# Denver Airport Transfer Guide (DEN) How to get from Denver International Airport to downtown Denver. A Line train, taxi, rideshare, and private transfer options with real prices and times. **Airport:** DEN **City:** Denver **Country:** United States **URL:** https://www.airporttransferportal.com/airport-guides/den **Last updated:** 2026-03-27 --- ## Main Guide ### Quick answer Denver International Airport sits about **40 km (25 miles) northeast of downtown Denver** — it is one of the most distant major airports from its city center in the United States. The **A Line commuter rail** runs directly from the airport to Union Station (downtown) in **37 minutes** for **$10.50 (EUR 9.70)**. A taxi costs **$55–$65 (EUR 51–60)** and takes 30–45 minutes. Uber and Lyft run **$35–$60 (EUR 32–55)** depending on demand. A pre-booked private transfer costs **$75–$120 (EUR 69–110)**. The A Line train is the clear value option — fast, predictable, and cheap. For groups, late-night arrivals, or anyone with heavy luggage, a taxi or pre-booked transfer makes more sense. 👉 AirportTransferPortal offers fixed-price transfers on this route, which removes uncertainty on arrival. --- ### What actually happens after landing DEN is a massive airport with a distinctive white-peaked roof visible from miles away. It has **three concourses** (A, B, and C) connected to the main terminal (Jeppesen Terminal) by an underground train. After landing, you take the airport train to the main terminal, collect your bags, and head to ground transportation. The main terminal is well-signed. The **A Line train station** is on **Level 1** (ground level), accessible by escalators from the baggage claim area. Follow signs for "Rail" or "Train to Denver." The **taxi and rideshare pickup** is on **Level 5** (the upper level of the transit center), also clearly signed from baggage claim. The walk from baggage claim to either option takes about **5–10 minutes**. DEN handles a high volume of passengers, but the terminal is modern and navigation is straightforward. --- ### Transport options explained honestly | Option | Cost (USD) | Cost (EUR) | Time to Union Station | Best for | |--------|-----------|-----------|----------------------|----------| | A Line commuter rail | $10.50 | 9.70 | 37 min | Most travelers | | Pre-booked private transfer | $75–$120 | 69–110 | 30–45 min | Families, groups, comfort | | Taxi | $55–$65 | 51–60 | 30–45 min | Convenience | | Uber / Lyft | $35–$60 | 32–55 | 30–45 min | Flexibility | | SkyRide bus (RTD) | $6.00 | 5.50 | 50–70 min | Budget travelers | The **A Line (University of Colorado A Line)** is a commuter rail service operated by RTD. Trains run every **15 minutes** during the day and take exactly **37 minutes** to reach Union Station. From Union Station, you can walk to LoDo (Lower Downtown) or transfer to light rail, bus, or rideshare for other Denver neighborhoods. **Taxis** use meters at DEN. The fare to downtown is fairly consistent at **$55–$65** because the route is mostly highway with predictable travel times. There is a **$3.50 airport surcharge** added to the meter. **Uber and Lyft** have a designated pickup on **Level 5, Island 5** of the transit center. Fares fluctuate with demand — during ski season weekends and holidays, surge pricing can push rides above taxi rates. During quiet times, fares drop to **$35–$45**. --- ### Realistic pricing expectations | Destination | A Line (USD) | Taxi (USD) | Uber/Lyft (USD) | Transfer (USD) | |-------------|-----------|-----------|-----------------|---------------| | Union Station / LoDo | $10.50 | $55–$65 | $35–$55 | $75–$100 | | Capitol Hill / Colfax | $10.50 + transfer | $55–$70 | $35–$55 | $75–$100 | | Cherry Creek | $10.50 + transfer | $60–$75 | $40–$60 | $80–$110 | | Boulder | N/A | $90–$120 | $70–$100 | $110–$150 | | Ski resorts (Breckenridge, Vail) | N/A | $250–$400 | $200–$350 | $200–$350 | For destinations beyond downtown Denver, the A Line to Union Station plus a rideshare or light rail for the last leg is often the best value. For **ski resort transfers**, dedicated shuttle services (like Colorado Mountain Express) often offer better rates than taxis — expect **$50–$80 per person** to major resorts. All road-based fares are relatively consistent because most of the route is the E-470 tollway or I-70/I-25, which rarely has severe congestion except during rush hour or major weather events. --- ### Late night arrivals The A Line runs until approximately **1:30 AM** on weekdays and weekends, with reduced frequency after 10 PM (every 30 minutes instead of 15). If your flight lands before midnight, you can still catch the train. After the A Line stops running, your options are: - **Taxis:** Available 24/7 at the terminal, same metered fares - **Uber/Lyft:** Available but with longer wait times (10–20 minutes) and potential surge pricing - **Pre-booked transfer:** Your driver waits regardless of time DEN is isolated — there is nothing around the airport except prairie. If your ride falls through late at night, alternatives are limited. For very late arrivals (after 1 AM), having a confirmed ride is important. --- ### Families and luggage The A Line allows luggage but does not have dedicated storage areas — you hold your bags or place them in the aisle. With multiple large suitcases, this can be awkward, especially during busy periods. For **families with children**, the A Line is manageable if you are traveling light. The train has space for strollers, and kids enjoy the ride. However, if you have car seats, ski equipment, or more than 3–4 large bags, a taxi or transfer is more practical. Child car seats are not provided by taxis at DEN. Rideshare car-seat options exist but are unreliable. A **pre-booked transfer** can provide a child seat on request — specify when booking. For **ski trips**, the luggage factor is significant. Ski bags, boot bags, and personal luggage for a family quickly exceed what fits in a standard taxi. Book an SUV or van transfer for **$100–$130 (EUR 92–120)** to downtown, or arrange a dedicated ski resort shuttle. --- ### Where you meet the driver **A Line train:** Head to **Level 1** of the transit center, accessible from the main terminal via escalators near baggage claim. The platform is clearly signed. Buy tickets at the machines on the platform or use the RTD app. **Taxis:** Go to **Level 5, Island 1** of the transit center. The taxi line is organized and staffed. Wait times are typically **5–15 minutes**. **Uber/Lyft:** Go to **Level 5, Island 5** of the transit center. The app directs you to the exact pickup spot. A staffed holding area helps coordinate pickups. **Pre-booked transfer:** Drivers typically meet you in the main terminal near baggage claim or at a designated curb spot on Level 5. Your confirmation will specify the exact meeting point and driver details. --- ### Decision helper **Take the A Line if:** you are heading to downtown Denver, traveling with manageable luggage, and want the best combination of speed and value. At $10.50, it cannot be beaten on price. **Take a taxi if:** you are in a group of 3–4 (splitting the $55–$65 fare), have moderate luggage, or prefer the simplicity of a metered cab. **Book a private transfer if:** you are traveling with a family, have heavy luggage (especially ski gear), need a child seat, or are heading to a destination beyond downtown. **Use Uber/Lyft if:** you want flexibility and are traveling during off-peak times when fares are lower. The 40 km distance from DEN to downtown means the price difference between options is significant — much more than at a close-in airport. For solo travelers, the A Line saves **$45–$55** over a taxi. For groups of 3–4, a taxi split four ways is only **$14–$16 per person**, making it competitive with the train. 👉 This is the lowest-friction option after a long flight. --- ### Summary Denver airport's distance from the city is its main quirk — 40 km feels like a lot until you realize the A Line train covers it in 37 minutes for $10.50. For solo travelers and couples, the train is the obvious choice. For families, ski groups, or late-night arrivals, a taxi or pre-booked transfer handles the distance comfortably. The highway route is straightforward and rarely congested, so road-based transfers are predictable and stress-free. --- ## Frequently Asked Questions **Q: How far is Denver airport from downtown?** About **40 km (25 miles)**. It is one of the most distant major airports from its city center in the US. **Q: How much is the train from Denver airport to Union Station?** The A Line costs **$10.50 (EUR 9.70)** one way and takes 37 minutes to Union Station. **Q: How much does a taxi from Denver airport cost?** **$55–$65 (EUR 51–60)** to downtown Denver, including the $3.50 airport surcharge. Taxis use meters. **Q: Is Uber or Lyft available at Denver airport?** Yes. Both operate from **Level 5, Island 5** of the transit center. Fares range from **$35–$60** depending on demand. **Q: How often does the A Line train run from DEN?** Every **15 minutes** during the day, every **30 minutes** in early morning and late evening. Last train around **1:30 AM**. **Q: How do I get from Denver airport to ski resorts?** Dedicated shuttle services like Colorado Mountain Express run to Breckenridge, Vail, and other resorts for **$50–$80 per person**. Private transfers cost **$200–$350** per vehicle. **Q: Is there a bus from Denver airport to the city?** Yes. RTD's **SkyRide bus** costs **$6.00** and takes 50–70 minutes to downtown. The A Line train is faster and only $4.50 more. **Q: Why is Denver airport so far from the city?** DEN was built on open prairie northeast of Denver in 1995 to allow for a large airport with room for expansion. The distance is the trade-off for having one of America's best-designed airports. **Q: How long does it take to get from Denver airport to downtown?** By A Line train: **37 minutes exactly**. By car: **30–45 minutes** depending on traffic, which is usually light on the airport highway. **Q: Does Denver airport have good public transport?** Yes. The **A Line commuter rail** to Union Station is one of the better airport rail connections in the US — fast, frequent, and reasonably priced at $10.50. --- ## Additional Guides ### Arriving at Denver Airport Late at Night – Your Best Options **URL:** https://www.airporttransferportal.com/airport-guides/den/late-night Denver airport handles flights until late evening, with the last arrivals typically landing between **10 PM and midnight**. The airport's remote location — 40 km from downtown — makes having a confirmed ride particularly important after dark. ## A Line train schedule at night The A Line commuter rail is the cheapest option at **$10.50**, but it does not run all night. | Day | Last train from DEN | |-----|--------------------| | Monday–Saturday | Approximately **1:30 AM** | | Sunday | Approximately **1:30 AM** | After 10 PM, trains run every **30 minutes** instead of every 15. If your flight lands by 11 PM and you clear baggage quickly, you can likely catch one of the last trains. Check the RTD app for real-time departures. If you miss the last train, you are 40 km from downtown with no rail option until morning (around 3:30 AM for the first train). ## Taxi and rideshare after hours **Taxis** are available at DEN around the clock. The taxi stand on Level 5 is staffed, and vehicles are usually available even after midnight. Fares are the same as daytime — **$55–$65 (EUR 51–60)** to downtown, metered with no night surcharge. **Uber and Lyft** operate late but with reduced driver availability. After midnight, expect: - **Wait times of 10–25 minutes** (vs 3–8 minutes during the day) - **Fares of $35–$55** — surge pricing is uncommon late at night - The possibility of a driver cancellation, requiring a re-request For reliability after midnight, a taxi from the stand is more predictable than a rideshare. ## Pre-booked transfers A private transfer at **$75–$100 (EUR 69–92)** is the most reliable late-night option. Your driver tracks your flight, waits for delays, and is ready when you walk out. Given DEN's isolation — there are no hotels, restaurants, or services near the airport — being stranded without transport at 2 AM is not a pleasant prospect. ## Weather considerations Denver's weather adds a late-night complication that most airports do not have. **Blizzards and winter storms** can strike suddenly, especially from October to April. A heavy snowfall can: - Delay or close the highway (Pena Boulevard) to the airport - Cause the A Line to run on a modified schedule - Make rideshare drivers scarce During winter, a pre-booked transfer with an experienced local driver is especially valuable. They know the road conditions and alternate routes. ## The practical approach If your flight lands before 11 PM: the **A Line** is still running and is the best value. Check the schedule on the RTD app before heading to the platform. If your flight lands between 11 PM and 1 AM: a **taxi** from the stand is the most reliable and predictable option. If your flight lands after 1 AM or you expect delays: **pre-book a transfer**. The extra $20–$40 over a taxi buys certainty at the one time and place where certainty matters most. --- ### Taxi vs Private Transfer from Denver Airport – Which Makes Sense? **URL:** https://www.airporttransferportal.com/airport-guides/den/taxi-vs-transfer Denver airport's 40 km distance from the city means the cost difference between a taxi and a private transfer is more noticeable than at most airports. Here is when each option makes sense. ## Side-by-side comparison | Factor | Taxi | Private transfer | |--------|------|------------------| | Cost to downtown | **$55–$65 (EUR 51–60)** | **$75–$100 (EUR 69–92)** | | Wait time | 5–15 min at taxi stand | Driver waiting on arrival | | Availability | Excellent during the day | Guaranteed 24/7 | | Vehicle quality | Standard Denver taxis | Premium sedans or SUVs | | Child seats | Not available | Available on request | | Payment | Meter + card or cash + tip | Pre-paid online | | Flight tracking | No | Yes | | Ski gear capacity | Limited | Can request larger vehicle | ## When a taxi is the right choice For **1–3 travelers heading to downtown** with standard luggage, a taxi is perfectly adequate. Denver's taxi fleet is clean and professional, the route is straightforward (mostly highway), and you will reach Union Station or LoDo in **30–45 minutes**. The taxi stand at DEN is well-organized on Level 5 of the transit center. Wait times are generally **5–15 minutes**, and drivers are accustomed to the airport route. Meters ensure fair pricing — the **$55–$65** fare is consistent because the route has minimal traffic variability. Splitting a taxi three ways comes to about **$20–$22 per person** (including tip), which is only $10 more than the A Line train and includes door-to-door service. ## When a transfer is worth the premium A private transfer from DEN makes sense in these situations: - **Ski trips:** If you have ski bags, boot bags, and luggage, a standard taxi trunk will not fit everything. A pre-booked SUV or van solves this cleanly for **$100–$130** - **Families with child seats:** Denver taxis do not carry them. A transfer is the only reliable option - **Groups of 4+:** A single van transfer for $100–$120 is cheaper than two taxis ($110–$130) - **Late night/early morning:** A confirmed driver eliminates uncertainty after 1 AM when the A Line stops - **Business travel:** Meet-and-greet, name sign, guaranteed vehicle - **Ski resort destinations:** Direct transfers to Breckenridge, Vail, or Keystone avoid the hassle of a downtown connection ## The A Line elephant in the room Before spending $55–$100+ on a taxi or transfer, consider the **A Line train at $10.50**. For solo travelers and couples heading to downtown Denver with manageable luggage, it is faster than driving during rush hour and saves $45–$90. The only reason to skip it is heavy luggage, a family with small children, or a destination far from Union Station. --- ### Arriving at Denver Airport with Kids – What Families Need to Know **URL:** https://www.airporttransferportal.com/airport-guides/den/family-and-kids Denver International Airport is a well-designed, modern airport that is fairly easy to navigate with children. The main challenge for families is the **40 km distance to downtown** and managing luggage — especially if you are arriving for a ski vacation. ## Navigating DEN with children The airport is large but well-signed. After landing, you take the **automated train** from your concourse to the main terminal (Jeppesen Terminal) — kids usually enjoy this. Baggage claim is on the lower level, with plenty of space for strollers and carts. Family facilities include: - **Family restrooms** with changing tables throughout the terminal - **Nursing rooms** in each concourse - Multiple **food options** in the main terminal and concourses - **Free Wi-Fi** throughout the airport The walk from baggage claim to ground transportation (either the A Line station on Level 1 or the taxi/rideshare pickup on Level 5) is about **5–10 minutes** via escalators and elevators. ## Child seats and vehicle options | Transport | Child seat? | Luggage capacity | Notes | |-----------|------------|-----------------|-------| | A Line train | Not needed | You carry your own | Manageable with light luggage | | Taxi | No | Standard trunk | Tight with family luggage | | Uber/Lyft | Limited | Standard trunk | Car seat option unreliable | | Private transfer (sedan) | Yes, on request | Standard trunk | Good for 1–2 kids, moderate bags | | Private transfer (SUV/van) | Yes, on request | Large capacity | Best for families with gear | Denver taxis **do not provide child seats**. Colorado law requires children under 8 to use an appropriate car seat or booster. If your child needs one, your options are: - **Pre-book a transfer** with a child seat request - **Bring your own** travel car seat or inflatable booster - **Rent one** from your car rental company if renting a vehicle ## The A Line with kids The A Line train is feasible with older children (6+) and light luggage. The 37-minute ride is smooth and kids enjoy watching the scenery. However, with a **stroller, multiple bags, and young children**, the train becomes impractical — there is no luggage storage, and you will need to manage everything yourself on the platform and in the car. For families heading downtown with manageable gear, the A Line saves significant money — **$10.50 per adult** (children under 6 ride free, 6–19 half fare) versus $55–$100+ by car. ## Ski trip families If you are arriving for a ski vacation, luggage is the critical factor. A family of four with ski bags, boot bags, and personal luggage needs a **van or large SUV**. A standard taxi or sedan will not fit everything. Options for ski families: - **Private transfer in a van:** **$100–$130 (EUR 92–120)** to downtown, **$250–$400** to ski resorts - **Ski shuttle services:** Colorado Mountain Express and similar run to major resorts for **$50–$80 per person** (children often discounted) - **Rental car with roof rack:** Best for flexibility if you plan to drive during your stay ## Recommended approach For families heading to **downtown Denver** with moderate luggage: a **taxi** (splitting the $60 fare) or a **private transfer** if you need a child seat. For **ski resort destinations**: a pre-booked van transfer or shuttle service. For **budget-conscious families** with older kids and light bags: the **A Line train** at $10.50 per adult. --- ### How Much Does It Cost to Get from Denver Airport to the City? **URL:** https://www.airporttransferportal.com/airport-guides/den/cost-to-city Denver airport's 40 km distance from downtown means transport costs are higher than at most US airports. The A Line train is the clear budget winner, but road-based options have their place for groups and families. ## Price breakdown by transport and destination | Destination | A Line train (USD) | Taxi (USD) | Uber/Lyft (USD) | Private transfer (USD) | |-------------|-------------------|-----------|-----------------|----------------------| | Union Station / LoDo | $10.50 | $55–$65 | $35–$55 | $75–$100 | | Capitol Hill | $10.50 + $3 transfer | $55–$70 | $35–$55 | $75–$105 | | Cherry Creek | $10.50 + $3 transfer | $60–$75 | $40–$60 | $80–$110 | | Tech Center (DTC) | $10.50 + $6 transfer | $65–$85 | $45–$70 | $90–$120 | | Boulder | N/A (bus from Union Stn) | $90–$120 | $70–$100 | $110–$150 | All prices in USD. For EUR, multiply by approximately **0.92**. ## The A Line — best value by far At **$10.50 (EUR 9.70)**, the A Line saves you **$45–$55** compared to a taxi for the same downtown destination. The 37-minute ride is also faster than driving during rush hour. You can buy tickets from machines at the platform (cash or card) or through the **RTD mobile app**. From Union Station, free transfers to RTD light rail and bus lines are available within a time window, extending your reach across Denver for minimal extra cost. ## Taxi fare structure Denver taxis use meters. The fare includes: - **$3.50** airport surcharge - **$2.50** initial meter drop - **$2.50** per mile - Approximately **$0.40** per minute of waiting (in traffic) The highway route to downtown is mostly toll road (E-470 to I-70 or Pena Blvd to I-70 to I-25), and tolls are **included** in the metered fare — you are not charged extra. A typical downtown ride totals **$55–$65 (EUR 51–60)** plus a **15–20% tip**. ## Rideshare pricing patterns Uber and Lyft fares from DEN follow predictable patterns: - **Quiet weekday:** $35–$45 - **Normal demand:** $40–$55 - **Ski season weekend / holiday surge:** $55–$80+ Check the app before committing. During high-surge periods (Friday afternoons in ski season, major events), a taxi can actually be cheaper than a rideshare. ## When is a private transfer worth it? At **$75–$120**, a private transfer costs 40–80% more than a taxi. The value is in **guaranteed pricing** (no surge), **flight tracking**, child seat availability, and the option to book a larger vehicle. For a family of four with luggage, a single transfer in an SUV is often cheaper than two separate taxis and far more convenient than the train with bags. For ski resort destinations, compare transfer prices with **dedicated ski shuttles** (Colorado Mountain Express, Epic Mountain Express) which run **$50–$80 per person** — often better value for individuals or couples, while private transfers are better for groups. --- ## Related Pages - [Main arrival guide](https://www.airporttransferportal.com/airport-guides/den) - [Late night arrivals](https://www.airporttransferportal.com/airport-guides/den/late-night) - [Taxi vs transfer](https://www.airporttransferportal.com/airport-guides/den/taxi-vs-transfer) - [Family & kids](https://www.airporttransferportal.com/airport-guides/den/family-and-kids) - [Cost to city](https://www.airporttransferportal.com/airport-guides/den/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 Denver (DEN). 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.