Heading to Frankfurt city center from the airport? Here’s a complete guide to all transport options: S-Bahn trains, buses, taxis, private transfers, and car rentals, with prices, timings, and tips to make your trip smooth.

Heading to Frankfurt city center from the airport? Explore all transport options: S-Bahn trains, public buses, taxis, private transfers, and car rentals.

The distance between Frankfurt Airport (FRA) and the city center is roughly 13 km. You can travel by public transport (trains or buses) for budget-friendly options, taxis for direct rides, a private transfer for maximum comfort, or rent a car if you prefer to drive yourself.

Frankfurt is Germany’s financial and business hub, but it’s also rich in history and culture. Start exploring at Römerberg Square, home to the historic Römer city hall, gothic buildings from the 14th-15th centuries, and a lively atmosphere during festivals.

Other must-see spots include:

Alte Oper (Old Opera House) concert hall built in 1880

Palmengarten botanical garden

Frankfurt Cathedral (Dom St. Bartholomäus)

St. Catherine’s Church (Katharinenkirche) near the main train station

Frankfurt is typically abuzz with the energy of the zeitgeist, with plenty of skyscrapers, cozy cafés, and vibrant public spaces.

Cost: €50-60 Waiting time: 5 min Travel time: ~20 min

Ideal Clients: Families, corporate professionals, anyone seeking comfort For the smoothest and most reliable airport-to-city journey, a Kiwitaxi private transfer is the way to go. Drivers meet you at arrivals, assist with luggage, and provide child seats if needed. Cars are spacious and comfortable, and you can pre-book your exact vehicle type, guaranteeing peace of mind. The price is transparent, and you don’t risk delays or hidden costs. If you want to start your trip right, this is the way to go.

Book Transfer

Cost: ~€5.50 Waiting time: 5-15 min Travel time: 15-20 min to Hauptbahnhof (Central Station) Ideal Clients: Solo travelers & couples

The S8 and S9 electric trains run from Frankfurt Airport (Terminal 1) to Frankfurt Hauptbahnhof. Tickets can be purchased at RMV machines or the Reisezentrum in Terminal 1.

Note that tickets must be validated before boarding at yellow or blue machines, or you risk a fine of ~€60.

Cost: ~€4.50 Waiting time: ~15 min Travel time: 30-40 min (depending on line) Ideal Clients: Budget travelers & solo tourists

Day buses 61, 62, 72, 77 and night buses N7, N81 connect the airport to various parts of Frankfurt. The most popular route is bus 61 to the city center. Tickets are purchased from the driver and don’t require punching.

Cost: Variable, typically €60-80 to city center Waiting time: Varies, sometimes 5-15 min depending on queue Travel time: ~20 min

Taxis provide a direct ride to your destination, but there are a few drawbacks: fares are variable, and you’ll have to negotiate on the spot; finding a taxi while juggling bags and navigating through airport crowds can be quite a headache; and taxis do not guarantee amenities like child seats or help with luggage.

Price: from €28/day Rental period: from 1 day Requirements: Valid driver’s license, passport/ID, credit card

If you prefer independence, car rental is available at the airport. Deposits range €500-2000, insurance is usually included, and extras like child seats (€8/day) and tire chains (€20) are available. Booking in advance is recommended, especially in high season.

Ready to Head to Frankfurt City Center?

From Frankfurt Airport, you can: Take the S-Bahn for a fast and affordable trip (~15-20 min, €5.50) Ride a bus for a budget-friendly journey (~30-40 min, €4.50) Hire a taxi for a direct ride, though with variable rates and limited amenities (~20 min, €50-70)

Book a Kiwitaxi private transfer for a guaranteed, comfortable, and stress-free ride (~20 min, €50-60)

Rent a car if you want flexibility and independence

No matter which option you choose, Frankfurt city center is just a short ride away, ready to welcome you with history, culture, and modern charm.