To get around in Frankfurt, you can choose from a variety of transportation options, including a well-developed public transportation system, trains, buses, and taxis, as well as ride-hailing services and car rentals.
Quick Facts
Getting There
Frankfurt is easily accessible by air, with two major airports serving the city: Frankfurt Airport (FRA) and Frankfurt-Hahn Airport (HHN). Frankfurt Airport is one of the busiest airports in Europe and offers direct flights to many destinations around the world, including major hubs in Europe, North America, Asia, and the Middle East. The airport is located about 12 kilometers southwest of the city center and is well-connected to the city by public transportation, including trains and buses. If you're traveling overland, you can reach Frankfurt by train or bus from neighboring cities and countries, including Paris, Amsterdam, and Zurich.
Frankfurt's strategic location at the heart of Europe makes it a major transportation hub, with many international bus and train lines passing through the city. The city is also connected to the German autobahn network, making it easily accessible by car. If you're traveling from within Germany, you can take a domestic flight or train to Frankfurt, with frequent connections from major cities like Berlin, Munich, and Hamburg. Alternatively, you can take a bus or drive to Frankfurt, with many parking options available in the city center.
Domestic Flights
If you need to travel within Germany, you can take a domestic flight from Frankfurt Airport to many destinations around the country. Domestic airlines like Lufthansa, Eurowings, and Condor offer frequent flights to major cities like Berlin, Munich, and Hamburg, as well as to smaller regional airports. You can book your flights online or through a travel agency, with prices starting from around 50-100 EUR for a one-way ticket, depending on the route and time of booking. It's a good idea to book in advance to get the best prices, especially during peak travel seasons.
Trains & Rail
Frankfurt has an extensive rail network, with frequent trains connecting the city to destinations across Germany and Europe. The city's main train station, Frankfurt Hauptbahnhof, is one of the largest and busiest in Europe, with trains departing to major cities like Paris, Amsterdam, and Zurich. You can take a high-speed train like the ICE (InterCity Express) or the TGV (Train à Grande Vitesse) to reach your destination quickly and comfortably. The rail network is well-organized and efficient, with clear signage and announcements in multiple languages. You can book your train tickets online or at the station, with prices starting from around 20-50 EUR for a one-way ticket, depending on the route and class of service.
Buses & Coaches
If you're traveling on a budget or prefer to take a more leisurely route, you can take a bus or coach to Frankfurt. Many intercity bus companies like FlixBus, Eurolines, and DeinBus operate from Frankfurt, offering connections to cities across Germany and Europe. The buses are modern and comfortable, with onboard amenities like Wi-Fi and power outlets. You can book your tickets online or at the bus station, with prices starting from around 10-30 EUR for a one-way ticket, depending on the route and time of booking.
City Transport
| Mode | Available In | Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metro/Subway | Frankfurt | $2.50 | U-Bahn and S-Bahn trains connect the city center to outlying neighborhoods |
| City Bus | Frankfurt | $2.50 | Extensive network of buses covering the city |
| Taxi | everywhere | $1.50/km | Available at taxi stands or by phone |
| Ride-Hailing | Frankfurt | $5-10 | Uber and Bolt operate in the city |
| Tram | Frankfurt | $2.50 | Connects the city center to nearby suburbs |
Driving
- To drive in Frankfurt, you'll need a valid driver's license from your home country or an international driver's license.
- The road quality in Frankfurt is generally good, with well-maintained highways and city streets.
- Fuel costs are around 1.50 EUR per liter for gasoline and 1.20 EUR per liter for diesel.
- If you plan to rent a car, book in advance to get the best prices, and consider renting from a major company like Hertz or Avis.
- Be aware of traffic rules and regulations, including speed limits and parking restrictions.
- Frankfurt is a busy city, so be prepared for heavy traffic and construction delays.
Transport Tips
- Be aware of peak travel times and plan your journey accordingly to avoid congestion.
- Use a ticket machine or a mobile app to buy your public transportation tickets, as they are often cheaper than buying from a driver or a ticket counter.
- Consider purchasing a Frankfurt Card, which offers free public transportation and discounts to many attractions.
- Download the RMV app to plan your public transportation journey and get real-time updates.
- Be mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded trains and buses, and keep an eye out for pickpocketing and scams.
- Learn some basic German phrases, like "Danke" (thank you) and "Entschuldigung" (excuse me), to help you navigate the city.
- Consider purchasing travel insurance to cover unexpected medical or travel-related expenses.