How to get to Seattle

A journey to Seattle opens the doors to the dynamic heart of the Pacific Northwest, where futuristic architecture blends harmoniously with evergreen forests and the waters of the bay. This major metropolis of the United States attracts tourists with its unique atmosphere, advanced technologies, and renowned coffee culture. You can get here in a variety of ways: fly into one of the region's airports, take a scenic train ride, or travel by car and bus from neighbouring cities.

The fastest way to reach the city is by air. The region's main hub is Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), which receives flights from all over the world and is well-connected to the centre. Travellers may also consider flying into Paine Field (PAE), which is frequently used for domestic flights and is conveniently located north of the metropolis.

If direct tickets are not available, you can fly to neighbouring major hubs, such as the city of Tacoma or Redmond. Thanks to the developed transport infrastructure, the onward journey to your final destination will not take much time.

Contrary to common misconceptions, the city boasts excellent railway connections. Trains arrive at the historic King Street Station, located right in the centre, which serves scenic Amtrak routes such as the Cascades and Coast Starlight. This journey allows you to enjoy magnificent views of American nature and the coastline even before arriving at your destination.

A convenient option may also be a trip through the city of Tacoma, located 40 km to the south. The railway links the region with other major cities in the USA and Canada, offering a comfortable alternative to car transport and eliminating the need to sit in traffic jams.

Bus service is an economical and reliable option for trips from nearby settlements. The road from the city of Redmond (about 26 km) will take just about 35 minutes, and the route from the Sand Point area will require about 55 minutes of time. Buses run regularly, allowing for flexible travel planning.

For those departing from the city of Tacoma, the 54 km journey will take approximately 1 hour 10 minutes. Modern buses provide comfortable conditions, making them a popular choice among tourists wishing to save their budget without sacrificing convenience.

Travelling by car offers complete freedom of movement and the opportunity to enjoy the views of Washington State. The route from the Sand Point area is very short — just 12 km, which can be covered in about 20 minutes. Redmond is also located nearby: the 24 km journey will take about 25 minutes in the absence of serious congestion.

If you are driving from the direction of the city of Tacoma, expect to spend approximately 45 minutes behind the wheel, covering a distance of 54 km. Using a taxi or a rental car is an excellent way to get "door to door," especially if you are travelling with bulky luggage.

To ensure your stay in the "Emerald City" is as comfortable and hassle-free as possible, it is worth preparing for local peculiarities in advance. Here are some practical recommendations for tourists:

1. Clothing and Weather. The climate here is changeable, so the main wardrobe principle is layering. Be sure to bring a light waterproof jacket or raincoat, as well as comfortable shoes for walking on hilly streets.
2. Transport. To move around the city, it is convenient to use the Link Light Rail system and buses. It is recommended to purchase an ORCA card, which allows you to quickly and cost-effectively pay for travel on various types of transport.
3. Finances. The official currency is the US Dollar (USD). Bank cards are accepted everywhere, but it is useful to have some cash in small notes for tips or purchases at farmers' markets.
4. Health and Safety. In emergencies, dial 911. Tourist areas are safe, but during the dark hours of the day, it is worth being vigilant in the centre and not leaving valuables in the car in plain sight.
5. Communication. The main language of communication is English. Locals are known for their politeness and reserve, but will willingly help a tourist if approached.
6. Local Etiquette. Tipping is a mandatory part of the service culture. In restaurants and taxis, it is customary to leave 15–20% of the bill amount if the service was up to standard.
7. What to Avoid. Do not cross the street in unauthorized places (jaywalking) — local traffic rules are strictly enforced, and a violation may result in a fine.
8. Extra Tip. Visit the famous Pike Place Market early in the morning on a weekday to quietly watch the fishmongers and enjoy a coffee without huge crowds of tourists.

By following these simple tips, you will be able to focus on exploring the sights and get the maximum pleasure from the city's atmosphere.