How to get to Atlanta

Atlanta is a dynamic metropolis in the south of the USA, harmoniously combining a business rhythm with Southern hospitality and a rich cultural heritage. For those planning to visit this city, there are many logistical opportunities available: it is convenient to arrive by plane, using one of the busiest airports in the world, as well as by train, bus, or car. Thanks to its status as a major transport hub, the question of how to get to Atlanta is solved quickly and simply from almost anywhere on the planet.

The main air gateway to the metropolis is Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport (ATL). It is not just a major transport hub, but a true legend in civil aviation: it consistently holds the title of one of the busiest airports in the world in terms of passenger traffic and the number of take-offs and landings.

The airport serves as a key hub connecting the USA with other continents. Thanks to an incredibly developed route network, you can fly to Atlanta via a direct flight or with a convenient short stopover from almost anywhere on the globe.

The terminals are located just 16 kilometres south of the city's business centre. Such proximity allows tourists to quickly reach their hotel via the MARTA metro, taxi, or rented car, without spending much time on the road after the flight.

For lovers of railway romance, a trip to Atlanta will be an excellent choice. The city is served by the national Amtrak network, and trains arrive at Peachtree Station. This compact yet functional terminal is located in the Brookwood Hills neighbourhood, north of the city centre.

The famous Crescent line passes through the station, running daily between New York and New Orleans. This route allows you to comfortably reach the capital of Georgia from Washington, Philadelphia, Charlotte, and other major cities on the East Coast and the South of the USA. Upon arrival at the station, travellers can easily reach their hotel or the business centre by using taxis, ride-hailing services, or the MARTA public transport system.

Bus services connect the capital of Georgia with many settlements, offering tourists a budget-friendly and convenient way to travel. For example, a trip from the neighbouring city of Decatur will take just 20–30 minutes, as the distance between the centres is only about 10 kilometres. Travellers from Marietta, located 30 kilometres to the northwest, will need about 40–50 minutes for the journey, making this route an excellent option for a quick trip.

Comfortable regular services are also provided for guests from more remote areas of the state. A bus usually covers the route from the city of Warner Robins, spanning about 160 kilometres, in two hours. Most intercity coaches arrive at the central terminal in downtown, which is located in immediate proximity to metro stations, allowing you to immediately continue exploring the metropolis.

Travelling by car to Atlanta is an immersion into the heart of the Southern road network. The city is located at the intersection of three key interstate highways: I-20, I-75 and I-85. This strategic location makes the metropolis easily accessible for car tourists, but requires attentiveness due to the complex system of interchanges, especially on the famous Downtown Connector section, where the main routes merge into a single multi-lane stream passing right through the city centre.

Routes from neighbouring major cities are picturesque and convenient. For example, a trip south from Chattanooga (Tennessee) along the I-75 highway will take about two hours, allowing you to enjoy views of the Appalachian foothills along the way. The journey from the west, from Birmingham (Alabama), along the I-20 highway usually lasts approximately 2.5 hours. This is a great opportunity to combine visits to several states in one trip, appreciating the high quality of American roads.

When planning a trip, travellers should take into account the famous traffic of Georgia's capital. During morning and evening rush hours, the I-285 ring road and central highways can be heavily congested, so it is better to plan entry into the city for the middle of the day or weekends. The parking situation in popular districts (Downtown and Midtown) is typical for large metropolises: street spots are difficult to find, and most garages and hotel car parks are paid.

Preparing for a trip to Atlanta will help make your holiday as comfortable as possible and save you from unnecessary hassle. Here are a few practical recommendations that will be useful for every guest of the "Capital of the South" to feel confident from the first minutes of their stay.

1. Clothing and belongings. Summer in the south of the USA is hot and very humid, so choose light clothing made from natural breathable fabrics. However, be sure to bring a jumper or light jacket: in museums, shops, and transport, air conditioners often work at full power, creating a strong contrast with the outdoor heat.
2. Transport. The MARTA public transport system is convenient for trips from the airport to the centre and major stadiums. Nevertheless, the city is very spread out, and many interesting places are located far from metro stations. To fully explore the surroundings, it is better to rent a car or use taxi-hailing apps.
3. Finances. Bank cards are accepted everywhere, from large hotels to street kiosks. A small amount of cash dollars may be useful only for minor expenses. Remember about tipping: in restaurants and taxis, it is customary to leave 15–20% of the bill amount, as service is rarely included in the final sum.
4. Health and safety. Tourist areas (Downtown, Midtown, Buckhead) are safe for walking, especially during the day. After dark, try to stick to well-lit streets and avoid deserted alleyways. In summer, be sure to use sunscreen and drink plenty of water to avoid overheating.
5. Communication. English is the main language. Locals often speak with a characteristic Southern drawl, which may seem unusual but sounds very soft. If you did not understand a phrase, simply ask politely again — they will be happy to answer you.
6. Local etiquette. Southern hospitality is not just words, but a way of life. It is customary here to greet bus drivers, shop assistants, and even random passers-by. Be polite, smile, and do not forget to say "thank you" — this will help you easily find common ground with the townspeople.
7. What to avoid. Do not underestimate city traffic: traffic jams here can be serious, so allow extra time for the journey, especially if you are going to the airport. Also, do not try to walk around the whole city on foot — distances in the metropolis are huge, and pavements are not available everywhere outside the centre.
8. Orientation in the city. Be extremely careful when entering an address into the navigator. There are more than 70 streets in the city that have the word Peachtree in their name. Always check the postcode and the exact designation (Street, Avenue, Road, or Drive) so as not to end up in the opposite part of the city.

These simple tips will help you easily adapt to the local rhythm of life and avoid typical tourist mistakes. By following them, you will be able to fully focus on your impressions of this dynamic and welcoming city.