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Getting There & Away

Getting There & Away

Vermont, USA

Air Travel

Airport Hubs

Burlington International Airport (BTV) serves as the main airport for the Champlain Valley and northern Vermont. Located in South Burlington, it sits approximately 3 miles east of downtown Burlington, making local access straightforward.

Other Nearby Airports

  • Albany International Airport (ALB), NY: 3-hour drive.
  • Montreal-Trudeau (YUL), QC, Canada: 2-hour drive, requires border crossing.
  • Boston Logan (BOS), MA: 3.5-4 hour drive.

Flight Options

Burlington International Airport (BTV) is served by several major U.S. Airlines, with direct flights to various domestic hubs. No direct international flights from major global hubs operate into BTV. International travelers typically connect through major U.S. Hubs.

Direct Routes & Services

  • Typical routes to BTV: Atlanta, Boston, Charlotte, Chicago, Denver (seasonal), Detroit, New York (JFK/LGA/EWR), Orlando (seasonal), Philadelphia, Washington D.C.
  • High season (summer, fall foliage, winter holidays) sees increased demand and higher prices.
  • BTV Airport: Rental car counters, dining, retail, free Wi-Fi, ATMs, parking.

Burlington International Airport BTV

Main airport for Champlain Valley. Located 3 miles east of downtown Burlington, with convenient access to the region. Served by major U.S. Airlines.

Albany International Airport ALB

Approximately a 3-hour drive south of Burlington. This airport holds more flight options, especially from southern U.S. Cities.

Montreal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau YUL

Approximately a 2-hour drive north of Burlington. Wide range of international flights. This airport calls for an international border crossing.

Transfer Options from BTV

Taxi & Ride-Share

  • Taxis and ride-shares (Uber/Lyft) readily available.
  • Approximately 10-15 minutes to downtown Burlington.
  • Costs typically $15-$25.
  • Some local hotels have complimentary airport shuttle.

Public Transit & Rentals

  • Green Mountain Transit (GMT) Route 11 connects to downtown.
  • Fares typically $1.50-$2.00.
  • Service frequency varies by time of day/week.
  • Rental car recommended for exploring beyond Burlington, available on-site.

Flight Price Fluctuations

High Season

Summer, Fall Foliage, Winter holidays/ski season. Expect increased demand and higher prices. Flights book quickly, especially for peak fall foliage. Booking in advance is .

Shoulder Season

Spring (April-June, excluding late June) and Late Fall (Late October-November). Generally lower prices and more availability during these times.

Low Season

Mid-week Winter (non-holiday). Lower prices and fewer crowds. Some seasonal routes reduce or pause during quieter months.

Land Transportation

Train & Bus Services

Amtrak's "Vermonter" line connects St. Albans (north of Burlington) to Washington D.C., stopping at Essex Junction, a 15-minute drive from downtown Burlington. Taxis and ride-shares at the station complete your journey.

Train Connections

  • Amtrak's "Vermonter" line.
  • Essex Junction (ESX) Station: Closest to Burlington.
  • Booking in advance for peak travel periods.

Bus Travel

Greyhound bus service to Burlington from major cities like Boston, New York City, and Montreal. The bus station is near downtown Burlington. Vermont Translines holds routes within Vermont and connects to larger transportation hubs.

Long-Distance Buses

  • Greyhound service to Burlington from major cities.
  • Bus station near downtown Burlington.
  • Vermont Translines for routes within Vermont.

Border Crossing

The Champlain Valley sits close to the Canadian border, approximately 45-60 minutes north of Burlington. Major crossings include Highgate Springs, VT / Philipsburg, QC and Derby Line, VT / Stanstead, QC.

Canada-U.S. Border

  • U.S. And Canadian citizens generally passport.
  • Other nationalities appropriate visas for both countries.
  • Expect variable wait times, especially during peak travel times.

Self-Driving

You need a valid U.S. Driver's license or an International Driving Permit (IDP) with your valid foreign driver's license. The minimum age for rental cars is typically 21, with surcharges often applying for renters under 25.

Driving Considerations

  • Valid U.S. License or IDP with foreign license.
  • Major interstates well-maintained; secondary roads winding.
  • GPS useful, but physical maps serve as good backup in rural areas.

Road Conditions & Safety Concerns

  • Rural/Unpaved Roads: Rough, especially during "mud season."
  • Winter Driving: Readiness for snow and ice from November to April.
  • Wildlife: Deer, moose on roads, especially dawn/dusk. Drive defensively.
  • Four-wheel drive or all-wheel drive vehicles recommended for winter.
  • Road conditions change quickly in rural areas.
  • Be prepared to stop suddenly for wildlife.

Sea/River Arrivals

Lake Champlain Ferries

Lake Champlain Ferries operate year-round, with seasonal schedule variations. These connect Vermont to New York across Lake Champlain, presenting a scenic and convenient way to cross the lake. No major ocean cruise ports are located in the Champlain Valley.

Ferry Routes

  • Burlington, VT to Port Kent, NY (seasonal, car and passenger).
  • Grand Isle, VT to Plattsburgh, NY (year-round, car and passenger).
  • Charlotte, VT to Essex, NY (year-round, car and passenger).

River Transportation & Immigration

No significant river transportation options exist for arrival or departure in the Champlain Valley for passengers; local rivers are mainly for recreation. For international visitors arriving by sea (e.g., private boat from Canada), standard U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) procedures apply. You must report your arrival to CBP.

Immigration & Connections

  • Standard CBP procedures for international sea arrivals.
  • Contact CBP directly for private vessel arrival requirements.
  • Ferry terminals have limited public transport; personal vehicle or taxi necessary for onward travel.

Burlington Terminal

Seasonal car and passenger ferry route connects Burlington, VT to Port Kent, NY, scenic views.

Grand Isle Terminal

Year-round car and passenger ferry route links Grand Isle, VT to Plattsburgh, NY.

Charlotte Terminal

Year-round car and passenger ferry route operates between Charlotte, VT and Essex, NY.

Departure Information

Departure Checklist

No specific exit fees or taxes apply when departing from Vermont for domestic or international travelers. Airfare may include various federal taxes and fees, typically built into the ticket price.

Exit Formalities

  • No specific exit fees/taxes from Vermont.
  • Reconfirm flight/train/bus schedule 24-48 hours prior.
  • Arrive at BTV: 90 mins domestic, 2 hours international connections.

Station Amenities

Getting from Burlington International Airport (BTV) to downtown Burlington or your accommodation is straightforward. BTV airport has standard services for travelers. Amtrak and bus stations have more limited amenities.

Airport & Stations

  • BTV: Check-in, security, gates, restrooms, shops, cafes, free Wi-Fi.
  • Amtrak/Bus Stations: Waiting areas, restrooms.
  • Ferry: Arrive 15-30 mins prior, especially with vehicle.

Departure Reminder

Reconfirm your flight, train, or bus schedule 24-48 hours before departure. This keeps you informed about any delays or changes.