Franklin, Tennessee, is one of the most popular destinations just outside Nashville. Known for its historic downtown, local restaurants, boutique shopping, music venues, and charming neighborhoods, Franklin offers a quieter alternative to staying in the center of Nashville.
If you are flying into Nashville International Airport (BNA), you do not necessarily need to rent a car to reach Franklin. Several transportation options can take you from the airport to your destination, including rideshare services, taxis, public transportation, and airport shuttles.
Franklin is approximately 23 miles south of BNA, and the drive generally takes around 30–35 minutes when traffic is moving normally. Traffic along I-65 can increase the journey time, particularly during weekday rush hours and busy travel periods.
Nashville International Airport is the main airport serving the Nashville area. From BNA, Franklin is located south along the I-65 corridor, making it a relatively straightforward airport transfer.
The actual travel time depends on where you are staying in Franklin. Downtown Franklin, Cool Springs, neighborhoods near I-65, and hotels farther south can all have slightly different journey times.
For that reason, it is useful to consider both your destination and your arrival time when deciding how to travel from BNA.
Uber and Lyft are popular choices for travelers who want a direct trip after landing. You can request a vehicle through an app and travel directly from the airport to your hotel, home, office, or other destination in Franklin.
The biggest advantage is flexibility. You can arrange a ride based on your arrival time rather than following a fixed public transportation schedule.
However, rideshare pricing can change depending on demand. Airport traffic, concerts, sporting events, bad weather, and peak travel periods can all affect fares and wait times. Travelers with multiple bags or larger groups should also check vehicle availability before confirming a ride.
Taxis provide another direct option from Nashville Airport to Franklin. They can be convenient for travelers who prefer to arrange transportation after landing instead of using a mobile app.
A taxi can take you directly to your destination, which eliminates the need to transfer between services. However, the final cost can depend on traffic, route, and other factors.
For solo travelers or couples with limited luggage, a standard taxi may be sufficient. Larger groups should consider whether they need a bigger vehicle.
Public transportation can be an economical choice for travelers who have extra time and do not mind making connections.
The Nashville area has public transportation options connecting BNA with destinations around the region. Travelers heading toward Franklin may need to combine airport transportation with local service to reach their final destination.
This can make public transit less convenient than a direct vehicle, especially if you are arriving with several suitcases. It is also important to check schedules before traveling because service frequency and operating times can affect the total journey.
For budget-conscious travelers with flexible schedules, however, public transportation can still be worth considering.
An airport shuttle can be a useful middle ground between public transportation and arranging a last-minute rideshare. You can plan your airport transfer ahead of time and select a vehicle based on your group size and luggage needs.
Prime Time Shuttle provides a dedicated BNA to Franklin, TN transportation service with shared and private transportation options. The current service page lists shared shuttle vans, private sedans, SUVs, private vans, Tesla rides, and luxury black car service.
The page currently lists shared shuttle service starting at $28 per person, private sedans from $50, SUVs from $75, private vans from $100, Tesla rides from $95, and luxury black car service from $120.
Having multiple vehicle choices can be particularly helpful for families, business travelers, couples, and groups traveling with additional luggage.
There is no single best way to travel from BNA to Franklin. Your choice depends on your budget, schedule, group size, and preference for convenience.
| Transportation | Best For | Main Consideration |
|---|---|---|
| Rideshare | Flexible travelers | Pricing can vary with demand |
| Taxi | Direct airport transportation | Cost may vary |
| Public transportation | Budget-conscious travelers | May require connections |
| Airport shuttle | Planned airport-to-destination travel | Advance booking is useful |
If your main priority is keeping transportation costs low, public transportation may be worth exploring.
If you want flexibility after landing, a rideshare or taxi can be convenient.
If you prefer to have transportation arranged before your flight, an airport shuttle can provide a more organized arrival experience.
Your final destination in Franklin is one of the most important factors to consider. Downtown Franklin and Cool Springs are both popular areas, but they are not the same distance from the airport.
Luggage should also influence your decision. A solo traveler with one small bag has different transportation needs than a family carrying several suitcases.
Arrival time matters as well. Nashville traffic can become heavier during weekday mornings and afternoons, while concerts, sporting events, holidays, and major local events can create additional congestion.
If your schedule is tight, allow extra time instead of planning around the shortest possible drive.
A rental car can provide flexibility, but it also comes with additional responsibilities. You have to complete the rental process, navigate an unfamiliar area, pay for fuel, and potentially deal with parking at your hotel or destination.
For visitors who are staying in Franklin and do not plan to explore areas that require a car, arranging transportation when needed can be simpler.
It can also be a good option for travelers who prefer not to drive immediately after a flight. Instead of focusing on directions and traffic, you can use the journey to Franklin to settle in after your arrival.
Getting from Nashville Airport to Franklin without renting a car is easier when you compare the available options before your trip.
Rideshares and taxis offer flexibility, public transportation can work for travelers focused on saving money, and airport shuttles provide a planned alternative for those who want direct transportation.
Before your flight, you can also review Prime Time Shuttle’s Nashville International Airport transportation information to understand airport transportation options and plan your arrival.
With your transportation arranged in advance, you can leave BNA, avoid the stress of renting a car, and start your Franklin visit with a smoother journey.
