Tips for Renting a Car at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL)
Looking for a cheap car rental near Atlanta Airport? With Economybookings, you can compare multiple providers to find the best deal across the metro area. Whether you're planning to explore Atlanta’s cultural districts, drive into the North Georgia mountains, or visit nearby cities, a quick comparison helps you save both time and money.
- Book early—rental prices rise during peak travel seasons (summer, holidays, major sporting events, and conventions).
- Valid license required—foreign licenses usually accepted.
- Drive on the right and follow U.S. traffic laws.
- Compact or mid-size vehicles are recommended for navigating Atlanta’s busy streets and high-traffic highways.
- Inspect the car and take photos at pickup and drop-off.
- Renting directly at the airport offers the widest selection and fastest access to Atlanta’s interstate network.
- Ask about toll roads. While Georgia has fewer toll routes than other states, Atlanta-area express lanes operate with electronic-only Peach Pass billing.
Why Rent a Car at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL)
Hartsfield-Jackson is one of the busiest airports in the world, welcoming millions of travelers headed to Downtown Atlanta, Midtown, Buckhead, and wider Georgia. While MARTA rail serves the airport, renting a car offers far more flexibility — especially if you plan to visit suburban attractions, state parks, or destinations outside the central city.
Driving from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) – Getting Started
ATL connects directly to Atlanta’s primary highways, making it easy to start your trip the moment you pick up your rental car. A car is especially helpful for exploring neighborhoods spread across the metro region or venturing into the mountains.
Common routes include:
- I-75/I-85 Connector: Main route through Downtown and Midtown Atlanta.
- I-285 Perimeter: Beltway around the city linking major suburbs.
- I-20: East–west interstate connecting Atlanta to Augusta and Alabama.
- I-75 North: Access to Marietta, Kennesaw, and North Georgia mountain towns.
Atlanta traffic is known to be heavy at nearly all times of day, especially near Downtown and on the I-75/85 Connector. Use GPS for real-time traffic updates and alternate routes.
Explore Atlanta and Beyond from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport
Atlanta is a major cultural hub known for its civil rights history, green parks, iconic filming locations, and vibrant food scene. Thanks to ATL’s central location, the city’s top attractions — along with scenic small towns and mountain landscapes — are all easy to reach by car.
In and around Atlanta:
- Centennial Olympic Park—green space, fountains, and attractions built for the 1996 Olympic Games
- Georgia Aquarium—one of the largest aquariums in the world, known for whale sharks and manta rays
- World of Coca-Cola—museum showcasing the history and global impact of the Coca-Cola brand
- Atlanta BeltLine—multi-use trail connecting parks, markets, restaurants, and public art
- Piedmont Park—Atlanta’s premier urban park with trails, lake views, and skyline backdrops
Recommended day trips and scenic routes:
- Stone Mountain Park—hiking trails, panoramic views, and family attractions
- Athens, Georgia—a college town with live music, dining, and historic architecture
- Lake Lanier—boating, swimming, and lakeside recreation
- Blue Ridge Mountains—north Georgia’s mountain getaway for hiking, waterfalls, and small-town charm
- Macon, Georgia—historic mansions, music history, and southern culture
