Non Official. Visitors intending to reach the official site should visit atl.com
Buses and Trains at Atlanta Airport (ATL)
Image
Guide to MARTA and Long-Distance Transportation
Public transportation is one of the most affordable and direct ways to connect Atlanta Airport with the rest of the city and beyond. Here you’ll find a complete guide to available train and bus services, enriched with experiences and tips from fellow travelers.
Quick Questions About Public Transport at ATL
- Is MARTA the best option to reach downtown? Yes, for most travelers. It's the fastest and cheapest way to get to Downtown, Midtown, and Buckhead while avoiding Atlanta's notorious traffic.
- Where is the MARTA station? Inside the Domestic Terminal, between the north and south baggage claim areas.
- How do I get to MARTA from the International Terminal? This is a key point. You'll need to take the slow and often crowded external shuttle to the Domestic Terminal. Allow at least an extra 45–60 minutes for this transfer.
- Is it clean and safe? Mixed reviews. Many travelers find it safe during the day, but there are frequent complaints about lack of cleanliness and the presence of homeless individuals, especially at night.
MARTA: Connecting ATL with the City
The Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA) operates the city’s public transport system.
Image
Photo by Dogancan Ozturan - Unsplash
MARTA Trains
The airport station is located inside the Domestic Terminal. The Red and Gold Lines travel directly to and from the station, stopping at Five Points in downtown Atlanta (a 15-minute ride).
The Red Line serves College Park, East Point, West End, Garnett, Midtown, Lindbergh Center, Buckhead, Dunwoody, Sandy Springs, and North Springs. The Gold Line goes to College Park, East Point, West End, Garnett, Midtown, Lindbergh Center, Lenox, Chamblee, and Doraville. Trains operate Monday to Friday from 4:36 AM to 2:06 AM and weekends from 5:52 AM to 1:54 AM.
User Experience: It's the preferred choice for its speed and affordability. However, reviews mention lack of cleanliness and a sense of insecurity at night. During the day, it’s excellent, but avoid peak hours if carrying heavy luggage.
Bus 191
This route operates north to south from Lakewood Station to the International Terminal arrivals area, covering over 50 stops along I-75 before ending at the Justice Center Bus/Train Station. Departures every 40 minutes: Monday–Friday 5:13 AM–12:43 AM, Saturday 6:33 AM–12:33 AM, Sunday 7:03 AM–12:03 AM. More info.
User Experience: It's a cheap option but less popular. Travelers report long waits and delays due to driver shortages, making it unsuitable for tight schedules.
MARTA Fares and Passes
All tickets on the MARTA system (trains and buses) must be paid using a Breeze Card, which costs $2.00 and can be reloaded. Standard fare is $2.50. For multiple trips, passes are the most cost-effective option:
- 1 Day: $9.00
- 2 Days: $14.00
- 3 Days: $16.00
- 4 Days: $19.00
- 7 Days: $23.75
- 10 Days: $25.00
- 20 Days: $42.50
- 30 Days: $95.00
User Experience: Many recommend buying a pass if you plan to explore the city for several days, to save money and avoid hassle. However, beware that Breeze Card vending machines sometimes malfunction.
Long-Distance Transportation
AMTRAK
The Amtrak station is located at 1688 Peachtree St. NW (Tel +1 800 872 7245). To get there from the airport, you’ll need a taxi, Uber, Lyft, or door-to-door shuttle service, as there’s no direct public transit. For door-to-door transfers, contact A-National Management Services at +1 404 941 3440.
User Experience: The top tip is to plan with plenty of extra time when traveling between the airport and Amtrak station, due to Atlanta’s unpredictable traffic. The station is functional, though reviews say it could use some comfort upgrades.
Greyhound
Greyhound Flightlink operates from the lower level of the North Terminal (Gate LN1) to various cities and states. Use the escalator from the north baggage claim area. For bookings, call +1 800 231 2222 or visit the official website.
User Experience: It's an affordable and reliable option for long-distance travel. Travelers suggest arriving early for a good seat and note that terminal and bus cleanliness can vary.