If you’re choosing which airport to fly into, it’s hard to beat one with cheap, quick and easy access to the city using airport public transport. Here are five of the world’s best airports for easy access to the city using airport public transport.
In addition to a quick trip into town, you’ll also enjoy bonus extras like free transport to and from the airport for kids under 15. Some of airports below also offer additional services such as bag check at a CBD train station up to 24 hours before your flight at no extra charge.
Heathrow Airport, United Kingdom
With a journey time of 15 minutes between the airport and Paddington station, the Heathrow Express will have you checking out London’s famous sights in no time. Buying tickets online can bring the fare down to just £5.50 one way when you are travelling to and from Heathrow.
Brisbane Airport, Australia
Step off your flight and onto the Airtrain which takes 20 minutes to reach the CBD. From there, you can catch connecting train services to other Queensland destinations such as the Gold Coast or even Cairns. Kids aged under 15 travel free with a paying adult.
Hong Kong International Airport, Hong Kong
It takes 24 minutes to reach central Hong Kong on the Airport Express train service. A free shuttle bus takes passengers from the station to most major hotels. When it is time to fly home, check in opens at the station from 90 minutes to 24 hours before the flight. Check in for your flight, drop off your suitcase and enjoy a day out in Hong Kong instead of sitting around at the airport.
Paris Charles De Gaulle Airport, France
The RER train network travels from the airport to major train and metro stations in Paris. Once you arrive at a central Paris station such as Gare du Nord, it is easy to catch the metro to a stop that is close to your hotel.
San Francisco International Airport, United States
It is just 30 minutes to downtown San Francisco on the BART train. Trains run every 15 minutes and cost less than $10 one way.
Disclosure: The writer is a fan of using public transport to get to and from the airport. She tries to time her flights to arrive and depart during daylight hours or in the early evening when it’s easier (and safer) to take the bus or train.
Want more tips that save time, money and your sanity when you’re flying or at the airport? Check out our suggestions for how to pass the time at an airport with kids, how to access airline lounges (even if you’re not a member), and how to make the most of a stopover.
