May 28, 2024 at 6:05 AM
Frankfurt am Main, Germany’s dynamic financial metropolis, attracts visitors with its striking skyline, historic landmarks, and diverse cultural scene. But what if you want to explore the city without having a car at your disposal? The good news is that Frankfurt is perfectly suited for car-free travel, offering excellent infrastructure for pedestrians, public transport users, and taxi passengers.
This guide provides practical and reliable tips on how to discover Frankfurt without a car while still traveling comfortably, efficiently, and stress-free.
Whether you are visiting for business, planning a weekend city break, or simply looking to experience local life, the information below will help you move around Frankfurt with ease.
By train to Frankfurt: Comfortable and efficient
Frankfurt is one of Europe’s most important transportation hubs and home to Frankfurt Hauptbahnhof, one of the largest and busiest railway stations in Germany. The station offers fast, frequent, and reliable connections to major German cities as well as a wide range of international destinations.
Arrival from other German cities:
— Arrival by train: Many travelers reach Frankfurt by train before continuing their journey within the city or beyond. After arriving at Frankfurt Hauptbahnhof, a private Frankfurt Airport taxi provides a direct and comfortable connection to Frankfurt Airport, hotels, or business districts across the city.
— Taxi from Frankfurt Central Station: Taxis are readily available outside the main station and offer a convenient option for reaching Frankfurt Airport, trade fair areas, or accommodation without the need for transfers.
Arrival from abroad:
— By ICE: High-speed ICE and international rail services connect Frankfurt with major European cities such as Paris, Amsterdam, Vienna, and Zurich, making train travel a popular choice for international visitors.
— By long-distance bus: Long-distance bus services offer a budget-friendly alternative and connect Frankfurt with numerous European metropolitan areas.
Public transportation in Frankfurt: Flexible and easy
Frankfurt offers an extensive and well-organized public transportation network consisting of the U-Bahn (subway), S-Bahn (suburban trains), trams, and buses. With a single RMV ticket, travelers can use all public transport services throughout Frankfurt and the surrounding Rhein-Main region.
Subway: The U-Bahn forms the backbone of Frankfurt’s local transport system and allows fast access to the city center and major districts.
Suburban train (S-Bahn): The S-Bahn connects central Frankfurt with suburban areas and provides direct links to Frankfurt Airport.
Trams and buses: Trams and buses complement the rail network and ensure coverage of residential neighborhoods and less central areas.
Tip: Download the AirportTaxis App to book airport taxis in advance, manage your reservations easily, and track your driver in real time for a smooth arrival or departure.
Exploring Frankfurt on foot: Discovering charming corners
Frankfurt is a relatively compact city, and many of its main attractions are located within walking distance of one another. A stroll through the historic Old Town (Altstadt) reveals landmarks such as the Römer, Frankfurt Cathedral, and the Paulskirche. Along the famous Fressgasse, visitors can enjoy a wide variety of culinary offerings, while the Main riverbank provides scenic views of Frankfurt’s iconic skyline.
Tip: Joining a guided or free walking tour is an excellent way to gain deeper insight into Frankfurt’s history, architecture, and cultural life.
Travel options from Frankfurt Airport
Frankfurt Airport is not only a gateway to the city itself but also a convenient starting point for longer journeys within Germany. The table below provides an overview of common long-distance travel options, including approximate distances, travel times, and comfort levels.
| Transport Option | Vehicle Type | Distance (km) | Average Travel Time | Comfort Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deutsche Bahn | Train | ~160 | 2–2.5 hours | Comfortable – Transfers may be required, but travel is efficient and scenic |
| Long-Distance Bus | Bus | ~180 | 3–4 hours | Budget-friendly – Longer travel time, but cost-effective |
| Car Rental | Car | ~150 | 2–2.5 hours | Flexible – Travel time depends on traffic conditions |
| Taxi / Ride Service | Taxi / Ride Service | ~150 | 1.5–2 hours | Comfortable – Door-to-door travel, subject to traffic |
Note:
— Distances and travel times are approximate and provided for general orientation.
— Actual travel duration may vary depending on traffic, time of day, and route selection.
Traffic conditions and travel timing
Traffic conditions in and around Frankfurt vary depending on the time of day, weekdays, weekends, and holiday periods. Understanding typical traffic patterns can help travelers plan transfers more efficiently.
| Time of Day | Weekdays (Mon–Fri) | Weekend (Sat–Sun) | Holiday Periods |
|---|---|---|---|
| Early Morning (05:00–07:00) | Light Traffic | Light Traffic | Light Traffic |
| Morning Rush Hour (07:00–10:00) | Moderate Traffic | Light Traffic | Moderate Traffic |
| Midday (10:00–16:00) | Moderate Traffic | Light Traffic | Moderate Traffic |
| Evening Rush Hour (16:00–19:00) | Moderate Traffic | Light Traffic | Moderate Traffic |
| Late Evening (19:00–22:00) | Light Traffic | Light Traffic | Light Traffic |
| Night (22:00–05:00) | Very Light Traffic | Very Light Traffic | Very Light Traffic |
Note:
— Real-time traffic data provides the most accurate picture of current road conditions.
— Navigation tools and local traffic updates are recommended when planning airport transfers.
Taxis in Frankfurt: For special occasions
While Frankfurt benefits from an efficient public transportation system, there are situations where choosing a taxi is the most practical and comfortable option.
Arrival or departure at the airport: Taxis provide a direct and stress-free connection between Frankfurt Airport and the city center.
Late evenings and nights: When public transport services are limited or unavailable, taxis ensure a safe and reliable return to your accommodation.
Heavy luggage: Traveling with large suitcases or bulky items is significantly easier when using a taxi.
Booking a taxi:
You can easily book your ride with AirportTaxis via our website or through the AirportTaxis iOS App and AirportTaxis Android App.
Conclusion: Experiencing Frankfurt without a car
Frankfurt is a city that can be comfortably explored without a car. Thanks to its well-developed public transport network and the option to book a taxi with AirportTaxis when needed, travelers can move around the city efficiently and without stress.
Explore Frankfurt on foot, discover its historic districts, enjoy its culinary diversity, and take in the impressive skyline along the Main river.
With the right information and a bit of planning, nothing stands in the way of an enjoyable and car-free stay in Frankfurt.