Frankfurt International Airport (FRA) is one of Europe’s busiest and most important airports, serving as a major hub for international and intercontinental flights. Located in Frankfurt, Germany, FRA connects millions of travelers worldwide, making it a primary gateway to Europe. Here’s everything you need to know to navigate Frankfurt International Airport smoothly.
Location and Terminals
Frankfurt International Airport is located about 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) southwest of Frankfurt’s city center, making it very accessible to travelers staying in the city or connecting to other parts of Europe. The airport has two main terminals:
- Terminal 1: The largest and busiest terminal, Terminal 1 serves as the main hub for Lufthansa and Star Alliance airlines. It’s divided into Concourses A, B, C, and Z, with extensive amenities and services for travelers.
- Terminal 2: This terminal primarily handles flights from non-Star Alliance airlines, such as British Airways, Emirates, and Qatar Airways. Terminal 2 is divided into Concourses D and E.
The two terminals are connected by a free SkyLine train that runs every few minutes, making transfers convenient.
Airlines and Flights
Frankfurt Airport is a major hub for Lufthansa, and as part of the Star Alliance network, it offers extensive connections across Europe, North America, Asia, and beyond. You’ll also find a variety of international carriers here, including Emirates, British Airways, and Singapore Airlines. FRA’s location and vast network make it ideal for travelers connecting to multiple global destinations.
Getting to and from the Airport
- Train (S-Bahn): Frankfurt Airport is directly connected to Frankfurt’s main train station (Hauptbahnhof) and other cities by the S-Bahn (S8 and S9 lines), which run frequently and are very affordable. This is one of the fastest ways to reach Frankfurt city center, taking about 15 minutes.
- Long-Distance Trains (ICE): FRA has a long-distance train station (Fernbahnhof) with high-speed ICE trains connecting travelers to other major German cities, such as Cologne, Berlin, and Munich, and even to destinations outside Germany.
- Taxi: Taxis are readily available at both terminals, with the ride to central Frankfurt taking around 20 minutes, depending on traffic. Taxis are more costly than public transit but offer a direct route to your destination.
- Ride-Sharing: Ride-sharing services like Uber are also available, but they may have more limited availability than taxis and trains.
- Car Rentals: Major car rental companies operate at FRA, allowing travelers to pick up a car and explore Germany or Europe by road.
Facilities and Amenities
Frankfurt International Airport offers a wide range of amenities, making it a comfortable transit hub for travelers:
- Dining: FRA has an extensive selection of restaurants, cafes, and fast-food outlets in both terminals. You can find everything from traditional German dishes to international cuisine, quick bites, and coffee shops.
- Shopping: Duty-free shops, luxury boutiques, and convenience stores are plentiful, especially in Terminal 1. You’ll find high-end brands, electronics, cosmetics, souvenirs, and German specialties like chocolates and local wines.
- Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, though extended access may require creating an account.
- Lounges: Frankfurt Airport has numerous lounges, including Lufthansa lounges, Priority Pass lounges, and other independent lounges. Lounges offer a quiet space to relax, along with refreshments, Wi-Fi, and workspaces.
- Sleeping Areas and Hotels: If you have a long layover, FRA has dedicated rest areas with comfortable seating, and there are also several hotels within or close to the airport, including the Hilton and Sheraton Frankfurt Airport Hotel.
- Kids’ Zones and Play Areas: FRA offers several play areas to keep young travelers entertained, making it a family-friendly airport.
- Showers and Fitness Facilities: Showers are available in some lounges and transit areas. There’s also a fitness and wellness center for those who want to freshen up or work out during a layover.
Tips for Travelers
- Allow Extra Time for Security and Passport Control: FRA can get busy, especially during peak hours. Arriving at least 2 hours before European flights and 3 hours before intercontinental flights is recommended.
- Use the SkyLine for Terminal Transfers: If you’re transferring between Terminals 1 and 2, the SkyLine train is the quickest and easiest way to get between terminals.
- Take Advantage of Duty-Free Shopping: Frankfurt has excellent duty-free shops, so if you’re looking for high-end items or German specialties, the airport offers competitive prices.
- Download Offline Maps and Translate Apps: English is widely spoken at FRA, but having an offline map or translation app can help with navigating the airport and understanding signs.
- Explore the Airport’s Food and Shopping: If you have time, try some German dishes like pretzels or bratwurst, or explore the shopping options for local souvenirs.
In Summary
Frankfurt International Airport is a major European transit hub with world-class facilities, efficient connections, and extensive amenities. Whether you’re here for a layover, business trip, or starting your journey in Europe, FRA has everything you need for a smooth and enjoyable experience. Safe travels!