Written by Celine Fournier, Elsa Holm, Felix Schmidt, Finn Weber, Sandrine Simon
16/09/2025
Kirandeep Singh Walia, Pexels
Heidelberg is well-served by its Hauptbahnhof (main train station), connecting it to major cities across Germany and Europe. For bus travel, several long-distance terminals operate, often situated conveniently near the main train station. The primary international gateway for Heidelberg is Frankfurt International Airport (FRA), with Stuttgart Airport (STR) as another significant option.
By Air:
Frankfurt International Airport (FRA):: Direct trains to Heidelberg Hauptbahnhof typically take 43-55 minutes and cost approximately €18-€35. Alternatively, buses like FlixBus offer a journey of about 60-90 minutes, with fares ranging from €7-€15. Private shuttle services and taxis are also available, with taxi rides to Heidelberg lasting around 50-60 minutes and costing €120-€140.
Stuttgart Airport (STR):: Traveling by bus, such as FlixBus, takes approximately 1 hour 44 minutes and costs €12-€18. Train journeys typically involve at least one change, lasting about 1 hour 26 minutes to 2 hours 7 minutes, with tickets priced between €17-€65.
Baden-Airpark Karlsruhe Baden-Baden (FKB):: A dedicated bus service provides connections to Heidelberg.
Frankfurt Hahn Airport (HHN):: A dedicated bus service connects this airport to Heidelberg in around 2 hours 10 minutes.
By Train:
Heidelberg Hauptbahnhof offers frequent connections. Direct trains to Frankfurt typically take about 51 minutes, while journeys to Stuttgart can be as quick as 49 minutes. Deutsche Bahn tickets start from around €21.50 for a one-way, second-class fare, and children under 15 often travel free.
By Bus:
Long-distance bus services, including FlixBus, connect Heidelberg with many German and European cities. Tickets can be booked through platforms like FlixBus or Busradar, with departures from terminals such as those near Willy-Brandt-Platz.
By Car:
Renting a car provides flexibility, with the drive from Frankfurt Airport to Heidelberg taking roughly one hour. The city is easily accessible via the A5 motorway.
Within Heidelberg:
The city's local public transport network of buses and trams is efficient. Heidelberg's main train station is connected to the city center by tram in about 6 minutes or by bus in approximately 3 minutes. Single tickets cost around €2.20, day tickets are €5.20, and weekly tickets can be purchased for €19.
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