Frankfurt Airport: Your Arrival and Onward Journey in Germany

Updated on May 28, 2025 by Angelika

Frankfurt Airport is one of Europe’s busiest international hubs – and for many travelers, it’s the first point of contact with Germany. With two terminals, several train stations and a wide range of services, it can feel overwhelming at first – especially if you’re arriving tired after a long-haul flight and want to hit the road right away or catch a train to another city.

To help you find your way quickly and start your German adventure with ease, here’s everything you need to know – all in one place.

Quick Check: Which information is relevant for you?

Not all travelers have the same needs. This quick guide helps you identify which sections of this article are most helpful for your travel plans:

Type of traveler	Key topics	Most important steps
🌍 International visitors renting a car	Terminal 2 → Terminal 1, car rental, SIM card	Paragraphs 2, 3, 4, 7
🚉 Continuing by train	Transfer to train stations, tickets	Paragraphs 3, 5, 6
🧳 Transit passengers	SkyLine connection, layover tips	Paragraphs 3, 6
🇩🇪 German travelers	Arrival by car, parking, train, rental	Paragraphs 4, 5, 7
🏙️ City explorers	Stay in Frankfurt, visit Heidelberg	Paragraphs 4 (extra tip), 7

The airport is divided into two large terminals, which are not directly connected to each other - This can lead to confusion if you don't know your way around:

• Terminal 1:
  - Arrivals with Lufthansa, SWISS, Austrian, United, ANA, and other Star Alliance members
  - Location of the Long-Distance Train Station (Fernbahnhof): (ICE) and Regional Train Station (Regionalbahnhof): (e.g. S-Bahn, IC and RE trains)
  - All car rental desks are located in Hall A,in the "Airport City Mall".
  - Wide range of shops, restaurants, and services
• Terminal 2:
  - Used by many international airlines (e.g. Emirates, Qatar Airways, Singapore Airlines, Turkish Airlines)
  - No direct rail connections
  - If you're continuing your journey by train, you’ll need to transfer to Terminal 1 first.

• Long-Distance Train Station (Fernbahnhof): For high-speed ICE trains to cities like Berlin, Cologne, Munich or Stuttgart
• Regional Train Station (Regionalbahnhof): For local and regional trains, including S-Bahn lines to Frankfurt city center, Mainz or Wiesbaden

• Shuttle bus: Free bus service between the terminals, journey time approx. 8 minutes, bus stop on arrival level (therefore this is the best option when arriving at Terminal 2).
• SkyLine Monorail: Elevated train, connects Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 in a few minutes, stops in the transit area of both terminals as well as in Terminal 1, B/C on level 2 (access via departure hall) and Terminal 2, D/E on level 3 (access via shopping plaza)
• On foot: Not recommended – terminals are far apart and there’s no pedestrian path.

On this map I have marked the most important stations and service points for your arrival at Frankfurt Airport.

📍 You can find the official map of Frankfurt Airport here here.

Welcome to Germany! After a long flight, your first priority is to get through passport control, collect your luggage, and figure out how to get to your next destination – whether that’s by train, rental car, or airport hotel. The process is a little different depending on which terminal you land at.

• Terminal 1:Arrival with Lufthansa, Austrian, SWISS, United, ANA and others (Star Alliance)
• Terminal 2:Arrival with Emirates, Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, Singapore Airlines and many more.

📍 Tip: Check your boarding pass or the baggage claim screen to confirm which terminal you’re in. You can also ask airport staff – they’re used to helping first-time visitors. You can also find your airline's terminal on the Frankfurt Airport website.

• EU/EEA/Swiss citizens: Usually quick and automated via eGates
• Non-EU travelers: Manual passport check by German border police (have your passport, visa – if applicable – and reason for travel ready)

📍Note: If you had a layover in another Schengen country (like Amsterdam or Paris), your passport was already checked there – you’ll skip passport control in Frankfurt and go directly to baggage claim.

• Look for your flight number on the baggage claim screens to find the correct carousel.
• After collecting your luggage, proceed through Customs:
  • Green lane: Nothing to declare
  • Red lane: Goods to declare

Once you're in the arrivals area, you have two possible scenarios:

• Arrived at Terminal 1? Great - you're already right by the regional and long-distance train stations and the rental car stations.
• Arrived at Terminal 2? Many car rental companies have a counter in Terminal 2, but not all of them. If your rental car company only has a counter in Terminal 1 or you are traveling by train or domestic flight, you must now to Terminal 1. It's very easy via:
  • Shuttle bus: 
  • SkyLine Train and (runs every 2-3 minutes

If you arrive at Terminal 2 but need to catch a train or pick up a rental car from a company that does not have a counter in Terminal 2, your next step is to get to Terminal 1. This is where both the train stations and all rental car stations are located. That sounds more complicated than it is - but it’s actually quite straightforward. Here are your options:

• Runs every 5 - 10 minutesfrom 5:30 a.m. to 11:30 p.m., free of charge
• Bus stops are clearly marked outside both terminals and the coach parking area (P36)
• Travel time: 7-10 minutes, depending on traffic

📍 Tip: The bus may take a bit longer than the SkyLine, but saves you the hassle of changing floors or using escalators.

• Runs every 2-3 minutes, free of charge
• Connection between Terminal 2 (Hall D/E) and Terminal 1 (Hall B)
• Travel time: approx. 2 minutes
• Fully accessible for wheelchairs and strollers
• The stops are located in Terminal 1, A/Z (transit area), Terminal 1, B/C (access via Departure Hall B on Level 2), Terminal 1, C (transit area) and Terminal 2, D/E (access via Shopping Plaza on Level 3).

📍Notice: The SkyLine has separate boarding areas for Schengen and non-Schengen passengers due to passport control rules. Simply follow the signs relevant for you.

Don't even try to walk from Terminal 2 and Terminal 1, as the route is

• very long and confusing
• not designed for pedestrians
• not signposted

📍My advice: In any case, use the shuttle bus or SkyLine.

Once you arrive at Terminal 1 (Hall A or B), you'll find:

• car rental desks (in the "Airport City Mall")
• the long-distance train station (ICE trains) - accessible via a covered walkway
• the regional train station (S-Bahn and other regional trains) - just a short escalator or elevator ride down

Planning a road trip through Germany or Europe? Renting a car at Frankfurt Airport is a great way to explore the country at your own pace – especially if you’re heading to smaller towns, countryside routes, or scenic driving roads like the Romantic Road. Here’s how to make the pickup process smooth and stress-free:

• All major rental companies – including Sixt, Europcar, Avis, Hertz, and Enterprise – have their counters in Terminal 1, Hall A, inside the Airport City Mall, as well as in  Terminal 2, Hall D, on the arrivals level. You can find a detailed overview here.
• With most providers, you can pick up and return the rental car either at Terminal 1 or Terminal 2, depending on what you agreed when booking.
• The parking garages for returning rental cars are located near the terminals, which can be reached quickly on foot after returning the car.

📍Tip: Before booking your rental car, think carefully about which terminal you want to pick up or return your car at in order to avoid unnecessary transfers between terminals.

• Valid driver’s license: Most countries’ national licenses are accepted. However, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is strongly recommended for travelers from the US, Australia, and many other non-EU countries.
• Credit card in the driver’s name: Required for the deposit and rental payment
• Passport or ID: For identification at the rental counter
• Booking confirmation: printed or digital

• Automatic or manual? Many rental cars in Germany are manual (stick shift). Be sure to request an automatic when booking if needed.
• Navigation: Download offline maps (e.g. via Google Maps or Maps.me), or rent a GPS unit.
• Child seats:  Required by law for children under 12 or shorter than 150 cm – must be booked in advance.
• Fuel policy:  "Full to full" is the best deal – pick up the car with a full tank, and return it full.
• Green environmental sticker: Your car should have a green emissions sticker if you’re driving into city centers like Frankfurt, Stuttgart, or Berlin (see also paragraph 8.7).

📍 Bonus tip:Instead of driving straight after a long-haul flight, spend a day or two in Frankfurt and consider a day trip to Heidelberg by train. It’s a great way to ease into your trip and enjoy two of Germany’s most beautiful cities without rushing into traffic.

Frankfurt Airport is not just an international flight hub – it’s also one of the best-connected rail stations in Germany. If you're continuing your journey by train, you have two convenient options, both located at Terminal 1:.

• Located directly beneath Terminal 1, Hall B
• Serves local and regional trains (S-Bahn and Regionalbahn)
• Quick option if your destination is nearby - e.g. to Frankfurt main station and the city center, or to Mainz, Wiesbaden, Darmstadt

📍 S-Bahn tip: The S8 and S9 run every 10-15 minutes during the day in the direction of Frankfurt Hauptbahnhof (journey time: approx. 12 minutes).

💡Savings tip: If you're planning to use public transport more often, consider getting the  Deutschland-Ticket, which allows nationwide travel on all regional trains for €58 per month.

• Located a short walk (5 - 10 minutes on foot) from Terminal 1, connected by a covered pedestrian bridge
• Serves high-speed ICE, IC, and EC trains
• Destinations include major cities such as Cologne, Stuttgart, Munich, Berlin, and Hamburg
• Best option for long-distance travel within Germany or to neighboring countries

• Ticket machines:  Available at both stations, with English-language and other language options. Accept cash, debit cards, and credit cards.
• Online tickets and timetable information via bahn.de. Here you can also download the DB Navigator App  for timetables, real-time information and mobile tickets.
• Travel Center (Reisezentrum):  Located in Terminal 1, Area B – staffed by Deutsche Bahn employees

• Luggage is free on all trains (but luggage carts are not allowed onboard).
• ICE trains have overhead shelves above the seats, designated luggage areas within each carriage, Wi-Fi, and restrooms.
• Seat reservations are optional but recommended during weekends, holidays, or busy travel seasons.
• You can bring your own drinks and snacks on board - or use the train's bistro.

📍My tip: If you’re arriving in Terminal 2 and continuing by ICE, plan at least (> 1 hour)for the transfer and possible layover. Especially if you want to grab food or shop at The Squaire the complex above the long-distance station.

Got a few hours before your train or flight? No problem. Frankfurt Airport offers plenty of options to relax, recharge, or even explore a little. Especially if you’re at Terminal 1, you're just a short walk away from  The Squaire the modern business and lifestyle complex above the long-distance train station.

The modern business and lifestyle complex The Squaire is located directly above the long-distance train station and is connected to Terminal 1 connected to Terminal 1 via a covered Skywalk. Here’s what you’ll find:

• Supermarkets and drugstores: Stock up on snacks, drinks, or travel essentials at REWE and Rossmann
• Restaurants and cafés: From Starbucks and sushi to German classics – ideal for a relaxed meal.
• Business lounges and hotels (Hilton Frankfurt Airport* and Hilton Garden Inn Frankfurt Airport*).
• Quiet zones and co-working spaces: Comfortable seating with free Wi-Fi and power outlets – great for working or resting.

📍 Tip: If you're heading out on a long train ride or drive, The Squaire is the perfect place to refuel, freshen up, or take a quiet break before you continue.

• In both terminals you will find restaurants, bakeries, cafés and snack stands.
• For more choice, international cuisine or if you have to go to the long-distance train station anyway, The Squaire offers a wider and higher-quality selection..

Want to explore Frankfurt during a stopover and need your hands free? Use the luggage storage!

• Terminal 1: Area B, level 1 (arrivals) and area B - C, level 2 (departures)
• Terminal 2:Area D, Level 2 (Arrivals)
• Prices depending on size and duration (approx. 9 - 12 € per day for normal luggage)

• Recliner-style rest areas are available in some terminal zones (sign-posted)
• Free Wi-Fi throughout the airport (registration required)
• Power outlets for charging laptops and cell phones are widely available

Before you hit the road, it’s a good idea to take a short break and get organized. Whether you're picking up a rental car or heading off on a long drive, these tips will help you get started smoothly.

If you're beginning or ending your journey at the airport with your own car, there are plenty of parking options:

• Terminal parking (T1 and T2): Convenient, short-distance parking directly next to the terminals – great for drop-offs, pick-ups, or short stays
• Holiday Parking / Long-Term Lots: Cheaper options a bit further away, with free shuttle service to the terminals
• Online booking: Reserve in advance via the Frankfurt Airport parking portal – often cheaper than paying on-site
• Accessible parking or EV charging stations are also available

📍 Tip: For quick pick-ups or drop-offs, use the Kiss & Fly Zone The first few minutes are free of charge. For stays of several hours, we recommend the short-term parking garage P39 (Terminal 1) or P18 (Terminal 2). Book your parking space for long-term stays via the booking portal.

There are several gas stations close to the airport, mostly along the roads leading to the motorway.

📍 Tip: If you're returning your rental car, it’s usually cheaper to refuel just outside the airport in nearby towns like Kelsterbach or Neu-Isenburg rather than at the on-site stations.

• Inside The Squaire, you’ll find a REWE supermarket and a Rossmann drugstore – ideal for grabbing snacks, toiletries, or basic supplies before your road trip.
• Alternatively, head to a nearby shopping center like Mainkaufzentrum, Walldorfer Karree, or Isenburg-Zentrum – all easily reachable by car within 10–15 minutes.

Staying connected is key for road trips, especially when navigating or booking accommodation on the go. A prepaid SIM or eSIM is a great option. Look for EU-wide coverage if you're traveling beyond Germany (most prepaid plans include free roaming in the EU). You have the following options:

• Buy a prepaid card or eSIM in advance. On Check24* you can compare the tariffs.
• Buy a prepaid card or eSIM after your arrival at an airport store such as Relay or from one of the mobile phone providers.

💡 Note: No contract required - prepaid cards are flexible and budget-friendly.

After a long flight, a good night's sleep can work wonders – and why not make the most of it by spending a couple of days in Frankfurt? a few nights in Frankfurt city center in your plans. So you can start your Germany road trip relaxed and discover one of the country's most exciting cities at the same time.

Here are some reasons to pay some attention to Frankfurt:

• The Goethe House, where Germany's most famous poet was born.
• An outstanding museum landscape (e.g. Museumsufer with Städel, Liebieghaus, Jewish Museum, German Film Museum and many more; the Schirn Kunsthalle Frankfurt, one of the most important museums for modern art in Europe; the Senckenberg Natural History Museum, one of the largest and most important natural history museums in Europe).
• The contrast between old town and Germany's only real skyline.
• Culinary specialties such as "Äppelwoi", "Grie Soß" and "Handkäs' mit Musik".
• One of  Germany's most popular Christmas markets (late November to December).

Airport hotels:: Hilton Frankfurt Airport* and Hilton Garden Inn Frankfurt Airport* are located in the building complex The Squaire, Sheraton Frankfurt Airport Hotel* directly at Terminal 1.

City center hotels: From the Steigenberger Icon Frankfurter Hof* and from the Motel One Frankfurt Römer*, the sights of the city center are within walking distance. The InterCity Hotel Frankfurt Hauptbahnhof* (located right at the central station, great value and perfect for onward train travel)

📍Day trip idea: If you have time, visit romantic Heidelberg, one of Germany's most picturesque towns, only one hour away by train. Stroll through the charming old town, visit the castle ruins, and enjoy the view from Philosophenweg.

Find the right hotel for your stay at Expedia*:

• Right-hand traffic, speed limits in urban areas mostly 50 km/h, out of town 100 km/h
• Highways often do not have a general speed limit - but the recommended speed is 130 km/h. Always pay attention to speed limits. The widespread belief that you can drive as fast as you like on the autobahn in Germany is a myth - there are almost always speed limits of some kind.
• Blood alcohol limit: 0.5 ‰ (for novice drivers and under 21 years: 0.0 ‰)
• Observe parking with a parking disk - often necessary in small towns
• In city centers, often only residents are allowed to park on the street. Everyone else has to use public parking lots or parking garages.

📍 Final tip: Use apps such as Google Maps, Waze or ADAC Maps for traffic information - and pay attention to environmental zones (green sticker) in many cities!

Terminal overview plan of Frankfurt Airport for orientation. Shows the layout of Terminals 1 and 2, the location of the gates, check-in areas and connections to train stations and other facilities.

Information page of Frankfurt Airport with everything you need to know for your fast transfers between Terminals 1 and 2.

Official travel information of the Deutsche Bahn: : Official German Rail website and app for tickets, timetables, platform info, and real-time updates. Frankfurt Airport. There you will also find information on DB Navigator (free rail app for timetable information and ticket purchase).

Rental car comparison on CHECK24* lists available car rental companies with prices and enables direct booking. Ideal for finding the right vehicle for a road trip and comparing conditions (insurance, mileage, etc.).

Baggage storage at Frankfurt AirportSecure luggage storage in both terminals - prices, opening hours and locations at a glance.

Information on the green environmental badge (fine dust sticker) at the Federal Environment AgencyThe environmental badge is mandatory in many German cities - including Frankfurt - in order to be allowed to drive in environmental zones. It explains which vehicles are issued with a sticker (usually Euro 4 diesel/Euro 1 petrol and better) and how to obtain one. When picking up a rental car, you should make sure that the car has the green environmental sticker to avoid fines in environmental zones.