I'm the founder of Whimsy Soul (this blog you're reading!) If you have up to 10-hour connection time between flights, it is advisable to stay at the airport and not risk losing your next flight. Last week my husband and I flew to Frankfurt with Lufthansa on a project. If youre keen to spend your time in museums, there are plenty of options since Frankfurt is the home of various outstanding museums, many of which are located centrally on either side of river Main. Theres everything available from Frankfurt dishes like Fleischwurst, the regional sausage that is served with bread rolls and mustard, oysters, local sweets, and tapas. Its always a good idea to have a few dollars on hand in an emergency. Transport is not at all a problem if you wish to head to the city from the terminal. Frankfurt is well known for its shopping, from the high-end boutiques and luxury labels on Goethestrae to the department stores and chains along its shopping mile, the Zeil. The bustling Bahnhofsviertel located near Hauptbahnhof is the place to discover Frankfurts most trendy bars. Want more? Youre an inspiration Thank you! Also, check out the iconic statue outside the building that is dedicated to the bull and bear markets. GOOGLE WHAT YOUR PASSPORT NEED. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-108359326', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Germany is going back on lock down for 4 weeks so I doubt they would let you leave. If you have more time or less time, add or subtract from the Rmer or Food Break section. Got a Frankfurt airport layover? If no gate has been assigned yet, head for the indicated pier. Not sure how long your layover is but we had a 5 hour one and debated on the pod hotel and decided not to. I found Frankfurt to be really safe, we spent some time walking around at night and I didnt feel unsafe at all. It is called Zum Tannenbaum. We have a 6 hour layover in Frankfurt. After a 12-hour layover you can officially add Copenhagen in your visited-places list. If youre looking at what to do in Frankfurt, I hope this guide helps you! The short answer is, probably yes. Just click one of the buttons on this site to share this piece of content. How do you have a layover overnight in Frankfurt? Train station entrances are easily accessible, and the majority, but not all stations, is equipped with elevators and escalators. Fans of musical theatre should book tickets online in advance and head to the Alte Oper (Old Opera House) or more modern Oper Frankfurt, one of Europes leading opera houses, for a concert or musical recital.. The layover in Frankfurt on the way back to the UK is 10hrs so we want to go into the cit. In most cases, however, you will need to clear security checks on your way through the airport. The seasons of spring and autumn are pleasant. Something went wrong while submitting the form. https://www.frankfurt-airport.com/en/airport-guide/check-in-and-luggage/luggage-services-.html. Germany is ranked 16th on the 2021 Global Peace Index, and while Frankfurt is among the highest rates of crime across the nation but its much safer than many of the other major cities across the globe. Hey you should be able to but Im not from Germany or South Africa so you should do your own research to check beforehand. Whether or not you need to clear a passport check depends on whether the airport you have arrived from and your destination are within or outside the Schengen Area. There are plenty of options for drinks and food at both terminals, including fast-food restaurants to restaurants and bars; since Terminal 1 is bigger, Terminal 1 offers a more diverse selection. Germanys official currency is the euro (). No, your South African passport will prevent you from entering Germany, without a proper SCHENGEN VISA. You must have a ticket for a connecting flight in order to transit Frankfurt. There are quite a few things you can do if you wish to remain in the airport. How long of a layover do I need in frankfurt? As part of the European Unions Schengen Zone, citizens of many countries including the United States are permitted to visit Germany without a visa for a period of up to 90 days., Frankfurt Airport is Europes fourth-busiest airport, and the busiest airport in Germany. 1.2 Can You Leave the Airport During a Layover on an International Flight? If you are not using the credit card which has the base currency Euro then I would recommend you to get your Revolut Travel Card it is the best way to travel to places with different currency then your base currency because it doesnt charge any fees. Omg of course!!! Re: Can I leave Frankfurt airport during layover during COVID 2 years ago Save No, assuming the restrictions are the same next month (seems likely), if you're a US resident (and non-EU citizen) then you will not be allowed through passport control to enter Germany. In Europes Schengen Zone, citizens of numerous countries, such as the United States, can travel to Germany without visas for as long as 90 days. The language spoken in the city is German and is often expressed in the Frankfurt dialect. You can even book a quick stay at the best vacation rentals and budget hotels if you please. - Updated 2023, Search Vrbo for the best Holiday Homes & Rentals, layover in frankfurt airport: what can you do? He is a self-taught traveller and he has been exploring the world since the age of 25. Old St Nicholas Church (akaAlte Nikolaikirche), https://www.frankfurt-airport.com/en/airport-guide/check-in-and-luggage/luggage-services-.html, Self Love Time! It's a huge airport and lines can be long busy at times. Restaurants and cafes in Frankfurt offer a wide range of food choices for all budgets and budgets, from street food to Michelin-starred dining. You can take the S8 or S9 from the airport to Hauptwache; exit the station onto Schillerstrasse. Plus, the food here is to die for. Let me know how it goes . This article will become saved to the Pinterest board, making it easily accessible in the future. Yes! The citys central area can be packed with tourists, but those who prefer to stay cool should be aware that air conditioning is not standard in this area. A three-star hotel is about EUR 90 per night. Take the bridge over the river, the lock-and-love Eiserner Steg bridge, and head to the world-class Staedel Museum, home to 700 years of artwork from through the Middle Ages to the present with paintings created by Picasso, Francis Bacon, and Gerhard Richter. Keep in mind, however, that you will need to go through security again when you . Definitely going to head out and explore. I will be traveling to Lisbon on Saturday and was wondering if I am allowed to leave the airport during a layover and if it would logistically be possible to leave, eat at a restaurant, and return in time for my next flight. It takes about 1 hour to get off the plane and pass through customs and immigration (Frankfurt Airport is huge, and therefore this depends on your arrival gate, as well as other factors like the length of the lines at the immigration counter and whether or not you have to store or recheck your luggage), 30 minutes to get a taxi from downtown, dependent on traffic conditions, or for up to 30 mins by train with. If you are looking to know how to find which train goes where then you have to download the application RMV or check it here. It is enough if you dont have to take the luggage and then check-in again because since the Airport is big you should have time to do that. How long of a layover is enough to leave airport? https://www.bundesgesundheitsministerium.de/fileadmin/Dateien/3_Downloads/C/Coronavirus/Verordnungen/CoronaEinreiseV_12.05.2021_konsolidiert_en.pdf. I appreciate the consise list! With such a short transfer time from the airport to the heart of the city, a large pedestrianized downtown and a wealth of centrally located museums and historic sights, youll be able to make great use of even a short layover to explore Germanys financial capital. But if it is not being done then you would need more time in your Frankfurt layover to sort of the luggage. As a major city for trade fairs, Frankfurt is home to numerous hotels, most of which are situated near public transportation services. Im flying from Italy to Istanbul with an 8hr layover in Frankfurt and was wondering if anyone knows if I can leave the airport during this time? Frankfurt, the home of the German stock exchange, and its home to the European Central Bank. He has travelled across Europe extensively to experience its quirks, culture, and diversity. Food break: 60 minutes I just need to wait someone to pick me up at the airport. In this post we will cover all the options for Weekend Trips from Frankfurt within Germany. Home to the German stock exchange and the European Central Bank, this central German city is most well known as a major financial hub. This bridge is famous in Frankfurt. A train ride or taxi to Hauptwache will get you right to the center of Frankfurt. On Sundays, however, stores are closed, so dont dash into the city hoping to shop until you drop. If your layover is on a Sunday, keep in mind that many venues may be closed; make sure to plan a bit before you arrive to avoid disappointment. In short walking distance from here, you will also stumble across the 14th-century Catholic Church of St. Leonard, and Frankfurt Cathedral. You can check about more benefits of Revolut Card in my post here.Note: Most of the small restaurants doesnt accept credit card and if you are carrying Amex/Diners club, ask up infornt whether they accept or not. I'm a type 3 enneagram cat lady who lives in San Francisco and loves to find everyday magic to share with others. Would we have trouble with language barriers if we only speak English and French? There are lovely shops in this area and you can spend quite a few hours in this place. The church, which was built between 1215 and 1257, is a masterpiece of German Gothic architecture. But, if you have a USA passport, not visa is needed for visiting like that! Can I get my checked bag during a layover? Large-capacity taxis for up to seven people are also available; always check with the driver first as to whether or not they accept credit cards. Yes, but it depends from the country and their entry rules. There are shower facilities that are available for a fee. complete guide to finding cheap flights to Europe, 25 ideas for the perfect Europe itinerary., 1 hour to deplane and go through immigration and customs (Frankfurt Airport is large and sprawling, so this will depend on your arrival gate as well as factors such as the length of queues at immigration, and whether or not you need to collect and store/recheck luggage), 30 mins to transit via taxi to downtown, depending on traffic, or up to 30 minutes by train including ticket purchase. Use your time to explore Frankfurts delights. In this post we will be checking the awesome day trips from Berlin to get one day adventure and much needed break from your day to day life. Those traveling with children can make use of play areas and a stroller rental service. Frankfurt Airport is the first major German airport to offer free, unlimited, and 24-hour Wi-Fi access to passengers, so you can play on your phones, tablets, and laptops, surfing the web, catching up with some work, or even streaming a movie. I havent seen a Marienplatz in Frankfurt. The airport is situated about 8 miles (12.9 kilometers) from downtown, thus making the city easily accessible for tourists who have a long layover in Frankfurt Airport. You can just take the S3, S4, S5, or S6 from the Hauptwache to Frankfurt West and Zum Tannenbaum is then just a short walk from there. Frankfurt is Germanys second most expensive city, but its just as easy to spend your layover time here on a budget as it is to splash out and treat yourself. No, assuming the restrictions are the same next month (seems likely), if you're a US resident (and non-EU citizen) then you will not be allowed through passport control to enter (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? I love visiting the countryside not only for the fresh air, but, Read More 25 Most beautiful villages in GermanyContinue, Exploring Frankfurt is fun and it is even better when you are attending one of the Festivals in Frankfurt. Note that the restaurant has a minimum purchase of 37 EUR (41.50 USD), so make sure you take your wallet! Leaving the airport to explore the city and them going back to that same airport isnt exactly leaving by the quickest route by my definition. Id love to be able to leave but want to respect the laws and I can not find the answer anywhere. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-108359541', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Berlin said it's strict again. Spring and Autumn are mild in Frankfurt, with daily high temperatures in the region of 68F (20C). Appreciate your answer and thank you very much. Yes, as long as you have no visa restrictions. If you are flying business class or first class with particular airlines, or have some other privilege pass that permits lounge access, lounges in Frankfurt Airport include Air Canada, Cathay Pacific, Emirates, Etihad, Lufthansa, Air France / KLM, and Iberia. If you are looking for Indian Food in Frankfurt then you can read our post. Even locals dont even consider Frankfurt to be the most beautiful city in Europe, and I think thats true in many areas, it looks like just any other large city. Can you leave the airport during a layover in Frankfurt? Unsubscribe in one click. Terminals 1 and 2 host international and domestic flights. Sorry! If you are travelling with kids, you can spend time at the fun play area in the airport. Yet, its reputation as a boring bankers city completely ignores the rich cultural and historical heritage that this vibrant and international city offers. Instead of waiting during your long layover at the airport your next flight, it's a great idea to visit our beautiful city. It can become a great forum for you and everyone else. You can leave the airport during a layover and Frankfurt is the perfect city to do this in. With a vast network of bicycle lanes and numerous bike rental locations all over the city, bicycles are a great option to travel around and see more of the town, you can also take E-scooter if you want it is quiet affordable and a good option to explore the city. Take advantage of our practical tool to get up-to-date information on travel conditions and required documents. You dont want to miss your connection because of a traffic jam! What do you think about doing Romer at night then. It becomes almost a sin if you enter Frankfurt but leave without tasting apfelwein, also called ebbelwoi by locals. The Rmerberg is the historical centre of Frankfurt. Required fields are marked *. Along with the fact that the airport gives you a chance to get your clothes cleaned or even altered, you will also find a pharmacy, banking and post office services, and money exchange outlets inside of the premises. Seven hours of travel time will allow the opportunity to take in the centrally situated cities sights and have an eat-in-the-park or perhaps visit the museum. However, plainclothes ticket control officers can check the access for validity. Recommendation Best Things to do in Madrid. I dont know if Ill ever have the opportunity to pass through there again, so Im going to take advantage of it. I'd recommend being back at the airport two hours or so before an international departure. Pinning an image is a great method for sharing this article on social media. Also, do you have to get a taxi going back to the airport at the street since no Uber? Frankfurt Airport has two train stations, one for long distance travel and the other for regional trains. Looking for a good airport hotel? This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. So, I was inspired to share my own guide of Frankfurt layover things to do (instead of sitting in the airport!). Frankfurt International Airport is one of the busiest airports in the world, serving as a hub for Lufthansa, which is the largest German airline. Spend time checking out about 100 shops inside the airport. Tickets can be bought at the multilingual machines on the regional train station concourse, which take both cash and credit/debit cards. The fine is EUR 60 for those who travel without an (or using an incorrect) ticket. Check out the luggage service at the airport; although the question is what happens if you have checked luggage, does that create problems for custom if you exit without it. I hate waiting in the airport forever! Germany was ranked 16th on the 2020 Global Peace Index and although Frankfurt has one of the highest crime rates in the country, its considerably less dangerous than many other metropolitan cities around the world. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. Extra Buffer: 30 minutes. But I think your 5 yo is technically required to quarantine. We stayed at this one and it was great (for an airport hotel.) 13 hours is a long time to sit in an airport! More details are available on Frankfurt Airports website. It will cost you about 30 Euros to get into the city and will take about 20 minutes. She is a regular contributor to National Geographic Traveller Food (UK), and has also written for publications including Food and Travel (UK), Fodors, The Guardian, Time Out and The Spruce Eats. There are high-end central options, well-known chains close to the congress center, and a couple of hip hotels as well as plenty of budget options close to the main train station. Or, maybe youd like a great new haircut? Follow me on Instagram for even more inspiration! Do be aware, however, that you may need a Transit Visa. Read More 25 Exciting Day Trips from BerlinContinue, Enjoying our travel guides & tips? If you have a long layover at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, you may be wondering if you can leave the airport to explore the city. If its a small carry-on you can probably manage, though many of the streets are cobblestone and those are hard to take luggage on. Things to do at Frankfurt Airport Layover For example, if you're a US citizen on a layover within the US, then you can leave the airport legally and safely. The journey between Terminals 1 and 2 is swift and easy, and although travelers must be ready to line up for the SkyLine during the peak hours, youll not likely need to wait to catch more than one train. It is said that Frankfurts elite go to The Goethestrasse to shop. This time of year can be busy too, with locals and visitors enjoying the festivities at Frankfurts Christmas market, which is one of Germanys largest. We've been lucky in years past to stay with friends on our overnight lay-overs, looks like this year is the pod! Follow the signs out of your terminal and to the train station. Top Things to do during Frankfurt Layover, Reaching to Hauptwache City Center of Frankfurt. Its in the center of town so lots of people around. Did it work out for you? What does the restaurants open. Located in the funky student district of Bockenheim is a bar that is known for its off-the-beaten-path look and feel. You'll have to remain in the international transit area of the airport. Once you are in the city, you can opt to travel around by train, bus, rented car, taxi, or even a rented bicycle. You can leave the airport during a layover and Frankfurt is the perfect city to do this in. I'm doing the same thing in reverse, flying through Frankfurt to the states, in Dec. My husband is European citizen (we live in Cyprus) but i'm American citizen, so curious if I will be able to leave the airport? Yeah, such good info. Hence, it's important to look at what . How to travel from Frankfurt Airport to City Center? It should take you no more than around 30 minutes to reach the center of Frankfurt by train or taxi. Dont sit in the airport, go explore with my travel tips! Just a silly question: if only transitting via (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? To depart from the Frankfurt airport and explore the city for an hour or so: 5 hours. Youll want to spend the majority of your time here as its the most charming, original and European part of the city. Enjoyed it? is the average.Since the OP does need to get to the next gate, etc. To taste the citys adored cider tradition, reserve reservations in Frankfurts Apfelwein (cider) bars in the Riverside Sachsenhausen quarter, and sip an ice-cold glass of Frankfurts best-loved apple drink with people who live there. As we approach Christmas, Romerberg and the surrounding squares and streets are the place to find Frankfurts massive Christmas market. Its the more expensive option, but if you are running on a tight schedule, sometimes its worth it to pay a little extra to get more time to explore and visit Frankfurt sightseeing. Required fields are marked *. The airport is situated about 8 miles (12.9 kilometers) from downtown, thus making the city easily accessible for tourists who have a long layover in Frankfurt Airport. You will have to show your passport. Baby-changing facilities are also available. The local language is German, often spoken with a thick Frankfurt dialect, but its a very international city and you wont have any trouble getting by in English. The return journey to the airport could be quick and straightforward; however, if you take an early departure on a weekday, and commuter traffic could cause problems in terms of timings, it may be more beneficial to book rooms at hotels near airports instead. To make international to international connection: 45 minutes. Hi Nina. Show your support & help us keep it up! Keep track of your time though! If you are looking exploring Frankfurt then you should check this section of the website. Can one take the EXPRESS HOP ON HOP OFF BUS in Frankfurt City? VicIslander 1 yr. ago. I recommend ordering a hot chocolate, a pot of tea and a few pastries for the table. Our website includes affiliate links. Im sure the Frankfurt airport website has all the info you need! Its absolutely beautiful on the outside and just as impressive on the inside! People from most North American countries, Australia, New Zealand, the EU, and the UK do not need any visa to enter Germany. Your email address will not be published. Frankfurt Airport has two train stations one station is designed for long-distance travel, and one to accommodate regional trains. Its a subway station in downtown Frankfurt. You can leave the airport during a layover and Frankfurt is the perfect city to do this in. Thank you! Can you Leave Frankfurt Airport during a layover? There is generally access to shops and eateries though. Taxi to Airport: 20 minutes In the summer, the grassy areas on either side of the river Main also make for lovely spots for a casual stroll. He is passionate about travel, photography, and food. Seriously, youre in Germany and youre on a layover, which means you just flew for hours and probably have a really long flight ahead of you. Against a glittering backdrop of modern skyscrapers, Frankfurt is home to charming cobbled streets and half-timbered medieval buildings, gorgeous green spaces and world-class museums and galleries, plus eating and drinking options to suit every taste and budget. I have an Australian Passport. Worth it to go check out Romer for an hour or 2? Frankfurt Airport has excellent public transportation connection to the city (S-Bahn). Travelling with Kids then this is one of the most unique things to do during your Frankfurt layover.