Train service
Deutsche Bahn
Deutsche Bahn (DB) is Germany’s national railway company, operating long-distance, regional, and international train services across Europe.
SNCF
SNCF is France’s state-owned rail operator, running high-speed, regional, and international TGV services across Europe.
Leo Express
Leo Express is a Czech private transport company offering train and bus services in Central Europe, partly owned by Spain’s Renfe.
Trenitalia
Trenitalia is Italy’s state-owned rail operator, running high-speed, intercity, and regional trains across the country and beyond.
Train tickets
Omio
Omio connects you with over 1,000 transport providers - trains, buses, flights, and more - to simplify your travel planning.
Trainline
Trainline sells rail and coach tickets worldwide on behalf of major UK and European transport companies.
Raileurope
Rail Europe is a leading travel tech company specializing in European train bookings for over 15,000 travel professionals worldwide.
Rail pass validity
If you are traveling by train from Munich to Frankfurt (Main), the Interrail Global Pass is not valid for this journey if you are a resident of Germany, as Interrail is not valid for trips within the same country for residents. The Interrail One Country Pass is also not valid for German residents. For those who are not EU residents, the Eurail Pass can be used for travel throughout Germany, including the route from Munich to Frankfurt (Main).
Getting around
Upon arriving at Frankfurt (Main) Hauptbahnhof, the central train station, you'll find a comprehensive and efficient public transportation network that makes it easy to navigate the city. The U-Bahn (metro) is a quick way to get around the city center and beyond, with key lines passing through Hauptwache and Konstablerwache stations, vital hubs in the downtown area. The S-Bahn (commuter train) network serves both inner city and surrounding areas, with frequent trains connecting to places like the Frankfurt Airport. Trams are another reliable option, covering many central areas and offering scenic views of the city; tram lines 11 and 12 pass through important streets, a convenient choice for travelers exploring the inner city. Buses provide extensive coverage, with night buses available after other services have ended. For a more personalized travel option, taxis are readily available outside the train station and throughout the city; they offer metered fares. Ridesharing services such as Uber operate in Frankfurt, providing another convenient travel alternative. All public transport is integrated into the Rhein-Main-Verkehrsverbund (RMV) system, allowing for seamless transfers and simplified ticketing, which can be purchased via machines at stations or through the RMV app, offering both single and day tickets.
Onward connections
Frankfurt (Main) is a central hub for train travel in Germany and offers numerous connections both domestically and internationally. Domestically, one of the most popular and frequent routes is the connection to Berlin, served by high-speed ICE trains with a travel time of approximately four hours. The route to Munich is also prominent, taking around three and a half hours on an ICE train. Other key connections include Hamburg, with a travel time of about four hours, and Cologne, which can be reached in roughly one hour via high-speed trains.
Internationally, Frankfurt is well-connected to major cities in neighboring countries. To the west, there are direct ICE and Thalys services to Paris, with a travel time of about four hours. Northwards, Amsterdam can be reached in approximately four hours via direct ICE trains. Travel to Brussels is also convenient, taking roughly three hours. Additionally, there are connections to Zurich, Switzerland, which typically take just over four hours. These international routes are facilitated by efficient high-speed rail services, making Frankfurt an ideal departure point for cross-border train travel in Europe.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Frankfurt is generally from late spring to early autumn, specifically May through September. During these months, the weather is pleasant with mild to warm temperatures, making it ideal for exploring the city and enjoying outdoor activities. May and September lie on the shoulder seasons, where you can often find fewer crowds and more competitive prices compared to the peak summer months of June to August. Additionally, this period coincides with several captivating events and festivals, such as the Museumsuferfest in August and the Rheingau Wine Festival in September, offering unique cultural experiences. If you prefer a festive and slightly cooler atmosphere, December is also a great time to visit. The city transforms into a winter wonderland with Christmas markets, adding a magical touch to your trip. Arriving by train, you can appreciate the convenience of Frankfurt's connected transport links, making it easy to navigate and explore.
Frequently asked questions
What affects the cost of a train ticket from Munich to Frankfurt (Main)?
According to EveryRail, train ticket prices on the Munich to Frankfurt (Main) route are dynamic. Time of booking influences the price. Early bookings tend to be cheaper. Peak travel times often have higher rates. Seasonal demand affects ticket costs. Weekdays might differ from weekend prices. Special events can cause price hikes. Train type also impacts pricing. Faster trains usually cost more. Discounts or promotions may be available. Flexibility in travel times offers savings. Changes or cancellations might incur fees. Availability of seats affects fares.
What trains run from Munich to Frankfurt (Main)?
Deutsche Bahn operates trains from Munich to Frankfurt (Main). Trenitalia does not operate trains on this route. SNCF does not operate trains on this route. Leo Express does not operate trains on this route. Flixbus operates buses on this route.
How long does the train from Munich to Frankfurt (Main) take?
According to EveryRail, the train from Munich to Frankfurt (Main) takes 3 to 4 hours.
When is the best time to travel from Munich to Frankfurt (Main)?
Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends. Avoid peak commuter hours for a quieter journey. Early morning and late evening trains are often less busy. Midday trains might be more expensive due to higher demand. Book tickets in advance for better prices. Holidays and events can increase passenger numbers. Check for any discounted periods or promotions. Adjust your travel time based on personal preferences for comfort or cost.
What’s the best route or train to take from Munich to Frankfurt (Main)?
Flixbus runs direct bus services from Munich to Frankfurt (Main).
What rail passes can I use to travel from Munich to Frankfurt (Main)?
According to EveryRail, the One Country Pass covers the route from Munich to Frankfurt. Both cities are in Germany.