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Transfer Options from Frankfurt Airport to the City of Frankfurt

As one of the busiest airports in Europe, Frankfurt Airport offers a variety of ground transportation options to and from the airport. The simplest option is to take a Frankfurt Airport taxi since it’s a door-to-door service that takes between 20 and 30 minutes, depending on traffic. Private Frankfurt Airport transfers offer the same journey time but with a more personalized service and no wait time since your vehicle will be waiting for you when you land.

A cheaper alternative to taxis is a bus, however, the bus network doesn’t extend to the central district of the city, instead taking passengers to the main bus station which is only convenient if you are connecting to another bus. The last and most preferred travel method from the airport, regardless of the destination, is the renowned Frankfurt train network. Lines S8 and S9 (as well as regional lines R2/3/31/33) managed by RMV provide regular direct services to the center of the city and also take just 20 minutes.

Welcome Pickups offers meet and greet services and a friendly introduction to Frankfurt at the same price as a regular taxi. Click here to see the cost.

Comparison of the options

PRICE FOR 2PASSENGERS
OPTION PRICE DURATION AVAILABILITY
Taxi €35 20min 24/7
S8/S9 S-Bahn €12.60 20min 04:11–23:58
Bus Line 61 €12.60 25.min 04:09–00:39
Welcome Airport Transfer €47 25min 24/7

How to get from Frankfurt Airport to Frankfurt city center by taxi

To accommodate the large number of daily travelers, taxi services at Frankfurt Airport are available 24/7 which makes them a reliable and convenient choice of transport. All licensed taxi vehicles are cream or white colored with a black and yellow taxi rooftop sign and can seat either 4 or 7 passengers.

As is the case for all of Germany, taxi rates in Frankfurt are government-regulated so you can usually trust their pricing and reliability if they’re with an official company. Under normal traffic conditions, you can expect the trip to the downtown area of Altstadt to take around 20 minutes, making a Frankfurt Airport taxi a great way to travel. 

How much is a taxi from Frankfurt Airport to the city center?

Typically, the Frankfurt Airport to city center taxi price ranges from €35 to €45, depending on traffic levels and type of vehicle. The final cost will be determined by a taximeter based on the distance traveled. Vehicles with larger capacities cost more but are usually favored since the price can be divided among additional passengers.

Certain taxi companies may charge an additional surcharge for luggage, however, fare rates remain the same whether traveling at night, on weekends or during the holiday season. It’s possible to arrange a taxi service in advance by booking online, although you will generally be quoted a fixed rate fare.

If you prefer an upfront cost you can also pre-book a private transfer with a company like Welcome Pickups who provide competitive fixed-rate fares inclusive of all fees, tolls and surcharges and English-speaking drivers.

Cost

€35

Trip Duration

20 Min.

*Rates may vary unless you book your taxi in advance.

Convenience
Safety
Value for Money

Taxis at the airport are available at all times, day or night.

Where do I get a taxi from?

Taxi ranks and a taxi service desk are present at both Terminals 1 and 2 of the airport, as well as outside the train station. When taking a cab from the ranks, always go to the first vehicle in line. Both terminals are connected with regular shuttle buses.

Convenience

Taxis from Frankfurt airport are not the cheapest nor the fastest travel method to the center of the city. However, it ensures security and a comfortable private environment, which in many cases is the top priority, especially after a long flight.

Editor’s Note

Traveling in large groups of 4 or more will ensure a low taxi fare. In addition, many hotels in the city offer their own private taxi services for their customers. Private taxi companies are a popular option as well, since they offer fixed prices based on the final destination.

Useful Tips

It's recommended to avoid unlicensed drivers as they often try to scam unaware travelers with higher than average prices.
All official taxi vehicles besides those that are privately owned must carry a taximeter which clearly displays the rate and current cost. Make sure it's set to zero when you enter the vehicle.
For more information regarding prices and destinations, you can refer to the taxi information desk at the airport.

How to get from Frankfurt Airport to the city center by train (S-Bahn)

Frankfurt’s train network – run by the Rhein-Main Transport Association (RMV) – is the most preferred transportation method due to its availability and reach. The S9 and S8 S-Bahn lines offer direct connections to the main station in Frankfurt (Frankfurt Hauptbahnhof) with just four stops along the way. The trains are available every 5 to 10 minutes and trips last 20 minutes at most, not including wait and transfer times.

*Regional trains R2/3/31/33 provide the exact same service for the same cost as the S-Bahn trains.

How much is the train from Frankfurt Airport to the city center?

Regular one-way tickets from Frankfurt Airport to the city on the RMV network cost €6.30 per adult traveler, while children aged between 6 and 14 can travel at the reduced fare cost of €3.70. Tickets can be purchased from the designated counters at the airport or ticket vending machines. You can also download the RMV app and purchase tickets online.

Cost

€6.30

Trip Duration

20 Min.

The wait time for the S8 and S9 lines is 10 minutes at most.

Convenience
Safety
Value for Money

The S8 operates from 04:28 to 23:58. The S9 operates from 04:11 to 23:11.

Where do I get the train from?

The train station connecting Frankfurt Airport to the city is located on the basement level of Terminal 1. Clear signs from the Arrivals Hall in each section (A, B and C) can help you locate the station.

Convenience

The train is very efficient and the only direct public transportation system from the airport to the heart of the city, making it a popular mode of transport. Frequent runs and fast trips make it the ideal option for any destination within or near Frankfurt. Keep in mind, however, that you’ll need to walk or get a taxi to your destination from the train stop.

Editor’s Note

RVM tickets are valid for bus, tram (Straßenbahn), subway (U-Bahn), commuter train (S-Bahn) and SE, RB and RE trains.

Useful Tips

All carriages are equipped with A/C, WiFi, power sockets and plenty of luggage space.
Only one ticket is needed for your journey from your starting point to your destination, regardless of how often you change.
Discounts are available when purchased through the RMV mobile app.
All platforms and trains are wheelchair-accessible.

How to get from Frankfurt Airport to the city center by bus

There is only one bus route that travels directly towards the city center which is Line 61 run by In-der-City-Bus. The bus takes 25 minutes in light traffic, making three stops along the way including at Gateway Gardens Nord before terminating at Südbahnhof, the main bus terminal in Frankfurt.

How much will the bus from Frankfurt Airport to the city cost?

Like the trains, bus tickets work on a zone-based system which means you’ll need to purchase a one-way single ticket that covers zones A, B and C. For an adult, the price will be €6.30 and tickets can be purchased from the ticket counter or kiosks at the airport with a card or cash.

Cost

€6.30

Trip Duration

25 Min.

Buses run approximately every 30 minutes.

Convenience
Safety
Value for Money

The 61 bus operates between 04:09 and 00:39 on weekdays and until 00:09 on weekends and holidays.

Where does the bus depart from?

The blue In-der-City-Bus departs from the bus bays located in front of the Arrivals Hall at Terminal 1 and from Level 2 at Terminal 2.

Convenience

Since the bus takes longer and doesn’t run as regularly as the trains, the only real advantage to taking the bus is if you have an onward destination that you are traveling to by bus. Otherwise, a train is a much better option, or for complete flexibility, a private transfer since this provides a door-to-door service.

Editor’s Note

There isn't a lot of space on the bus for luggage so you will need to place it at your feet or in the communal pathway.

Useful Tips

Make sure you validate your ticket before boarding the bus.
There is a free 10-minute airport shuttle bus that runs between both terminals 24 hours a day.
Buses are fully accessible and equipped with features designed to assist passengers with hidden disabilities as well.

Welcome Pickups transfer

Welcome Pickups

Book a trained, English-speaking taxi driver to pick you up at the same price as a regular cab from the line

If you feel more relaxed knowing that somebody is waiting for you, you may as well book a Welcome Pickups transfer. As soon as you arrive at the airport you will be greeted by your driver. He will be waiting for you at the terminal of your arrival with a sign that has your name on it. Your driver will help you out with your luggage and together you will make your way to the vehicle. While he is driving you to your accommodation, the driver can give you some tips and recommendations on what to do during your holidays in Frankfurt. Our drivers are hand-picked and speak fluent English. No need to worry about miscommunication issues that you may face with the local taxi drivers regarding your destination. Relax and enjoy your ride.

Best drivers

Hand-picked english-speaking drivers

Flight monitoring

Drivers are always on time

Quality support

24/7 email & phone support

Cancel up to 24 hours before the pickup and get an 80% refund

Edit or cancel transfers

Read more Book Welcome Pickups transfer

Frequently asked questions

How do I get from Frankfurt Airport to the city?

There are four main modes of transport from Frankfurt Airport to the city: taxi, private transfer, bus, or train. Taxis and private transfers are the most convenient options, although in heavy traffic they may not always be the quickest. Trains and buses all cost the same and have a similar journey time, although buses take slightly longer and run less frequently.

How much is a taxi from Frankfurt Airport to Frankfurt city center?

The average Frankfurt Airport to the city center taxi fare is €35. Factors such as your exact destination, the amount of luggage and the type of vehicle can further increase your taxi fare.

How much is a train ticket from Frankfurt Airport to Frankfurt city center?

A regular one-way train ticket costs €6.30 for adults. Tickets can be purchased online, via ticket machines and from the ticket counter inside the airport.

How close is Frankfurt Airport to the city center?

From Frankfurt Airport to the city center the distance is approximately 13 km which usually takes between 20 and 30 minutes when traveling by car, depending on traffic.

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