This article reviews the many ways to get to the downtown area of Washington, DC from Reagan National Airport (DCA). We examine those options to the DC Metro Rail, shuttle taxis, shuttle services, Uber black car services and rental vehicles with those on the DC Metro Rail.
METRO
The primary advantage of landing in DCA (Reagan National Airport) is the fact that it’s easily located , and it’s within the Metro system’s blue and yellow lines.
You can use either line to DC However, if you’re going towards downtown , you’ll need to use the Yellow line. The yellow line is typically faster.
We’ve put together a comprehensive guide to how to get in your first ride on the Washington DC Metro, which provides instructions on how to purchase Metro Pass. Metro Pass.
Starting from The Reagan National Airport station, there are only four stops along the Yellow Line to get to L’Enfant Plaza. The journey takes about 12 stops before arriving at the same station located on the Blue Line.
Be aware of this If your intention is to get towards one of the station located on the Blue line that extends over L’Enfant Plaza (such as Eastern Market or Stadium Armoury) it is more efficient to travel on the Yellow Line train from the airport to L’Enfant Plaza and then change to the Blue/Orange/Silver.
However, if you’re an errand and carrying loads of baggage particularly during rush hour you should consider the Blue Line train. It’s a bit longer however, you don’t have to to switch trains when you have loads of baggage
Shuttle Service
Most of these are shared services, so the length of time that your journey will be contingent on the order of passengers’ destinations. Certain companies provide direct service for an additional fee.
Taxi
DCA is located just in the middle of Washington DC and just down the road from hotels such as Crystal City or Pentagon City. This is the reason Taxis and Ubers/Lyfts could be relatively inexpensive alternatives. Prices will differ based the taxi you choose to use (both taxis in local DC taxis as well as local Virginia taxis depart from DCA however charge different prices.) Additionally, the exact place you’re traveling to.
Taxi firms might charge an additional airport fee which is around $3. In addition, there may be extra charges for luggage that is transported by taxi drivers. Taxis are accessible at official taxi stands that are located near baggage claims. During busy times, the lines can be extremely long.
There’s no way to get through the line. If you’re traveling together ask them to join the line while you wait to pick up your luggage.
CAR SERVICE TO AND FROM DCA (Reagan National Airport)
If you’re looking for assurance that you’ll be picked-up at the airport on time, and taken to your destination in time a car service to DCA is an excellent choice.
You can make reservations for your flight prior to departure and supply the company with the flight information so that they know when you’ll arrive tardy or early. If you arrive to DCA The driver that you reserved will meet you in the baggage claim area and assist with the baggage.