You’ve landed at Denver International Airport, collected your luggage, and now need to reach your hotel or meeting in downtown Denver. The next decision is whether to take the airport train, book a taxi, request an Uber, or arrange private transportation. Getting from Denver International Airport to downtown Denver is relatively easy, with several options for different budgets and travel preferences. The RTD A Line train takes approximately 37 minutes to Union Station and costs $10 for a standard Airport Day Pass. Taxis and rideshares generally take 25 to 35 minutes, depending on traffic, while private airport car services offer direct transportation to your destination.
The best option depends on where you’re staying, how much luggage you’re carrying, and whether you’re travelling alone, with family, or for business.
Denver Airport to Downtown Denver: Distance, Travel Time, and Cost
Denver International Airport (DEN), also known as DIA, is located northeast of downtown Denver. The airport is approximately 23 miles from Union Station along the rail route, while driving distance varies depending on the destination and roads used. Travellers can reach downtown by public transportation or a vehicle that takes them directly to their hotel, office, or another address.
Here’s how the main transportation options compare.
| Transportation | Travel Time | Estimated Cost |
| RTD A Line train | 37 minutes | $10 standard Airport Day Pass |
| Taxi | 25–35 minutes | $72.04 downtown Zone A flat fare |
| Uber or Lyft | 25–35 minutes | Varies by demand and destination |
| Private car or limo service | Depends on traffic | Advance booking quote |
| Shared airport shuttle | 45–60 minutes | Depends on operator |
| Rental car | Depends on traffic | Rental, fuel, and parking costs |
These are approximate travel times. Road conditions, airport traffic, weather, and your exact downtown destination can affect the journey.
Take the RTD A Line Train from Denver Airport to Union Station
The RTD A Line is one of the most affordable ways to travel from Denver Airport to downtown. It connects Denver Airport Station directly with Union Station, a major transportation hub in the heart of the city. The journey takes approximately 37 minutes and doesn’t require changing trains. For visitors staying near Union Station or in the surrounding Lower Downtown (LoDo) area, this can be a practical option.
Where to Catch the Airport Train
After collecting your luggage, follow the airport signs marked Train to Denver. The station is located at the Airport Transit Center on Level 1, beneath the Westin Denver International Airport hotel. You can reach the station using the escalators or elevators from the main terminal. The A Line travels directly to Union Station, so passengers do not need to transfer along the way.
Denver Airport Train Ticket Price
The standard RTD Airport Day Pass costs $10. This pass covers the airport journey and eligible RTD bus and rail travel for the service day. Tickets can be purchased through available station ticket machines or supported RTD payment options. Some passengers qualify for discounted fares, so checking the current RTD fare information before travelling is worthwhile.
How Often Does the A Line Run?
The A Line generally operates every 15 minutes during busier daytime and evening periods, with approximately 30-minute intervals during other operating periods. Service frequency and departure times can change, particularly around holidays or maintenance work. Travellers arriving late at night or early in the morning should check the current RTD A Line schedule before relying on a specific departure.
Arriving at Denver Union Station
Union Station is located at 1701 Wynkoop Street in downtown Denver. From there, visitors can walk to nearby hotels, restaurants, and businesses in LoDo. However, Union Station is not within easy walking distance of every downtown destination. If you’re staying closer to the Colorado Convention Center, Civic Center, or another neighbourhood, you may need an additional bus, rideshare, or taxi. The train is particularly convenient for travellers with manageable luggage who want to avoid road traffic.
Taxi from Denver Airport to Downtown Denver
Taxis are available at Denver International Airport without advance reservations. They provide direct transportation to hotels, residential addresses, offices, and other destinations.
Unlike the train, a taxi takes you to your actual destination rather than stopping at Union Station.
How Much Is a Taxi from Denver Airport to Downtown?
The airport publishes a $72.04 one-way flat fare for Downtown Denver Zone A. This rate includes the airport access fee and applies to destinations within the designated downtown taxi zone. Trips outside that zone may use different rates. Additional stops or special arrangements may also affect the fare.
Where to Find Taxis at DEN
Taxi pickups are located at Jeppesen Terminal, Level 5, Island 1. After collecting your bags, follow the signs for ground transportation and taxis. Taxi service is available throughout the day and night, making it useful for passengers who arrive outside regular business hours. The journey to downtown generally takes around 25 to 35 minutes in favourable traffic, although congestion can increase travel time.
Uber and Lyft from Denver Airport to Downtown
Uber and Lyft are another option for passengers who prefer booking transportation through a mobile app. Both services operate at Denver International Airport and provide rides to downtown hotels, offices, and residential addresses.
How Much Does Uber Cost from Denver Airport to Downtown?
Uber and Lyft do not have one fixed fare for every airport-to-downtown journey. The price depends on the vehicle category, passenger demand, pickup time, traffic conditions, and destination. During busy travel periods, major events, or periods of limited driver availability, app prices may increase.
The most accurate way to check the cost is to enter your downtown destination in the app and review the available fare before confirming the ride.
Where Is the Uber and Lyft Pickup Area?
Rideshare pickups are located at Level 5, Island 5, on the east and west sides of Jeppesen Terminal. The airport recommends collecting your luggage before requesting a ride. Once a driver accepts your booking, check the assigned pickup details in the app. Before entering the vehicle, confirm that the driver’s name, licence plate, and vehicle match the booking information. Rideshare can be convenient for solo travellers and small groups, although waiting times and fares may vary.
Private Car Service from Denver Airport to Downtown
After a long flight, some travellers prefer to have their transportation arranged before landing. A private airport car service provides a reserved vehicle for the journey from Denver International Airport to a hotel, business address, or other downtown destination. Unlike public transportation, there is no need to travel to Union Station and arrange another ride. The vehicle takes passengers directly to their requested address. This option can be particularly useful for business travellers, families with several suitcases, and groups travelling together.
Pre-Booked Denver Airport Transportation
Booking a private vehicle in advance allows passengers to arrange their pickup details, vehicle type, and destination before arriving. Colorado Limo Services LLC offers airport car service for travellers who prefer chauffeur-driven transportation.
The company’s airport transportation options include executive sedans, luxury SUVs, and larger vehicles for groups. Flight monitoring helps coordinate pickup arrangements when arrival times change. Passengers can also discuss meet-and-greet assistance when making their reservations.
Executive Sedans and Luxury SUVs
An executive sedan may suit one or two business travellers heading to a downtown hotel or meeting. Luxury SUVs provide additional passenger and luggage space, making them practical for families or small groups. For larger parties, limousine and group transportation options may be available depending on the number of passengers and their luggage requirements. Vehicle availability and capacity should be confirmed before booking.
Private Airport Transfer Pricing
Private airport transportation prices depend on the selected vehicle, travel date, destination, passenger count, and booking arrangements. Rather than relying on a general price estimate, travellers can request a quotation for their particular journey. It is also worth confirming whether airport fees, waiting time, additional stops, and gratuity are included in the quoted price. Private car transportation is not necessarily cheaper than the train or faster than other road vehicles. Its main benefit is having a reserved vehicle for direct travel to the destination.
Shared Airport Shuttle Services
Shared shuttles provide another way to travel from Denver Airport to downtown.
These services may transport several passengers heading to different hotels or addresses along a scheduled route.
According to Denver International Airport’s published estimates, shared van trips to downtown generally take around 45 to 60 minutes.
The journey can take longer when the shuttle makes multiple stops.
Shuttle fares depend on the operator, destination, and reservation arrangements.
Shared transportation may suit visitors who want a hotel drop-off without booking a private vehicle, although passengers should confirm operating hours and availability before travelling.
Renting a Car at Denver International Airport
Rental cars are useful for visitors planning to explore destinations beyond downtown Denver. If your itinerary includes several locations across the Denver metropolitan area or trips outside the city, having your own vehicle may be convenient.
Denver International Airport is served by several rental car companies operating from off-site facilities. Passengers reach these facilities using designated rental car shuttles. However, renting a car solely to reach a downtown hotel may not be economical.
In addition to the rental price, travellers should consider fuel, parking charges, and the time required to collect and return the vehicle. For visitors spending most of their stay in central Denver, public transportation or direct airport transfers may be more practical.
Where to Find Transportation at Denver International Airport
Denver International Airport uses different pickup areas for trains, taxis, rideshares, shuttles, and private vehicles.
Knowing where to go after baggage claim can save time.
| Transportation | Airport Pickup Location |
| RTD A Line train | Level 1, Airport Transit Center |
| Taxi | Level 5, Island 1 |
| Luxury limousine | Level 5, Island 2 |
| Hotel shuttle | Level 5, Island 3 |
| Rental car shuttle | Level 5, Island 4 |
| Uber and Lyft | Level 5, Island 5 |
| Shared van shuttle | Follow operator instructions and airport signs |
Pre-booked private car pickups may have specific meeting arrangements, particularly when meet-and-greet service is requested. Always follow the instructions provided by your transportation company and check airport signage for any operational changes.
Getting from Union Station to Downtown Hotels
Union Station is a convenient arrival point, but downtown Denver covers a larger area than the streets surrounding the station. If your hotel is in LoDo, you may be able to walk directly from the train station.
Visitors staying near Larimer Square may also find walking practical, depending on the exact address and amount of luggage. Hotels around the Colorado Convention Center, the Central Business District, or Civic Center may require a longer walk or another form of transportation.
Before choosing the airport train, check the distance between Union Station and your hotel. A 37-minute train ride can still involve additional travel time if your final destination is several blocks away. Travellers carrying heavy luggage or arriving during poor weather may prefer a direct vehicle transfer instead.
Which Denver Airport Transportation Option Should You Choose?
The best way to reach downtown depends on your travel plans.
Travelling on a budget: The RTD A Line is usually the most economical choice, especially if you’re staying near Union Station.
Heading directly to a hotel: Taxis and rideshares provide door-to-door transportation without requiring a train connection.
Visiting Denver for business: A pre-booked executive car can be useful when you have meetings, luggage, or a planned pickup schedule.
Travelling with family: A suitable private SUV or other larger vehicle can provide space for passengers and luggage. Confirm any child-seat requirements in advance.
Arriving with a group: Compare the total cost of a suitable group vehicle with purchasing several train tickets or arranging multiple rideshares.
Planning to explore Colorado: A rental car may be appropriate if you’ll travel frequently outside downtown.
Each option has advantages. Consider the complete journey from the airport to your final address rather than comparing travel time or ticket price alone.
Frequently Asked Questions About Denver Airport to Downtown Transportation
What is the cheapest way to get from Denver Airport to downtown?
The RTD A Line train is generally the cheapest option. A standard Airport Day Pass costs $10, and the journey to Union Station takes approximately 37 minutes.
How far is Denver International Airport from downtown Denver?
Denver International Airport is approximately 23 miles from downtown along the A Line rail route. Road distance varies depending on your downtown destination.
How long does it take to drive from Denver Airport to downtown?
Driving generally takes around 25 to 35 minutes in favourable traffic. Rush-hour congestion, weather, and road conditions can increase travel time.
Is there a direct train from Denver Airport to downtown?
Yes. The RTD A Line connects Denver Airport Station directly to Union Station without requiring a transfer.
How much is a taxi from Denver Airport to downtown?
The published one-way taxi flat fare to Downtown Denver Zone A is $72.04, including the airport access fee.
Can I book a private car from Denver Airport in advance?
Yes. Private airport transportation companies accept advance reservations for direct transfers to downtown hotels, offices, and other destinations. Pickup arrangements and pricing depend on the operator.
Is Uber available at Denver Airport late at night?
Uber and Lyft operate at Denver International Airport, although driver availability and prices vary. Passengers can check the app for available rides after landing.
Plan Your Journey from Denver Airport to Downtown
Getting from Denver International Airport to downtown Denver is easy with several transportation options available. Whether you prefer the affordability of the A Line train, the convenience of a taxi, or the comfort of a private car, each option offers a different travel experience.
Consider your budget, arrival time, luggage, and final destination before choosing. Checking transportation schedules, comparing fares, and arranging your ride in advance can help you reach downtown Denver without unnecessary delays.