Frankfurt Airport
Flughafen Frankfurt am Main
Frankfurt, Germany · Since 1936
Last updated:
About FRA
Frankfurt Airport is Germany's largest airport and one of Europe's most important aviation hubs, serving as the primary hub for Lufthansa and a major gateway between Europe and destinations worldwide. Located 12 kilometers southwest of Frankfurt city center, the airport handles more passengers than any other German airport and ranks among Europe's busiest. The airport features two terminals connected by the SkyLine people mover, with Terminal 1 being one of Europe's largest airport buildings. Frankfurt is particularly significant for business travelers, given Frankfurt's status as a major European financial center and home to the European Central Bank.
Why "FRA"?
FRA comes from Frankfurt, the major financial center and largest city in the German state of Hesse. The airport full German name is Flughafen Frankfurt am Main, distinguishing it from Frankfurt (Oder) near the Polish border.
Airlines Operating
Lufthansa, Condor, Eurowings, Discover Airlines, Singapore Airlines, United Airlines, All Nippon Airways, Japan Airlines, Cathay Pacific, Emirates, Qatar Airways, Etihad Airways, Turkish Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, British Airways, Air France, KLM, Swiss, Austrian Airlines, TAP Air Portugal, Iberia, SAS Scandinavian, Finnair, LOT Polish Airlines, El Al, Royal Jordanian, Ethiopian Airlines, South African Airways, Air Canada, Korean Air, Asiana Airlines, China Airlines, Air China, China Southern
Terminals
Terminal 1
Terminal 1 is the main and larger terminal, opened in 1972 and continuously expanded. It has five concourses (Halls A, B, C, D, and Z). Hall A and B are primarily used by Lufthansa and Star Alliance partners. The terminal features the Squaire office building on its roof and direct access to the long-distance train station (Fernbahnhof). Terminal 1 handles approximately 65% of the airport traffic.
Terminal 2
Terminal 2 opened in 1994 and serves most non-Star Alliance carriers. Connected to Terminal 1 by the free SkyLine people mover (2 minutes). Has two concourses (Halls D and E). Generally less crowded than Terminal 1. Some airlines have their own dedicated check-in areas and lounges.
Terminal 3
The newest terminal at Frankfurt, opened to expand capacity for growing passenger numbers. Connected to the existing terminals via SkyLine people mover. Features modern design with improved passenger flow, advanced self-service technology, and sustainability features. Primarily serves overflow traffic and select carriers.
Minimum Connection Times (MCT)
Airlines at FRA
Showing 8 of 85 airlines. View all airlines →
Getting There & Away
S-Bahn (S8 and S9 lines) runs to Frankfurt Hauptbahnhof (main station) in 11-15 minutes (€5.35), with connections throughout the Rhine-Main region. Regional and long-distance trains depart from the Fernbahnhof (long-distance station) including ICE high-speed trains to major German cities and neighboring countries. Airport shuttle buses connect to nearby cities including Mainz, Wiesbaden, and Darmstadt. Taxis to city center cost €30-45. Uber available with pickup at designated areas. Excellent autobahn connections for rental cars. The airport has direct train connections to over 250 German and European destinations.
Taxi
€30-40 (~$33-44 USD) to Frankfurt city center
15-25 minutes to city center
Public Transport
€5.35 (~$5.90 USD) S-Bahn ticket
11 minutes to Frankfurt Hauptbahnhof to city center
Popular Destinations
Parking at FRA
Terminal 1 Parking (P1-P5)
Terminal 2 Parking (P8-P9)
Holiday Parking (P36)
Valet Parking
Airport Lounges
Lufthansa First Class Terminal
A standalone building considered one of the finest first class experiences in aviation. Features a la carte dining with chef-prepared meals, premium bar with rare wines and spirits, cigar lounge, private offices, bathtub suites, personal assistant service, and a private Porsche or Mercedes transfer directly to the aircraft. An experience that redefines airport luxury.
Lufthansa Senator Lounge (Terminal 1, Hall A)
The premium business lounge for Star Alliance Gold members. Features hot buffet, full bar with German wines and beers, shower facilities, business center, and quiet areas. The food quality is notably better than typical business lounges with a focus on fresh German cuisine.
Emirates Lounge
Emirates dedicated lounge in Terminal 2. International buffet with Middle Eastern and Western dishes, premium bar, shower facilities, and comfortable seating. A premium pre-flight space for Emirates travelers with Arabic hospitality touches.
Lufthansa Welcome Lounge
A unique arrival lounge for Lufthansa premium passengers. Freshen up with a shower after a long flight, enjoy breakfast or brunch, iron your clothes, and start your day refreshed. Located in Terminal 1 arrivals area. A rare and valuable amenity for arriving business travelers.
Lufthansa Business Lounge (Terminal 1, Hall B)
Lufthansa standard business class lounge with buffet, bar, shower rooms, and work areas. Offers complimentary hot meals, sandwiches, salads, beer, wine, and spirits. Multiple locations throughout Terminal 1. Can get crowded during peak departure times.
British Airways Lounge (Terminal 2)
British Airways dedicated lounge in Terminal 2 with buffet, bar with spirits and wines, shower facilities, and work stations. A comfortable option for BA passengers and oneworld elite members. Smaller than some BA lounges but well-maintained with reliable food and drink offerings.
Primeclass Lounge (Terminal 2)
Independent lounge in Terminal 2 accessible with most premium credit cards. Hot and cold buffet, bar with German beers and wines, shower facilities, and a dedicated work area. The main independent lounge option for Terminal 2 passengers. Can be busy during late afternoon departures.
Where to Stay
Connected Hotels
Hilton Garden Inn Frankfurt Airport
Gateway Gardens district, connected via free shuttle or 10-minute walk from Terminal 1
Modern hotel in the Gateway Gardens business district near the airport. Free shuttle to Terminal 1. Comfortable rooms, fitness center, and on-site restaurant. Day rooms available. Good value alternative to the main Hilton with newer facilities.
Sheraton Frankfurt Airport Hotel and Conference Center
Connected to Terminal 1 via enclosed skybridge walkway
Directly connected to Terminal 1 via an enclosed walkway. Full-service hotel with multiple restaurants, a bar, fitness center, and conference facilities. Day rooms available from 6 AM. The enclosed skybridge makes it extremely convenient for early departures or late arrivals.
Hilton Frankfurt Airport
Directly connected to Terminal 1 via The Squaire building, accessible via covered walkway
Located in The Squaire building on top of Terminal 1, with direct indoor access to the terminal and the long-distance train station. Modern rooms, executive lounge, fitness center, and multiple dining options. Day-use rooms available for layover passengers. The most convenient hotel at Frankfurt Airport.
Nearby Hotels
B&B Hotel Frankfurt Airport
Gateway Gardens, free shuttle to terminals (7-minute ride)
Budget hotel offering clean, compact rooms at very competitive prices. Free airport shuttle. No restaurant but breakfast available for an additional charge. Basic but reliable accommodation perfect for overnight stays before early flights. Excellent value for money.
NH Frankfurt Airport
Gateway Gardens, free shuttle to terminals (5-minute ride)
Modern hotel in the Gateway Gardens business park. Free airport shuttle, contemporary rooms, restaurant, and fitness area. Close to the Frankfurter Kreuz motorway interchange. Good mid-range option with reliable NH Hotels quality. Near S-Bahn station for city access.
Food & Dining
Burger King
Fast Food
Multiple fast food locations in both terminals. A reliable 24-hour option for quick meals. German Burger King occasionally features local items. Affordable option when other restaurants are closed during very early or late hours.
5:00 AM - 11:00 PM
Hermann's
German Deli / Bakery
German bakery and deli serving fresh breads, pretzels, sandwiches, and pastries. The Laugenbrotchen (pretzel rolls) with various fillings are a German airport staple. Quick service and early opening hours make it perfect for breakfast before an early flight.
5:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Pizza Hut Express
Italian / Pizza
Quick-service pizza with individual slices and personal-size pizzas available immediately. A fast and affordable option in Terminal 2. Vegetarian options available. Useful for a quick bite when you do not have time for a full sit-down meal.
6:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Paulaner Restaurant
Bavarian / German
Authentic Bavarian restaurant and beer hall serving traditional German dishes. Fresh Paulaner beer on tap, Weisswurst (white sausage) with pretzel and sweet mustard, Schweinshaxe (pork knuckle), and Kaiserschmarrn (shredded pancake). A proper German dining experience at the airport.
8:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Frankfurter Schnitzelhaus
German Traditional
Specializing in Frankfurt regional cuisine. Try the signature Frankfurter Schnitzel, Handkase mit Musik (marinated cheese), Grie Soss (Green Sauce with boiled eggs), and Apfelwein (apple wine). An authentic taste of Frankfurt Hessian food culture.
10:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Starbucks
Coffee / Cafe
Multiple Starbucks locations throughout both terminals for reliable coffee and light meals. The largest locations are in Terminal 1 Hall B and Terminal 2 Hall D. Mobile ordering available. A familiar option for travelers seeking consistency.
5:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Car Rental
Sixt
Terminal 1, Hall B arrivals level, and Terminal 2
Europcar
Terminal 1, Hall B arrivals level, and Terminal 2
Hertz
Terminal 1, Hall B arrivals level, and Terminal 2
Avis
Terminal 1, Hall B arrivals level, and Terminal 2
Enterprise
Terminal 1, Hall B arrivals level
Budget
Terminal 1, Hall B arrivals level, and Terminal 2
What to Do During a Layover
Inside the Airport
SkyLine Trail Walk
Ride the free SkyLine people mover between Terminals 1 and 2 for a scenic elevated view of the airport grounds, aircraft maintenance areas, and the Frankfurt skyline in the distance. The 2-minute ride is free and offers a unique perspective of airport operations. A nice way to stretch your legs between terminals.
Airport Viewing Terrace
The Besucherterrasse (visitor terrace) at Terminal 2 offers panoramic views of the runways and aircraft operations. One of Europe busiest airports makes for excellent plane spotting. Audio guide available explaining aircraft types and airport operations. Open daily, weather permitting.
Shopping at The Squaire
The Squaire is a massive building on top of Terminal 1 housing shops, restaurants, hotels, and offices. Browse fashion, electronics, and German specialty shops. Several restaurants and cafes offer meals outside the terminal environment. Accessible from Terminal 1 without leaving the airport complex.
Explore the City
These activities require leaving the airport. Make sure you have valid visa and enough time before your next flight.
Visit Romerberg (Frankfurt Old Town)
Take the S-Bahn to Hauptbahnhof then U-Bahn to Dom/Romer (20 min total). Explore Frankfurt reconstructed medieval old town square with half-timbered houses, the Gothic cathedral (Kaiserdom), and the modern Neue Altstadt quarter. Free to walk around. The Christmas Market here (Nov-Dec) is world-famous.
Apfelwein (Apple Wine) Tasting in Sachsenhausen
Take the S-Bahn to Frankfurt Hauptbahnhof and then walk across the Main River to Sachsenhausen. This neighborhood is famous for its traditional Apfelwein (apple wine) taverns. Try the signature drink with Handkase mit Musik (marinated cheese) and Grie Soss (green herb sauce). A quintessential Frankfurt experience.
Museumsufer (Museum Embankment)
Frankfurt famous Museum Embankment along the Main River features a dozen museums including the Stadel Museum (European art), German Film Museum, and Museum of Communication. S-Bahn from the airport to Hauptbahnhof (11 min) then walk south to the river. Museums open Tuesday-Sunday.
German Spa Experience at Kurbad Konigstein
For a longer layover, take the S-Bahn to Frankfurt then a regional train to nearby Kronberg or Bad Homburg for a traditional German Therme (thermal spa) experience. Indoor and outdoor pools, saunas, steam rooms, and relaxation areas. A rejuvenating way to spend a long layover. Allow 5+ hours total.
Practical Information
WiFi & Connectivity
- Free WiFi: Yes (Unlimited)
- Speed Rating: ●●●●○
- Power Outlets: Type C/F (European two-pin), USB charging stations at many gates
- SIM Cards: Available for purchase
Services
- Left Luggage: €6-9 per item per day at luggage storage in Terminal 1 Hall B
- Showers: Free in Lufthansa lounges; paid at Fraport shower rooms (€6)
- Medical Services: Available
- Prayer Rooms: Available
Family Facilities
- Children's Play Areas
- Nursing Rooms
- Family Restrooms
- Pet Relief Areas
Money & Currency
- Currency: Euro (EUR / €)
- Exchange: ReiseBank and Travelex counters in both terminals. ATMs (Geldautomat) from major German banks throughout. Terminal 1 arrivals hall has multiple exchange counters.
- Hours: 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM (main counters), some ATMs 24 hours
- Tipping: Tipping 5-10% at restaurants is customary in Germany. Round up to the nearest euro for small purchases. Taxi drivers appreciate 5-10% tip. Service charges are sometimes included.
ATMs from Deutsche Bank or Commerzbank offer the best rates. Avoid dynamic currency conversion at ATMs (always choose to pay in EUR). Most German businesses accept debit cards (Girocard) but credit card acceptance is less universal than in the US/UK.
Smoking Areas
Designated smoking lounges available in both terminals, both landside and airside. Terminal 1: near Hall A gates A24 and A60, Hall B near gates B20 and B44. Terminal 2: near gates D and E areas. Enclosed, ventilated rooms.
Lost & Found
- Phone: +49-69-690-70233
Entry Requirements
Visa Information
EU/EEA/Swiss citizens need only a valid ID. Citizens of 60+ countries (including US, UK, Canada, Australia, Japan) can enter the Schengen Area visa-free for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. ETIAS will be required for visa-exempt travelers.
Insider Tips
Frankfurt's long-distance train station makes it easy to skip the airport hotel and travel directly to other cities. Allow extra time for connections between terminals - the SkyLine takes about 5 minutes but walking distances are substantial. The Lufthansa First Class Terminal is considered one of the world's finest airport experiences. Terminal 1 handles most Star Alliance flights; Terminal 2 serves many SkyTeam and Oneworld carriers. German efficiency means the airport runs smoothly, but peak morning hours still require arriving early. The Visitor Terrace costs €6 but offers excellent plane spotting. Consider a Frankfurt stopover to visit the excellent Städel Museum or historic Römerberg square.
Facilities & Contact
Airport Facilities
Two large terminals with extensive shopping including duty-free, German brands, and luxury boutiques. The Squaire is a massive office and hotel complex integrated with Terminal 1. Hilton Garden Inn and Hilton Frankfurt Airport are connected to the terminals. Lufthansa First Class Terminal offers an unparalleled luxury experience for eligible passengers (separate building with limousine transfer to aircraft). Numerous Lufthansa Senator and Business Lounges, plus Priority Pass lounges. Free WiFi throughout. Medical center and pharmacy. Extensive dining options from traditional German restaurants to international cuisines. Visitor Terrace for plane spotting. Shower facilities available.
Official Website
Phone
+49-69-690-0
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