While you will probably fly into one of Germany’s major airports, Germany is such a compact country that there is not a great need for internal air travel. However, if you do need to get from say, Munich to Hamburg, air travel in Germany is easy and efficient.
In general, domestic air travel is geared towards business travelers so it may be the usual means of getting around within the country for them, alongside traveling by train.
Tourists usually drive or take a bus or train (or find ways to travel through Germany on a budget ;-).
German Airlines
German airlines transport over 50 million passengers in and out of the country every year. There are also almost 100 other international airlines that have regular scheduled flights to and from Germany. It is common to have a connection through Germany on an international flight, so many passengers take the opportunity to see a little more of the country.
Lufthansa is the major domestic airline in Germany. It will connect with all major airports with at least four or five flights a day. These flights are short, usually less than an hour in duration.
Restrictions And Rules
Air travel into and out of Germany, as well as domestic travel is subject to the same sort of restrictions as most countries. You need to be two to three hours early for an international flight and about an hour early for a domestic one.
There is a ban on carrying sharps and liquids (more than 100ml) in your hand luggage and you will have to go through security to get to the concourse.
Airports In Germany
German airports are a delight. They are government owned private franchises and are well maintained and efficient with all the modern conveniences.
Most feature the typical duty-free shops, restaurants, bars, banks, car rental facilities, post offices, and medical facilities. Germany’s largest one, Frankfurt Airport even has a supermarket, dentist, casino and pet kennel. In December, you’ll even find a traditional-style German Christmas Market there! :-)
It is not always easy to find your way around such huge airports, but rest assured signage is clear in both German and English. There are plenty of numerical and pictorial guides to help you find your way.
It is also quite daunting just how big some of the airports can be; you may have to take a train, several moving walkways, elevators and still walk a few hundred meters. It’s a testament to just how many airlines fly through Germany everyday.
Besides, there is always a staff member available to help you find your way.
If you do find yourself flying through Germany and decide to take a short flight to one of the other small airports for some sightseeing there are some wonderful things to visit. Try the high-society Düsseldorf, the fun city Cologne and/or the fishermen metropolis Hamburg. A short flight to either of these locations will be cheap and quick and the airline will give you suggestions for accommodation.
Although, it is certainly more convenient to simply pick a stay using the hotel search here on MyGermanCity.com. ;-)
If you want to do a little shopping Düsseldorf is the place to go with its fashion centers and trade fairs, while Cologne has a vibrant arts scene and more than 30 museums. Hamburg is a media center so there is always an interesting premiere or performance to visit.
All in all, air travel to Germany, from Germany and all around the country is easy and pleasurable with such a comprehensive and well run air travel system. It is a simple and fast way to get around the country.
