Planning to Spend your Layover at Frankfurt Airport?
Perhaps Frankfurt isn't your final destination, and you have some time to fill before your next flight. As one of Europe's biggest hubs, FRA handles millions of connecting passengers, and a layover here doesn't have to be dull. Whether you have a couple of hours or most of a day, the airport's facilities — and even the city itself, just 11 minutes away — offer plenty of ways to make the most of your time.
Short vs Long Layovers
On a short layover (under two or three hours) it is best to stay airside near your onward gate, keeping an eye on whether you need to change terminals or pass through passport control. On a long layover (five hours or more) you can relax in a lounge, take a day room, or even leave the airport to see Frankfurt.
Know your Connection: Schengen vs Non-Schengen
Germany is part of the Schengen Area. A Schengen-to-Schengen connection means no passport control at all and is much quicker; connecting between Schengen and non-Schengen flights means passing passport control and, often, a fresh security screening. Frankfurt's published minimum connection times are around 45 minutes for Schengen connections and about 60 minutes where a non-Schengen flight is involved — but allow more, especially if you change between Terminal 1 (concourses A, B, C, Z) and Terminal 3 (piers G, H, J). Non-EU arrivals should also allow extra time on first entry for the EU's new biometric Entry/Exit System (EES).
Relax in an Airport Lounge
Frankfurt has an exceptional range of lounges, including numerous Lufthansa Business and Senator lounges, the exclusive Lufthansa First Class Terminal, and independent pay-per-use lounges (such as the LuxxLounge) that welcome Priority Pass holders. Here you can eat, drink and escape the crowds in a calm setting.
Freshen Up with a Shower
A shower makes all the difference on a long trip. Showers are available in the premium lounges and at the airside My Cloud transit hotel, so you can arrive at your next flight feeling refreshed.
Sleep During your Layover
If you need proper rest, the My Cloud Transit Hotel is located airside in the non-Schengen area of Terminal 1, with compact rooms and private showers that you can book by the night or for a daytime nap. For a longer stay you can also clear immigration and use one of the hotels connected to Terminal 1, such as the Hilton or Sheraton.
Go on a Shopping Spree
Frankfurt Airport has extensive shopping across both terminals — duty-free perfume and spirits, international fashion labels, electronics, and German souvenirs from sweets to toys. Terminal 1 in particular has a large selection of stores spread along its concourses.
Are you Hungry?
Whether you want a quick snack, a proper meal or just a drink, FRA has you covered. You will find German classics, international cuisine, cafes and bars throughout both terminals — and it is a fitting place to try a glass of Frankfurt's famous apple wine (Apfelwein).
Store your Luggage
Left-luggage counters and lockers are available in both Terminal 1 and Terminal 3 on the landside, so you can drop your bags and explore the airport — or the city — hands-free.
Do you Have Time? Get to Know Frankfurt!
If your layover is long enough, leaving the airport to visit Frankfurt is highly rewarding. The city centre is only about 11–15 minutes away on the S8 or S9 S-Bahn from the regional station beneath Terminal 1. See the reconstructed Römerberg old town, the “Mainhattan” skyline of Germany's financial capital, the museum-lined banks of the River Main, and the apple-wine taverns of Sachsenhausen. Plan your route with our guide to transport to the city centre, and aim to be back at the airport at least 1.5–2 hours before your flight — remembering passport control if you are re-entering a non-Schengen area.
Getting Around and Online
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, and the free automated Sky Line train links Terminal 1 and Terminal 3 in about eight minutes, with free shuttle buses as a backup. If you are unsure of the layout, our terminals guide shows how the concourses connect.