Great Lakes, USA
CVG is the main airport for Cincinnati. Though named "Northern Kentucky," CVG sits in Hebron, Kentucky, about 13 miles (21 kilometers) southwest of downtown Cincinnati. Its location makes it accessible from both sides of the metropolitan area. CVG serves as a regional hub with significant passenger traffic.
Direct international flights to CVG are few, mostly to Toronto, Canada, and Cancun, Mexico. Most international travelers connect through a major U.S. Gateway airport (e.g., Atlanta, Chicago, New York). Plan for enough time for customs and baggage re-check if you have a tight connection. Flight prices fluctuate seasonally, with peaks in summer and holidays.
Route 2X, the "Airporter," gives affordable bus service from CVG to downtown Cincinnati and Covington, Kentucky. Fare is $1.50 (exact cash or Cincy EZRide app). About 20-30 minutes travel time.
Taxis are outside baggage claim, typically costing $30-$40 to downtown. Uber and Lyft operate with designated pick-up areas, fares usually $25-$35.
If you plan extensive exploration beyond the city center, renting a car directly from CVG is a good choice. Major agencies have counters at the airport; shuttles transport customers to the car rental facility.
Cincinnati is well-served by Interstates I-71, I-75, and I-74, making road travel straightforward. A valid driver's license (or IDP for non-English licenses) is needed. Rent cars via DiscoverCars.com.
Ohio roads are generally well-maintained. Traffic is heavy during peak rush hours (7-9 AM, 4-6 PM weekdays) and on bridges. Winter weather brings snow and ice.
Paid parking garages ($10-$25/day) are in downtown and Over-the-Rhine. Metered street parking has time limits. Major routes into Cincinnati are typically not tolled.
Cincinnati has no major ferry services for long-distance travel. It also does not serve as a port for ocean-going cruise ships. The Ohio River is navigable, but commercial passenger ferries for intercity travel are not a feature of the area.
There are no international seaports in Cincinnati. All international arrivals happen via air or land border crossings. Therefore, specific immigration procedures at seaports do not apply to this destination.
The United States does not levy specific exit fees or taxes upon departure from Cincinnati or any other U.S. City. Any necessary taxes and fees with air travel typically reside in your airline ticket price.
Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG) offers a range of amenities after security. Cincinnati Union Terminal (Amtrak) provides limited facilities for departing train travelers compared to the airport, though it is a historic landmark.
Check in online for your flight and obtain your boarding pass digitally before arriving at CVG. This can save time, especially without checked luggage.
Check your airline's recommendations and the CVG website for real-time security wait times. Security lines lengthen during peak travel periods.
Amtrak at Union Terminal offers restrooms and waiting areas. Dining options are generally outside the immediate Amtrak waiting area.
Confirm your flight or train schedule. Have all necessary travel documents ready. Enjoy your departure from Cincinnati!
