MileHacker Logo
How to Get to Frankfurt Am Main

How to Get to Frankfurt Am Main

Frankfurt Am Main Hesse, Germany Travel Guide

Major Airports

Frankfurt Airport FRA

Germany's largest airport and a major international hub, located approximately 12 km (7.5 miles) southwest of the city center. It handles millions of passengers annually, connecting Frankfurt globally.

FRA Features

  • Major Airlines: Lufthansa, Condor, and most global carriers operate here.
  • Direct Routes: Many direct flights from major global hubs.
  • Seasonal Rates: More expensive prices in peak seasons (summer, holidays, trade fairs).

Frankfurt-Hahn Airport HHN

A smaller airport, mainly serving low-cost carriers like Ryanair and Wizz Air. Located about 120 km (75 miles) west of Frankfurt. HHN often has confusion with FRA due to its name; verify your destination airport.

HHN Features

  • Low-Cost Carriers: Mainly Ryanair and Wizz Air connect to various European cities.
  • Distance: 120 km (75 miles) from Frankfurt am Main.
  • Transfer Time: Requires a longer transfer (1h 45m - 2h 15m by bus).

Airport Facilities FRA

Two main terminals, joined by SkyLine. Extensive shops, restaurants, lounges, hotels, car rentals, pharmacies, medical aid, currency exchange, free Wi-Fi.

Booking Flights

Book flights well in advance, especially during high season or major events, to secure better prices.

Verify Your Airport

Always double-check your airport code (FRA vs. HHN) to avoid confusion and plan transfers correctly.

Transfers from Airports

From FRA to City

  • S-Bahn (S8, S9): 11-15 mins to Hauptbahnhof.
  • Taxi: Approx. €30-€40, 20-30 mins.
  • Ride-sharing: Uber and Free Now operate from FRA.
  • Regional Buses: Several lines, comprising AirLiner to Darmstadt.

From HHN to City

  • Bus Service: Flixbus or Hahn Express to Hauptbahnhof (1h 45m - 2h 15m).
  • Car Rental: Available at HHN for driving yourself or onward travel.
  • Book Bus Tickets: Book in advance for HHN transfers.
  • Verify Airport: HHN is a distinct airport, plan accordingly.

Frankfurt Airport FRA Transfers

S-Bahn S8, S9

Most efficient, cost-effective option to city center.

Regional Trains

Connections to Hauptbahnhof and other regional spots.

Long-Distance Trains

Seamless onward travel to German plus European cities.

Land Transportation

Train Connections

Germany's efficient rail system connects Frankfurt to destinations across the country and Europe. Frankfurt Hauptbahnhof is a major railway hub.

Deutsche Bahn Services

  • ICE (Intercity-Express): High-speed trains to major German cities.
  • IC/EC (Intercity/Eurocity): Long-distance trains, extensive routes.
  • Regional Trains (RE, RB): Connect to towns within Hesse.

Long-Distance Buses

Flixbus is the dominant long-distance bus operator, with an extensive network from Frankfurt's main bus station (near Hauptbahnhof).

Bus Travel Details

  • Flixbus: Dominant operator for German and Continental routes.
  • Booking: Online via Flixbus website or app.
  • Cost: Generally cheaper than trains, especially last-minute.

Self-Driving in Germany

You need a valid national driving license. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended or required for non-EU citizens or if your license is not in English or German.

Driving Rules

  • Driving Side: Germans drive on the right.
  • Speed Limits: 50 km/h (urban), 100 km/h (rural), Autobahn (often no limit, 130 km/h recommended).
  • Parking: Can be expensive in city centers; use P+R (Park and Ride).

Road Conditions & Zones

Roads inside Germany, comprising Autobahns, maintain excellent condition. Drivers are generally disciplined.

Road Information

  • Safety: Be aware of cyclists; watch speed differences on Autobahns.
  • Environmental Zones: Frankfurt city center requires a green environmental sticker for vehicles.
  • Rental Cars: Usually have the required environmental sticker.

Departure Procedures

  • Air Travel (FRA): 2.5-3 hours before departure for international flights, 1.5-2 hours for Schengen flights.
  • Train Travel (Hauptbahnhof): 15-30 minutes for domestic, 30-45 minutes for international.
  • Online Check-in: Recommended to save time at the airport.
  • No Exit Fees: No specific exit fees or taxes from Frankfurt.
  • Security/Passport: Factor in time for queues during peak periods.
  • Tax Refund: Offices available at FRA for non-EU residents.

Departure Information

Departure Timing

For travel by plane from FRA, allow 2.5-3 hours before international flights and 1.5-2 hours for Schengen flights. For train travel from Hauptbahnhof, 15-30 minutes for domestic trains, 30-45 minutes for international.

Timing

  • International Flights: 2.5-3 hours before departure.
  • Schengen Flights: 1.5-2 hours before departure.
  • Domestic Trains: 15-30 minutes before departure.

Airport & Station Facilities

Frankfurt Airport (FRA) provides comprehensive facilities for departing travelers, including shops, restaurants, lounges, and tax refund offices. Frankfurt Hauptbahnhof also features numerous shops, restaurants, and luggage lockers.

Available Services

  • FRA: Duty-free shops, wide array of restaurants and cafes.
  • FRA: Airline lounges, hotels, vehicle rental firms.
  • FRA: Tax refund offices for non-EU residents.

No Exit Fees

No particular departure fees or taxes are applicable for leaving from Frankfurt Airport or train stations.

Online Check-in

Online check-in is recommended and often saves time, streamlining your departure experience.

Seamless Departure

Prepare documents, account for queues, and check airline recommendations for a smooth departure process.

Departure Tips

Airline Recommendations

Check your airline's specific recommendations for arrival times at the airport.

Considerations

  • Busy travel periods may warrant earlier arrival.
  • Allow extra time for security and passport control queues.
  • Verify flight status and terminal information before leaving for the airport.

Efficient Train Departure

For train departures, plan to arrive at the Hauptbahnhof with enough time to find your platform and carriage.

Train Station Planning

  • Locate your platform using station screens or the DB Navigator app.
  • Time for last-minute snacks or drinks from station shops.
  • Ensure your ticket is readily accessible for boarding.

River Travel Note

No Ferry Services

Frankfurt is an inland city, so sea ferry services are not applicable for arrivals or departures.

Leisure Cruises Only

Local boat tours on the Main River are for sightseeing, not point-to-point transportation.

River Docks

River cruise docks are centrally located and connect to public transport.

Departure Wisdom

For departing from the airports, check your airline's specific recommendations for arrival times, especially during busy travel periods, to ensure a smooth departure.