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Air Travel

Air Travel

Virginia, USA

Major Airports Serving Alexandria

Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport DCA

The closest airport, located in Arlington, Virginia, just across the Potomac River from Alexandria. Approximately 4 miles (6.4 km) from Old Town Alexandria. Direct Metrorail access. Mainly domestic flights and some short-haul international flights.

DCA at a Glance

  • Closest airport, 4 miles from Old Town.
  • Direct Metrorail access (Blue and Yellow lines).
  • Mainly domestic and short-haul international.

Dulles International Airport IAD

Situated in Dulles, Virginia, approximately 29 miles (47 km) west of Alexandria. IAD is a major international gateway, offering numerous long-haul flights. It connects to the Metrorail Silver Line.

IAD at a Glance

  • Major international gateway, 29 miles west.
  • Metrorail Silver Line connection.
  • Wide range of international destinations.

Airlines & Routes

All major U.S. Airlines, including American, Delta, United, and Southwest, operate flights to these airports.

Price Fluctuations

Flight prices generally increase during peak travel seasons (spring and fall) and holidays. Book flights in advance for better rates. Check Dollar Flight Club for deals or Skyscanner for comparisons.

Airport Facilities

All three airports offer comprehensive facilities: dining, retail (duty-free), car rental, and ground transport. Free Wi-Fi is standard.

Transfer Options from Airports

From DCA to Alexandria

  • Metro: Blue and Yellow lines directly connect to King Street-Old Town station.
  • Taxi/Rideshare: Readily available. Taxi to Old Town is approximately $15-$20.
  • Hotel Shuttles: Some hotels offer complimentary services.
  • DiscoverCars.com for rentals.

From IAD & BWI to Alexandria

  • IAD Metro: Silver Line connects directly to the airport terminal.
  • BWI Train: Amtrak and MARC connect to Washington Union Station, then Metro to Alexandria.
  • Taxi/Rideshare: Available from both airports.
  • AirHelp for flight compensation.

Departure Preparation

Exit Fees

No specific exit fees or taxes for departing travelers from the U.S. Any taxes are usually in your airline ticket price.

Departure Timing

Domestic (DCA): Arrive 2 hours prior. International (IAD/BWI): Arrive 3 hours prior. Check with your airline for specific recommendations.

Airport Facilities

Departure areas offer dining, retail, restrooms, and waiting areas. Lounges are available for eligible passengers.

Land Transportation

Train Connections

Alexandria offers convenient land connections for travelers arriving by train. The city is a stop for Amtrak and Virginia Railway Express (VRE).

Rail Services

  • Amtrak: Alexandria Union Station (ALX) is a major stop on the Northeast Corridor.
  • Virginia Railway Express (VRE): Commuter rail service connects Northern Virginia and D.C.
  • VRE mainly operates during weekday rush hours.

Long-Distance Bus Options

Long-distance bus services are available, connecting Alexandria to wider regions.

Bus Services

  • Greyhound: Service to Washington D.C.'s Union Station.
  • From Union Station, connect to Alexandria via Metrorail.
  • Local bus systems: DASH bus connects Alexandria to surrounding areas.

Self-Driving Considerations

Alexandria is easily accessible by major interstate highways, including I-95, I-395, and U.S. Route 1.

Driving Information

  • Vehicle Requirements: Properly registered and insured vehicle.
  • Rental Car: Valid driver's license (IDP may be needed), major credit card.
  • Minimum Age: Usually 21 for car rental, with surcharges for under 25.

Road Conditions and Parking

Roads in and around Alexandria are generally well-maintained. Traffic is often heavy, especially during weekday rush hours (6-9 AM and 4-7 PM) on I-95/I-395 and within the D.C. Area.

Traffic and Parking Tips

  • Traffic: Allow extra travel time during rush hours.
  • Parking: Challenging and expensive in Old Town. Metered street parking and garages available.
  • Public Transit: Consider using public transportation for Old Town exploration.

Driving Laws and Safety

  • Drive on the right side of the road.
  • Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants.
  • Obey traffic lights and signs.
  • Local emergency services are available.
  • Be aware of traffic during peak hours.
  • Parking can be challenging, plan ahead.

Sea/River Arrivals

Ferry Services & Cruise Ports

Alexandria does not have major international ferry services or cruise ports for arrivals as a main mode of entry into the United States. Large cruise ships typically dock in larger ports like Baltimore or New York.

International Sea Travel

  • No major international ferry or cruise services to Alexandria.
  • Cruise ships dock at larger ports (Baltimore, New York).
  • Immigration procedures are not applicable at Alexandria's waterfront.

River Transportation Options

River transportation serves as a popular local transit and sightseeing option.

Local Water Travel

  • Water Taxis: Operate seasonally (spring through fall) on the Potomac River.
  • Connections: Old Town Alexandria to National Harbor (MD) and The Wharf (D.C.).
  • Sightseeing Cruises: Various companies offer tours of the Potomac and D.C. Monuments.

Waterfront Access

Water taxis dock at Old Town Alexandria waterfront. Easy walking access to King Street, Torpedo Factory, and attractions.

Land Connections

From the waterfront, connect to local DASH buses or the free King Street Trolley to Metrorail station.

Seasonal Operation

River transport options are typically seasonal. Check schedules for warmer months.

Departure Information

Exit Fees & Procedures

The United States has no specific exit fees or taxes for departing travelers. Any taxes or fees related to air travel are typically included in your airline ticket price.

Departure Guidelines

  • Airports: Domestic (DCA), arrive 2 hours prior. International (IAD/BWI), arrive 3 hours prior.
  • Train/Bus Stations: Arrive 30-45 minutes before departure.
  • Check with your airline for specific recommendations.

Airport/Station Facilities

Departure areas at airports and train stations offer a range of facilities similar to arrival areas.

Available Amenities

  • Dining options.
  • Retail shops.
  • Restrooms and comfortable waiting areas.

Traveler Tips

Check Flight Status

Check your flight status and airport security wait times online before heading to the airport.

Adjust Timing

This helps you adjust your departure timing accordingly.

Airline Recommendations

Adhere to specific airline guidance for check-in and boarding times.