Quick Answer
The fastest and most cost-effective way to get from Nuremberg Airport (NUE) to Nuremberg Danube Port is by taking U-Bahn Line U2 towards Röthenbach, followed by a short walk or tram/bus connection. The total journey takes about 45-55 minutes and costs only €3.40 for a single ticket (Zone A). For direct door-to-door service, a taxi takes 20-25 minutes but costs €30-€40.
Public Transport: U-Bahn & Bus
The Nuremberg public transport network (VGN) is efficient and connects the airport directly to the city center and the Danube Port area. This is the method used by most locals and budget-conscious travelers.
Recommended Route: U2 Subway + Short Walk/Tram
Step-by-Step Guide:
- At NUE Airport: Follow signs to the “U-Bahn” station (located directly outside Terminal 1).
- Take U-Bahn Line U2 (Direction: Röthenbach). Get off at the stop "Hauptbahnhof" (Main Station). Travel time: ~13 minutes.
- Trains run every 5-10 minutes from early morning until after midnight.
- Check real-time schedules on the VGN website.
- From Hauptbahnhof to Danube Port:
- Option A (Walk - 15-20 mins): Exit the station towards the city center and walk southeast along Frauentorgraben and Obere Kanalstraße towards the port area.
- Option B (Tram/Bus - 10 mins): From Hauptbahnhof, take Tram Line 8 (Direction: Erlenstegen) or a local bus (e.g., Line 43) to the stop "Obere Kanalstraße", which is closer to the port entrance.
Tickets, Prices & VGN App
You must have a valid ticket before boarding. Ticket machines are at the U-Bahn station.
| Ticket Type | Price (Zone A) | Validity | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single Ticket (Einzelfahrkarte) | €3.40 | 90 minutes in one direction | One-way trip |
| Day Ticket (TagesTicket Solo) | €8.90 | Until 3 AM the next day | Unlimited travel all day |
| 4-Journey Ticket (4-Fahrten-Karte) | €12.40 | 4 separate single journeys | Multiple trips over a few days |
Pro Tip: Download the official VGN app for mobile ticket purchase, real-time maps, and journey planning. It's more convenient than paper tickets.
Direct Bus Alternative (Less Frequent)
Bus Line 33 connects the airport to "Plärrer," a major transport hub. From Plärrer, you would need to change to Tram 8 or another bus. This route is less direct and not generally recommended for first-time visitors due to the required change.
Taxi & Private Transfer
For direct, door-to-door service, especially with heavy luggage, late arrivals, or groups, taxis and pre-booked transfers are available.
Taxis at NUE Airport
The official taxi rank is located directly outside Terminal 1 arrivals. All taxis are metered.
- Journey Time: 20-25 minutes (depending on traffic).
- Estimated Fare: €30 - €40.
- Key Operator: Funk Taxi Nürnberg is a major, reliable company.
Pre-Booked Private Transfers
Booking in advance with companies like Welcome Pickups or KiwiTaxi offers fixed pricing, English-speaking drivers, and meet-and-greet service.
- Advantages: Fixed price (no surge pricing), flight tracking, 24/7 support.
- Price Range: €45 - €65 for a standard sedan.
- Best For: Families, business travelers, or those with specific needs.
Warning: This is by far the most expensive option and is rarely necessary given the excellent public transport links.
Car Rental & Driving
Renting a car at Nuremberg Airport is straightforward if you plan to explore the Franconian countryside beyond the city.
At the Airport
Major rental companies (Sixt, Europcar, Avis, Hertz) have desks in Terminal 1. Pre-booking online is highly recommended for better rates.
Drive to Danube Port
- Distance: Approximately 10 km.
- Route: Take the B4 R road towards Nürnberg-Zentrum, then follow signs for "Hafen Nürnberg" or "Danube Port."
- Time: 20-35 minutes, heavily dependent on city traffic.
- Parking: The Danube Port area has paid parking lots (P-Hafen). Expect to pay €1-€3 per hour. Long-term parking is available but costly.
Consideration: Driving and parking in central Nuremberg can be expensive and confusing. For just reaching the port, public transport is usually superior.
Cost & Time Comparison: Nuremberg Airport to Danube Port
This table summarizes all options to help you decide.
| Transport Method | Approx. Travel Time | Approx. Cost (One Way) | Key Features | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| U-Bahn (U2) + Walk/Tram | 45 - 55 min | €3.40 (Single Ticket) | Cheapest, frequent, eco-friendly | Budget travelers, solo travelers, daytime arrivals |
| Taxi (from rank) | 20 - 25 min | €30 - €40 | Door-to-door, no changes, available 24/7 | Groups of 3-4, late-night arrivals, heavy luggage |
| Private Transfer (pre-booked) | 20 - 30 min | €45 - €65 | Fixed price, meet & greet, premium service | Families, business travel, special occasions |
| Rental Car | 20 - 35 min | €25 - €60/day + fuel + parking | Maximum flexibility for further exploration | Travelers continuing beyond Nuremberg |
Verdict: For most travelers, the U-Bahn is the best overall choice, balancing cost and efficiency. The taxi is the best for direct convenience when cost is less of a concern.
Traveler Tips & Experience
Luggage & Accessibility
- All U-Bahn stations and trains at NUE are accessible via elevators and have space for suitcases.
- During rush hour (7:30-9:00 AM, 4:30-6:30 PM), trains can be crowded. Allow extra time.
- If you have very large or bulky luggage (e.g., cruise suitcases), a taxi for the short hop from Hauptbahnhof to the port might be worth the €8-€10 fare for comfort.
Navigating Hauptbahnhof (Main Station)
The station is large but well-signed. Look for signs saying "Ausgang/City" (Exit/City) or "Straßenbahn" (Tram) to find your way to the surface for the final leg to the port.
Time of Day Considerations
- Early Morning/Late Night: The U-Bahn starts around 5:00 AM and runs until about 1:00 AM. For flights arriving between 1:00 AM and 5:00 AM, your only practical options are taxi or pre-booked transfer.
- Weekends & Holidays: Public transport runs on a slightly reduced frequency (e.g., every 10-15 minutes). Always check the VGN app for live schedules.
For Cruise Passengers
Nuremberg Danube Port is the embarkation point for many Danube River cruises. Most major cruise lines offer transfer packages from the airport, which are convenient but often overpriced. Compare their offer with the public transport/taxi costs outlined here.
FAQs: Nuremberg Airport to Danube Port
Is there a direct train from Nuremberg Airport to the Danube Port?
No, there is no single direct train. The most efficient route involves taking the U-Bahn (subway) Line U2 to Nuremberg Main Station (Hauptbahnhof), followed by a short walk, tram, or bus ride to the port area.
What is the cheapest way to get from NUE to the Danube Port?
The cheapest way is by public transport. A single ticket (€3.40) on the U-Bahn and connecting tram/bus is all you need.
How do I get from Nuremberg Airport to the port late at night?
If your flight arrives after the U-Bahn has stopped (around 1:00 AM), you should take a taxi from the official rank outside Terminal 1. Pre-booking a transfer is also a reliable option for late-night arrivals.
Is it easy to get a taxi at Nuremberg Airport?
Yes, it is very easy. The taxi rank is prominently located just outside the arrivals hall of Terminal 1. Taxis are available 24 hours a day.
How far in advance should I buy public transport tickets?
You can buy tickets just moments before your journey at the vending machines in the U-Bahn station. However, downloading the VGN app beforehand allows you to purchase and activate mobile tickets seamlessly upon arrival.
Is the route suitable for travelers with mobility issues?
The U-Bahn system is generally accessible with elevators. However, the final walk from Hauptbahnhof to the port involves sidewalks and possibly cobblestones. For maximum ease, a taxi or private transfer providing door-to-door service is highly recommended.
Can I use credit cards to pay for taxis or public transport?
Public Transport: Ticket vending machines accept major credit/debit cards and cash.
Taxis: Most Nuremberg taxis accept credit cards, but it's always wise to confirm with the driver before starting the journey. Carrying some euros in cash is a good backup.
Is the Danube Port within walking distance from Nuremberg city center?
The port is about a 20-25 minute walk from the eastern edge of the historic old town (Hauptmarkt). While walkable with light luggage, it's not particularly scenic for the final stretch. Using Tram 8 for part of the way is more practical.