Option 1: Washington Metro Silver Line Train
- Travel time: 1 hour
- The much needed, recent extension of the Washington Metro’s Silver Line to Washington Dulles International Airport allows for a direct route from Dulles Airport to downtown Washington at L’Enfant Plaza Station – the Metro’s major intermodal hub (every Washington Metro Line converges here except for the Red Line). You can also connect to the commuter rail line Virginia Railway Express. Located just south of the National Mall and walking distance to the Smithsonian and major museums.
- Take the pedestrian tunnel from the Main Terminal towards the Dulles Metro Station (same direction as Parking Garage 1). Look for escalators and elevators with signs indicating where to access the tunnel from the grand Main Terminal.
- If you’re going from Dulles International Airport to Reagan National Airport transfer from the Silver Line to the Yellow Line at L’Enfant Plaza Station to continue towards Dulles Airport. Fare is $2.40 to take the Silver Line. Beware of peak fares during weekdays. You can purchase WMATA’s fare card –SmarTrip for $5.00 to explore the entire region.
- Cheapest
Option 2: Taxi / Rideshare
- Travel time: 45-60 minutes
- Undoubtedly, the most expensive option from our list but the most private. In addition to taxis, Uber and Lyft offer private rideshare services from the airport. If you arrive at rush hour expect to sit in traffic. Expect to pay about $60-80 for a ride. Keep in mind that Washington traffic can become notoriously congested so be prepared for sudden surge pricing.
- For a more private experience consider the Washington Flyer Taxi Service. An on demand, 24 service from Washington Dulles International airport to downtown Washington. Visit theSuper Shuttle page for IAD to book and the official Dulles Airport website estimates a $65-73 cost to travel from IAD to downtown D.C. Keep in mind this is an estimate and heavy traffic will result in a higher fare.