Expat Transport Guide: Getting Around Frankfurt

Transportation Overview

Frankfurt scores 4.0/5 for public transportation, with a cost of living rating of 2.0/5. Budget for approximately 18 transportation-related costs including transit passes and vehicle expenses.

Frankfurt boasts a comprehensive, efficient, and well-integrated public transportation system operated by RMV (Rhein-Main-Verkehrsverbund). As a major financial hub and international gateway, the city offers excellent connectivity throughout the urban area and to surrounding regions. The network is characterized by its punctuality, cleanliness, and extensive coverage that makes car ownership optional for most residents.

Quick Stats

Transport Score

4.0 /5

Cost of Living

2.0 /5

Weather Score

3.0 /5

Cost Items

Estimated Costs

One-Time Costs

$9,642

Monthly Costs

$1,192/mo

Sample Costs

Full Breakdown →

One-Time

Driving License Conversion $45

Driving License New $2,100

International Driving Permit $17

Monthly

Public Transport Pass Adult $95/mo

Public Transport Pass Child $32/mo

Car Rental Monthly $425/mo

Showing 6 of 18 costs — sign up to see all

Want to See Your Numbers?

Get personalized transportation costs, timelines, and checklists for your family in Frankfurt.

Free to start. No credit card required.

Practical Tips

Buy RMV tickets through the 'RMVgo' app instead of DB Navigator

offers comprehensive local tariffs and special offers not always visible on national platforms

Utilize designated P+R facilities on the city outskirts during weekday business hours

these offer significantly cheaper daily rates than city center parking and direct public transport connections

Use night buses from Konstablerwache (e.g., N1) between 1-4 AM for late-night travel

these services provide a reliable public transport option covering major residential areas when other lines are less frequent

Consider car-sharing services like BOOK-N-DRIVE, ShareNow, Miles, or Zity for flexible car access

they offer convenient app-based registration and quick access to vehicles for occasional trips without ownership costs

Useful Links

RMV - Rhine-Main Transport Association

Official public transportation authority for Frankfurt and surrounding areas, offering journey planning, ticket information, and network maps.

›

Frankfurt Airport

Official website of Germany's largest international airport with transportation connections to the city and regional travel information.

›

Deutsche Bahn

German national railway company offering domestic and international train services from Frankfurt with timetables and ticket purchasing.

›

Hessian Driver's License Authority

Official state resource for driver's license conversion, vehicle registration, and traffic regulations applicable to foreigners in Frankfurt.

›

Frankfurt Mobility and Transport Department

Municipal authority managing city transportation infrastructure, parking regulations, and mobility services for Frankfurt residents.

›

Explore Other Guides

Immigration Guide Housing Guide Education Guide Healthcare Guide Finance Guide Pets Guide

Transportation Guides in Germany

View all 140+ city guides →

Frequently Asked Questions

Public transportation in Frankfurt includes buses, metro, trams, and other transit options. Coverage and frequency vary by neighborhood. Use ReloPlanner to see detailed transport scores for each area.

Whether you need a car in Frankfurt depends on your neighborhood and lifestyle. Create a free ReloPlanner account to compare transportation costs and options for your specific situation.

There are approximately 18 transportation-related costs to consider when moving to Frankfurt, including both one-time and recurring expenses. Create a free ReloPlanner account to see the full personalized cost breakdown.

Plan Your Entire Move to Frankfurt

Access step-by-step guides, personalized budgets, and expert tips for transportation and 6 other relocation categories across 140+ cities.

Free to start. No credit card required.

Data verified: March 2026

This was the general picture

Your move to Frankfurt looks nothing like this

This guide covers Frankfurt for everyone. Your plan covers your origin country, your kids' ages, your budget, your dog — with real costs, a sequenced task list, and the things most families don't find out until it's too late.

Build your personalised plan — free →

Takes 2 minutes to set up