Traveling to Frankfurt by train: a practical guide for IMEX participants
Traveling to IMEX by train is a comfortable, efficient and sustainable way to arrive in Frankfurt from across Europe. With frequent high speed services, generous luggage allowances and city center arrivals, rail travel gives you a relaxed and easy start to your IMEX experience.
"We use a carbon dashboard within Elevations which clearly shows air travel has a big carbon impact. A few years ago, we decided to ditch flying to IMEX Frankfurt in favor of train and public transportation, which is excellent by the way. That one change means we're now at 15% of the total carbon cost of flights plus taxis to and from the airport."
Mark Thomason, Managing Director, Elevations
Drawing on the experience of IMEX team members who regularly travel to Frankfurt by train, this guide covers what to expect, how to prepare and helpful tips for arriving in Frankfurt with confidence.
Before you travel
Tickets and seat reservations
- Most long distance European trains include reserved seating. This will be clearly shown on your ticket
- Tickets are usually electronic. We recommend printing a copy and also keeping a digital version easily accessible on your phone
- If you use rail apps, download them before you travel so you can access tickets offline if needed
- You can book discounted, carbon-free travel with Deutsche Bahn to IMEX
Luggage planning
- Pack so you can comfortably lift your suitcase on and off the train
- Larger suitcases are stored in luggage racks near doors or mid carriage; smaller bags can go overhead or at your seat
- Keep your passports and travel documents in your hand luggage for easy access
- There are no liquid restrictions on most European high speed trains, and laptops usually stay in your bag during security checks
Did you know?
Taking the train from London to Frankfurt takes, on average, just one hour 15 minutes longer than flying—and saves 131 kgCO2e compared with an economy flight. That’s a 96% reduction in emissions.
During your journey
At stations and on board
- Stations can be busy, especially at peak travel times, so allow extra time to find your platform and board comfortably
- Keep an eye on your belongings on platforms and while trains are stopped
- Onboard Wi Fi is available on many services, but it can be patchy—download anything you’ll want to work on or read ahead of time
Connections
- Some routes include a connection
- If your transfer time is short, be ready to disembark quickly—move toward the front of the train before arrival and follow station signage to your next platform
- With longer connection times, you’ll usually have time to grab food, stretch your legs or take a short break before continuing (a pavement café lunch in Brussels has become an IMEX team must-do on the way to Frankfurt)
Did you know?
A 50% shift from flights to trains by IMEX participants could reduce travel emissions by 48%.
If your plans change
Rail travel is flexible by design.
- If your train arrives late and you miss a connection, rail staff can usually help rebook you on the next available service
- Keep your ticket and travel details accessible, and follow station guidance for international or long distance services
Did you know?
Deutsche Bahn trains run on 100% renewable energy.
Arriving in Frankfurt
Frankfurt’s main train station is centrally located and well connected. And Frankfurt is compact, well signposted and easy to navigate on foot.
- Many hotels are within walking distance of the station, making arrival straightforward after a long journey
- Taxis are readily available outside the main station entrance if you’d rather not walk
- If walking, the side exits at Frankfurt’s main train station can be quicker and less crowded than the main forecourt, especially during busy times
Helpful travel tips
- Bring a book, snacks and a drink in case onboard services or Wi Fi are limited
- Consider an eSIM or roaming plan if you’ll need mobile data across multiple countries
- Keep your passport accessible during international rail travel—spot checks can happen even on seamless cross border routes
- Sit back and enjoy the scenery. Train journeys into Frankfurt offer great views as you approach the city
- And of course, share your journey with us using #IMEX26
