Frankfurt has an efficient, integrated public-transport network run under the regional RMV authority. One ticket covers the S-Bahn, U-Bahn, trams and buses across the city. Here is how it works in 2026.
The Four Systems
- S-Bahn: regional trains linking the airport, Hauptbahnhof, Hauptwache and the suburbs — the workhorse for visitors.
- U-Bahn: the underground/metro for crossing the city quickly.
- Trams: useful for shorter hops and reaching Sachsenhausen.
- Buses: fill in the gaps, including night buses.
Tickets and Prices
Buy from machines at stations, on the RMVgo app, or contactless where available. A single city journey costs a few euros; a day ticket (Tageskarte) is better value if you make several trips. There are no ticket barriers — but checks happen, and fines for riding without a valid ticket are steep.
The Deutschland-Ticket
If you are in Germany for a month, the Deutschland-Ticket is unbeatable value — €63 for unlimited regional transport nationwide.
As of January 2026 the Deutschland-Ticket costs €63 per month (up from €58) and covers all local and regional public transport across Germany — including Frankfurt's network and the S-Bahn to the airport. It is a subscription, cancellable monthly, and ideal for longer stays.
Getting To and From the Airport
The S-Bahn lines S8 and S9 connect Frankfurt Airport's regional station to the Hauptbahnhof and Hauptwache in about 15 minutes. For long-distance travel, the airport's separate long-distance station (Fernbahnhof) runs ICE trains across Germany.
When Public Transport Isn't the Best Choice
Public transport is cheap and frequent, but with heavy luggage, a group, young children, or a late-night arrival, a private transfer is simpler and door-to-door. It also avoids stairs, changes and crowds after a long flight. Compare options in our train vs private transfer guide and see routes.
