Exploring Upper Bavaria: How Far Is Munich Airport?

Munich International Airport, also known as Flughafen München, is located about 28km northeast of Munich's city centre. The airport is accessible via train, bus, rideshare, taxi, car, or town car. The fastest way to get to Upper Bavaria is by taxi, which takes 27 minutes, while the cheapest option is by rideshare, costing only $2. The train and bus are also convenient options, with the former being the best way to get to Upper Bavaria without a car.

Travel by train

The best way to get from Munich Airport to Upper Bavaria by train is to take the S-Bahn (the Suburban Railway). The S1 and S8 lines connect the airport to Munich city centre at 10-minute intervals. The trip to the main railway station at the city centre takes approximately 40 minutes. The S-Bahn stops at two stations at the airport: P41, P80, P90 parking areas and Visitors Park ("Besucherpark").

To get to the train station at Munich Airport, follow the signs featuring a green circle with a white S. This is the symbol for the S-Bahn. From Terminal 1, this can be a long walk, but just keep following the signs which will bring you to the ticket machines. From Terminal 2, the signs will lead you outside to the undercover area between terminals. There are some ticket machines just before the exit of Terminal 2, but the lines can often be long. If there’s a crowd, just keep walking to the station as there are machines on the platform. Once outside, in front of Terminal 1, you’ll see some escalators going into the ground that will take you to the train station, where there will be more ticket machines at the bottom.

To buy your ticket, tap on the British flag to get the service in English. The “München Flughafen (Munich Airport)” bit will already be filled out, so all you need to do is enter your destination stop. If you don’t know what stop you need, Google Maps is quite accurate in Munich, so enter your accommodation address, tap the button for public transport, and it will tell you which stop you need to get off at. Enter that stop name (bearing in mind the stops are written in German, so München HBF is the Central Station, München Ost is the East Station), etc.

Once you have entered your destination, tap to the next screen and select which ticket you want. If you only plan to use the Munich public transport system once today, and you are travelling alone, get a “Single Journey” ticket. If you plan to use the Munich public transport system multiple times today, and you are travelling alone, get a “Single all-day ticket”. If you are travelling with two adults, and you plan to use the Munich public transport system multiple times today, get the “Group all-day ticket”. Otherwise, if you are only using the public transport system once today, it is actually cheaper for you both to get one “Single Journey” ticket. If you are travelling with 3 or more adults, then you should always get the “Group All-Day Ticket”.

Make sure to validate your ticket before getting on the train. There are blue boxes to stamp them before the escalators and on the platform, some are even lit up so you don’t miss them.

Go to the platform and look for your train (either S1 or S8). It’s pretty tough to screw up here because Munich Airport is the first/last stop, so any trains waiting will take you into the centre and it’s impossible to go in the wrong direction. If you are just going to Munich Central Station (Hauptbahnhof), then just get onto whichever train comes first. When in doubt, trust Google Maps as it is fairly accurate.

Listen for your stop! The ride into Munich city centre is about 45 minutes, so it’s long, and you’ll be stopping a lot at stops with fun, long German names. I’d recommend loading up Google Maps and following the blue dot so you have a rough idea of where you are and how much farther you have left to go.

Travel by bus

You can travel by bus from Munich Airport to Upper Bavaria, a journey that offers a convenient and often cost-effective way to reach your destination. The distance from the airport to Upper Bavaria by road is approximately 120 kilometres. The duration of the trip can vary depending on traffic and the specific departure and arrival points, but it typically takes between 2 and 3 hours.

There are a few different bus options you can consider for this route. One popular choice is the FlixBus, a well-known bus company in Europe. They offer direct connections between Munich Airport and various destinations in Upper Bavaria, including Munich Central Bus Station. From the central bus station, you can then transfer to your final destination within the region. The FlixBus usually departs from Terminal 2 at the airport, and you can buy tickets online or directly from the driver.

Another option is the Lufthansa Express Bus, which is a direct bus service connecting the airport to Munich's main train station, known as Hauptbahnhof. This service departs from both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. From the main train station, you can then take a regional train to your specific destination in Upper Bavaria. The benefit of this option is that the buses are timed to connect with arriving and departing flights, ensuring a smooth transfer. Tickets can be purchased online or at the Lufthansa Service Center at the airport.

Regional bus services also connect the airport to nearby towns and cities in Upper Bavaria. These buses are usually operated by local transport companies, and you can find information about routes and timetables on the Munich Airport website or through local transport authorities. These buses typically depart from the central bus station at the airport, which you can reach by taking a free shuttle bus from your terminal.

When travelling by bus, it's important to consider the location of your departure terminal and the bus stop. Munich Airport has two main terminals, and the bus stops are usually clearly signposted. It's also advisable to allow sufficient time for potential delays, especially if you're travelling during peak hours or on high-traffic days, such as weekends or holidays.

Travel by taxi

Taking a taxi from Munich Airport to Upper Bavaria is a convenient and comfortable option if you don't want to deal with public transport or driving yourself. The journey by taxi will take you through some stunning Bavarian scenery and is a great way to relax after a long flight.

The distance from Munich Airport to Upper Bavaria is approximately 28 kilometers (17 miles) as the crow flies, but the actual road distance will depend on your exact destination within the region. The drive typically takes between 30 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and your drop-off point.

There are plenty of taxis available at Munich Airport, and you'll find the official taxi rank outside the arrivals area of both terminals. Make sure you only take a taxi from the official rank to ensure fair pricing and a licensed driver. The taxis at the airport are generally comfortable and spacious, and many can accommodate larger groups if needed.

When taking a taxi, it's important to discuss the fare with the driver before setting off. Fares can vary depending on your destination and the time of day, and there may be additional charges for things like toll roads, luggage, or waiting time. It's also a good idea to have some cash on hand, as not all taxis will accept card payments.

If you prefer to book a private transfer in advance, there are numerous companies offering this service online. Pre-booking can often secure a better rate and ensure a smoother journey, especially if your German language skills are limited. Private transfer companies usually offer a range of vehicle options, from standard sedans to larger vans, so you can choose the most suitable option for your group.

Travel by car

Munich Airport is located about 30 kilometres northeast of Munich city centre. The road distance from Munich Airport to Upper Bavaria is 23.6 miles or 38 kilometres.

If you are driving from Munich Airport to Upper Bavaria, there are two highway options. If you are arriving from the east (such as Austria), you would take the A1 highway. If you are coming from the north (Munich), you would take the A95 highway.

The driving time from Munich Airport to Upper Bavaria is approximately 27 minutes in normal traffic conditions. However, it is important to note that there can be longer waiting times during peak hours or the Bavarian autumn holidays due to high traffic volume.

If you plan to drive your car to the airport and park it there during your trip, you can take advantage of the free public transportation options offered with your parking ticket. The parking ticket allows you to use the S-Bahn for free between the Visitors' Park and the airport. Alternatively, from parking area P 44, you can take the bus line 635 to the terminals at no additional cost by presenting your parking ticket.

Travel by town car

If you're looking for a comfortable and private way to get from Munich Airport to Upper Bavaria, booking a town car service is a great option. This can be especially useful if you have heavy luggage or prefer a more relaxed journey. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you plan your trip:

Step 1: Choose a Reputable Company

Several companies offer town car services between Munich Airport and Upper Bavaria. You can book a town car through various online platforms or directly with local providers. Compare prices and read reviews to find a reputable and reliable company that suits your needs.

Step 2: Book Your Ride in Advance

It is highly recommended to book your town car service in advance, especially during peak travel seasons or if you have a specific time constraint. You can usually book online or by contacting the company directly. Provide them with your flight details, the number of passengers, and any special requests or requirements you may have.

Step 3: Meet Your Driver at the Airport

On the day of your arrival, your chauffeur will be waiting for you at a designated meeting point inside the airport terminal. They will usually hold a sign with your name on it, making it easy to identify them. If you are unable to locate your driver, don't hesitate to contact the car service company using the information provided in your booking confirmation.

Step 4: Enjoy a Comfortable Ride

Once you meet your driver, they will assist you with your luggage and escort you to your vehicle. Town cars are typically comfortable and well-maintained, ensuring a pleasant journey. You can relax and enjoy the scenery as your chauffeur navigates the route to your destination in Upper Bavaria.

Step 5: Arrive at Your Destination

Town car services will bring you directly to your accommodation or any specified location in Upper Bavaria. Make sure to confirm the drop-off address with your driver to avoid any confusion. They will assist you with your luggage and ensure you have a smooth arrival at your destination.

Benefits of Travelling by Town Car:

• Privacy and comfort: Town cars offer a private travel experience, allowing you to relax and unwind after a long flight.
• Convenience: Booking a town car in advance ensures that your transportation is taken care of, eliminating the stress of figuring out local transport options upon arrival.
• Luggage assistance: Chauffeurs will assist you with your luggage, making it a hassle-free option if you're travelling with multiple bags or heavy items.
• Flexibility: Town car services can accommodate your specific needs, such as providing child seats or making stops along the way if required.
• Safety and reliability: Reputable town car companies employ professional chauffeurs who are knowledgeable about the local area and prioritise your safety and comfort.

Frequently asked questions