Travelling from Frankfurt Airport (FRA) to various destinations within Germany doesn’t have to break the bank. Several cost-effective options exist, whether you’re a budget-conscious traveller or simply looking to save some euros.
Here are the five cheapest ways to travel from Frankfurt Airport to anywhere in Germany.
1. Regional Trains (S-Bahn and RE Trains)
The regional trains, known as the S-Bahn and RE trains, offer an affordable and efficient way to travel from Frankfurt Airport to numerous destinations across Germany. The S-Bahn lines S8 and S9 connect the airport directly to Frankfurt’s main train station (Hauptbahnhof), where you can catch various regional trains to other cities and towns.
- Cost: A one-way ticket to central Frankfurt costs about €5, and regional train tickets vary depending on the distance but are generally economical.
- Pros:
- Frequent departures
- Direct connections to many regional destinations
- Comfortable and convenient
- Cons:
- Might require multiple transfers for distant destinations
2. Long-Distance Buses
Long-distance buses are another budget-friendly option to consider. Companies like FlixBus, BlaBlaBus, and Eurolines operate services from Frankfurt Airport to various cities across Germany. These buses are known for their low fares, especially if you book in advance.
- Cost: Prices start as low as €15-20 for short distances and can go up to €30-40 for longer journeys.
- Pros:
- Direct routes to many major cities
- Free Wi-Fi and comfortable seating
- Can be very cheap if booked early
- Cons:
- Longer travel times compared to trains
- Less frequent departures
3. Ride-Sharing Services
Ride-sharing services such as BlaBlaCar provide a cost-effective alternative to traditional public transport. You can significantly reduce travel expenses by sharing a ride with other travelers. BlaBlaCar connects drivers with empty seats to passengers heading in the same direction.
- Cost: Prices depend on the distance and the driver but are typically cheaper than train tickets.
- Pros:
- Direct travel to your destination
- Opportunity to meet new people
- Flexible scheduling
- Cons:
- Less privacy compared to solo travel
- Dependent on the availability of drivers
4. Car Rentals
Renting a car can be economical if you’re traveling in a group or planning to explore multiple destinations. Companies like Sixt, Europcar, GS-Limousine, and Avis offer competitive rates for car rentals at Frankfurt Airport. Splitting the cost among several passengers can make this option particularly cost-effective.
- Cost: Daily rental rates start around €20-30, plus fuel costs.
- Pros:
- Complete flexibility and convenience
- Ideal for groups or families
- Opportunity to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations
- Cons:
- Additional costs for fuel and tolls
- Parking fees in cities
5. Deutsche Bahn Saver Fares
Deutsche Bahn (DB), Germany’s national railway company, offers saver fares (Sparpreise) on long-distance trains if booked in advance. These discounted tickets are available for high-speed ICE trains, which can quickly take you to almost any major city in Germany.
- Cost: Saver fares can be as low as €19.90 for long-distance routes if booked early.
- Pros:
- Fast travel times on ICE trains
- Comfortable and spacious seating
- Extensive network covering all of Germany
- Cons:
- Limited availability, especially during peak travel times
- Non-refundable and non-changeable tickets
Conclusion
Travelling from Frankfurt Airport to destinations across Germany can be done affordably with some planning and flexibility. Whether you choose regional trains, long-distance buses, ride-sharing, car rentals, or Deutsche Bahn saver fares, plenty of budget-friendly options suit your travel needs. Considering these options, you can save money and enjoy a comfortable and efficient journey.
