How to Get to Denver. Flights, Transportation, Airlines

Air Travel to Denver

Major Airlines & Routes

DEN functions as a key hub for United Airlines and Southwest Airlines. Most other major U.S. Airlines also provide service. Direct flights are available from major cities globally.

Air Carriers

United Airlines and Southwest Airlines have a strong presence.
International carriers include Lufthansa, British Airways, and Air Canada.
Check Dollar Flight Club or Skyscanner for flight deals.

Direct International Flights

Denver offers direct flight connections from numerous international cities, making it accessible for global travelers.

Global Connections

Major cities include London, Frankfurt, Munich, Paris, and Tokyo.
Canadian cities like Montreal, Vancouver, Toronto also have direct routes.
Direct flights also connect from Mexico City, Cancun, Reykjavik, and The Capital of panama.

Seasonal Pricing

Flight prices usually increase during summer (June-August) and high ski season (mid-December to March). Book well in advance for these periods.

Lower Prices

Find lower prices in the shoulder seasons (April-May, September-November) and during early December or late January-February. Traveling then offers better value.

Airport Facilities

DEN has dining, shopping, free Wi-Fi, rental car agencies, pet relief areas, and vast public art. AN inn is attached to the terminal.

Transfer Options from DEN

Public & Shared Transport

RTD A-Line Commuter Train: Direct to Denver Union Station (37 min, $10.50).
Taxis: Available at Jeppesen Terminal Level 5, Island 1. Flat rates to zones.
Ride-sharing (Uber/Lyft): Designated pick-up on Level 6 of Jeppesen Terminal.
Shuttles: Shared-ride and private services drop directly at hotels. Book in advance.

Car Rental Access

All major rental car companies have desks at the airport.
Complimentary shuttle from Jeppesen Terminal (Level 5, Island ALSO four) to the rental facility.
DiscoverCars.com offers affordable rates.
Location: Consolidated Car Rental Facility.

Land Transportation

Train Connections

Amtrak's California Zephyr route stops at Denver Union Station. The Winter Park Express offers seasonal direct service for Winter Park Resort.

Long-Distance Buses

Greyhound and FlixBus operate services to Denver. The main intercity bus terminal is near Denver Union Station, for easy connections.

Self-Driving

Driving to Denver is common. I-70 (east-west) and I-25 (north-south) provide access. A valid U.S. Driver's license or IDP is necessary.

Road Conditions & Safety

City Road Quality

Roads within Denver are generally well-maintained. Navigation is straightforward. Traffic can be congested during rush hours.

Driving in the City

City roads are generally smooth.
Be mindful of traffic congestion during peak times.
Parking is available but can be costly in downtown areas.

Mountain Driving

Driving in the mountains poses challenges, especially in winter. Snow, ice, and steep grades require caution.

Mountain Road Tips

In winter, Snow chains or traction tires might be necessary for mountain passes.
Watch for wildlife on rural roads, notably in the early morning and evening.
Check Cotrip.org for real-time road conditions before driving into the mountains.

Departure Information

Exit Procedures & Timing

No specific exit fees apply beyond standard airline ticket taxes. Plan your airport arrival time carefully.

Departure Guidelines

Domestic Flights: Arrive 1.5-2 hours before departure.
International Flights: Arrive 2.5-3 hours before departure.
Factor in additional time during early mornings, late afternoons, or holidays.

Check-in & Security

Online check-in saves time. Multiple TSA security checkpoints streamare on the sides of the process.

Efficient Departure

Consider checking in online AROUND the clock before your flight.
TSA security checkpoints help expedite the screening process.
Self-service kiosks and airline counters are available for baggage drop.

Airport & Station Facilities

DEN Airport

A wide array of dining and retail options, lounges, and free Wi-Fi post-security.

Union Station

Various restaurants, cafes, and waiting areas for train or bus departure times.

Sea/River Arrivals

Denver is landlocked. Sea or river arrivals are not applicable for commercial passenger transport.

Departure Reminder

Confirm your flight status and terminal information before heading to the airport. Allow extra travel time to DEN, especially during rush hour or if weather conditions are poor.

How to Get to Denver