Charlotte The South, USA Travel Guide
CLT is a major hub, serving as a main gateway to Charlotte and the Carolinas. It hosts numerous domestic and international flights.
CLT has direct connections to major U.S. Cities and some international destinations.
Flight prices vary by season; booking in advance generally results in better fares.
Review airline baggage policies to avoid unexpected fees.
Charlotte has an Amtrak station (CLT), offering rail service to New York City via Washington D.C., and a route to Raleigh. It is located just north of Uptown.
Intercity bus services offer connections to Charlotte from various cities across the U.S. The bus terminal is located near Uptown.
Charlotte is accessible via major interstates I-77 and I-85, connecting it to points north, south, east, and west.
Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) offers bus and light rail services connecting various parts of the city.
Uber and Lyft are widely available throughout Charlotte and offer convenient door-to-door service.
Charlotte's city center and several neighborhoods are pedestrian and bike-friendly.
A rental car provides the most flexibility for exploring Charlotte and its surrounding areas, especially if you plan day trips.
Approx. 2.5-3 hours by car. Direct Amtrak train service also connects the two cities.
Approx. 2 hours by car. No direct train service.
Approx. 3.5-4 hours by car. Direct intercity bus service available. Amtrak involves a transfer.
Approx. 1.5-2 hours by car. Shortest drive from a state capital.
Approx. 1.5-2 hours by car. Straightforward drive via I-85 N.
Consider renting a car if your itinerary spans beyond Uptown and public transit routes, or if you prefer flexibility for day trips.
For exploring central Charlotte, public transit offers a cost-effective and environmentally mindful choice.
Reconfirm flight times and gate information 24-48 hours before departure.
Arrive at CLT at least 2 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours for international flights.
Weigh luggage to avoid overweight fees; ensure all liquids comply with TSA regulations.
Consider traffic patterns when planning travel to Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT), especially during weekday rush hours.