When do you use arrive in vs arrive at?

Use 'arrive in' for large places: cities, countries, continents (arrive in Paris, arrive in Japan). Use 'arrive at' for specific places: buildings, stations, addresses (arrive at the airport, arrive at school).

Can you say 'arrive to'?

No, 'arrive to' is incorrect in English. Always use 'arrive in' or 'arrive at.' Never say 'arrive to the station' - say 'arrive at the station.'

Arrive In or Arrive At: What's the Difference?

Quick Answer

Arrive in = large places (cities, countries, continents)

Arrive at = specific places (buildings, stations, addresses)

Explanation

ARRIVE IN 🌍

Large geographical areas

• Cities: arrive in London
• Countries: arrive in France
• Continents: arrive in Europe
• Regions: arrive in California

ARRIVE AT 📍

Specific points/locations

• Buildings: arrive at the hotel
• Stations: arrive at the airport
• Addresses: arrive at 123 Main St
• Events: arrive at the meeting

Warning: Never use "arrive to", this is always incorrect in English!

Special case - HOME: We say "arrive home" (no preposition needed).

Examples

✔We arrived in Tokyo at midnight. (city)

✔She arrived at the airport early. (building)

✔They arrived in Australia last week. (country)

✔He arrived at the office before 9 AM. (specific place)

✔We arrived home tired. (no preposition)

✘We arrived to the hotel.

✘She arrived at Paris.

Practice

Fill in with "in" or "at":

"The train arrives _____ the station at 3 PM, and then we'll arrive _____ Berlin by 5 PM."