Frankfurt Airport

near Hanau

Frankfurt Airport Terminal 1
Frankfurt Airport Terminal 1
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Fæ

Frankfurt Airport is Germany's busiest international airport and one of Europe's most important global aviation hubs. Located around 12 km southwest of Frankfurt city centre, this large and efficiently organised airport provides extensive long-haul connections and exceptional transport links, making it a key arrival point for travellers exploring central Germany.

With its two major terminals, high-speed rail station, and comprehensive range of shops and services, Frankfurt Airport is designed to handle millions of passengers smoothly each year. Whether you are beginning a journey, ending one, or connecting between flights, this guide explains everything you need to know about navigating FRA with ease.

Why This Airport Matters

Frankfurt Airport serves as a major gateway between Europe and the rest of the world, offering one of the continent's broadest networks of long-haul and intercontinental flights. It is a central hub for Lufthansa and the Star Alliance, drawing travellers from every corner of the globe.

Its location in the heart of Germany makes it an ideal airport for business travellers heading to Frankfurt’s financial district, as well as visitors exploring the Rhine-Main region or continuing by rail to other major German cities. Fast connections, strong infrastructure, and extensive facilities ensure that the airport meets the needs of both business and leisure travellers.

History and Significance

Frankfurt Airport began operations in 1936 and expanded rapidly after World War II, becoming a major European hub for transatlantic flights. Throughout the late 20th century, additional runways, terminals, and air-traffic facilities were added to meet increasing international demand.

Today, the airport is one of Europe’s busiest, handling tens of millions of passengers each year. Its continued growth and strategic position have made it an essential hub for global air travel and a key economic driver for the region.

Airport Layout and Quick Facts

The airport consists of two large terminals: Terminal 1, the main base for Lufthansa and Star Alliance airlines, and Terminal 2, which serves a wide range of international carriers. A free SkyLine train connects both terminals efficiently.

Arrivals areas feature multiple baggage carousels, clear signage, and fast transport links to the city. Departures are organised into large check-in halls, several security checkpoints, and spacious departure lounges. Walking distances can be long, but movement between gates and terminals is well supported by automated transport systems.

Where to Stay Close to Frankfurt Airport

Several hotels are directly linked to Frankfurt Airport, ideal for layovers or early-morning flights. One of the most convenient is Hilton Frankfurt Airport, located within The Squaire complex above the long-distance train station. Also connected to the terminal area is Sheraton Frankfurt Airport Hotel.

Travellers looking for nearby alternatives often choose Moxy Frankfurt Airport or Steigenberger Airport Hotel Frankfurt, both a short shuttle ride from the terminal. For those staying in Frankfurt city centre, hotels around Hauptbahnhof provide easy rail access to the airport.

Getting To and From Frankfurt Airport

By Bus

Local and regional buses serve both terminals, connecting the airport with Frankfurt and towns across the Rhine-Main area. Services run frequently throughout the day and offer an economical alternative to rail.

By Taxi

Taxis are available outside both terminals, taking around 15 to 20 minutes to reach central Frankfurt. Fares are metered and generally consistent, with small surcharges during late-night hours. Taxis are useful for travellers heading to hotels or business areas not directly served by train.

By Train

Frankfurt Airport has two railway stations: the Regionalbahnhof for S-Bahn services into the city, and the Fernbahnhof for high-speed ICE trains to major destinations across Germany. These trains provide the fastest and most reliable way to reach Frankfurt and beyond.

Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.

By Car

The airport is located at the junction of major motorways including the A3 and A5, offering easy access from all directions. Parking options include multi-storey garages and long-term car parks near both terminals. Car rental companies operate inside the terminals for travellers starting road trips through Germany.

If you are looking to rent a car in Germany I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

By Transfers and Shuttles

Pre-booked transfer services and hotel shuttles provide direct door-to-door transport, especially convenient for travellers with heavy luggage or late-night arrivals. Many hotels within the airport district operate complimentary shuttle buses.

Arriving at Frankfurt Airport

Arrivals at FRA are generally efficient, although walking distances from some gates can be long due to the airport’s size. Passport control has dedicated lanes for EU and non-EU travellers, with processing times usually reasonable. Baggage claim areas are spacious and well marked.

After collecting luggage, travellers can access supermarkets, cafés, SIM card counters, ATMs, train stations, and hotel shuttles. Information points and multilingual signage make the terminal easy to navigate.

Money Exchange & Currency Tips for Germany

Germany uses the euro, and ATMs provide the most favourable exchange rates compared to currency counters. Frankfurt Airport has many ATMs in both terminals, offering easy access to cash in euros. Airport exchange offices are available but typically charge higher fees.

Card payments are widely accepted, though some smaller shops may prefer cash. Avoid dynamic currency conversion when paying by card. Travellers with multicurrency cards such as Wise or Revolut can benefit from low-fee withdrawals and competitive conversion rates.

SIM Cards & Connectivity

Telekom, Vodafone, and O2 offer SIM card stands, shops, and vending machines throughout the airport. Tourist SIM packages with data are widely available and activate quickly. Free Wi-Fi covers the entire terminal complex and provides a reliable connection for browsing and communication.

Departing from Frankfurt Airport

Departures involve large check-in halls followed by multiple security checkpoints. Travellers should arrive early during busy periods, especially in the morning or during holidays. After security, the departure areas provide numerous cafés, restaurants, retail stores, and seating zones.

Gate areas in both terminals vary in size, and some long-haul gates may require taking the SkyLine or shuttle buses. Allow extra time when boarding international flights or when changing terminals.

Airport Services and Facilities

• Food and drink
• Shops and duty-free stores
• ATMs and currency services
• Wi-Fi and charging points
• SIM card and mobile services
• Family and accessibility facilities
• Medical and assistance points

Lounges at Frankfurt Airport

Frankfurt Airport features numerous lounges across both terminals, including airline lounges for premium passengers and independent lounges accessible for a fee. These lounges offer seating, refreshments, workspaces, and quiet areas, providing comfort during long waits or layovers.

Frankfurt Airport Hotels

Travellers can stay directly at the airport in hotels such as Hilton Garden Inn Frankfurt Airport or Sheraton Frankfurt Airport Hotel. Additional hotels nearby include Steigenberger Airport Hotel Frankfurt and Moxy Frankfurt Airport.

Those staying in Frankfurt city centre can reach the airport easily by S-Bahn or long-distance trains from the Hauptbahnhof.

Renting a Car at Frankfurt Airport

Car rental companies such as Sixt, Avis, Hertz, Europcar, and Enterprise operate from rental centres inside both terminals. Pick-up points are located in nearby multi-storey car parks, and drop-off areas are clearly signposted. From the airport, major motorways lead toward Cologne, Munich, Stuttgart, and other major cities.

Flights and Airlines Operating at FRA

Frankfurt Airport offers a vast network of flights across Europe, Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and the Americas. It is a major hub for Lufthansa and Star Alliance partners, while numerous international airlines operate long-haul services. Seasonal routes to holiday destinations also run throughout the year.

For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Hanau on Booking.com.

Practical Tips for Using Frankfurt Airport

• Arrive early for international flights
• Expect long walking distances between gates
• Use the train for fast connections into Frankfurt
• Withdraw euros from ATMs for better exchange rates
• Allow extra time during summer and holiday travel
• Follow signage carefully when changing terminals
• Shops and restaurants vary by terminal and zone

Can You Sleep Overnight at Frankfurt Airport?

Frankfurt Airport is open 24 hours, and travellers may stay inside the terminals overnight. Seating is available in public areas, though comfortable spots can be limited. Security patrols operate throughout the night, and lighting remains bright, so eye masks and earplugs can be helpful. Many travellers choose to stay in one of the airport hotels for a more comfortable rest.

Final Thoughts

Frankfurt Airport is one of Europe's leading international hubs, offering extensive global connections and strong infrastructure for both business and leisure travel. Its wide range of services, efficient transport links, and modern facilities ensure a smooth experience whether arriving, departing, or transiting through the airport.

The Frankfurt Airport appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Hanau!

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Visiting Frankfurt Airport

Address: Frankfurt Airport (FRA), Frankfurt am Main, Germany
Hanau: 28 km
Heidelberg: 72 km
Würzburg: 104 km

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