St. Augustine, the oldest city in the United States, is a charming destination that combines history, culture, and beautiful scenery. To make the most of your visit, it’s essential to know the transportation options available. In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to get around efficiently and comfortably, whether you’re using public transportation, renting a car, or choosing sustainable alternatives.
How to get around the city
St. Augustine offers a variety of transportation options for locals and tourists alike. From local buses to ride-sharing services, there are options for every type of traveler.
Public Transportation Options in St. Augustine
Public transport in the city is operated by Sunshine Bus Company, which serves several areas of St. Augustine and St. Johns County.
📌 Useful information about buses:
- Rate: About US$ 1 per trip.
- Main routes: They connect the historic center to neighborhoods and tourist attractions.
- Schedules: They operate on reduced hours, so check the official website for planning.
For those looking for an economical option, buses are an excellent alternative, especially for traveling within the city.
Car rental and where to park
Renting a car can be a great option to explore St. Augustine and neighboring cities with more freedom.
🚗 Where to rent cars:
- Enterprise Rent-A-Car
- Hertz
- notice
🅿️ Parking in St. Augustine:
- Historic Downtown Parking Facility – Main parking for tourists, US$ 15 per day.
- Parking meters – Charge between US$ 2 and US$ 3 per hour.
- free parking – Available in some shopping malls and establishments outside the city center.
If you plan to drive, avoid rush hour, as traffic in the historic center can be intense.
Taxis and ride-sharing services (Uber and Lyft)
Taxis are less common in the city, but are available in some areas. However, Uber and Lyft are the most practical and affordable options.
💰 Average price:
- Races within the city: Between US$ 8 and US$ 15.
- Travel to Jacksonville: About US$ 60 to US$ 80.
Tip: To save money, avoid peak times or use promotional coupons from platforms.
Free transportation and tourist shuttles
If you're looking for affordable transportation, some free and paid options can make getting around easier.
🚎 Old Town Trolley Shuttle:
- Free service that connects parking lots to the historic center.
- Ideal for tourists who want to explore the attractions without worrying about parking.
🚎 Tourist Train Shuttle:
- A paid but affordable tourist train that runs through the city's main points.
If you are staying in a hotel, check for free transportation for guests, as many offer this service.
Alternative and sustainable transport
For those who want to explore St. Augustine in an eco-friendly and practical way, there are great sustainable transportation options.
Bicycle and scooter rental
🚴 Where to rent bikes:
- St. Augustine Bike Rentals – Offers traditional and electric bicycles.
- Drifters Bike Shop – Affordable option for long-term rental.
🛴 Scooter rental:
- Some hotels and shops offer electric scooters for rent by the hour.
Riding a bike or scooter is a fun and sustainable way to get around the city, especially in tourist areas.
Hiking in St. Augustine – Best Routes
St. Augustine is a compact city that is ideal for exploring on foot. Walking around downtown allows you to discover historical details and make the most of the pleasant weather.
👣 Recommended routes:
- St. George Street – Famous street with shops, cafes and museums.
- Bridge of Lions – Offers an incredible view of Matanzas Bay.
- Castillo de San Marcos – Unmissable tour of one of the city’s historic landmarks.
Travel from St. Augustine to other cities
If you want to visit other cities in Florida, there are several transportation options to make your journey easier.
How to get from St. Augustine to Orlando, Jacksonville and Miami
🚗 By car:
- Orlando: 1h30 trip via I-95 and I-4.
- Jacksonville: 40 minutes by car via I-95.
- Miami: 5h30 trip via I-95.
🚌 By bus:
- Companies like Greyhound and RedCoach offer routes between St. Augustine and other cities.
- Tickets cost between US$ 15 and US$ 60, depending on the distance.
🚆 By train:
- The station Amtrak The closest one is in Palatka, 40 minutes from St. Augustine, offering connections to several cities.
Transport options to the nearest airport
The nearest airport is Jacksonville International Airport (JAX), located about 55 miles from St. Augustine.
✈️ How to get to the airport:
- By rental car – Most comfortable option.
- By Uber or Lyft – It costs between US$ 80 and US$ 100.
- By bus + train – Cheaper, but takes about 2 to 3 hours.
If your flight leaves early, consider staying overnight in a hotel near the airport to avoid any unforeseen events.
Conclusion
With so many transportation options, traveling around St. Augustine can be easy and affordable for everyone. If you’re looking for convenience, you can opt for a rental car or Uber. For those looking to save money, the free buses and shuttles are great options. Travelers who prefer a more sustainable experience can explore the city by bike or on foot.
Now that you know How to get around St. Augustine, Florida, enjoy your trip and explore this historic city in the best way possible! 🚖🚲🚍