🎓 How to Get to UGA from Atlanta Airport [2025 Guide]

If you’re flying into Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) and heading to the University of Georgia (UGA) in Athens, this 2025 travel guide will show you every possible way to make the trip. Whether you’re a student, visiting family, or attending an event, you’ll find the fastest, cheapest, and most convenient ways to travel. This article is a guide for “Atlanta Airport to UGA,” “how to get to University of Georgia from ATL,” and “Athens GA transportation guide.”

🚗 Option 1: Rental Car from ATL

Best For: Travelers who want flexibility and control over their schedule.

Details:

• Drive distance: ~75 miles
• Average travel time: 1.5–2 hours, depending on traffic
• Car rentals available at ATL’s Rental Car Center via the free ATL SkyTrain.

Why Choose It:

• Direct travel without transfers
• Great if you have luggage or are traveling in a group

Estimated Cost: $50–$120/day (depending on car type and season)

🚌 Option 2: Groome Transportation Shuttle

Best For: Affordable, direct airport-to-Athens service without driving yourself.

Details:

• Departs directly from ATL to Athens/UGA campus area
• Travel time: ~1 hour 45 minutes
• Cost: ~$50–$60 one-way (discounts for round trips)
• Multiple daily departures

Why Choose It:

• No need to navigate traffic yourself
• Drops you near campus or central Athens

🚕 Option 3: Taxi or Rideshare (Uber/Lyft)

Best For: Convenience and door-to-door service.

Details:

• Travel time: ~1.5 hours
• Cost: $150–$200+ (depends on time of day and demand)

Why Choose It:

• No waiting for schedules
• Perfect for late-night arrivals or when you’re in a hurry

🚌 Option 4: MARTA + Regional Bus

Best For: Budget-conscious travelers with light luggage and flexible schedules.

Details:

1. Take MARTA from the airport to Five Points Station in downtown Atlanta.
2. Connect with Megabus or Greyhound service to Athens.
3. Local Athens Transit can take you to UGA.

Travel Time: 3–4 hours total
Cost: $20–$40

Why Choose It:

• Cheapest travel method
• Good for those who don’t mind multiple transfers

🚴 Option 5: Private Transfer or Limousine

Best For: Luxury, comfort, and direct service to UGA.

Details:

• Cost: $250–$400+ depending on service type
• Travel Time: 1.5–2 hours
• Book in advance for guaranteed pickup

📋 Summary Table – Transportation Options from ATL to UGA

Option	Duration	Cost	Best For	Key Tip
🚗 Rental Car	1.5–2 hrs	$50–$120/day	Flexibility, groups, luggage	Book in advance for lower rates
🚌 Groome Transportation Shuttle	~1h 45m	$50–$60	Direct, no driving needed	Reserve early during peak student travel
🚕 Taxi / Rideshare	~1.5 hrs	$150–$200+	Fast, convenient, door-to-door	Best for late-night arrivals
🚌 MARTA + Regional Bus	3–4 hrs	$20–$40	Budget travelers	Allow extra time for transfers
🚖 Private Transfer / Limo	1.5–2 hrs	$250–$400+	Comfort, business trips	Ideal for VIP events or official visits

🕒 Best Times to Travel from ATL to UGA

• Avoid weekday rush hours (6–9 AM & 4–7 PM) on I-85 and GA-316.
• Weekend mornings are usually smoother and faster.

🌟 Pro Tips for Getting to UGA from ATL

• Book Groome Transportation if you want a balance of affordability and convenience.
• If driving, download offline maps in case of low signal in rural areas.
• Students moving in for the semester should book early—transport gets busy in August and January.

❓ FAQs

Q1: How far is UGA from Atlanta Airport?
The University of Georgia in Athens is about 75 miles from ATL, with a drive time of 1.5–2 hours.

Q2: What is the best way to get from Atlanta Airport to UGA?
The Groome Transportation Shuttle is the most convenient and affordable option for most travelers, costing around $50–$60.

Q3: Is there public transportation from ATL to Athens?
Yes, you can take MARTA to downtown Atlanta and then transfer to a Megabus or Greyhound to Athens, though it takes 3–4 hours.

Q4: Can I rent a car at Atlanta Airport to go to UGA?
Yes, ATL has a Rental Car Center accessible via the free SkyTrain, with rentals from major companies like Hertz, Avis, and Enterprise.