Getting Around Frankfurt Am Main. Public Transport, Taxis, Car Rental

Overview of Transit Systems

The RMV system integrates several modes of transport: U-Bahn (Subway/Metro), S-Bahn (Suburban Train), Trams (Straßenbahn), and Buses. U-Bahn (nine lines) connects the city center and neighborhoods, operating partially underground and overground. S-Bahn (nine lines) connects Frankfurt with neighboring towns and Frankfurt Airport. Many S-Bahn lines run underground through the city center.

Trams (ten lines) mainly serve areas not covered by U-Bahn or S-Bahn, offering surface-level travel with frequent stops and scenic routes. An extensive bus network covers areas not reached by rail, offering feeder services to U-Bahn and S-Bahn depots and ensuring comprehensive city coverage.

RMV System Highlights

U-Bahn: Metro connecting city center and neighborhoods.
S-Bahn: Suburban trains link Frankfurt with region and airport.
Trams: Surface travel, scenic routes in various districts.
Buses: Extensive network, covers areas not reached by rail.

Hauptbahnhof

Central hub for S-Bahn, U-Bahn, Trams, and long-distance trains.

Konstablerwache

Significant U-Bahn and S-Bahn interchange near shopping areas.

Hauptwache

Another central U-Bahn and S-Bahn interchange in the main commercial district.

Ticketing & Fares

Ticket Types

Single Tickets: Valid for one journey in one direction.
Day Tickets: Unlimited travel on validation day (individual or group).
Weekly/Monthly: Economical for longer stays.

Purchase & Validation

Zones: Frankfurt city center and the airport are in Zone 50.
Purchase: Ticket machines, RMVgo app, or bus drivers (single tickets).
Validation: Tickets must be validated before boarding.

Operation & Accessibility

Hours

Early morning (4-5 AM) to late night (1-2 AM).

Frequency

High frequency during peak hours (3-5 min).

Accessibility

Newer trains/trams generally accessible; some stations have elevators.

RMVgo App

Real-time schedules, journey planning, ticket purchases.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxis and ride-sharing services offer convenient, door-to-door transportation options, especially for late-night travel or when carrying luggage.

Taxis

Identification: Cream-colored with black/yellow "TAXI" roof sign.
Hailing: On street, at stands, or via telephone/app.
Payment: Cash or card accepted (Mastercard, Visa).
Fares: Starting approx. €3.50, €2.20/km.

Ride-Sharing

Apps: Free Now (licensed taxis), Uber.
Safety: Confirm car details (license, model, driver photo) before entering.
Reliability: Both licensed taxis and reputable apps maintain high safety standards.
Convenience: Good for late nights or heavy luggage.

Rental Options

Car Rental: Age 21+ (some 25+), valid national driving license, IDP if non-EU.
Deposit: Credit card in main driver's name needed for car rentals.
Companies: Avis, Budget, Europcar, Hertz, Sixt, Enterprise at FRA, Hauptbahnhof.

Bike Sharing: Nextbike, Call a Bike (apps). Private shops for daily/weekly rentals.
Infrastructure: Extensive bike lanes, flat terrain.
Safety: Helmets recommended but not mandatory; obey traffic laws.

Driving & Parking

Driving Laws

Standard European laws. Seatbelts mandatory. Hands-free phone use. BAC limit 0.05%.

Road Quality

Roads, including Autobahns, are well-maintained.

Parking

Challenging/expensive in city center. Use P+R facilities on outskirts.

Walking & Cycling

Frankfurt has a walkable and cycle-friendly city, especially in its central areas and along the river.

Walking Areas

Römerberg & Altstadt: Largely pedestrianized, old streets.
Zeil: Main commercial street, bustling walking experience.
Main River Promenade: Scenic views, walking, jogging.
Parks: Palmengarten and Grüneburgpark for leisurely walks.

Cycling Routes

Bike Lanes: Extensive network throughout the city and along the Main River.
Flat Terrain: City's topography makes cycling accessible.
No-Go Areas: Generally none for pedestrians/cyclists during day; use caution at night in less-populated areas.
Awareness: Be aware of pedestrians and traffic; obey traffic laws.