Munich Airport (MUC) MUC: Departure times and transfers

Flying from/to Munich Airport

Get straight from Munich Airport to the city centre without dither—booking your ticket in advance means you can zoom through the airport and be on your way to the city. We, at Omio, have collected information on the facilities that you have after landing, and the main places worth stopping at in the city centre to make planning your trip easier.

Travel from Munich city center to Munich airport

Public transit in Munich is accessible, convenient and affordable. In short, fantastic. Passengers have their choice of bus and train routes to the airport, as well as taxis, however locals prefer public transportation. Public transit in Munich and many big German cities is renowned for its efficiency. This is certainly the case in Munich, as it takes the same time to drive to the airport as to take the bus or train. There are two S-Bahn train stations at the airport, so be sure to disembark at Munich Airport, known locally as Flughafen Munich, rather than Besucherpark which services corporate flight needs and parking lots.

What's the best way to get to Munich airport from the city center?

The best way to reach Munich airport from Munich city center is the train. Specifically, the S1 S-Bahn train, an underground railway system connecting the airport to major central locations. One major appeal of the train is that unlike road transport such as taxis or buses, trains aren't affected by traffic. This is an automatic way to reduce the stress of a journey to the airport, and great to keep in mind when traveling with small children, or when cutting it fine. Trains depart every 10 to 12 minutes from Munich central railway station, so passengers don't even have to worry about missing one or two!

The next best option for traveling from the city center to the airport is the bus. Lufthansa, Germany's flag carrying airline, operates an express bus that departs every 15 minutes from the central train station. The bus stops at four stations across the airport: Terminal 1 Modul D, MAC and Modul A, and Terminal 2, so it is a great option for passengers with heavy luggage.

How far is it from Munich city center to the airport?

The distance between Munich's city center and its airport is 33 kilometers. The airport lies northeast of the city center, and is connected via various highways for cars and buses, and underground trains. The train journey takes 35 minutes and the bus 45 minutes, depending on traffic. Driving takes 35 minutes or more depending on traffic, so locals usually prefer to take the reliable public bus or train options available to them. 

All routes to Munich Airport converge at Munich Central Station, which sits just two kilometers northwest of the Alstadt, or historic city center. Passengers can walk this route in roughly 20 minutes, and it is a pleasant walk past many of the city's renowned historic churches. Leave at least an hour to an hour and a half for the journey, to take into account travel to the central train station, and from the Flughafen stop to your check-in desk.

What facilities are there at Munich airport?

Like most German airports, Munich Airport is a modern facility with free WiFi, an indoor children's playground called Kinderland, and an observation deck for all the aviation lovers out there. There are enough shops and restaurants to keep any waiting passengers entertained and satisfied, and these include bars and luxury experiences, alongside family-friendly restaurants, cafes and popular shops.

How accessible is the route for those with limited mobility?

Passengers with limited mobility can skip the 20 minute walk from the city to the railway station by taking a quick taxi ride. Taxis which cater to wheelchair users are readily available when booked in advance from any hotel or public place. The airport accommodates those with limited mobility with wheelchair friendly bathrooms, entrances and exits at the airport's two terminals' departure and arrival areas. Munich Airport's Mobility Service provides the level of assistance you specify during your transit, but needs to be informed 48 hours prior to arrival, at a minimum. The train stations have elevators and ramps for boarding and alighting, simply register a minimum of one hour before you travel to receive this free service.

How to travel to the airport like a local

Locals take advantage of the efficient and convenient public trains and buses to reach Munich Airport. Locals with heavy luggage may prefer the bus, which takes them right to the terminal of their choice. After buying the airport-city day ticket at the central train station before getting on the train, locals make the journey even more relaxing with a refreshing meal at one of the airport's many restaurants. It is worth keeping in mind, however, that the best German food and Bravarian delicassies can be found in Munich city proper.