To get around in Georgia, you can use a combination of domestic flights, trains, buses, and city transport options, as well as drive or use ride-hailing services, depending on your budget and preferences.
Quick Facts
Getting There
Georgia has a well-developed transportation system, with Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) being the main international airport and one of the busiest airports in the world. You can fly directly to Atlanta from many major cities in the United States and around the world. Additionally, Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV) and Augusta Regional Airport (AGS) are smaller international airports that offer flights to several domestic and international destinations. If you're coming from neighboring states, you can also enter Georgia by car or bus via several major highways, including I-75, I-85, and I-95.
If you're traveling from other parts of the United States, you can take a bus or train to Georgia, with several companies offering routes to major cities like Atlanta, Savannah, and Augusta. Greyhound and Megabus are two popular bus companies that operate in Georgia, while Amtrak offers train services to several cities in the state. You can also drive to Georgia from neighboring states, with several major highways connecting the state to the rest of the country.
Domestic Flights
Georgia has an extensive domestic air network, with several airlines offering flights to major cities in the state. Delta Air Lines, which is headquartered in Atlanta, offers the most flights to and from Georgia, with routes to cities like Savannah, Augusta, and Albany. Other airlines, such as American Airlines, United Airlines, and Southwest Airlines, also offer flights to several destinations in Georgia. You can book domestic flights online through the airlines' websites or through a travel agency, with prices varying depending on the route and time of year. A one-way flight from Atlanta to Savannah, for example, can cost anywhere from $100 to $300, depending on the airline and time of booking.
Trains & Rail
Georgia's rail network is limited, with only a few routes operating in the state. Amtrak's Crescent and Silver Star/Silver Meteor trains connect Atlanta to other cities in the South, including New Orleans, Birmingham, and Washington, D.C. The Georgia Rail Passenger Program is also working to develop a commuter rail system in the Atlanta area, with plans to connect the city to surrounding suburbs and cities. You can book train tickets online through Amtrak's website or at a train station, with prices varying depending on the route and class of service.
Buses & Coaches
Several bus companies operate in Georgia, offering routes to major cities and towns. Greyhound and Megabus are two popular options, with routes to cities like Atlanta, Savannah, and Augusta. You can book bus tickets online through the companies' websites or at a bus station, with prices varying depending on the route and time of booking. A one-way bus ticket from Atlanta to Savannah, for example, can cost anywhere from $20 to $50, depending on the company and time of booking.
City Transport
| Mode | Available In | Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metro/Subway | Atlanta | $2.50 | MARTA system with several lines and stations |
| City Bus | Atlanta, Savannah, Augusta | $1-2 | Several routes and frequencies, with some cities offering free downtown shuttles |
| Taxi | everywhere | $2-5/km | Available at airports and on the street, with some cities offering fixed rates |
| Ride-Hailing | Atlanta, Savannah, Augusta | $5-15 | Uber and Lyft operate in several cities, with prices varying depending on demand |
| Tuk-tuk/Rickshaw | none | - | Not available in Georgia |
Driving
- To drive in Georgia, you'll need a valid driver's license from your home country or state, as well as car insurance that meets the state's minimum requirements.
- Road conditions in Georgia are generally good, with several major highways connecting the state to neighboring states and cities.
- Fuel costs in Georgia are relatively low, with gas prices averaging around $2-3 per gallon.
- If you plan to rent a car, be sure to book in advance and compare prices among several companies to find the best deal.
- Some hazards to watch out for while driving in Georgia include heavy traffic in Atlanta, construction delays on major highways, and wildlife such as deer and wild boar that can roam onto roads.
- It's also a good idea to be aware of Georgia's traffic laws, including the state's hands-free driving law and the requirement to wear a seatbelt at all times.
Transport Tips
- Be sure to research your transportation options in advance and book tickets or rentals early to avoid sold-out situations or high prices.
- Consider using public transportation or ride-hailing services instead of driving, especially in heavy traffic areas like Atlanta.
- If you plan to drive, make sure your vehicle is in good condition and that you have a valid driver's license and car insurance.
- Be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas like bus stations and airports.
- Download transportation apps like Uber or Lyft to make it easier to get around without a car.
- Consider purchasing a MARTA card or other public transportation pass to save money and make it easier to get around cities like Atlanta.
- Be respectful of local traffic laws and customs, and avoid driving or walking while distracted by your phone or other devices.
- Finally, be prepared for variable weather conditions, including heat and humidity in the summer and cold temperatures in the winter, and plan your transportation accordingly.