Atlanta is positioned towards the north-west of Georgia and, as befits a busy and growing city, it’s superbly well-served by roads, spanning out not just to the rest of the state, but to neighbours such as Alabama, Tennessee, Florida and South Carolina.

As you’d imagine, the centre of Atlanta can be busy, especially in rush hour, but it’s still relatively easy to navigate. The airport is situated about seven miles to the south of Atlanta itself, and you can head into downtown Atlanta by taking the I-85 north – a drive of around 20 minutes. If you’re not driving to Atlanta, but visiting elsewhere, the I-85 also goes south-west as far as Montgomery, Alabama.

It’s a good idea to familiarise yourself with Georgia’s traffic laws before you arrive – you will, of course, be driving on the right-hand side of the road and overtaking on the left. Seat belts are essential for the driver and all passengers, and mobile use while driving is illegal. Speed limits will be signposted, and vary from a top speed of 70mph on interstate roads, down through 45mph in residential areas and lower in built-up city areas.

There are several main – and popular – roads that you can use to find your way around Atlanta’s heart. In the Five Points district, downtown, many of these converge. If you go north from here along Peachtree Street you’ll find yourself in midtown and then the Buckhead area. It’s a street made famous by the film Gone with the Wind, but now houses many of the key landmarks in Atlanta. It’s a popular name – there are at least 70 other avenues, roads, lanes and walks all called Peachtree.

Getting out of Atlanta, the I-85 north has a toll lane, while some parts of the I-75 and I-575 have recently added toll sections. The I-75 south will take you to another great Georgia destination, Macon, with its wonderful old southern mansions. The I-85 north, meanwhile, will whisk you on a quick day trip to Lake Lanier, 50 miles north-east. Here you’ll find places to camp, boat and fish, as well as watersports. It’s the perfect way to make the most of car hire in Atlanta.

Steeped in history, from the Civil War to Civil Rights, Atlanta is still a forward-looking city that hosted the Olympics in 1996. Georgia itself – the Peach State – also boasts other great cities that reward a visit, such as Columbus, Augusta and Savannah. Whether you’re visiting for business or looking to explore the south, this is the perfect place to kick off your trip.

Make a splash

The Georgia Aquarium was the world’s largest from 2005 to 2012, and is home to more than 120,000 sea creatures. Dolphins and sharks are two of the main attractions, but the aquarium is also renowned for its conservation and educational projects. If you have time, you can even sleep over once everyone has gone home for a unique experience.

I have a dream

Martin Luther King Jr. was one of Atlanta’s most famous sons, and you can explore the legacy of his life and work at the Center for Civil & Human Rights. There is a range of exhibits about the American Civil Rights Movement, and about the progress made in breaking down barriers in the US, in addition to special events. The gallery holds many personal items and papers that belonged to Dr. King.

Georgia on my mind

Make the most of your car hire at Atlanta Hartsfield Airport and enjoy the drive down to the coast and beautiful Savannah. It’s around 250 miles, passing through Macon en route. Savannah encapsulates the perfect Southern town, and is the largest National Historic Landmark District in the US. Wander through the cobbled streets and the gorgeous landscaped parks and squares. If you want to rest your feet, there are trolley tours and even riverboat cruises, for the full southern flavour.

A taste of the South

The southern states of the USA are famed for their food, whether sparklingly fresh seafood or comfort food dripping with goodness. Barbecue is a rich tradition in Georgia too, and Wiley’s Championship BBQ is a multiple award winner. Start with fried green tomatoes before tucking into the smoked sausage, brisket, ribs and pulled pork. If you’re lucky, you’ll have room for the hearty ‘fixins’ and some peach cobbler to end.

Start your visit with car hire at Atlanta Hartsfield Airport and enjoy your southern break.