The Buffalo Airport to downtown distance is just 10 miles (16 km), but your travel time varies widely depending on how you choose to travel. You have three options: taxi, Buffalo Airport transfer, or bus. 

Taking a Buffalo Airport taxi or private transfer is the quickest transfer option as it takes just 15-20 minutes to reach the heart of downtown. They’re also available from the airport 24/7.

As for public transportation, the 24 MetroBus from Buffalo Airport to downtown provides a reliable daily service. There are three variations of this service: the No.24L, No.24B, and No. 24X. Taking the bus is a great budget option, but it takes 25-40 minutes to reach downtown.

3 ways to get from Buffalo Airport to Downtown Buffalo

PRICE FOR
OPTION
PRICE
TIME
AVAILABILITY
Welcome Pickups Private Transfer
€69 20min 24/7
Convenience
Book
Taxi
€35 20min 24/7
Convenience
Book
Bus (No.24B)
€3.90 45min 04:40–23:48
Convenience
Read more
Bus (No.24L)
€3.90 30min 07:00–22:00
Convenience
Read more
Bus (No.24X)
€3.90 25min 07:00–09:00
Convenience
Read more
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How to get from Buffalo Airport to Downtown Buffalo by taxi

Taking a Buffalo Airport taxi from BUF Airport to downtown is one of the easiest and quickest ways to travel. Taxis are available 24/7 from outside the terminal building, and the journey time is around 20 minutes.

Buffalo Airport to Downtown Buffalo taxi fare

The average taxi from Buffalo Airport to downtown Buffalo costs around $40 (€35). However, as taxis in Buffalo are part of private companies, we recommend asking for a quote before getting in the cab. Some companies may offer fixed-rate fees for specific journeys, while others calculate their fares based on the distance of the trip. You may also want to enquire about additional charges, such as airport surcharges.

Where do I get a taxi from?

The official taxi stand at Buffalo Airport is on the curbside outside the terminal. You’ll see the line of cabs as soon as you leave the main exits.

Convenience

With a taxi, you can avoid long wait times and trying to figure out how to get to your hotel from the bus stop. Taxis and private transfers are readily available and will set off as soon as you’re ready, taking you directly to your destination and leaving you right outside your hotel.

Useful Tips

Since cabs are privately operated in Buffalo, costs can vary significantly so make sure to ask each company about rates and surcharges before booking your trip.
In most areas of Buffalo, you can’t hail a cab on the street. Instead, you can call one of the private taxi companies and book a car.
In all US states, including Buffalo, you are expected to tip your taxi driver 10-15% of the total fare, assuming that the service was satisfactory.

How to get from Buffalo Airport to Downtown Buffalo by bus (No.24B)

Taking the No.24B Buffalo Airport bus to downtown Buffalo is a great budget-friendly option. It takes around 40 minutes and can drop you off at Washington St & Broadway or at one of the stops on Genesee St. The service runs roughly every 30-50 minutes from around 04:45 to 23:48 during weekdays, with less frequent schedules at the later hours of the night, as well as during weekends or holidays.

How much is the bus from Buffalo Airport to downtown?

A single bus ticket from Buffalo airport to downtown Buffalo costs only $2 (€1.95), and there are several ways that you can purchase your tickets. If you have the exact fare in cash, you can buy a ticket on the bus, or you can use your card to buy it online on the Token Transit app. You can buy a return or one-way ticket, but remember that the one-way ticket is only valid for an hour after you buy it.

Cost
$2 (€1.95)
Trip Duration
40 Min.
There's a waiting time of 30-50 minutes for the bus.
Convenience
Safety
Value for Money

The MetroBus service 24 runs from 04:40-23:48 during the week, with less frequent buses during weekends and holidays.

Where do I get the bus from?

At Buffalo Airport, you can find the bus stop just outside the entrance of the Arrivals Hall.

Convenience

Traveling from Buffalo Airport to downtown by bus is the slowest transportation option. Depending on what time your flight gets in, the bus may or may not be convenient for you. Also, you may have to take another bus or a taxi to reach your hotel from the bus stop, so make sure to plan ahead by looking at how far the closest stop is to your hotel. 

Timetables

MetroBus Route 24

GENESEE TO DOWNTOWN BUFFALO

Useful Tips

If you are buying your ticket on the bus, make sure you have the exact cash ready so as to not cause a delay.
The MetroBus Route 24 has less frequent schedules on weekends and during holidays so make sure you check the official timetable before you travel.
In Buffalo, you board the bus from the front door and exit from the rear door.
You can buy your ticket on the bus if you have the exact change for the fare or you can buy it online using the transit app. If you choose to get a one-way ticket, remember that it is only valid for the first hour after purchase.

How to get from Buffalo Airport to Downtown Buffalo by bus (No. 24L)

The No.24L Buffalo Airport bus to downtown Buffalo is a limited stop service covering the same route as the No. 24B. Because it has fewer stops, the journey only takes 30 minutes in normal traffic. It only runs from 07:00 to 10:00 and 14:00 to 22:00.

How much is a bus from Buffalo Airport to Downtown Buffalo?

The No.24L bus costs $2 (€1.95) per ticket. You can buy your ticket on the bus with cash.

Cost
$2 (€1.95)
Trip Duration
30 Min.
Wait time for the next departure can be up to 50 minutes.
Convenience
Safety
Value for money

This service only runs from 07:00 to 10:00 and 14:00 to 22:00.

Where do I get a bus from?

You can find the airport buses at the stops outside the Arrivals Hall at BUF Airport.

Convenience

Catching the No.24L bus (metro) from Buffalo Airport to downtown is slightly faster than the No.24B service, which makes it more efficient. However, it only runs at limited times during the day. So it may not be available, depending on what time your flight lands.

Timetables

24B Information

Limited Stop Service

Useful Tips

Children under 3 years old travel for free.
You may see the airport buses referred to as the “metro from Buffalo Airport to downtown”.
Luggage space is limited on public buses.

How to get from Buffalo Airport to Downtown Buffalo by bus (No.24X)

The fastest public transportation option from Buffalo Airport to Buffalo is the No.24X bus. It takes just 25 minutes to reach the city center with a limited stop list. However, it only runs for a short period in the morning and evening rush hours.

How much is a bus from Buffalo Airport to Downtown Buffalo?

The cost of a bus ticket to downtown Buffalo is $2 (€1.95) per adult. You can purchase a ticket on the Token Transit app or from the bus driver.

Cost
$2 (€1.95)
Trip Duration
25 Min.
This bus schedule is very limited, so the wait time for the next departure can be up to 5 hours.
Convenience
Safety
Value for money

This service is only available during the morning and evening rush hours on weekdays.

Where do I get a bus from?

You’ll find the No.24X bus departing from the stops outside the Arrivals Hall.

Convenience

Despite its speedy service, the No.24X is the least convenient way to travel to Buffalo, because it’s only available during a short period in the mornings and evenings. Therefore, you’re more likely to catch one of the other buses. Fortunately, the other bus services are relatively regular, departing every 30-50 minutes.

Timetables

24X Bus Timetable

Useful Tips

Passengers over 10 years old are charged at the full adult ticket price.
Public buses are wheelchair accessible in Buffalo, NY.
The 24 metro bus services to Buffalo are subject to seasonal timetable changes. Therefore, we recommend checking the website before you travel.

How to get from Buffalo Airport to Downtown Buffalo by private transfer

Getting a Buffalo Airport transfer from Buffalo Airport to downtown is the best way to travel. Not only do you get the fast door-to-door service, but you also save time by skipping the line at the taxi queue. This can save precious minutes of your journey, especially during rush hour. 

By choosing a trusted, top-rated company like Welcome Pickups, you’ll also benefit from perks like:

  • Meet and greets
  • Trained English-speaking drivers
  • Flight monitoring
  • Guaranteed fixed fares
  • 24/7 customer support
  • Flexible cancellation

If you want a seamless travel experience from the moment you reach Buffalo Airport, booking an airport transfer is the best way to go.

How much is a private transfer from Buffalo Airport to Downtown Buffalo?

A private transfer from Buffalo Airport to Downtown Buffalo costs €69 for a sedan that can seat up to 3 passengers. A minivan that can carry 4-8 passengers costs €78. A minibus ride for 9-12 people will cost €138. 

It’s quick and easy to book via our online portal or mobile app (App Store || Google Play). All you need to do is put in your flight information, personal contact details, party size, and pickup time. We’ll then generate a fixed quote for your trip, which includes all airport fees, tolls, and luggage charges, so there are no hidden costs to pay on the day. If you’re happy with the quote, you can pay securely with a credit or debit card via our online payment system. And that’s it! Your ride is booked and will be waiting for you at your chosen pickup time. What could be easier?

Cost
€69
Trip Duration
20 Min.
*Booking your private transfer from BUF Airport in advance is the best way to ensure a seamless experience.
Convenience
Safety
Value for money

Private transfer are available 24/7 from Buffalo Niagara Airport.

Where do I get a private transfer from?

Your friendly local driver will be waiting for you in the Arrivals Hall, holding a sign with your name on it so you can’t miss them. They’ll be monitoring your flight, so if you’re delayed, they can adjust their pickup time. After welcoming you to Buffalo, they’ll help you with your luggage as they guide you to your handpicked vehicle.

Convenience

The most convenient way to get from Buffalo Airport to downtown Buffalo is to book an airport transfer. You’ll have a seamless introduction to Buffalo with guaranteed on-time pickup, a professionally trained driver, and 24/7 customer support for any questions you may have. You’ll also be offered a hand with your luggage from Baggage Claim and offered a mini-tour of the area along the way by your knowledgeable driver. 

Useful Tips

We allocate an extra 60 minutes of free wait time after landing to give you enough time to get through passport control, customs, and baggage reclaim.
Traveling with a baby or child? You can bring your own car seat or request one during the booking process and input your child's age or weight, and your driver will provide them for you.
Sedans can accommodate up to 3 passengers, minivans up to 7, and minibusses up to 12.
Before your transfer, you will receive an email including your driver's name, contact information, photo, and vehicle information so that you know who to expect on the day.
If you would like to tip your driver, you can do so via the Welcome Pickups app, though it is not required like it would be in a standard taxi.

Buffalo Airport private transfers

Powered by Welcome Pickups. Book a trained, English-speaking driver to pick you up for a fixed price with no hidden fees.
Book Sedan
Sedan

Sedan up to 3 passengers

€59Starting from 19.7 EUR / passenger

Kia Telluride
Book Minivan
Minivan

Minivan up to 7 passengers

€68Starting from 9.7 EUR / passenger

Toyota Sienna, Chrysler Pacifica, Nissan Pathfinder
Book Minibus
Minibus

Minibus up to 12 passengers

€118Starting from 9.8 EUR / passenger

Frequently asked questions

How do I get to downtown Buffalo from the airport?

You can get from Buffalo Airport to downtown Buffalo by taxi, private transfer, or bus. A Buffalo Airport taxi or transfer is the fastest way to get to your destination, with the average ride being only 20 minutes for an estimated cost of $40 (€35). There are  METRO Bus Service 24 is slower, taking about 40 minutes to get to downtown Buffalo, but it is the most budget-friendly option, with a single ticket priced at just $2 (€1.50). There are three different No.24 bus services operating at different times of day.

How much is a taxi from Buffalo Airport to downtown?

Does Buffalo Airport have shuttle service?

How far is the airport from downtown Buffalo?

Olivia De Santos

Olivia De Santos is a seasoned travel writer and adventurer with bylines in Lonely Planet and A Way Abroad. With over ten years of professional writing experience and a degree in Linguistics, she blends cultural insight and personal storytelling to help travelers see the world in a new light.

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Transfer Options in Buffalo