Call us: 303-455-4455Getting from Denver International Airport (DIA) to downtown Denver should be the easiest part of your trip. The airport sits about 25 miles northeast of downtown, and you have several ways to cover that distance, from budget-friendly trains to private limousine service. This guide breaks down every option so you can pick the one that fits your schedule, budget, and group size.
Quick answer: The RTD A Line train costs $10.50 and takes 37 minutes to Union Station. Rideshare runs $35–55 for a 30–45 minute door-to-door trip. Private limo service offers flight tracking, professional chauffeurs, and no surge pricing for groups and business travelers.
- DIA is 25 miles northeast of downtown Denver
- Six main transportation options: train, rideshare, taxi, shuttle, limo, rental car
- Travel time ranges from 30 to 75 minutes depending on your choice
- The A Line train is cheapest; private car service is most comfortable
- Rush hour traffic affects all road-based options but not the train
At a Glance: Denver Airport to Downtown Transportation Options
Before diving into the details, here is a quick comparison of every way to get from DIA to downtown Denver. Heading to the mountains? Read our Denver to Breckenridge transportation guide.
| Transportation Option | Estimated Cost | Travel Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| RTD A Line Train | $10.50 day pass | 37 minutes | Solo travelers, light luggage |
| Uber / Lyft | $35–55 | 30–45 minutes | Convenience, small groups |
| Taxi | $55–70 | 30–45 minutes | On-demand, door-to-door |
| Shared Shuttle | $20–40 per person | 45–75 minutes | Budget groups |
| Private Limo Service | Varies by vehicle | 30–45 minutes | Groups, luggage, comfort |
| Rental Car | $40–100+ per day | 30–45 minutes | Extended Colorado trips |
Each option has trade-offs. The sections below cover pricing, logistics, and practical tips so you can make an informed decision.
RTD A Line Train: The Budget-Friendly Choice
The Regional Transportation District (RTD) A Line commuter train is the most popular public transit option between Denver International Airport and downtown. It connects the airport directly to Denver Union Station in the heart of downtown.
Key details:
- Cost: $10.50 for a Regional/Airport Day Pass (valid for unlimited rides until 2:59 a.m. the next day)
- Travel time: Approximately 37 minutes
- Frequency: Every 15 minutes during peak hours (roughly 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.) and every 30 minutes during off-peak hours
- Hours: Service runs from approximately 3:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m. daily
How to find the A Line at DIA:
- After collecting your baggage, follow signs for “Transit Center” or “Train to Denver”
- Head to the south end of the Jeppesen Terminal
- Take the escalator or elevator down to the train platform at the DEN Transit Center on Level 1
- Purchase a ticket at the kiosk or through the RTD mobile app before boarding
The A Line drops you at Denver Union Station, which connects to light rail, local buses, Amtrak, and the free 16th Street MallRide shuttle. From Union Station, most downtown hotels and attractions are within a short walk or a quick bus ride.
Pros:
– Most affordable option
– Fixed 37-minute travel time regardless of traffic
– Runs frequently throughout the day
– Luggage racks and overhead storage on trains
Cons:
– No door-to-door service
– You must handle your own luggage (operators do not assist)
– Reduced frequency late at night
– Crowded during peak travel periods
Uber, Lyft, and Rideshare Services
Rideshare apps are a popular middle-ground option for travelers who want door-to-door convenience without the full cost of a taxi.
Key details:
- Cost: Typically $35–55 to downtown Denver (varies with demand and time of day)
- Travel time: 30–45 minutes depending on traffic
- Pickup location: Level 5, Island 1, outside Doors 505, 507, and 511 (Terminal East) or Doors 506, 510, and 512 (Terminal West)
Rideshare costs fluctuate throughout the day. During morning and evening rush hours or when multiple flights land at once, surge pricing can push fares toward $60 or higher. Late-night and midday rides tend to be closer to the $35 range.
Tips for using rideshare from DIA:
- Request your ride only after you have collected your luggage and reached Level 5
- Have the app open and your pickup pin set before heading outside
- Consider scheduling a ride in advance for more predictable pricing
- During peak periods, wait times can stretch to 10–20 minutes
Taxi Service from Denver Airport
Traditional taxi service remains available at DIA for travelers who prefer a no-app, no-account option.
Key details:
- Cost: $55–70 to downtown Denver (metered)
- Travel time: 30–45 minutes depending on traffic
- Pickup location: Level 5, Island 1, same area as rideshare pickups
Taxis charge metered rates, so you will know the exact fare when you arrive. Tips are customary (15–20%). Unlike rideshares, taxis do not surge-price, which can actually make them more affordable during peak demand periods when Uber and Lyft prices spike.
Shared Airport Shuttles
Shared shuttle services pick up multiple passengers at the airport and drop them at various downtown locations. This option works well for solo travelers on a budget or small groups heading to popular hotel areas.
Key details:
- Cost: $20–40 per person
- Travel time: 45–75 minutes (multiple stops)
- Pickup location: Level 5, Island 5
Shared shuttles cost less per person than rideshares but take longer due to multiple drop-off points. You may need to book in advance, and your departure time depends on when the shuttle fills up or reaches its scheduled departure.
Private Limousine and Car Service: The Premium Option
For travelers who prioritize comfort, reliability, and a stress-free experience, private limousine and car service offers advantages that other options cannot match.
A private car service like Avi Limo provides:
- Door-to-door service from DIA to any downtown Denver destination
- Real-time flight tracking so your driver adjusts to early or late arrivals
- Professional chauffeurs who meet you at the terminal
- Vehicle options ranging from town cars and SUVs to stretch limousines for larger groups
- No surge pricing regardless of time of day or demand
Private car service is particularly valuable for business travelers arriving for meetings, families with young children and heavy luggage, and groups of four or more where the per-person cost becomes comparable to rideshare. Unlike rideshare drivers, professional chauffeurs handle luggage, know the airport pickup procedures, and provide a consistent level of service every trip.
Avi Limo tracks inbound flights using DIA’s flight monitoring software, which means your driver is already waiting when you land, even if your flight arrives early or late. You can book a reservation by calling (303) 455-4455 or submitting an online request.
Rental Cars
Renting a car makes sense if you plan to explore beyond Denver during your trip. DIA has more than 10 major rental car companies located at the airport rental car facility.
Key details:
- Cost: $40–100+ per day depending on vehicle type and season
- Travel time to downtown: 30–45 minutes
- Pickup location: Shuttle from Level 5, Island 4, outside Doors 505–513 (Terminal East) or 504–512 (Terminal West)
Keep in mind that downtown Denver parking rates typically run $20–40 per day at hotel garages. If you are staying downtown for the duration of your trip, renting a car may not be cost-effective. However, if your itinerary includes Red Rocks, the ski resorts, or Rocky Mountain National Park, having a car gives you the flexibility to explore on your own schedule.
How to Choose the Best Option for Your Trip
The right transportation choice depends on three factors: your budget, your group size, and what you are doing after landing.
Choose the A Line train if:
– You are traveling solo or as a couple with manageable luggage
– You want to save money
– Your destination is near Union Station or along the light rail network
Choose rideshare or taxi if:
– You have a moderate budget and want door-to-door convenience
– You are heading to a specific address outside the Union Station area
– You are traveling with 2–3 others (splitting the fare makes it comparable to the train)
Choose a private car service if:
– You are traveling for business and need a reliable, professional arrival
– You have a group of 4 or more
– You have significant luggage, car seats, or accessibility needs
– You want a guaranteed price with no surge
– You are arriving late at night and want a pre-arranged ride waiting for you
Choose a rental car if:
– You plan to drive to mountain destinations during your stay
– You need a vehicle for multiple days of exploring Colorado
Practical Tips for Getting from DIA to Downtown Denver
These tips apply regardless of which transportation option you select:
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Account for the terminal walk. DIA is one of the largest airports in the country. After your plane reaches the gate, it can take 15–30 minutes to reach the ground transportation level, especially if you need to take the underground train between concourses and collect checked baggage.
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Watch the clock during rush hours. Denver’s I-70 and Peña Boulevard corridors get congested during weekday mornings (7–9 a.m.) and evenings (4–7 p.m.). The A Line train avoids traffic entirely, making it the fastest option during rush hour.
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Download the RTD app before you land. If you plan to take the train, the RTD mobile app lets you purchase tickets digitally, check schedules, and see real-time arrival information.
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Know your terminal level. Ground transportation at DIA is on Level 5 of the Jeppesen Terminal for taxis, rideshares, shuttles, and rental car shuttles. The A Line train is on Level 1.
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Book private car service in advance. If you want a limo or professional car service, reserving ahead guarantees your vehicle is ready when you land. Avi Limo’s DIA limo service includes real-time flight tracking at no extra charge.
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Consider the return trip too. Some options that work well for arriving may not be ideal for departing. Booking a round-trip car service ensures you have reliable transportation in both directions without worrying about rideshare availability during early morning flights.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Denver airport from downtown Denver?
Denver International Airport is approximately 25 miles northeast of downtown Denver. Depending on traffic and your mode of transportation, the trip takes between 30 and 45 minutes by car or about 37 minutes on the RTD A Line train.
Is there a train from Denver airport to downtown?
Yes. The RTD A Line commuter train runs directly from Denver International Airport to Denver Union Station downtown. Trains depart every 15 minutes during peak hours and every 30 minutes during off-peak hours. A day pass costs $10.50.
How much does an Uber cost from Denver airport to downtown?
Uber and Lyft rides from DIA to downtown Denver typically cost between $35 and $55, depending on the time of day and demand. During peak periods or events, surge pricing can push costs higher.
What is the cheapest way to get from Denver airport to downtown?
The RTD A Line train is the most affordable option at $10.50 for a day pass. This includes unlimited rides for the rest of the day, so you can use it for additional travel around Denver after reaching downtown.
Can I book a limo from Denver airport to downtown?
Yes. Private limousine services operate from DIA and provide door-to-door transportation to any downtown Denver address. Avi Limo offers airport limo service with flight tracking, professional chauffeurs, and a range of vehicle options including SUVs and stretch limousines. Call (303) 455-4455 to make a reservation.
What is the fastest way to get from DIA to downtown Denver?
During non-peak traffic hours, rideshare, taxi, or private car service can get you downtown in about 30 minutes. During rush hour, the A Line train is often the fastest option at a consistent 37 minutes since it does not sit in traffic.
