# Burbank Airport Transfer Guide (BUR) Honest guide to getting from Hollywood Burbank Airport to LA. Real prices, transport options, Metrolink train info, and what to expect at BUR. **Airport:** BUR **City:** Burbank **Country:** United States **URL:** https://www.airporttransferportal.com/airport-guides/bur **Last updated:** 2026-03-27 --- ## Main Guide ### Quick answer Hollywood Burbank Airport sits about **25 km north of downtown Los Angeles** in the San Fernando Valley. It is a smaller, calmer alternative to LAX, and getting into LA is straightforward. Your main options: **Metrolink train** (the station is literally at the airport), **rideshare apps** like Uber or Lyft, **taxis**, or a **pre-booked private transfer**. If you are heading to Hollywood, Universal Studios, or Pasadena, BUR is often the faster choice over LAX. A ride to downtown LA typically costs **$30–$55 USD** (~**28–50 EUR**) by car and takes 20–45 minutes depending on LA traffic, which is unpredictable. 👉 AirportTransferPortal offers fixed-price transfers on this route, which removes uncertainty on arrival. --- ### What actually happens after landing BUR is refreshingly small. You walk off the plane, collect bags from one of the compact baggage carousels, and step outside within minutes. There is no long terminal walk or shuttle train. The airport has two terminals — Terminal A and Terminal B — connected by a short walkway. Ground transportation pickup is directly outside each terminal at the curb. Signage is clear. The **Metrolink / Amtrak station** (Hollywood Burbank Airport station) is a short walk from Terminal B, or you can take the free airport shuttle. This is one of BUR's biggest advantages — direct rail access without a bus transfer. --- ### Transport options explained honestly | Option | Cost (USD) | Cost (EUR) | Time to Downtown LA | Notes | |--------|-----------|-----------|-------------------|-------| | Metrolink train | **$7–$10** | **~6–9 EUR** | 35–50 min | Runs to Union Station; limited evening service | | Uber / Lyft | **$25–$50** | **~23–46 EUR** | 20–45 min | Surge pricing common during rush hours | | Taxi | **$40–$60** | **~37–55 EUR** | 20–45 min | Metered; available at curb | | Private transfer | **$45–$75** | **~41–69 EUR** | 20–45 min | Fixed price, driver meets you | | Rental car | **$40–$80/day** | **~37–74 EUR/day** | Self-drive | Counters at the airport | The **Metrolink** is genuinely useful if you are heading to Union Station or anywhere along the Antelope Valley or Ventura County lines. Trains run roughly every 30–60 minutes during commute hours but service drops off significantly in the evenings and on weekends. **Rideshare** is the default for most travelers. Pickup is at a designated area outside each terminal. During peak hours (7–9 AM, 4–7 PM), expect both higher prices and slower rides due to freeway traffic. **Taxis** line up at the curb and charge metered rates. They are predictable but typically cost more than rideshare during non-surge times. --- ### Realistic pricing expectations Prices vary significantly based on your destination and time of day: | Destination | Taxi / Rideshare | Private Transfer | |------------|-----------------|------------------| | Hollywood | **$20–$35 USD** (~18–32 EUR) | **$35–$55 USD** (~32–50 EUR) | | Downtown LA | **$30–$55 USD** (~28–50 EUR) | **$45–$70 USD** (~41–64 EUR) | | Santa Monica | **$45–$75 USD** (~41–69 EUR) | **$65–$90 USD** (~60–83 EUR) | | Pasadena | **$25–$40 USD** (~23–37 EUR) | **$40–$60 USD** (~37–55 EUR) | | Anaheim (Disneyland) | **$55–$90 USD** (~50–83 EUR) | **$75–$110 USD** (~69–101 EUR) | LA traffic makes timing matter more than distance. A 25 km trip can take 20 minutes at midnight or 90 minutes at 5 PM on a Friday. If you are using a metered taxi, this directly affects your bill. --- ### Late night arrivals BUR does not have many late-night flights, but if you arrive after 10 PM, your options narrow. Metrolink service is likely finished for the day. Taxis will still be at the curb, though fewer of them. Rideshare apps work around the clock, and surge pricing is usually minimal late at night. The airport area (Burbank) is safe and well-lit. A few hotels are within walking distance if you prefer to stay nearby and head into LA the next morning. --- ### Families and luggage BUR is one of the most family-friendly airports you will find. The small size means less walking, shorter waits, and a calmer atmosphere compared to LAX. If you are traveling with car seats, strollers, or multiple bags, a private transfer or taxi is the practical choice. Rideshare vehicles vary — you might get a compact sedan that cannot fit a family of four with luggage. Metrolink works fine for families but requires managing your own bags on the platform and train. The walk from Terminal B to the Metrolink station is flat and paved but takes about 10 minutes with children and bags. --- ### Where you meet the driver **Taxis** line up at the marked taxi stands directly outside Terminal A and Terminal B arrivals. **Rideshare** pickup zones are at designated curb areas — follow the signs for "Ride App Pickup" outside each terminal. You may need to walk a short distance from baggage claim. **Private transfer drivers** typically wait in the arrivals area holding a name sign, or they will message you with meeting instructions. The pickup curb is right outside, so the walk is minimal. **Metrolink** — exit Terminal B and follow signs to the train station, or take the free Regional Intermodal Transportation Center (RITC) shuttle. --- ### Decision helper **Choose the train if** you are heading to Union Station or along the Metrolink line, traveling light, and arriving during commuter hours when trains run frequently. **Choose rideshare if** you want door-to-door convenience, are flexible on price, and do not mind possible surge pricing. **Choose a taxi if** you prefer a guaranteed car at the curb with no app required. **Choose a private transfer if** you want a fixed price with no surprises, have a lot of luggage, are traveling with family, or want someone waiting for you by name. This is especially useful if heading to destinations far from the Metrolink line, like Santa Monica or Anaheim. 👉 This is the lowest-friction option after a long flight. --- ### Summary Burbank Airport is one of the easiest airports in the LA area. Small terminals, quick baggage claim, and a train station on site. For most visitors heading to central or north LA, it is a better experience than LAX. Just watch out for LA freeway traffic during rush hours — it affects every option except the train. --- ## Frequently Asked Questions **Q: How far is Burbank Airport from downtown Los Angeles?** About 25 km (16 miles). The drive takes 20–45 minutes depending on traffic. **Q: Is there a train from BUR to downtown LA?** Yes. The Metrolink station is at the airport. Trains run to LA Union Station in about 35–50 minutes for $7–$10. **Q: How much is a taxi from Burbank Airport to Hollywood?** Expect $20–$35 USD by taxi or rideshare. Hollywood is only about 15 km from BUR. **Q: Is Burbank Airport better than LAX?** For destinations in the San Fernando Valley, Hollywood, Pasadena, or downtown LA, BUR is often faster and far less stressful. For Santa Monica or the south side, LAX may be closer. **Q: Does Uber work at Burbank Airport?** Yes. Uber and Lyft both operate at BUR with designated pickup zones outside each terminal. **Q: Are there rental cars at BUR?** Yes. Major rental car companies have counters at the airport, and the lots are on-site — no shuttle bus needed. **Q: How late does the Metrolink run from BUR?** Service is limited in the evenings. The last train is typically around 9–10 PM on weekdays and earlier on weekends. Always check the current schedule. **Q: Is Burbank Airport safe at night?** Yes. The airport and surrounding area are well-lit and considered safe. Taxis and rideshare are available late. **Q: How much is a ride from BUR to Disneyland?** About $55–$90 USD by rideshare or taxi. A private transfer runs $75–$110 USD for a fixed price. **Q: Can I walk to the Metrolink station from the terminal?** Yes, it is about a 10-minute walk from Terminal B. There is also a free shuttle to the station. --- ## Additional Guides ### Late Night Arrivals at Hollywood Burbank Airport **URL:** https://www.airporttransferportal.com/airport-guides/bur/late-night BUR does not handle many late-night flights, but some arrivals do land after 10 PM. If that is you, here is what to expect. ## What is open after 10 PM Burbank Airport is a quiet place at night. Most restaurants and shops close early. The terminals remain open for arriving flights, but the atmosphere is minimal — low foot traffic, limited staff, and not much to do if you need to wait. The airport is well-lit and secure. You will not feel unsafe, but do not count on finding food or coffee after about 9 PM. ## Transport options after dark | Option | Available? | Cost to Downtown LA | Notes | |--------|-----------|-------------------|-------| | Metrolink train | Usually not | **$7–$10** | Last trains depart around 9–10 PM | | Uber / Lyft | Yes | **$20–$40 USD** (~18–37 EUR) | Lower surge at night | | Taxi | Limited | **$40–$55 USD** (~37–50 EUR) | Fewer cabs, but usually some at curb | | Private transfer | Yes | **$45–$70 USD** (~41–64 EUR) | Pre-booked, driver waits for you | ## Why late-night pricing is often better One advantage of arriving late is that LA traffic disappears. A ride that takes 45–60 minutes during rush hour might take only 20 minutes at 11 PM. Rideshare surge pricing is usually minimal or nonexistent late at night, so Uber and Lyft fares drop to their lower range. Metered taxi fares are also lower since the meter runs partly on time — less traffic means a lower bill. ## The Metrolink gap The biggest downside of a late arrival at BUR is losing the train option. Metrolink service to Union Station ends by about 9–10 PM on weekdays and may be even earlier on weekends. There is no overnight rail service. If you are counting on the train, verify the schedule before your flight. ## Pre-booked transfers at night A private transfer is particularly useful for late arrivals because the driver monitors your flight and adjusts for delays. If your flight lands at midnight instead of 11 PM, they will be there. With taxis, availability at the curb is less certain at that hour, and while rideshare works, it can take 5–10 minutes for a car to arrive at a quiet airport. ## Nearby hotels as a backup If you arrive very late and prefer not to make the drive into LA, several hotels are within 5 minutes of BUR: - Marriott Burbank Airport (walking distance) - Holiday Inn Burbank - Hampton Inn Burbank Staying near the airport and heading into LA the next morning can be a sensible choice, especially if you have an early commitment and want to avoid a late-night drive. --- ### Taxi vs Private Transfer from Hollywood Burbank Airport **URL:** https://www.airporttransferportal.com/airport-guides/bur/taxi-vs-transfer At BUR you have both options readily available, and the right choice depends on your priorities — price, convenience, or certainty. ## Side-by-side comparison | Factor | Taxi | Private Transfer | |--------|------|------------------| | Pricing | Metered — **$40–$60 USD** to downtown LA | Fixed — **$45–$70 USD** to downtown LA | | Availability | Curb queue, usually available | Pre-booked, driver waiting | | Wait time | 0–10 min (depends on queue) | 0 min (driver meets you) | | Vehicle quality | Standard sedan, varies | Specified at booking | | Payment | Card or cash | Prepaid online | | Child seats | Not provided | Available on request | | Luggage capacity | Standard trunk | Specified vehicle size | ## When a taxi makes more sense Burbank Airport is small and taxis are usually available at the curb without a long wait. If you are traveling solo or as a couple with light luggage and arriving during normal hours, grabbing a taxi is quick and simple. The metered rate can work in your favor during light traffic — a midday or late-night ride to Hollywood might cost as little as **$20–$25 USD** (~18–23 EUR). No booking required, no advance planning. ## When a private transfer makes more sense If you are traveling during LA rush hours (roughly 7–9 AM or 4–7 PM), a fixed-price transfer protects you from a metered fare that climbs while you sit in traffic on the 101 or 134 freeways. Private transfers are also the better option when: - You have **more than two large bags** and need a guaranteed vehicle size - You are **traveling with children** and need a car seat installed in advance - You want someone **waiting with your name** rather than hoping a taxi is at the curb - You are heading to a **distant destination** like Santa Monica or Anaheim where a metered fare becomes expensive and unpredictable ## The rideshare factor In practice, many BUR travelers skip both taxis and private transfers in favor of Uber or Lyft. Rideshare prices at BUR typically undercut taxis (**$25–$50 USD** to downtown LA) and offer the convenience of app-based booking. However, rideshare has its own drawbacks: surge pricing during peak hours, variable vehicle quality, and no guarantee of space for extra luggage or child seats. During major events or bad weather, surge pricing can push rideshare fares above taxi rates. ## Bottom line For short, off-peak trips — a taxi or rideshare is fine. For longer distances, peak hours, families, or anyone who values certainty — a pre-booked transfer is worth the small premium. --- ### Traveling Through Burbank Airport with Kids and Family **URL:** https://www.airporttransferportal.com/airport-guides/bur/family-and-kids If you are flying into the LA area with children, Hollywood Burbank Airport is one of the easiest airports you can land at. It is small, manageable, and far less chaotic than LAX. ## Why BUR is good for families The entire airport is compact. From the gate to baggage claim is a short walk — no terminal trains, no long corridors, no confusing signage. You can be outside with your bags within 10–15 minutes of landing. There are restrooms with changing facilities in both terminals. A few food options are available landside if you need to regroup before heading out. The overall atmosphere is calm compared to larger airports. ## Getting to your destination with kids | Option | Family-Friendly? | Car Seats? | Luggage Space | |--------|-----------------|-----------|---------------| | Private transfer | Best option | Yes, on request | Guaranteed | | Taxi | Good | Not available | Standard trunk | | Uber / Lyft | Acceptable | Bring your own | Variable | | Metrolink train | Possible | Not needed | Carry your own | | Rental car | Good | Bookable with rental | Full control | **Private transfers** are the most practical choice for families. You can request child seats and booster seats at booking, and the driver will have them installed when you arrive. The vehicle will be large enough for your strollers, bags, and car seats. Cost to downtown LA: **$45–$70 USD** (~41–64 EUR). **Taxis** are fine for families with older children who do not need car seats. The vehicles are standard sedans, so fitting two adults, two children, a stroller, and multiple suitcases can be tight. **Rideshare** is workable if you bring your own car seats, but installing them in an unfamiliar vehicle at the curb with tired kids is not ideal. Vehicle size is unpredictable. **Metrolink** works if you are traveling light and your kids are old enough to manage the walk to the station and the train ride. The station is about a 10-minute walk from Terminal B. ## Car seat rules in California California law requires children under 2 years old to ride in a rear-facing car seat. Children under 8 must be in an appropriate car seat or booster. Taxis are technically exempt from car seat laws, but that does not mean it is safe to skip them. Private transfer services that provide car seats on request are following best safety practice. ## Practical tips - **Book a larger vehicle** (SUV or minivan) if you have a stroller plus luggage. Standard sedans fill up fast with family gear. - **Request car seats at booking** — do not assume they will be available on the spot. - **Consider staying near Burbank** for the first night if arriving late. Several family-friendly hotels are within 5 minutes of the airport. - The walk to the **Metrolink station** is flat and paved, but with a stroller and bags, the free shuttle is a better choice. --- ### How Much Does It Cost to Get from Burbank Airport to Los Angeles? **URL:** https://www.airporttransferportal.com/airport-guides/bur/cost-to-city Hollywood Burbank Airport is about **25 km from downtown Los Angeles**, and the cost of getting there depends mostly on which transport you choose and what time of day you travel. ## Price breakdown by transport type | Option | Cost to Downtown LA (USD) | Cost (EUR) | Notes | |--------|--------------------------|-----------|-------| | Metrolink train | **$7–$10** | **~6–9 EUR** | Cheapest option; runs to Union Station | | Uber / Lyft | **$25–$50** | **~23–46 EUR** | Surge pricing during rush hours | | Taxi | **$40–$60** | **~37–55 EUR** | Metered; traffic increases the fare | | Private transfer | **$45–$70** | **~41–64 EUR** | Fixed price regardless of traffic | ## Prices to popular destinations | Destination | Distance | Rideshare | Private Transfer | |------------|----------|-----------|------------------| | Hollywood | ~15 km | **$20–$35** | **$35–$55** | | Downtown LA (Union Station) | ~25 km | **$30–$55** | **$45–$70** | | Pasadena | ~20 km | **$25–$40** | **$40–$60** | | Beverly Hills | ~25 km | **$35–$55** | **$50–$75** | | Santa Monica | ~35 km | **$45–$75** | **$65–$90** | | Anaheim (Disneyland) | ~60 km | **$55–$90** | **$75–$110** | ## What affects the price **Traffic** is the biggest variable. LA freeways during rush hours (7–9 AM and 4–7 PM) can double your travel time and significantly increase metered taxi fares. Rideshare apps also apply surge pricing during high-demand periods. **Time of day** matters for both pricing and availability. Late-night rides are generally cheaper for rideshare, but Metrolink trains stop running by about 10 PM. The **Metrolink train** offers the most predictable cost — a flat fare regardless of traffic. The trade-off is that it only goes to Union Station and stops along fixed routes, so you may need a secondary ride to your final destination. ## Tips to save money - Take the Metrolink to Union Station and connect to the Metro subway for destinations across LA — total cost under **$12 USD**. - Avoid rideshare during rush hours when surge pricing can push fares above taxi rates. - A private transfer with a fixed price can actually save money during peak traffic compared to a metered taxi. - If you are a group of 3–4 people, splitting a private transfer is often cheaper per person than individual train tickets plus connecting rides. --- ## Related Pages - [Main arrival guide](https://www.airporttransferportal.com/airport-guides/bur) - [Late night arrivals](https://www.airporttransferportal.com/airport-guides/bur/late-night) - [Taxi vs transfer](https://www.airporttransferportal.com/airport-guides/bur/taxi-vs-transfer) - [Family & kids](https://www.airporttransferportal.com/airport-guides/bur/family-and-kids) - [Cost to city](https://www.airporttransferportal.com/airport-guides/bur/cost-to-city) --- ## Check before you land 👉 This route is actively served by AirportTransferPortal with fixed-price booking available before arrival. Check real vehicles and prices before your flight. Booking takes a few minutes and ensures someone is waiting when you arrive. --- ## Operational Note This guide reflects real operational conditions, pricing ranges, and traveler experience at Burbank (BUR). Transfer availability is supported by AirportTransferPortal's verified supplier network. --- ## Attribution Published by AirportTransferPortal (airporttransferportal.com), a global airport transfer marketplace operated by Funny Tourism Ltd.