Quick Answer
The best way to get from Denver International Airport (DEN) to Downtown Denver for most travelers is the A Line Commuter Rail Train. It takes 37 minutes, costs $10.50 one-way, and offers a direct, non-stop ride to Denver Union Station—the central hub for transit, dining, and hotels. For budget travelers, public buses start at $3 but take over 90 minutes with transfers. For door-to-door convenience, rideshares (Uber/Lyft) cost $45-$100+ and take 45-60 minutes depending on traffic.
Denver Airport A Line Train: The Best Overall Choice
The University of Colorado A Line, operated by the Regional Transportation District (RTD), is the flagship rail connection. It’s the optimal blend of speed, price, and convenience for solo travelers, couples, and families without excessive luggage.
Step-by-Step Guide & Key Details
- Location at Airport: The station is on the south side of the terminal. From Level 5 (Baggage Claim), take the pedestrian bridge marked “Train to Denver.”
- Schedule & Frequency: Trains run daily, approximately every 15 minutes during peak hours (6 AM - 8 PM) and every 30 minutes during early morning/late night. First train departs around 3:15 AM, last train around 1:15 AM.
- Ticket Purchase:
- Use the ticket vending machines at the station (accepts cash, credit/debit).
- Buy via the RTD MyRide app for mobile ticketing.
- One-way fare: $10.50. Day Pass ($21) is worthwhile for unlimited RTD travel.
- The Ride: A smooth, 37-minute journey with free Wi-Fi, power outlets, and ample luggage space (racks near doors). The train is clean, safe, and well-patrolled.
- Arrival: Terminates at Denver Union Station (1701 Wynkoop St). This is a major hub connecting to:
- Free MallRide bus along 16th Street Mall.
- Other light rail lines (C, D, E, L, W) for broader city exploration.
- Rideshare pick-up zones, taxis, and hotels within walking distance.
Who it’s best for: Almost all travelers, especially first-time visitors, business travelers, and those staying in hotels near Union Station/LoDo.
Who should consider alternatives: Travelers with mobility issues (although stations are accessible, navigating the airport to the train platform can be a long walk), groups of 4+ where a rideshare might be price-competitive, or those arriving after the last train.
Shared Ride Shuttles & Private Vans
For a direct, door-to-door service without the premium price of a private taxi, shared-ride shuttles are a solid middle-ground. Companies like Denver Airport Shuttle, Supershuttle (operated by Express Shuttle), and Colorado Mountain Express (for mountain destinations) serve the DEN area.
How It Works & What to Expect
- Booking: Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak seasons. Book online or via phone.
- Pick-up: After baggage claim, call the company. They'll direct you to a specific door on Level 5 (usually Door 507, 509, or 511) where shuttles make rounds.
- The Ride: It’s a shared van. You may make 2-4 stops to drop off other passengers at different downtown hotels, adding to your travel time.
- Cost: Approximately $30-$45 per person one-way. Some offer fixed rates for downtown zones.
- Travel Time: Can range from 60 to 90 minutes door-to-door, heavily dependent on traffic and the number of stops.
- Luggage: Standard baggage allowance applies. Large or oversized items may incur extra fees.
Pro Tip: If traveling in a pair or group, compare the total shuttle cost to a rideshare. For two people, an UberX might be similarly priced and faster.
Public Bus (RTD SkyRide): The Budget Champion
The RTD SkyRide bus service is the most economical public transit option, but it requires patience and planning.
Understanding the Routes
There is no single direct bus to downtown. You must take a SkyRide bus to a transit hub and transfer to a local bus or light rail.
| Primary SkyRide Route | Destination Hub | Transfer to Downtown | Estimated Total Time | Total Fare |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Route AT (Airport - Lincoln Station) | Lincoln Station (Light Rail) | Take D or H Line Light Rail North to Downtown | 90-110 mins | $3.00 (Local 3-Hour Fare) |
| Route AB (Airport - Boulder) | Table Mesa Park-n-Ride | Take FF Bus to Downtown | 100-120 mins | $6.00 (Regional Fare) |
| Route 145 (Overnight Service) | 40th Ave & Colorado Blvd Station | Transfer to multiple local buses | 100+ mins | $3.00 |
Key Considerations
- Frequency: Buses run less frequently than the train, often every 30-60 minutes. Check the RTD Next Ride schedule.
- Luggage: Buses have overhead racks but limited space for large suitcases.
- Experience: Best for extremely budget-conscious travelers, those without time constraints, or locals familiar with the RTD system. Not recommended for first-time visitors with heavy luggage or late at night.
Rental Car: For Flexibility Beyond Downtown
Renting a car at DEN is straightforward but is generally not cost-effective if you're only staying downtown.
Process & Costs
- Rental Center: All rental car companies are located at the Denver Airport Car Rental Center. Take the Skybridge (train) from the terminal to the center (a 10-minute free ride).
- Drive to Downtown: The drive is ~25 miles via I-70 W. It takes 45-60 minutes with traffic.
- Hidden Costs:
- Parking: Downtown hotel parking averages $40-$60 per night. Public garages are slightly cheaper.
- Tolls: The I-70 Express Lanes are tolled.
- Gas & Rental Fees.
Best For: Travelers planning day trips to the Rockies, Boulder, Colorado Springs, or those with business outside the city core.
Cost & Time Comparison: Denver Airport to Downtown
Use this table to quickly compare all options at a glance.
| Transport Method | Approx. Cost (One-Way) | Travel Time (Door-to-Door) | Best For | Key Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A Line Train | $10.50 | 50-60 mins (37-min ride + walk/wait) | Most travelers, solo/couples | Best value, reliable, scenic |
| Shared Ride Shuttle | $30 - $45 (per person) | 60 - 90 mins | Door-to-door service seekers | Direct hotel drop-off, no surge pricing |
| Public Bus (SkyRide) | $3 - $6 | 90 - 120 mins | Ultra-budget travelers | Cheapest option |
| Uber / Lyft (Standard) | $45 - $100+ | 45 - 70 mins | Groups, late nights, convenience | Door-to-door, on-demand |
| Taxi (Flat Rate) | $65 - $85 | 45 - 70 mins | Immediate pick-up, no app needed | Fixed price, available 24/7 |
| Rental Car | $40-$80/day + parking + gas | 45 - 70 mins | Exploring beyond downtown | Maximum flexibility |
Traveler Tips & Experience
🗺️ Navigating Denver Union Station
Union Station is more than a transit hub—it's a destination with restaurants, bars, and shops. Upon arrival, use the main hall as your orientation point. The RTD Customer Care desk here can answer transit questions. If you're lost, it's the perfect landmark.
🧳 Dealing with Luggage
If you have heavy bags, the walk from baggage claim to the A Line train can be long. Use the free airport carts as far as the train platform. Trains have luggage racks. For an even easier arrival, some downtown hotels offer luggage storage if you arrive before check-in.
⏰ Timing Your Trip
Rush Hour (7-9 AM, 4-6 PM): I-70 and I-25 are heavily congested. Add 20-30 minutes to any road-based transport (shuttle, taxi, rideshare). The train remains the most reliable option time-wise during these periods.
📲 Essential Apps
- RTD Denver: For train/bus schedules, mobile tickets (MyRide).
- Uber / Lyft: Compare prices in real-time before committing.
- Google Maps / Transit App: For excellent real-time multi-modal directions in Denver.
🌄 If You Have Extra Time
If your flight arrives early and you can't check into your hotel, store your luggage and explore. Union Station is in LoDo (Lower Downtown), packed with historic buildings, breweries, and Coors Field. The free 16th Street MallRide bus can take you up and down the pedestrian mall.
FAQs: Getting from Denver Airport to Downtown
What is the best way to get from Denver Airport to Downtown Denver?
For most travelers, the A Line Commuter Rail Train is the best overall way. It's affordable ($10.50), fast (37 minutes non-stop), runs frequently, and drops you right at Denver Union Station in the heart of downtown, connecting you to other transit.
What is the cheapest way to get from Denver Airport to the city center?
The cheapest public transit option is taking a combination of the SkyRide bus routes (like the AT or AB lines) to a Regional Transportation District (RTD) hub and then transferring to a local bus. Total cost can be as low as $3-$6, but travel time can exceed 90 minutes.
How long is the train ride from Denver Airport to Union Station?
The A Line train ride takes exactly 37 minutes from Denver Airport Station to Denver Union Station, with no intermediate stops. Trains depart every 15-30 minutes from approximately 3:15 AM to 1:15 AM.
Is there a direct bus from Denver Airport to Downtown?
No, there is no single direct public bus. However, the 'SkyRide' bus service operated by RTD requires at least one transfer, typically at a park-n-Ride or transit center, to reach downtown. Private shuttle services like Denver Airport Shuttle or Supershuttle offer direct, shared-ride services with reservations.
How much is a taxi or Uber from Denver Airport to downtown?
A taxi has a flat rate of approximately $65-$85 to downtown Denver. Rideshare services (Uber/Lyft) vary dramatically with demand (surge pricing) but typically range from $45 to $100+ for a standard car. The ride takes 45-60 minutes depending on traffic.
Where do I catch the A Line train at Denver Airport?
The Denver Airport Station is located on the south side of the Jeppesen Terminal, easily accessible via the pedestrian bridges on Level 5 (the same level as bag claim). Follow signs for "Transit Center" or "Train to Denver."
Can I use my rental car to drive from Denver Airport to downtown?
Yes, but it's often not recommended for short downtown stays due to high parking costs ($30-$50+ per day) and traffic. The drive itself takes 45-60 minutes via I-70 W. Consider it only if you plan to explore areas outside Denver extensively.
What should I do if my flight arrives very late or very early?
For late-night arrivals (after 1:15 AM), the A Line is not running. Your only public transit option is the limited overnight SkyRide bus route (Route 145). For reliability, pre-book a private shuttle, or use taxi/rideshare services, which operate 24/7.