Frankfurt Airport (FRA) – Complete Guide for Travelers

Quick info:

• IATA code: FRA
• ICAO code: EDDF
• Distance from city centre: approx. 12 km southwest of Frankfurt
• Travel time to city centre: 12–15 minutes by train (S-Bahn/regional trains) to Frankfurt (Main) Hbf
• Main airline (Hub): Lufthansa
• Number of terminals: 2 (Terminal 1 and 2) + new Terminal 3 (opening April 22, 2026)
• Transport options: S-Bahn S8/S9, regional and long-distance trains (Fernbahnhof), bus, taxi / rideshare
• Wi-Fi: free and unlimited (network „Airport-Frankfurt“)

Are you planning a trip and Frankfurt Airport (FRA) is your layover point or final destination? Whether you're flying for leisure or business, you've landed at one of the world's most important transport hubs. This largest German airport is the pulsating heart of central European air traffic, a place that never sleeps. To make your journey as pleasant as possible, we've prepared a detailed overview of everything you need to know.

Contents:

• Basic Identification and Significance
• Frankfurt Airport (FRA) in Numbers and Context
• Key Carriers and Air Traffic
• History and Interesting Facts
• Transport: How to get to the city centre
  • Parking at Frankfurt Airport: Where to leave your car?
• Services and Waiting for your Flight
• Culture and Art
• Comfort for Passengers with Children and Special Needs
• Accommodation in the Vicinity
• Final Tips
• Frequently Asked Questions about the Airport

Basic Identification and Significance

Frankfurt Airport is a giant that never sleeps. Located in the heart of Europe, it serves as a crucial gateway to Germany, and indeed the entire continent. Its strategic location makes it an ideal point for international and intercontinental flights.

• Location: The airport is situated approximately 12 km southwest of the centre of Frankfurt am Main.
• Significance: It is the largest airport in Germany and one of the busiest in the world, serving as the main base for Lufthansa.
• Regional role: A key employer in the Rhine-Main region and a vital hub for intermodal transport (connecting air travel and high-speed rail).

Frankfurt Airport (FRA) in Numbers and Context

The sheer size of this air hub is astonishing. Frankfurt Airport spans an area of over 20 square kilometres, and its infrastructure is designed to handle an enormous volume of passengers and cargo. To better understand how this giant operates, let's look at the technical parameters that make it one of Europe's largest airports in terms of cargo traffic and one of the busiest in passenger transport.

• Number of terminals: The airport currently has two main terminals (Terminal 1 and Terminal 2). A modern Terminal 3 is under construction, with its opening planned for April 22, 2026.
• Terminal breakdown:
  • Terminal 1: The oldest and largest, divided into concourses A, B, C, and Z. Main base for Lufthansa and Star Alliance partners.
  • Terminal 2: Divided into concourses D and E, primarily serving Oneworld and SkyTeam alliances.
• Runways: It has four take-off and landing runways, allowing for parallel operations.
• Capacity: Annually handles tens of millions of passengers (over 60 million in 2024).

Key Carriers and Air Traffic

Thanks to its role as a global hub, you'll find aircraft from almost all major world carriers here. Frankfurt Airport is the home base for Germany's national carrier, meaning Lufthansa dominates here. However, the variety of routes is enormous, and you can buy tickets from here to virtually anywhere in the world.

• Home airlines (Hub): Lufthansa, Lufthansa CityLine, Condor, AeroLogic (cargo), and Discover Airlines.
• Major alliances:
  • Star Alliance: (Lufthansa, Austrian Airlines, Brussels Airlines, United, Air Canada, Air China, Air India, Ethiopian, Croatia Airlines) – primarily operate from Terminal 1.
  • Oneworld & SkyTeam: (British Airways, Air France, Delta, Japan Airlines) – primarily operate from Terminal 2.
• Other carriers: Ryanair, Bulgaria Air, Oman Air, and many other charter and scheduled flights.

Interesting fact: Both Lufthansa and Condor have a base here, ensuring a dense network of connections to holiday destinations and world metropolises.

History and Interesting Facts

The history of aviation in Frankfurt dates back deep into the past and is full of fascinating twists. From the first airships to today's superjumbos, Frankfurt Airport has always been there when history was being made. It's not just concrete and glass; it's a place with a story that shaped modern travel.

• Beginnings: The airport at its current location (near the Frankfurt City Forest) opened in 1936.
• Berlin Airlift: It played a crucial role during the Berlin Blockade (1948–1949) as one of the important supply bases (Rhein-Main Air Base).
• Architecture: Terminal 1 is an example of robust 1970s architecture, while Terminal 2 stands out with its modern design featuring plenty of glass and natural light.
• Unique feature: The airport has its own high-speed ICE train station (AIRail Terminal), which is a rarity even on a global scale.

Did you know that... when the airport opened in 1936, it functioned as a combined air and airship port and also had infrastructure for Zeppelins in its facilities? It was from here that on May 3, 1937, the pride of Nazi Germany, the giant airship Hindenburg, took to the sky for its last journey. Its subsequent disaster in the USA ended the era of airships overnight, and the airport had to quickly reorient itself towards conventional aircraft.

Transport: How to get to the city centre

One of the biggest advantages of Frankfurt Airport is its connection to the transport network. Whether you're rushing to a business meeting in the banking district or want to explore the historic centre of Frankfurt am Main, transport from the airport is fast and intuitive. Thanks to the efficient S-Bahn system and motorway connections, you can reach the city of Frankfurt in no time.

• Distance and time: The city centre is approximately 12 km away; the journey by car takes about 15–20 minutes (outside peak hours).
• Train (S-Bahn): The fastest option. Lines S8 and S9 run from the underground station beneath Terminal 1 (Regionalbahnhof). The journey to the main station (Hauptbahnhof) takes about 11 minutes.
  • Price: A ticket costs approx. 6–7 € (2025).
• Long-distance trains: From the long-distance train station (Fernbahnhof) near Terminal 1, ICE trains depart to destinations across Germany (Cologne, Munich, Stuttgart).
• Bus: Bus stops can be found in front of the arrivals hall of both Terminal 1 and 2 (e.g., line 61 towards Südbahnhof).
• Taxi/Uber: Taxi stands are located in front of each terminal. A journey to the city centre costs approximately 35–40 €.

Prices and timetables may change. We recommend checking the current status on the official airport website.

Parking at Frankfurt Airport: Where to leave your car?

Frankfurt Airport is vast, so it's crucial to know where to go in advance. The parking system is divided according to the purpose of your trip and the terminal from which you are departing.

• Short-term parking (Terminal Parking): If you are dropping someone off at the airport, picking up relatives, or have a short business meeting, use the multi-storey car parks located directly at the terminals.
  • For Terminal 1: Use the entrances to car parks P2 and P3.
  • For Terminal 2: Head to the underground car park P8 or P9. These spots offer the fastest pedestrian access to check-in desks and arrivals halls.
• Long-term parking (Holiday Parking): For passengers departing on holiday and planning to leave their car at the airport for an extended period (typically a week or more), the Holiday Parking zone is designated. How it works: The car park is located further from the terminals but is connected to the airport by a free shuttle bus service that will take you directly to your departure. Important: Online reservation in advance is required to use this car park. Without a reservation, you will generally not be able to park on site or will pay a significantly higher rate.

Services and Waiting for your Flight

Waiting for a flight doesn't have to be boring. Frankfurt Airport offers so many activities that you might regret having to board. From luxury shopping to relaxation, the airport provides world-class services that satisfy even the most demanding travellers. If you have a ticket with a long layover, you certainly won't be bored.

• Terminal transfer: Terminals are connected by the automatic "SkyLine" train (free, journey approx. 2 minutes) and shuttle buses (yellow shuttle buses). Transfer at Frankfurt Airport is smooth thanks to this, but allow at least 45 minutes.
• Lounges: At the airport, you'll find both airline lounges and independent lounges. The specific offer and opening hours may change, so we recommend checking the airport website before your trip.
  • Terminal 1: widest selection, mainly Lufthansa and partners.
  • Terminal 2: lounges of selected airlines + option for independent/paid lounges.
  • Entry: according to ticket/status, or for a fee or via lounge programmes.
• Gastronomy: Hundreds of restaurants and cafes. From fast food (McDonald's, Burger King) to traditional German pubs and luxury restaurants.
• Shopping: Extensive Duty-Free zones, boutiques of world brands (Hermès, Gucci, Boss), and souvenir shops.
• Basic amenities: Unlimited free Wi-Fi, luggage storage, pharmacies, currency exchange offices, prayer rooms, and showers (for a fee).

Culture and Art

German precision meets cultural spirit here. Frankfurt Airport is not just a sterile hall, but a space where you can encounter interesting installations and viewpoints. For aviation enthusiasts, it's a paradise on earth, where they can watch arrivals and departures from close proximity.

• Visitor Center: Interactive exhibition "Fraport Visitor Center".
• Aircraft viewing platforms: The observation deck in Terminal 2 is currently closed due to works. As an alternative, we recommend the Fraport Visitor Center in Terminal 1 (Concourse C), which also offers a view and interactive exhibition.
• Art: Various sculptures and art installations can be found in the terminals, enhancing the environment.

Tip: Shorten your wait in the interactive world of aviation! Do you have more time between flights and don't want to just sit at the gate? Head to the Visitor Center (Fraport Visitor Center) in Terminal 1 (Concourse C). It's not a boring museum, but a modern interactive exhibition that will draw you into the airport's backstage.

What you must see:

• The Globe: A giant interactive wall that visualizes all flights around the globe in real time.
• The Ride (VR experience): Put on virtual reality goggles and ride at 80 kilometres per hour through the complex baggage sorting system, just as your suitcase experiences it.
• Apron view: The centre also includes a panoramic view of the apron, where you can watch aircraft up close.

Note: We recommend booking tickets online on the official airport website to ensure availability.

Comfort for Passengers with Children and Special Needs

Travelling with family can be challenging, but Frankfurt Airport does everything to make it as comfortable as possible. Families with children and persons with reduced mobility will find excellent facilities here. If you are flying with a pram or need assistance, you don't have to worry at Frankfurt Airport.

• Children's play areas: At FRA, you'll find several smaller play areas for children across the terminals. If you have a layover, the fastest way is to follow the navigation in the terminal (pictograms) or search for "Playground" on the airport map – this will save you from walking around aimlessly.
• Family services: Free pram rental (in selected zones), changing and nursing rooms.
• PRM (Persons with Reduced Mobility): Comprehensive assistance services from FraCareServices. Must be booked with your airline or travel agency at least 48 hours in advance. Barrier-free access is a given.

Accommodation in the Vicinity

Do you have an early morning departure or an unexpected delay? In the immediate vicinity of the airport, you'll find a range of hotels offering maximum comfort. Some are so close that you can walk to them directly from Terminal 1, while others offer a convenient shuttle service.

Directly at the airport:

• Sheraton Frankfurt Airport Hotel & Conference Center: Connected by a skywalk to T1.
• Hilton Garden Inn and Hilton Frankfurt Airport: Located in "The Squaire" building above the long-distance train station (near T1).
• My Cloud Transit Hotel: Directly in the transit zone of T1 (ideal for passengers without a visa during a long layover).

In the immediate vicinity (Gateway Gardens): Hyatt Place, Park Inn by Radisson, Meininger Hotel (accessible by bus or S-Bahn – 1 stop).

Final Tips

To ensure your journey through the airport goes smoothly, we've summarised a few proven tips for you. Frankfurt Airport is huge, so it pays to be prepared.

• Allow extra time: Arrive at the airport at least 2.5 to 3 hours before departure, especially during the summer season.
• App and website: The airport does not have its own dedicated app, but it collaborates with the Passngr app. For the most up-to-date information on waiting times and gates, however, we recommend checking the official airport website frankfurt-airport.com directly, which is excellently mobile-optimized.
• Liquids: Check the rules for carrying liquids, although modern scanners at some security checkpoints in T1 already allow you to leave liquids and electronics in your luggage (check the current status on site).
• Water: Bring an empty bottle; you can fill it up at free drinking fountains after security control.

Tip: To ensure nothing surprises you before departure, we recommend reading the article in our advice section. We have prepared clear guides for you, what you can and cannot take on board an aircraft, we regularly update our table of permitted carry-on luggage dimensions, and in our wide range of travel luggage, you will surely find exactly what you need.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Airport

How do I get from Terminal 1 to Terminal 2?

The automatic SkyLine train runs between the terminals for free (departures every 2–3 minutes), as do yellow shuttle buses. The train stops in both the transit and public zones.

Where is the train station at Frankfurt Airport located?

The airport has two train stations. The "Regionalbahnhof" (for S-Bahn S8 and S9 and regional trains) is in the basement of Terminal 1. The "Fernbahnhof" (for long-distance ICE trains) is located in the glass dome "The Squaire" connected to Terminal 1 by a skywalk.

How much does a taxi from the airport to Frankfurt city centre cost?

The price ranges from around 35–40 € depending on traffic and the exact destination in Frankfurt am Main.

Is Wi-Fi free at the airport?

Yes, Frankfurt International Airport offers unlimited free Wi-Fi connection for all passengers.

What to do during a long layover?

If you have more than 4 hours, you can head to the city centre (the train journey takes only 15 minutes). If you stay at the airport, use the "Movie World", "Gaming World", or relaxation zones ("Yoga Room").

Where to park if I'm just dropping someone off?

For short stops, use the "Drop-off areas" in front of the terminals (free for the first 10 minutes) or short-term parking in car parks P2/P3 or P8/P9.