Quick Answer
The best way to travel from Nuremberg Airport (NUE) to Fürth is by combining the U-Bahn (Subway) U2 line and the S-Bahn (Suburban Rail) S1 line. This public transport route is fast, frequent, and cost-effective. The total journey takes approximately 30-40 minutes and costs around â¬3.40 - â¬4.15 per person for a single ticket. The key transfer point is at Nuremberg Main Station (Nürnberg Hauptbahnhof).
By U-Bahn & S-Bahn (Train): The Step-by-Step Guide
This is the most efficient and recommended method for most travelers. Nuremberg's integrated public transport network (VGN) makes the journey straightforward. The process involves two simple train rides.
Step 1: U-Bahn U2 from Airport to Nuremberg Main Station
Follow signs to the "U-Bahn" within the airport terminal (Level 0). Take the U2 line in the direction of "Röthenbach".
Journey: Direct ride, no transfers needed on this leg.
Duration: Approximately 13 minutes.
Key Stop: Disembark at the terminus: "Nürnberg Hauptbahnhof" (Main Station).
Step 2: S-Bahn S1 from Main Station to Fürth
Inside Nuremberg Hauptbahnhof, follow signs for "S-Bahn". Find platform tracks for the S1 line (direction: "Bamberg" or "Forchheim").
Journey: A short hop across the city border.
Duration: Approximately 7 minutes to Fürth Hauptbahnhof (main station).
Alternative Stops: S1 also stops at "Fürth Unterfarrnbach" or "Fürth Klinikum" depending on your final destination.
| Leg | Line | From | To | Avg. Time | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | U2 (Subway) | Flughafen (Airport) | Nürnberg Hbf | 13 min | Every 5-10 min |
| 2 | S1 (Suburban Train) | Nürnberg Hbf | Fürth Hbf | 7 min | Every 10-20 min |
By Bus: The Budget-Friendly Alternative
Direct bus services connect the airport to parts of Fürth, offering a potentially simpler but slower route. This is ideal for travelers going to specific neighborhoods or those on a tight budget.
Primary Bus Route: Line 30 (Airport Express) & Connections
The most useful bus is Line 30 (Airport-Express). It does not go directly to Fürth city center but connects to key transport hubs.
Route: From NUE Airport, take Bus 30 towards "Nordwestring".
Key Transfer Point: Disembark at "Am Wegfeld" stop.
Connection to Fürth: At Am Wegfeld, transfer to Bus Line 179 which travels into Fürth, terminating at "Fürth Hauptbahnhof".
Total Journey Time: 45-60 minutes, depending on wait times.
Night Buses (NachtBus)
For late-night arrivals (after U-Bahn service ends, typically post 1:00 AM), NachtBus services operate. Check the current VGN website for specific lines (e.g., N10, N12) and schedules, as routes and times can change. Tickets are valid across the network.
Pros & Cons of the Bus
- Pros: Often slightly cheaper single tickets; direct to some suburbs; essential for late-night travel.
- Cons: Significantly slower than the train option; subject to road traffic; requires a transfer for the city center.
By Taxi & Private Transfer: For Convenience and Groups
This is the most convenient but also the most expensive option, providing door-to-door service without transfers.
Taxis
Official taxi ranks are located directly outside the terminal exits. The trip to central Fürth covers about 15-20 km.
Cost: â¬35 - â¬50. The meter starts at around â¬3.80, plus a distance charge.
Duration: 20-30 minutes, heavily dependent on traffic, especially during rush hour.
Pre-Booked Private Transfers
Services like Booking.com Transfers or local companies offer fixed-price, pre-paid rides. A driver will meet you in the arrivals hall with a name sign.
Cost: Often similar to or slightly higher than a metered taxi, but with price certainty.
Best For: Large groups (minivans available), families with young children, travelers with mobility issues, or those arriving with excessive luggage.
When to Choose a Taxi/Transfer:
- Your flight arrives after public transport has stopped for the night.
- You are traveling in a group of 4 or more (can be cost-effective).
- You have a lot of heavy or bulky luggage.
- You require direct, hassle-free transport to a specific address not near a train station.
Ticket Guide & Cost Comparison Table
All public transport (U-Bahn, S-Bahn, Bus) in the Nuremberg metropolitan area, including Fürth, is integrated under the VGN (Verkehrsverbund GroÃraum Nürnberg) tariff system. You only need one ticket for your entire journey, including transfers.
How to Buy Tickets
- Ticket Machines: Located at the airport U-Bahn station and all train/bus stations. They have English menus. Select "Einzelfahrkarte" (Single Ticket) for Tarifstufe 2 (2 zones) or specifically for zones covering "Nürnberg - Fürth".
- VGN App / DB Navigator App: The easiest method. Select start point ("Nürnberg Flughafen") and destination (e.g., "Fürth Hauptbahnhof"). Purchase and activate the mobile ticket.
- On Board: You can buy a single ticket from the bus driver (cash, exact change is appreciated).
| Transport Mode | Avg. Total Time | Approx. Cost (One Way) | Transfers | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| U-Bahn U2 + S-Bahn S1 | 30-40 min | â¬3.40 - â¬4.15 (Single Ticket) | 1 (at Nürnberg Hbf) | Most travelers (Best Overall) - Fast, reliable, frequent. |
| Bus 30 + 179 | 45-60 min | â¬3.40 - â¬4.15 (Single Ticket) | 1 (at Am Wegfeld) | Budget travelers, specific suburbs - Cheapest, but slower. |
| Taxi | 20-30 min | â¬35 - â¬50 | 0 | Groups, late night, heavy luggage - Door-to-door convenience. |
| Private Transfer | 20-30 min | â¬40 - â¬60+ | 0 | Families, fixed budget, luxury - Pre-booked, meets at arrivals. |
Money-Saving Tip: If you plan to make more journeys in Nuremberg/Fürth on the same day, consider a VGN Day Ticket (TagesTicket Solo) for zone 2, which costs around â¬9.10 and offers unlimited travel for one person until 3 AM the next day.
Traveler Experience & Insider Tips
Beyond schedules and fares, here are practical insights to make your journey smoother.
1. Navigating the Transfer at Nuremberg Hauptbahnhof
The station is large but well-signed. When you exit the U2 platform, look for green "S" signs for the S-Bahn. The S1 usually departs from the lower-level platforms. Allow a comfortable 5-10 minutes for the transfer, especially if you're unfamiliar or have luggage.
2. Luggage Considerations
U-Bahn and S-Bahn trains have multi-purpose areas for suitcases and strollers. Avoid rush hours (7-9 AM, 4-6 PM) if you have large bags. For a truly hands-free experience, consider using a luggage storage service like Lockers at Nuremberg Hbf if you want to explore before heading to Fürth.
3. Validate Your Paper Ticket!
If you buy a paper ticket from a machine (not a mobile ticket), you MUST stamp it in the red or blue Entwerter machines located on platforms or near station entrances. An unstamped ticket is invalid and can result in a fine (â¬60). Mobile tickets are "activated" when you purchase them in the app.
4. Weather & Time of Day
The entire U2+S1 journey is underground or in covered stations, making it a perfect option in rain or snow. For very late arrivals, always have a backup plan (taxi number, night bus schedule saved) as services are limited.
5. First & Last Train Info
- U2 (Airport): First train departs around 4:30 AM, last train leaves around 1:00 AM.
- S1: Service typically runs from ~4:30 AM to ~1:00 AM on weekdays, with reduced late-night service.
FAQs: Nuremberg Airport to Fürth Transport
Is there a direct train from Nuremberg Airport to Fürth?
No, there is no single direct train. The fastest and most recommended route involves taking the U-Bahn (subway) U2 line from the airport to Nuremberg Main Station (Nürnberg Hauptbahnhof), and then transferring to the S-Bahn (subway) S1 line towards Fürth Hauptbahnhof.
What is the cheapest way to get from NUE to Fürth?
The cheapest option is taking the local VGN bus line 30 or the night bus. A single ticket within the Nuremberg-Fürth zone (VGN tariff zone 10) costs as little as â¬3.40. Using a day ticket or group ticket can offer even better value for multiple trips.
How long is the train journey from the airport to Fürth city center?
The total journey time using the U2 + S1 combination is approximately 30-40 minutes, depending on your wait time for connections. The U2 ride to Hauptbahnhof takes about 13 minutes, and the S1 from there to Fürth Hauptbahnhof takes about 7 minutes.
Where do I buy tickets for public transport?
Tickets can be purchased easily: 1) At ticket machines located in the Airport terminal (near the U-Bahn entrance) and all stations. 2) Via the official VGN app (VGN App or DB Navigator). 3) On board buses from the driver (exact change preferred). Machines and apps offer English language options.
Is a taxi expensive from Nuremberg Airport to Fürth?
Yes, a taxi is the most expensive option. The fare for the 15-20 km trip typically ranges from â¬35 to â¬50, depending on traffic, time of day, and your exact destination in Fürth. It's only recommended for large groups, those with excessive luggage, or late-night arrivals.
What should I do if I arrive very late at night?
After about 1:00 AM, the U-Bahn and S-Bahn services stop. Your options are: 1) Night buses (NachtBus lines) which run on specific routesâcheck the VGN schedule. 2) Taxi, which will be available outside the terminal. It's advisable to check the latest timetables on the VGN website before traveling.
Is the journey easy with lots of luggage or children?
The U2 and S1 trains are generally luggage and stroller-friendly with dedicated spaces. However, navigating stations with multiple bags can be challenging. For a stress-free arrival with a family or heavy bags, consider pre-booking a private transfer, which offers door-to-door service.
Can I use a Germany-wide rail pass for this journey?
Germany-wide passes like the Deutschland-Ticket or the Interrail/Eurail Pass are valid on the S-Bahn (S1) but NOT on the U-Bahn (U2) within Nuremberg, as it's a city transport service. You would need a separate local ticket for the U2 segment from the airport.