Quick Answer
The best overall way to travel from Memmingen Airport (FMM) to the University of Ulm is by combining the Allgäu-Airport-Express shuttle bus to Memmingen train station with a direct regional train (RE/RS) to Ulm Hauptbahnhof, followed by a short public bus ride (Line 3 or 5) to the campus. The total journey takes approximately 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours 15 minutes and costs between â¬15 and â¬30 per person. For the fastest but most expensive option, a pre-booked taxi or private transfer takes about 50 minutes and costs â¬130-â¬180.
By Train: The Standard & Most Reliable Route
Traveling by train is the most common and efficient public transport method. Since Memmingen Airport lacks its own train station, the journey involves a short local transfer first. The route is scenic, passing through the Swabian countryside.
Step-by-Step Guide
- Airport to Memmingen Hauptbahnhof (Main Station):
- Option A (Recommended): Take the Allgäu-Airport-Express shuttle bus. It departs directly outside the terminal, synchronized with most flight arrivals. Journey: 10-15 mins. Cost: ~â¬3-5 one-way.
- Option B (Budget): Take the local Stadtbus (city bus) Line 2 or 6 towards the city center ("Stadtmitte"). Get off at "ZOB" or "Theater". Walk 5 mins to the train station. Journey: 20-25 mins. Cost: ~â¬2.50 (single ticket).
- Train from Memmingen to Ulm Hauptbahnhof:
- From Memmingen station, take a Regional-Express (RE) or Regionalbahn (RB) train bound for Ulm or Stuttgart. Services are frequent (approx. every 30-60 minutes).
- The direct train journey takes about 50 to 70 minutes. No changes are usually required.
- Key Stops: Memmingen -> Senden -> Laupheim West -> Ulm Hauptbahnhof.
Train Ticket Types & Recommendations
| Ticket Type | Price (Approx.) | Validity & Best For | Where to Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Single Fare (Flexpreis) | â¬15 - â¬22 | Any train on the chosen day. For maximum flexibility. | DB App, Vending Machine, Counter |
| Saver Fare (Sparpreis) | â¬9 - â¬15 | For a specific train. Book online in advance for the best price. | Deutsche Bahn Website |
| Bayern-Ticket (Bavaria Ticket) * | â¬27 (1 person) + â¬9.50 per add'l | Unlimited regional travel in Bavaria all day (from 9 AM Mon-Fri, all day weekends). Perfect for groups of 2-5. | DB App, Machines |
| Baden-Württemberg-Ticket * | â¬26 (1 person) + â¬8 per add'l | Unlimited regional travel in Baden-Württemberg. Valid for the final leg into Ulm. | DB App, Machines |
| Deutschlandticket | â¬49 / month | BEST FOR STUDENTS/RESIDENTS. Unlimited nationwide travel on regional transport (RE, RB, buses). Covers the entire journey from airport bus to Ulm city bus. | Subscription via DB, local transport apps |
* Note: The Bayern-Ticket covers the journey from Memmingen (Bavaria) to Ulm (Baden-Württemberg) as it includes cross-border routes to specific destination stations like Ulm.
By Regional Bus & Public Transport (The Budget Choice)
For the most economical journey, a combination of long-distance and local buses is possible. This is slower but can be significantly cheaper, especially with special tickets.
Option 1: Long-Distance Bus (Fernbus) + Local Transport
While no direct bus runs from the airport to Ulm, you can take a bus from Memmingen's central bus station (ZOB), which is adjacent to the train station.
- Providers: Check FlixBus for services from Memmingen to Ulm. Availability is limited (often 1-2 direct trips per day).
- Journey Time: ~1 hour 15 minutes (bus only).
- Cost: From â¬7-â¬15 if booked in advance.
- Process: Airport Shuttle/City Bus to Memmingen ZOB -> FlixBus to Ulm (ZOB Ost / Busbahnhof) -> Local bus (Line 3/5) to University.
Option 2: Regional Bus Network (RVA) â The Deep Dive
This involves using the integrated regional bus system, which is complex but very cheap with a Deutschlandticket or state ticket.
- FMM to Memmingen ZOB: As described above (Airport Express or Stadtbus).
- Memmingen to Ulm via Regional Buses: Services like RVA Line 810 may require one or two changes (e.g., in Illertissen or Senden).
- Total Time: 2 to 3 hours, highly variable based on connections.
- Advantage: Fully covered by the â¬49 Deutschlandticket, making it essentially "free" if you already have it.
- Planning Tool: Use the Deutsche Bahn journey planner and select "Only local transport" to see these bus connections.
Key Consideration: Service frequency drops sharply in evenings and on Sundays. Not recommended for tight schedules or late arrivals.
By Taxi, Private Shuttle & Transfer
For door-to-door convenience, especially with lots of luggage, late at night, or in a group.
Taxi (Metered)
Taxis are available 24/7 outside the terminal. This is the most straightforward but also the most expensive option.
- Approximate Fare: â¬130 - â¬180, depending on traffic, time of day (night surcharges apply), and exact destination on campus.
- Journey Time: 45 to 60 minutes via the A7 autobahn.
- Tip: Confirm an estimated price with the driver before departure. For a fixed price, consider pre-booking.
Pre-Booked Private & Shared Transfers (Recommended for Groups)
Booking in advance online often provides a fixed price and guaranteed availability.
| Service Type | Approx. Price | Pros | Cons | Provider Example |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Private Sedan/Van | â¬140 - â¬220 | Door-to-door, exclusive, fixed price, meet & greet. | Most expensive per person. | MyDriver, Suntransfers |
| Shared Shuttle | â¬35 - â¬60 per person | Good value for 1-2 people, fixed price, door-to-door. | May involve short waits for other passengers, slightly longer journey. | AirportDriver.com |
When to Choose This: Groups of 3-4 (cost-effective), arrivals after 10:30 PM, travelers with mobility challenges, or those with oversized luggage (e.g., lab equipment, sports gear).
Ticket, Cost & Time Comparison Table
This table summarizes all options for a single adult traveling one-way. Prices are estimates and can vary.
| Transport Mode | Door-to-Door Time | Approx. Cost (One-Way) | Number of Changes | Best Suited For | Our Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Train (Airport Bus + RE) | 1h 45min - 2h 15min | â¬15 - â¬35 | 1-2 (Bus -> Train -> [Campus Bus]) | Most travelers, balance of speed & cost. | â BEST OVERALL |
| Regional Bus Network | 2h - 3h+ | â¬0* - â¬15 | 2-4 | Extreme budget travelers, Deutschlandticket holders. | â MOST ECONOMICAL (*with Deutschlandticket) |
| Long-Distance Bus (FlixBus) | ~2h 15min | â¬10 - â¬25 | 2-3 | Travelers with flexible timing who find a good fare. | â ï¸ Limited schedule |
| Shared Shuttle / Transfer | ~1h 15min | â¬35 - â¬60 | 0 | Solo/duo travelers wanting door-to-door service. | â BEST DOOR-TO-DOOR VALUE |
| Taxi / Private Transfer | 45min - 1h | â¬130 - â¬220 | 0 | Groups, late-night arrivals, special needs. | â FASTEST & MOST CONVENIENT (but costly) |
Money-Saving Tip: Always check if a Bayern-Ticket (for groups) or the Deutschlandticket (for individuals staying a month+) makes financial sense for your entire trip itinerary, not just this single leg.
Traveler Experience & Essential Tips for Ulm University
Navigating Ulm Hauptbahnhof and Getting to Campus
Ulm's main station is modern and well-signed. For buses to the university:
- Bus Stops: The main city bus terminals are directly in front of the station (ZOB). Look for signs for "Stadtbus".
- Buying Bus Tickets: If you don't have a through-ticket or Deutschlandticket, purchase a single ride ticket (â¬2.90 as of 2024) from the SWU vending machines at the ZOB or via their app. The bus driver may also sell cash tickets.
- Correct Bus: Lines 3 (to Universität West) and 5 (to Universität Süd) are your primary options. Check the electronic displays on the bus for the final destination.
Campus Specifics: Where to Get Off
Ulm University has multiple clusters. Inform your driver or check the bus stop map:
- Universität West (Oberer Eselsberg): For the Natural Sciences, Engineering, and Mathematics faculties (N27, N25 buildings). This is the main science campus.
- Universität Süd (Münsterviertel): For the Humanities, Law, Economics, and the main library (Münsterplatz area). Closer to the city center.
- Klinikum (University Hospital): Served by multiple lines; a separate complex east of the main science campus.
Pro Tips for a Smooth Journey
- Luggage: If you have heavy suitcases and are using public transport, the bus+train+bus route is manageable but tiring. Consider sending large bags ahead via a luggage service like DHL Packstation to your accommodation if possible.
- Connectivity: The DB Navigator App is indispensable for real-time train/bus schedules, platform info, and ticket purchases. Download it before you travel.
- Winter Travel: Snow in the Allgäu region can rarely cause delays to both airport buses and trains. Allow extra time in winter months (Dec-Feb).
- Student Welcome Services: If you are a new international student, check if the university's International Office offers organized pick-up services on specific arrival dates.
FAQs: Memmingen Airport to Ulm University
Is there a direct train from Memmingen Airport to Ulm University?
No, there is no direct train. The airport has no train station. You must first take a shuttle bus or taxi to Memmingen central train station (Memmingen Hauptbahnhof), which takes about 10-15 minutes. From there, you can take a regional train directly to Ulm Hauptbahnhof. The total journey from airport to Ulm city center takes roughly 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes, depending on connections.
What is the cheapest way to get from FMM to Ulm University?
The cheapest option is a combination of public transport. Take the Allgäu-Airport-Express shuttle bus (approx. â¬3-5) or a local city bus to Memmingen station, then a regional train (Bayern-Ticket or Baden-Württemberg-Ticket are great value if traveling in a group or during off-peak hours) to Ulm. Total cost can be as low as â¬15-25 per person one-way. Booking train tickets in advance online can sometimes yield even lower Sparpreis (saver) fares.
How do I reach the university campus from Ulm Hauptbahnhof (main station)?
Ulm University is spread across several campuses. The main campus (Universitätsviertel Oberer Eselsberg) is about 4km from the main station. The most convenient way is by public bus:
- Bus Line 3 or 5: Direct to 'Universität West' or 'Universität Süd' stops (travel time ~15 mins).
- Taxi: A 10-minute ride costing around â¬12-18.
- Walking/Biking: Possible but takes 45-60 minutes, involving an uphill section.
Are there airport shuttle services or shared rides available?
There is no dedicated, scheduled airport shuttle bus directly from FMM to Ulm. However, several options exist:
- Pre-booked Private Shuttles: Companies like MyDriver or AirportDriver.com offer door-to-door shared or private transfers. Prices start from ~â¬35 per person for a shared ride.
- Ridesharing (BlaBlaCar): Check apps for shared rides departing from near the airport; availability varies.
- Taxi Sharing: At the airport taxi rank, you can sometimes share a cab with other passengers heading towards Ulm to split costs.
What should I do if my flight arrives late at night?
Late-night arrivals (after ~10:30 PM) pose a challenge as public transport (both the airport bus and regional trains) largely stops operating. Your only reliable options are:
- Pre-booked Taxi/Transfer: Highly recommended. Book in advance to ensure availability and a fixed price.
- Airport Taxi: Available 24/7 outside the terminal, but will be expensive (â¬130+).
- Overnight Stay: Consider a cheap hotel near the airport (like the Airporthotel) and continue your journey the next morning via public transport.
Is it worth renting a car at Memmingen Airport for visiting Ulm University?
It depends on your broader travel plans. For going directly to Ulm only, renting a car is generally not cost-effective considering rental fees, fuel (~â¬15-20), and challenging/expensive parking at the university. Ulm's city center and public transport to the campus are excellent. However, renting a car is highly recommended if:
- You plan to explore the surrounding Allgäu region, Romantic Road, or Lake Constance.
- You have heavy/large equipment for research or studies.
- You are a group of 3-4 people, making the cost per person competitive with train fares.
Are there student discounts available for this route?
Yes, students can access several discounts:
- Deutschlandticket (â¬49/month): This subscription allows unlimited travel on all regional trains (RB, RE), S-Bahn, and local buses/trams throughout Germany, including the entire route from Memmingen to Ulm University's bus lines. This is by far the best value if you'll be using public transport frequently.
- State-Specific Group Tickets: The Bayern-Ticket (Bavaria) and Baden-Württemberg-Ticket cover regional transport in each state respectively and offer significant savings for groups of up to 5 people traveling together after 9 AM on weekdays (all day on weekends).
- Semester Ticket: Enrolled students at the University of Ulm likely receive a semester ticket included in their fees, which covers regional transport within a specific network. Check its exact validity zone, as it may or may not reach Memmingen.
How does the journey time and cost compare: train vs. bus vs. taxi?
Here's a quick comparison for a single traveler:
| Mode | Approx. Door-to-Door Time | Approx. Cost (One-Way) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Train (Public Transport) | 1h 30min - 2h | â¬15 - â¬35 | Budget travelers, solo travelers, eco-conscious. |
| Regional Bus + Train | 1h 45min - 2h 15min | â¬12 - â¬25 | The absolute cheapest option. |
| Pre-booked Shared Shuttle | ~1h 15min | â¬35 - â¬50 | Small groups, door-to-door convenience without taxi price. |
| Taxi / Private Transfer | ~50 min - 1h | â¬130 - â¬180 | Late-night arrivals, groups of 3-4, those with mobility issues or excessive luggage. |