How to Get from DCA to Arlington VA – Cheap to VIP

Last Updated July 19, 2025

Landing at Reagan National Airport and heading into Arlington? Whether you’re staying in busy Crystal City, Rosslyn, or Pentagon City, this guide has you covered. It covers everything from the cheapest ride to convenient premium options, so your travel matches your needs—no matter your budget or schedule.

Quick Overview of Your Options

Option	Time	Cost	Best For
Metro (Blue/Yellow)	~6–12 min	$1–3	Budget-conscious travelers
DCAcar (Private Car)	~8–15 min	$95–120	Travelers who want reliability and comfort
WMATA Bus (13F/13G)	~15–20 min	$2–4	Those near the Pentagon or federal workers
Taxi / UberX / Lyft	~8–12 min	$30–60	Reliable, door-to-door
Uber Black / Lyft Lux	~8–12 min	$30–65	Upscale yet flexible
Shared Shuttle	~10–15 min	$20–45	Moderate-budget, less urgent trips

1. Metro (Blue or Yellow Line) – Cheapest & Fastest

Just steps from baggage claim, the airport’s Metro station connects directly to Arlington. Trains run every 5 minutes during peak hours, and it only takes about 6 minutes to reach Pentagon City or Crystal City for around $1–3. Add a short walk or Uber from there, and you're in Arlington in under 20 minutes total. Affordable, predictable, and ideal for travelers comfortable with light public transit.

2. DCAcar (Private Car Service) – Seamless and Professional

If you prefer door-to-door convenience, professional chauffeurs, and zero surprises, DCAcar is your go-to. Pre-book a premium sedan or SUV, and your driver will meet you inside the terminal with a sign, assist with luggage, and transport you directly to your Arlington destination. The service is ideal for travelers with tight schedules, heavy luggage, or a preference for privacy.

Expect a ride time of 8–15 minutes depending on traffic. Rates are flat and transparent—typically $75–110 depending on the vehicle. Whether you’re heading to a hotel, business meeting, or a long-term stay, DCAcar offers a polished, comfortable experience that stands out from rideshares.

3. WMATA Bus (13F / 13G) – Direct & Friendly

If your destination is near the Pentagon or in Arlington Ridge, the Metrobus routes 13F and 13G offer direct service. Buses depart from Terminal B and C and cost about $2–4. The ride takes approximately 15–20 minutes depending on traffic. A solid budget option when staying in bus-served neighborhoods.

4. Taxi / UberX / Lyft – Balanced Convenience

Cabs queue curbside, and rideshare pickups are clearly marked. A typical trip to central Arlington takes 8–12 minutes and costs between $20–30. With convenience, reliability, and affordability in mind, this is the go-to choice for solo travelers and small groups seeking a balance between cost and ease.

5. Uber Black / Lyft Lux – Elevated, Not Extravagant

Prefer a polished ride but don't need to pre-book a private car? Premium rideshares offer luxury sedans with top-rated drivers for around $30–45. It’s upscale, flexible, and still app-based—perfect for travelers who want a smoother ride without planning ahead.

6. Shared Shuttle – Middle-Ground Comfort

Shared shuttles (like SuperShuttle) pick up at baggage claim and drop off at your hotel. Expect a 10–15 minute ride, often with a few stops, for about $20–45. It’s a good compromise between individual rides and public transit—cheaper than taxis, but still door-to-door.

Which Option Is Right for You?

On a tight budget? → Take the Metro or WMATA bus. Quick, reliable, and cheap.
Looking for comfort without booking ahead? → Try UberX/Lyft or a cab.
Want a smoother upscale ride? → Go for Uber Black/Lyft Lux.
Need guaranteed comfort and reliability? → Book DCAcar for a private car experience.
Traveling with family or suitcases? → A shared shuttle fits well.

Undercover Tips for Arlington Travelers

Metro’s Blue/Yellow lines run between Reagan and Pentagon City every 5 minutes.
Metrobus routes 13F & 13G serve Pentagon and Fort Myer neighborhoods from Terminals B-C.
Ride-shares and taxis may take a few minutes longer during morning and evening rush hours.
Use contactless SmarTrip for faster Metro access—no need to buy a paper ticket.
Hotel zones in Pentagon City and Rosslyn have dedicated pickup areas for easier ride-share access.

FAQ: What Arlington Travelers Want to Know

How far is Arlington from DCA?
About 1–2 miles to central neighborhoods; farther out areas like Rosslyn and Pentagon City are 4–5 miles.

How long is the Metro ride?
Expect 6–12 minutes from platform to any major Arlington stop—Crystal City, Pentagon, Rosslyn.

Can I book a ride in advance?
Yes! Private car services like DCAcar and Uber Reserve/Black can be reserved days in advance.

Are shared shuttles reliable?
Yes, but departures wait for all passengers—your ride may take a bit longer than an express trip.

When should I avoid public transit?
During peak weekday rush hours (7–9 a.m., 4–7 p.m.) when buses and trains get crowded.

Where do I board the Metro at DCA?
The station connects directly at Terminal 2; from Terminal 1, take the yellow shuttle to Terminal 2.

Final Word

Getting from Reagan National Airport to Arlington is fast, easy, and customizable to your travel style. From wallet-friendly Metro rides to white-glove car service with DCAcar, there’s a perfect option for every traveler. Choose what fits your needs—and let your Arlington experience start the moment you land.