Munich Airport Overview

Munich’s Franz Josef Strauß Airport (Flughafen München Franz Josef Strauß) stands as the primary international airport for the city and ranks as the second busiest airport in Germany after Frankfurt, receiving nearly 45 million visitors annually. It provides exceptional connectivity to other parts of the country and consistently earns praise as one of Europe’s premier airports. Unique in its offerings, this airport boasts the world’s first airport brewery, a fitting complement to Munich’s storied beer culture.

Know Before You Go

The old Munich-Riem Airport was once located closer to the city center, but it relocated to a more expansive site in 1992 and was named after a conservative Bavarian politician. With direct flights across Europe and to various international destinations, the airport is approximately 25 miles from central Munich. Travelers have several options to reach the city, allowing for seamless connections to other locations.

Munich Airport caters to all essentials, including groceries, medical services, restaurants, a spa, and a tourist office, primarily located in the Munich Airport Center (MAC) between the terminals. The MAC-Forum, Europe’s largest covered outdoor area, hosts diverse events, from a Christmas market with ice-skating in winter to beach volleyball courts in summer.

Free WiFi is available for 30 minutes, in addition to free newspapers, a post office, a gym, a barber shop, money changers, cash machines, and public transport ticket machines. Flight status can be checked online at any time.

For families, several children’s areas, such as Kinderland operated by Lufthansa, feature an aviation-themed playground. While some play areas may require a small fee, they can significantly enhance the travel experience for younger flyers. Free strollers are also available in Terminal 1.

Munich Airport encompasses two terminals, two runways, and many traveler services.

• Terminal 1: This is the older terminal, mainly housing Oneworld alliance members, including American Airlines. It consists of six modules: A, B, C, D, E, and F, with module F specifically designated for high-security flights.
• Terminal 2: Catered to Lufthansa and Star Alliance partners, this terminal features multiple check-in counters and a variety of shops and dining options.

There is a convenient connecting airside bus service between terminals every 10-20 minutes; however, walking is often the easiest option.

Munich Airport Parking

• Parking areas allow you to park with the added benefit of free public transport to terminals. Discount parking starts at €19.
• All major car rental companies can be found at the airport. Utilizing the car reservation system helps explore pricing and options.

Driving Directions and Transportation

The airport is accessible by car from the north, east, and south via the A92 autobahn and B301 regional road. From the west, utilize the A92 and then switch to St2084 and St2584 regional roads.

S-Bahn Between Munich and the Airport

• The S-Bahn, or commuter trains, conveniently connect Munich Central Station (München Hauptbahnhof) to the airport in around 35 minutes, with trains departing every 10 minutes (with reduced frequency at night).
• Two S-Bahn stations at the airport include Besucherpark and Flughafen München. The S1 and S8 lines serve as the primary routes.
• Tickets on Munich’s public transport system (MVG) cost €11.60 for a single trip. For extended travel, consider purchasing a Tageskarte Gesamtnetz (day pass) for €13.00.

Buses and Taxis

Bus services operate from both terminals, offering routes to central Munich and various nearby attractions. The Lufthansa express bus, which departs frequently, connects to the Hauptbahnhof for €10.50 one way.

• Taxis are readily available outside the departure and arrival areas; anticipate fares of around €60 between the city and airport.

Where to Eat and Drink

With around 60 dining options, the airport features various establishments from traditional Bavarian restaurants serving local beer to fast food and international cuisine.

• Airbräu, the world’s first airport brewery, provides a laid-back atmosphere for travelers to enjoy classic Bavarian culture, including options like Helles and Weißbier.
• In addition, an Edeka grocery store located between Terminals 1 and 2 remains open on Sundays for those looking to purchase essentials.

How to Spend Your Layover

• For aviation enthusiasts, the visitors center offers an observation deck to watch planes as they land and take off, along with exhibits and a playground.
• Daily airport tours are available, predominantly conducted in German, from morning until early afternoon.

Tips for Nearby Accommodation

Various hotels in Munich cater to all budgets, with options close to the airport including Hilton Munich Airport, NH München Airport, and Moxy Munich Airport. Additionally, Nap Cabs offer self-service sleep pods available for hourly rental, ideal for those needing a quick rest.