Quick Answer
The best overall way to travel from Friedrichshafen Airport (FDH) to Konstanz is by public transport: a short shuttle bus (Bus 7586) to Friedrichshafen Stadt station, followed by a regional S-Bahn train (Line S1 or S2). This journey typically takes 45 to 60 minutes and costs between â¬5 and â¬8 for a single ticket. For the fastest door-to-door service, a pre-booked taxi or private transfer takes 30-40 minutes but costs â¬60-â¬90. The cheapest option is the bus+train combo using a day ticket like the Baden-Württemberg-Ticket.
By Train (S-Bahn): The Recommended Route
Traveling by train is the most efficient and scenic public transport method. Since Friedrichshafen Airport (FDH) does not have its own train station, the journey involves a quick transfer via bus or taxi to the nearby main station.
Step-by-Step Journey: Airport to Konstanz Hbf
- Exit the Terminal: After baggage claim, follow signs for "Public Transport" / "ÃPNV".
- Take the Airport Shuttle Bus: Board Bus 7586 (direction: Friedrichshafen Stadt). The bus stop is directly outside the terminal.
- Frequency: Every 20-30 minutes, aligned with flight arrivals.
- Travel Time: 5-7 minutes to Friedrichshafen Stadt station.
- Ticket: Buy from the driver (cash/card) or use a validated regional ticket.
- At Friedrichshafen Stadt Station: Alight the bus and proceed to the train platforms.
- Board the S-Bahn: Take either the S1 (direction: Herblingen) or S2 (direction: Singen) train. Both stop at Konstanz Hauptbahnhof.
- Frequency: Trains run every 30 minutes.
- Travel Time: The train journey is approximately 30 minutes.
- Route Highlights: The train travels along the scenic northern shore of Lake Constance (Bodensee).
- Arrive in Konstanz: Disembark at Konstanz Hauptbahnhof, the central hub for city trams, buses, and taxis.
Alternative Start: If you have heavy luggage, a 5-minute taxi ride from FDH to Friedrichshafen Stadt station costs â¬10-â¬15 and saves you the bus transfer hassle.
Train Types & Amenities
The S-Bahn trains on this route are modern double-decker (Stadler KISS) or single-level (DB Class 425/426) regional trains.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Luggage Space | Ample multi-level racks at carriage ends and overhead shelves. Wheelchair/bike areas can be used for large suitcases. |
| Seating | Standard 2nd class seating; 1st class available but not necessary for this short trip. |
| Connectivity | Free Wi-Fi (DB "Free WLAN" on many trains), power outlets at some seats. |
| Accessibility | Low-floor boarding, designated spaces for wheelchairs. Announcements in German and English. |
By Bus & Local Transport
While there is no direct long-distance bus from FDH to Konstanz city center, a combination of local buses offers a flexible, budget-friendly alternative, especially useful if your accommodation is not near Konstanz Hbf.
Option 1: Direct(ish) Local Bus (Scheduled Service)
Bus 7395 / 7347 (SüdbadenBus): This is the most direct bus route, but it involves a change in Ãberlingen or Meersburg and has limited daily departures (approx. 5-6 per day).
- Route: FDH â Friedrichshafen Löwental â Ãberlingen Bahnhof â Konstanz.
- Total Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes, depending on connections.
- Advantage: Avoids the train transfer; can be more direct for lakeside destinations.
- Disadvantage: Infrequent service. Always check current timetables on the SüdbadenBus website.
Option 2: Bus + Ferry (Scenic Route)
For a unique experience, combine bus and the Lake Constance ferry.
- Take Bus 7586 from FDH to Friedrichshafen Hafen (harbor).
- Board the Bodensee-Schiffsbetriebe (BSB) passenger ferry to Konstanz.
- Duration: Ferry crossing takes about 45-60 minutes.
- Cost: Ferry ticket ~â¬15-â¬20 one-way. Combined bus+ferry ticket may be available.
- Arrive at Konstanz harbor, a short walk from the old town.
Best for: Leisure travelers, good weather days, and those not pressed for time. Ferry schedules vary seasonally.
Key Bus Stops & Practical Info
| Location | Stop Name | Relevance |
|---|---|---|
| FDH Airport | "Friedrichshafen Flughafen" | Primary departure point. Covered bus bay. |
| Friedrichshafen City | "Friedrichshafen Stadt Bf" / "Friedrichshafen Hafen" | Main interchange for trains (Stadt) or ferries (Hafen). |
| Konstanz City | "Konstanz Hauptbahnhof" / "Konstanz Marktstätte" | Central arrival points. Hbf is the main hub. |
Luggage Policy: Standard-sized suitcases and backpacks are allowed free of charge on local buses. Space is limited, so avoid rush hour if possible.
By Taxi & Private Transfer
This is the most convenient but also the most expensive option, ideal for specific circumstances.
Taxi (On-Demand)
- Pick-up: The official taxi rank is directly outside the terminal arrivals hall.
- Average Cost: â¬60 â â¬90 for the 30-40 minute journey. The meter starts around â¬4.00, plus â¬2-â¬3 per kilometer.
- Price Factors: Time of day (night/weekend surcharges), traffic, number of passengers, and amount of luggage.
- Operators: Reliable local companies include Taxi Friedrichshafen and Bodensee-Taxi.
Pre-Booked Private Transfer
Booking in advance via online platforms offers fixed rates, guaranteed availability, and often nicer vehicles.
- Average Cost: â¬70 â â¬110 for a standard sedan (1-3 pax). Minivans for groups cost â¬90 â â¬150.
- Booking Platforms: Welcome Pickups, KiwiTaxi, or local operators like Bodensee Airport Taxi.
- Advantages: Driver meets you with a name sign, helps with luggage, fixed price, 24/7 service.
When is a Taxi the Right Choice?
- Late-Night/Early-Morning Arrivals: When public transport has stopped.
- Traveling in a Group (3-4+ people): Cost can be comparable to multiple train tickets.
- Heavy/Bulky Luggage or Mobility Issues: Door-to-door convenience.
- Tight Connection: If you need to reach Konstanz urgently.
Expert Tip: For groups, always compare the cost of a maxi-taxi/van with 4-5 individual regional train tickets or a Baden-Württemberg-Ticket Gruppe (â¬26-â¬47 for up to 5 people all day). The train is often significantly cheaper.
Ticket Guide & Cost Comparison
Navigating the ticketing system is key to saving money. Hereâs a breakdown of your options and a direct comparison of all transport methods.
Key Ticket Types for Your Journey
- Single Journey Ticket (Einzelticket): Covers one continuous journey from FDH to Konstanz, including the necessary bus and train transfers. Purchase via DB app, ticket machine, or bus driver. Cost: ~â¬5 - â¬8.
- Baden-Württemberg-Ticket (BW-Ticket): The best value for individuals after 9 AM on weekdays or all day on weekends, and for groups. Provides unlimited travel on all regional trains (S-Bahn, RE, RB) and local buses (like Bus 7586) within Baden-Württemberg for one day.
- Price (2024): â¬26 for one person, â¬34 for 2 people, +â¬8 for each additional person up to 5 (total max â¬58).
- Validity: Mon-Fri from 9 AM to 3 AM the next day; all day Sat, Sun, and public holidays.
- Deutschland-Ticket (D-Ticket): A monthly subscription (â¬49/month) for nationwide regional transport. Excellent if you are staying longer and plan extensive travel. Can be canceled monthly.
Where to Buy: DB Navigator App (highly recommended), ticket machines at Friedrichshafen Stadt station, the DB website, or the Tourist Information desk inside FDH terminal.
Complete Transport Comparison Table
| Transport Mode | Total Duration | Approx. Cost (One-Way) | Key Advantages | Key Disadvantages | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Train (Bus + S-Bahn) | 45 - 60 min | â¬5 - â¬8 (Single) / â¬26-â¬58 (BW-Ticket Group) | Reliable, frequent, scenic, eco-friendly. | Requires one transfer. | Most travelers, budget-conscious, groups. |
| Local Bus (+ Ferry) | 75 min - 2 hrs | â¬5 - â¬25 (with ferry) | Direct to some areas, scenic ferry option. | Infrequent, slower, complex timetables. | Leisure travelers, scenic route enthusiasts. |
| Taxi / Private Transfer | 30 - 40 min | â¬60 - â¬110+ | Door-to-door, 24/7, no transfers, fast. | Very expensive for solo travelers. | Late arrivals, groups, those with mobility issues or heavy luggage. |
Verdict: For best value & efficiency: Take the bus+train. For absolute cheapest fare: Use a Single Ticket (â¬5-â¬8) or share a BW-Ticket. For ultimate convenience regardless of cost: Pre-book a private transfer.
Traveler Tips & Essential Advice
Beyond schedules and tickets, these practical insights will ensure a smooth journey.
Luggage Strategies
- Travel Light on Transit: If you have large suitcases, the bus+train transfer is manageable but can be stressful during peak hours. Use luggage areas near train doors.
- Luggage Shipping Service: For a hassle-free experience, consider sending your bags ahead from the airport to your Konstanz hotel using the DB GepäckService or a courier. This lets you travel with just a day pack.
Navigation & Connectivity
- Essential App: Download the DB Navigator app. It provides real-time schedules, platform info, disruption alerts, and allows mobile ticket purchase.
- Station Transfer: The transfer at Friedrichshafen Stadt is simpleâthe bus stops right outside the station building. Allow 5-10 minutes to walk to your platform.
- Free Wi-Fi: FDH airport, Friedrichshafen Stadt station, and DB trains offer free Wi-Fi ("Free WLAN FDH", "DB Free WLAN").
Seasonal & Timing Considerations
- Summer & Holidays (May-Oct, Christmas Markets): Trains and ferries can be very crowded. Book fixed-price transfers in advance if needed, and board transport early to secure luggage space.
- Late-Night Arrivals: Critical: The last S-Bahn from Friedrichshafen to Konstanz typically departs just before midnight. If your flight lands after ~11:00 PM, have a backup taxi plan. Check the exact last train on the DB app.
- Weekend vs. Weekday: Service frequency for trains is consistent, but some local bus routes (like the scenic bus/ferry) may have reduced service on Sundays.
Money & Accessibility
- Currency: Have some Euros in cash (â¬20-â¬50). While cards are widely accepted (even by bus drivers), small vendors or older taxi drivers may prefer cash.
- Accessibility: The entire bus+train route is accessible. Buses kneel, trains have level boarding. Use the DB Navigator app to filter for "barrier-free journey".
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is there a direct train from Friedrichshafen Airport (FDH) to Konstanz?
No, there is no direct train. You must take a short shuttle bus or taxi from FDH to Friedrichshafen Stadt station, then board a regional train (S-Bahn S1 or S2) to Konstanz Hauptbahnhof (main station). The total journey typically takes 45-60 minutes.
What is the cheapest way to get from FDH to Konstanz?
The cheapest option is combining the airport shuttle bus (Bus 7586) to Friedrichshafen Stadt and then a regional train (S-Bahn). A single journey costs approximately â¬5-â¬8 total, depending on your tariff zone and ticket type (e.g., Baden-Württemberg-Ticket for groups).
How much is a taxi from Friedrichshafen Airport to Konstanz?
A taxi or private transfer is the most expensive option, costing between â¬60 and â¬90 for the 30-40 minute ride, depending on traffic, time of day, and vehicle type. Pre-booking online can sometimes secure fixed rates.
What is the fastest way to reach Konstanz from FDH?
The fastest door-to-door method is a pre-booked private transfer (â30-40 mins). For public transport, the quickest route is taxi to Friedrichshafen Stadt station (5 mins) + S-Bahn train to Konstanz (â30 mins), totaling 45-60 minutes including transfer time.
Where do I buy tickets for the train from the airport?
Tickets can be purchased: 1) At the bus driver for the shuttle (Bus 7586), 2) At ticket machines at Friedrichshafen Stadt station, 3) Via DB Navigator app (recommended), 4) At the Tourist Info desk inside FDH terminal. Ensure you buy a ticket covering both bus and train segments.
Can I use the Baden-Württemberg-Ticket for this journey?
Yes, the Baden-Württemberg-Ticket is perfect for this route. It covers unlimited travel on regional trains (S-Bahn) and local buses (including the airport shuttle) within Baden-Württemberg for one day. It's cost-effective for individuals after 9 AM on weekdays or all day on weekends, and for groups up to 5 people.
What if my flight arrives late at night?
Public transport options are very limited after approximately 11:30 PM. The last S-Bahn departs around midnight. Your only reliable options are a taxi (available on-demand or by pre-booking) or a pre-arranged private transfer. Check the latest schedules on the DB website for your exact arrival date.
Is the journey from FDH to Konstanz suitable with large luggage?
Yes, but with planning. The shuttle bus and S-Bahn trains have dedicated luggage areas. However, during peak times, space can be limited. For heavy or multiple bags, consider a taxi for the entire journey or using a luggage taxi service like DB Gepäckservice to send bags ahead to your Konstanz hotel.