Europe's busiest hub and one of its most layover-friendly. Whether you have 2 hours or 12, Frankfurt rewards the curious traveller.
FRA is Lufthansa's home hub and a Star Alliance fortress. With two terminals, a direct rail station under Terminal 1, and a world-renowned first-class terminal, it's built for transit.
12 km southwest of Frankfurt's city centre. Two terminals connected by an elevated SkyLine shuttle (free, 2 min). S-Bahn and ICE trains depart from the airport's own Fernbahnhof.
Lufthansa, Swiss, Austrian, United, Singapore Airlines, Cathay Pacific and dozens more. It's the primary connection point for North America–Europe–Asia routes.
Schengen and non-Schengen zones are separated. Most connecting passengers remain airside. Check if your nationality requires an Airport Transit Visa (ATV) before travel.
Lufthansa Welcome Lounges offer day rooms. The Sheraton Frankfurt Airport is connected by walkway to Terminal 1. The Hilton Frankfurt Airport is directly linked to Terminal 2.
To Frankfurt City Centre: S8/S9 S-Bahn departs every 15 min from the airport's underground station — Frankfurt Hauptbahnhof in ~14 minutes, €5.35 one-way. ICE trains reach Cologne in 1 h.
Frankfurt sets the global standard for airport lounges. From the legendary FCT to accessible Priority Pass spaces, there's a lounge for every ticket class. See also our full guide to lounge access.
A standalone building reserved for Lufthansa First Class and HON Circle Members. Butler service, à-la-carte dining, private transit by Porsche to the aircraft. Arguably the world's finest airport lounge experience. Read our full review →
Multiple locations throughout T1. Hot buffet, full bar, shower suites, and workstations. Accessible with Lufthansa Business or Senator/HON Circle status. Consistently excellent food quality.
The entry-level Lufthansa lounge, also accessible to Priority Pass holders. Light snacks, hot drinks, showers available. Good option for early-morning connections when little else is open.
Independent lounge in Terminal 2 accessible via Priority Pass, LoungeBuddy, or pay-per-visit. Hot food, craft beer, showers. Best option if you're flying a non-Star Alliance carrier from T2.
Frankfurt's Hauptbahnhof is 14 minutes by S-Bahn — making it one of Europe's most accessible city-centre escapes during a layover. Passport stamping varies by citizenship; check requirements first.
Frankfurt's medieval square, the Römerberg, survived Allied bombing and was lovingly reconstructed. The half-timbered façades and cathedral make for excellent photos. Start here.
Over a dozen museums line the south bank of the Main river. The Städel (art) and the Filmmuseum are highlights. Many offer free entry on Wednesday evenings.
Sip Ebbelwoi (apple wine) with a Grüne Sosse (green herb sauce) at a Sachsenhausen tavern. Zur Germania and Dauth-Schneider are classic choices — utterly Frankfurt.
Frankfurt's gleaming financial skyline earns it the nickname "Mainhattan." The Main Tower observation deck gives a sweeping 360° view of the city and Rhine-Main plains.
A covered market brimming with regional cheeses, meats, spices, and street food. A perfect quick stop for a fresh breakfast or local snacks to take on board.
Cologne (1 h), Heidelberg (50 min), Koblenz (1 h). The Rhine Valley is one of Germany's most scenic rail journeys. ICE trains depart from the airport's Fernbahnhof directly.
Whether you're stopping in Doha, Hong Kong, or heading back through Frankfurt, Easy Layover has the guide you need.