Frankfurt Airport (FRA) first timers guide: Learn your way around!

Are you craving a European adventure? Look no further than Germany. Boasting over ten major cities, Germany is the land of endless adventure. Sitting in the center of Germany is Frankfurt, or Frankfurt am Main (Frankfurt on the Main).

As the country's financial capital, Frankfurt boasts a modern-style skyline containing 17 skyscrapers and some of the largest museums in Europe! While many historical structures were damaged in World War II, some have been rebuilt in the same style for tourists to visit.

Even if you're not looking to stay in Frankfurt, you'll likely touchdown at Frankfurt international airport before traveling to your next German destination. Its central location makes it Germany's busiest transportation hub. Get to any major city in Germany by rail or bus using their reliable transit system. 

If you've ever been to an airport, you'll know that airports are crazy. The queues are long, the gates are far, and everyone seems to be moody. Finding your way around international terminals is hell. If you're an introvert like me, asking someone for help is not happening. In a busy place like Frankfurt international airport, you're bound to find yourself lost at some point.

So if you're looking to land in Frankfurt soon, keep reading to find everything you need to know before arriving at Frankfurt airport.

Where is Frankfurt Airport?

Frankfurt airport is located in Frankfurt, Germany. Only 14km away from the Frankfurt city center, Frankfurt airport is one of Europe's busiest airports. Immediately south of the airport was previously a major airbase for the United States, the Rhein-Main Air Base. The area is now being transformed into Frankfurt airport's new Terminal 3.

How Many Terminals Are There in Frankfurt Airport?

The airport is conveniently divided into two terminals. Terminal 1 carries all airlines within the Star Alliance and all Lufthansa airlines. Terminal 2 carries airlines within Oneworld, SkyTeam Alliance, and all other airlines not part of major alliances. Food and services are located near the center of the airport, with some services located closer to terminal 1. 

Access the interactive Frankfurt Airport map to find the services you need!

Things to Do at Frankfurt Airport

What to buy at the airport?

Frankfurt Airport carries a variety of retail stores ranging from luxury boutiques to local souvenir shops. They even include several large grocery stores within the terminals for your shopping convenience! If you're looking for a staple Frankfurt-style souvenir, look for a Frankfurt Homburg style hat, Frankfurt wine, or apple wine (apfelwein).

Toy car models, Frankfurt mustard, and Eintracht Team scarves are also popular souvenir choices.

Where to eat at the airport?

As mentioned above, there are several supermarkets within the airport. These stores are perfect for those looking for a quick fix or something to take away to the hotel. They also offer a variety of options for our pickier eaters. 

For those looking for a dine-in experience, restaurants are near the center of the airport and around Terminal 1. We recommend Paulaner in the Squaire and Deli Bros near Terminal 1. 

For our vegan or vegetarian friends, try out Natoo. 

Where to relax at the airport?

Relax at any Terminal seating areas while taking advantage of the airport's free wifi. They also offer free access to the quiet room for those looking to escape the airport hustle and bustle. Christian chapels, as well as Jewish and Muslim prayer rooms, are also available at both terminals. 

As an international airport, Frankfurt airport offers a variety of entertainment options for travelers looking to kill time. Check out this list of entertainment locations offered at the airport. Access to private airport lounges requires an entry fee. 

How to Get From Frankfurt Airport to Frankfurt City Center

By Transit 

You can get from Frankfurt Airport to Frankfurt downtown by train, bus, and taxi. Each will take 40 minutes, 30 minutes, and 20 minutes respectively. 

We recommend calling a taxi if your destination isn't near train stations or bus stops. Also, remember to punch your train ticket at the station if you don't want to add an extra 40 EUR fine to your travel expenses!

• Take the S8 or S9 line or RE59, RE2, or RE3 for the train
• Take bus numbers 61, 77, 72, 58, 62 in the daytime or N81 and N7 in the nighttime
• Taxi services operating at Frankfurt airport

Car Rental

You can find a car rental center at both terminals. Book your car online to save time when you arrive in Frankfurt. The minimal rental period is one day with a starting price of 28 EUR. Expect to place a deposit for your rental anywhere from 500-2000 EUR. Car seats and tire chains are available for a fee.

Hotels Near Frankfurt Airport

If your stay at the airport will be short, we recommend the NapCabs available in terminal 1. These are perfect for those in transit looking to have a quick nap before their next flight. NapCab services charge by the hour. MY CLOUD transit hotel is also an option for those seeking a shower or a more spacious private room. The minimum period for these rooms is 3 hours.

Book any of the 13 hotels near Frankfurt airport for a good hotel experience for those needing a longer stay. 

Frankfurt Airport During Covid-19

Germany currently requires passengers, including those who are only transferring flights, to either have proof of vaccination or proof of recovery to enter the country. Frankfurt airport encourages passengers to have their documents ready on hand while at the airport. Medical masks (surgical masks, KN95/N95, and FFP 2) are mandatory at Frankfurt airport, and cloth face coverings are no longer accepted.

For more information on Frankfurt airport's Covid-19 restrictions, click here. Be sure to check your destination country's travel restrictions ahead of your flight to ensure you have all the documentation ready. 

Be prepared to take off with Pilot!

If Frankfurt isn't your final destination, you may be interested in some of our other posts on Germany. Plan the perfect Berlin excursion or find our blog's best Berlin walking tours. 

If you're someone that likes being prepared, why not give Pilot, our travel planning app, a try?