If you’re flying into Frankfurt for an exhibition, you’ll be glad to know that the city is one of Europe’s easiest places to navigate. With excellent public transport, clear signage, and short travel times, getting from the airport to Messe Frankfurt, and moving around during your stay, is simple and efficient.

Here’s everything you need to know.

From Frankfurt Airport to Messe Frankfurt

Frankfurt Airport (FRA) is located just 12 km from the city centre, and you have several easy options to reach the exhibition grounds.

Train & S-Bahn (Best Overall Choice)

This is the fastest and most popular option for most visitors.

How it works:

Follow signs to “Regionalbahnhof” (Regional Train Station) at the airport.

Take an S-Bahn (S8 or S9) or a regional train toward Frankfurt Hauptbahnhof (Central Station).

Get off at Hauptbahnhof (about 10–15 minutes).

From there, it’s:

One stop by tram or 10–15 minutes on foot to Messe Frankfurt.

 

Time: 25 minutes total
Cost: €5–€7 (approx.)
Best for: Most travellers, budget-conscious visitors, and first-timers

Tip: Trains run every few minutes, even early in the morning and late at night.

Taxi (Most Convenient with Luggage)

If you’re tired after a flight or carrying heavy bags, a taxi is very convenient.

What to expect:

Pick up taxis directly outside the terminals

Fixed routes and metered pricing

Door-to-door service to your hotel or the Messe

Time: 20-30 minutes (depending on traffic)
Cost: €35-€45 (approx.)
Best for: Groups, late arrivals, heavy luggage, or tight schedules

Getting to Messe Frankfurt from Your Hotel

Once you’re in the city, reaching the Messe is straightforward.

By Tram (Very Popular During Fairs)

Tram lines 16 and 17 connect key areas to Messe Frankfurt.

They stop directly at:

Festhalle/Messe

Ludwig-Erhard-Anlage

These are right next to the main entrances.

By U-Bahn (Metro)

Several underground lines serve the Messe area, including:

U4 - Stops at Festhalle/Messe

U6 / U7 - Stop at Westend

Fast, frequent, and reliable - especially in rush hours.

On Foot

If you’re staying near:

Europa-Allee

Skyline Plaza

Central Station

You can usually walk to the Messe in 10-20 minutes.

Getting Around the City While You’re There

Frankfurt’s public transport network (RMV) is modern and easy to use.

Main Transport Options

S-Bahn (Suburban Trains)

Connects airport, suburbs, and city centre

Great for longer distances

U-Bahn (Metro)

Best for city travel

Frequent and fast

Trams

Ideal for Messe visitors

Scenic and easy to navigate

Buses

Cover areas not served by trains

Useful at night

All systems use the same ticket, so you can switch between them freely.

Tickets & Travel Passes

You can buy tickets at:

Station machines

RMV apps

Airport terminals

Good Options for Visitors

Single Ticket

Best if you travel only occasionally.

Day Ticket (Tageskarte)

Unlimited travel for one day - great during exhibitions.

Group Ticket

Cheaper if you’re traveling with colleagues.

Always validate your ticket if required - inspections are common.

Getting Around the Messe Grounds

Messe Frankfurt is huge, so plan your movement inside as well.

Tips:

Wear comfortable shoes

Allow extra walking time between halls

Use entrance maps and hall directories

Note which entrance is closest to your meetings

During major shows, shuttle buses may operate between distant halls.

Practical Travel Tips for Exhibition Visitors

Download the RMV app for live routes and tickets

Travel early in the morning to avoid peak crowds

Keep valuables secure in busy stations

Save your hotel and Messe stops on your phone

Follow event signage - fairs often add extra guidance