Frankfurt Hauptbahnhof is Germany's most important rail hub — and for many air travellers the first or last stop. The good news: the connection to the airport is short. The important news: not every train to "the station" goes to the Hauptbahnhof.
Important: Two Stations at the Airport
The airport has a regional station (S-Bahn, under Terminal 1) and a long-distance station (ICE). Many long-distance trains skip the Hauptbahnhof entirely — to get there, you almost always take the S-Bahn.
S-Bahn S8/S9: The Standard Way
Every 15 minutes, journey time about 15 minutes, around €6.30. From Terminal 3, first take the SkyLine (8 minutes) to the regional station.
Taxi or Transfer
With luggage, as a pair, or with a tight connection: the road takes 15–25 minutes. Taxi €35–€50 on the meter; a pre-booked transfer from €45 fixed — and the driver waits even if your flight is late. Book here.
The Hauptbahnhof forgives no delays — the connecting train does not wait for the S-Bahn.
Our Recommendation
Solo and flexible: S-Bahn, clearly. With family, four suitcases, and 50 minutes until your train: a fixed-price transfer — the €40 difference is cheaper than a new train ticket. More on navigating the airport in the Frankfurt Airport guide.
