Patrick Leahy Burlington International Airport
Burlington, US · 6 km (3.4 nmi; about 4 mi) east of downtown Burlington
Getting to the city
| Mode | Time | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Green Mountain Transit Route 1 Public bus · Published GMT timetable shows roughly every 20–30 min on much of Route 1 during core daytime hours, with reduced evening and weekend frequencies | Airport travelers using Route 12 plus a Route 1 transfer to downtown or University Mall can expect total journeys in the 30–45 min range depending on transfer timing | $2 one‑way regular fare; same GMT fare structure as Route 12 |
| Green Mountain Transit Route 12 Public bus · About every 30–60 min on weekdays with reduced Saturday service; no Sunday service listed in the current GMT Route 12 timetable | Roughly 20–30 min from airport to downtown Burlington depending on time of day and intermediate stops | $2 one‑way regular fare; seniors, youth and certain categories may pay reduced fares according to GMT fare info |
| Hotel Shuttles Courtesy vans · On‑demand rather than fixed frequency; many properties advertise 24‑hour or extended‑hours service but user reviews indicate practical gaps when the driver is busy or off‑duty | In‑car time typically under 10 min to/from nearby airport hotels, with waits commonly 5–20 min depending on call‑ahead and time of day | $0 for guests at hotels that advertise complimentary airport shuttles (included in room rate) |
| Lyft Rideshare · On‑demand with variable wait times; Reddit users describe service as available but not dense like larger metros | Around 10–20 min driving time from BTV to downtown; add 5–15 min for pickup based on local experience | User reports put typical Lyft fares from BTV to central Burlington in the high‑teens to low‑twenties USD when not surging |
Insider notes
Arriving 60–75 minutes before departure usually suffices, outside peak ski weekends, given the small terminal and short lines.
You can pace yourself comfortably with a coffee from Kestrel Coffee, located near the South Terminal gates, with minimal wait times.
Opt for The Skinny Pancake in the North Terminal for authentic local flavors like crepes and craft beer even if you're in a hurry.
Welcome
Patrick Leahy Burlington International Airport (BTV) exudes the charm of a polished New England ski-town depot more than a bustling city hub. This compact and walkable airport is beloved by travelers, particularly Canadian visitors from Montreal, who find it a cheaper and more relaxed alternative for flights and ski trips to Vermont. With its small footprint, you can arrive close to your departure time and still have moments to savor local coffee from Kestrel Coffee in the South Terminal or crepes from The Skinny Pancake in the North Terminal, all without a frantic rush.
At a glance
BTV handles approximately 1.3 million passengers annually with two runways and two terminals: North and South. Located a mere 6 km (roughly 4 miles) east of downtown Burlington, the airport serves as a gateway to the region’s attractions and the nearby Green Mountains. Airlines such as Alaska Airlines, Allegiant Air, and American Airlines operate primarily from the North Terminal, while JetBlue, Sun Country Airlines, and United Airlines utilize the South Terminal.
Terminals & layout
The North Terminal and South Terminal at BTV are designed for efficiency and ease of use. With all key amenities closely situated, passengers appreciate the short walking distances and the convenience of seeing everything at a glance as soon as they clear security checkpoints. This setup contributes to the airport’s reputation for quick and smooth transits, which frequent flyers and reviewers on travel sites repeatedly praise.
Getting to and from the city
You have multiple options to travel between BTV and downtown Burlington. Green Mountain Transit offers bus services on Route 12, taking approximately 20–30 minutes to reach the city for a $2 fare each way. Transfers to Route 1 extend journeys but remain under 45 minutes. Taxis and rideshare options like Uber and Lyft typically complete the trip in 10–20 minutes, with fares reported between $15–25, varying by demand and time of day. Additionally, the airport’s proximity means a rental car can get you downtown or to picturesque spots by Lake Champlain swiftly.
Traveller essentials
Burlington International Airport makes car rentals convenient, with agencies located directly in the terminal near baggage claim, expediting your departure. Parking options are priced uniformly at $14 per day across short stay, long stay, and accessible parking. The convenience extends to amenities such as EV charging stations and official off-site shuttles, ensuring that practical needs are met without fuss.
Dining & shopping highlights
While BTV is not known for extensive dining choices, it does provide a selection that includes The Skinny Pancake, known for its crepes, and The Local Tavern, popular for Vermont craft beers. For a sweet treat, a visit to Ben & Jerry's is a must. Shopping is anchored by outlets like Hudson News Gift Shop and Lake Champlain News & Gifts in the South Terminal, offering regional specialties and travel essentials alike.
Lounges
BTV currently does not offer lounges for travelers, a reflection of its simplicity and efficiency-first focus.
Insider tips
- Insider: Arriving 60–75 minutes before departure usually suffices, outside peak ski weekends, given the small terminal and short lines.
- Time: You can pace yourself comfortably with a coffee from Kestrel Coffee, located near the South Terminal gates, with minimal wait times.
- Local: Opt for The Skinny Pancake in the North Terminal for authentic local flavors like crepes and craft beer even if you're in a hurry.
- Quiet: The public, non-secure side seating area near the check-in windows offers tranquility and a view of Vermont Air National Guard jets.
- Money: Canadian travelers should weigh the benefits of cheaper flights against potential border waiting times and parking costs.
- Watch: Keep an eye out for military jets from the terminal seating area, a unique spectacle mentioned by aviation fans.
- Avoid: If you have dietary restrictions, consider eating before you pass security, as the airside selection is limited and can be crowded.
- Time: A 60–90 minute layover buffer is advisable in case of winter weather delays, maintaining stress-free connections.