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.