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How to Get to Trier

How to Get to Trier

Trier Rhineland Palatinate, Germany Travel Guide

Major Airports & Airlines

Nearby International Options

Luxembourg Airport (LUX) sits approximately 40 km (25 miles) west of Trier. This airport is relatively small but efficient, with good connections to major European hubs. It often is the most convenient international airport for travelers heading directly to Trier due to its proximity and direct bus service.

Airports

  • Luxembourg Airport (LUX): 40 km from Trier, convenient.
  • Frankfurt Airport (FRA): 200 km from Trier, major international hub.
  • Frankfurt-Hahn Airport (HHN): 70 km, low-cost carriers.

Airlines & Routes

Major airlines like Lufthansa, Air France, KLM, and British Airways fly into FRA, CGN, and LUX, providing connections across Europe and globally. Low-cost carriers like Ryanair mainly use HHN. Numerous direct flights connect Frankfurt (FRA) from major global hubs in North America, Asia, and the Middle East.

Flight Information

  • LUX offers direct flights to many European cities.
  • Flight prices peak in summer and around holidays.
  • Booking flights well in advance is recommended for high season.

LUX Transfers

Direct buses (RegioZone 300) connect Luxembourg Airport to Trier Hauptbahnhof in about 45-60 minutes.

FRA Transfers

Direct train connections via Deutsche Bahn (DB) from Frankfurt Airport to Trier Hauptbahnhof. Journey takes 2.5-3 hours.

HHN Transfers

Shuttle buses (e.g., Bohr Omnibus) link Hahn Airport to Trier Hauptbahnhof in about 1 hour.

Airport Services & Transfers

Airport Facilities

  • Car rental agencies.
  • Duty-free shops and various restaurants/cafes.
  • Lounges and currency exchange services.
  • ATMs are widely available.

Onward Journey

  • Taxis available from LUX, though more costly.
  • FRA connections often require one train change.
  • SCN and CGN also offer train connections to Trier.
  • Frankfurt-Hahn (HHN) facilities are more basic.

Airport Connectivity Overview

LUX Efficiency

Closest and most direct option for many European travelers.

FRA Global Reach

Wider range of direct flights from outside Europe.

HHN Budget Option

Mainly serves low-cost carriers; public transport less frequent.

Journey by Land

Train Travel

Trier Hauptbahnhof serves as an important rail hub, with good connections within Germany and to Luxembourg. Frequent regional trains (RE, RB) link Trier to major cities like Koblenz (a gateway to the Rhine Valley), Saarbrücken, and Luxembourg City.

Rail Connections

  • Intercity (IC) and ICE (high-speed) trains connect to larger German cities.
  • Booking in advance via the Deutsche Bahn website is recommended.
  • Look for "Sparpreis" saver fares for better prices.

Long-Distance Bus

FlixBus operates routes to Trier from various German and European cities. Buses generally stop at Trier Hauptbahnhof or a designated bus stop nearby. Bus tickets frequently present a more affordable option than train tickets for longer distances, though travel times can be longer.

Bus Services

  • Book tickets via the FlixBus website.
  • Generally cheaper than trains for long distances.
  • Travel times can take longer.

Self-Driving Essentials

If you plan to rent a car, you typically need to be at least 21 years old (sometimes 25 for larger vehicles), possess a valid driver's license, and have a credit card for the deposit. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended for non-EU/EEA licenses.

Driving Rules

  • Drive on the right side of the road.
  • Adhere to speed limits; strict drink-driving laws.
  • Winter: snow tires required during specific conditions.

Border Crossings & Road Conditions

As Germany is part of the Schengen Area, there are typically no routine border checks when traveling by land from neighboring countries like Luxembourg, France, or Belgium. You can cross borders seamlessly. Germany maintains an excellent network of Autobahns and well-kept roads.

Smooth Journeys

  • Seamless border crossings within Schengen Area.
  • Excellent road conditions across Germany.
  • Speed cameras are common and can be well-hidden.

Self-Driving Safety

  • Maintain good lane discipline.
  • Be aware of advisory speed limits on some Autobahn sections.
  • Carry your home license along with the IDP.
  • Most rental companies require you to be at least 21.
  • A credit card is typically needed for the deposit.
  • Winter tires are a legal requirement under specific weather conditions.

River Exploration

Moselle River Cruises

While Trier is not a coastal city, its position on the Moselle River marks it as a destination for river travel. Various companies offer scenic river cruises on the Moselle, presenting an unique way to experience the region.

Cruise Details

  • Range from short sightseeing trips within Trier to multi-day cruises.
  • Travel to charming towns like Bernkastel-Kues or Cochem.
  • Boats typically dock near the Roman Bridge or in the Zurlauben area.

Port Accessibility

Trier does not feature sea ferry services. River cruise docks are typically within walking distance or a short bus/taxi ride from Trier's city center and its public transport hubs, making onward travel straightforward.

Logistics & Connections

  • No sea ferry services; focus is on river cruises.
  • Docks are walkable or a short ride from city center.
  • Easy connections to land transportation.

Scenic Views

River cruises present unparalleled views of vineyards and riverine landscapes.

Wine Region Access

Experience the Moselle wine region directly from the water, visiting wine villages.

City Perspectives

Gain a distinct perspective of Trier's Roman Bridge and riverside areas.

Departing Trier

Departure Formalities

No specific exit fees or taxes are levied when departing Germany by air, train, or bus. For international flights (outside Schengen Area), arrive at the airport 2-3 hours before scheduled departure. For flights within Europe (Schengen Area), 1.5-2 hours is usually sufficient.

Travel Planning

  • Allow time for check-in and security screening.
  • Consider customs procedures for non-Schengen flights.
  • No extra fees for departure.

Station Departures

Arrive at the train or bus station 15-30 minutes before your departure time. This timeframe allows you to find your platform or bus stop and locate your seat. For some regional trains or buses, ticket validation might prove necessary before boarding.

Station Facilities

  • Restrooms and various shops.
  • Cafes and restaurants.
  • Comfortable seating areas.

Travel Logistics

Air Travel

Plan 2-3 hours for international flights, 1.5-2 hours for European flights.

Train/Bus Travel

Arrive 15-30 minutes before departure.

Hahn Airport

HHN offers more basic amenities compared to larger airports.

Smooth Departure

Efficient departure from Trier involves considering airport arrival times and knowing station procedures. Factor in security and customs for a seamless journey away.