from the station if your destination isn’t right next door.

You have lots of luggage or mobility concerns

• Consider Taxi, Rideshare, or a prearranged private car:
  • They offer door-to-door service from the terminal curb to your exact destination.
  • Ask about wheelchair-accessible vehicles when booking or speak to a taxi coordinator at the airport.

You’re arriving late at night

• MARTA may have less frequent service late at night.
• Taxis and rideshare generally remain available at the airport later.
• For late-night downtown arrivals, many travelers choose taxi or rideshare for convenience and reduced wait times.

You’re staying several days and exploring beyond Downtown

• Rental car might make sense, especially if:
  • You’re visiting locations outside MARTA service.
  • You’ll be moving between neighborhoods like Midtown, Buckhead, Sandy Springs, or beyond.
• Factor in:
  • Parking charges at your hotel.
  • Expected daily driving.

You’re part of a business group or event

• Check if your company, conference, or downtown hotel has arranged:
  • A shuttle, or
  • A private car/van service from ATL.
• Group transportation can be easier to coordinate than managing several separate rideshares.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Airport-to-Downtown Trip

• Know your downtown address: Have the full address (including ZIP code) ready for your driver or for planning your MARTA stop.
• Check traffic if driving: The Downtown Connector (I-75/85) is one of the busiest stretches of highway in Atlanta. If you’re driving or in a car service, expect slowdowns during weekday rush hours and after large events.
• Plan for events: Major events at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, State Farm Arena, or the Georgia World Congress Center can dramatically increase traffic and rideshare demand in downtown.
• Allow buffer time: If you have a meeting, show, or reservation downtown soon after landing, build in extra time beyond the typical travel estimate, especially during peak periods.
• MARTA station safety and comfort: Stations like Airport, Five Points, and Peachtree Center are heavily used transit hubs. As in any city, keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings.

Traveling from Atlanta Airport to Downtown can be straightforward once you match your budget, schedule, and comfort level to the right option. Whether you take MARTA, hop in a taxi, request a rideshare, or rent a car, Atlanta’s main airport is well connected to the heart of the city.