If you’ve got a layover in Friedrichshafen, don’t let it go to waste sitting at FDH. The city, in Germany, is within easy reach — roughly 45 minutes by Bus Line 18. Whether you have four hours or twelve, here’s how to make your stopover count.
Before You Step Outside FDH
Three things to verify before you walk out of FDH:
- Can you legally enter Germany? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 45-minute journey each way by Bus Line 18, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the EUR. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some EUR in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Getting from FDH to Friedrichshafen
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bus Line 18 | ~45 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~65 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the Bus Line 18 is usually the way to go. It’s predictable, which matters when you have a flight to catch. Taxis can be faster in ideal conditions but slower when traffic builds up.
What’s Worth Seeing in Friedrichshafen
Two recommendations for your time in Friedrichshafen:
Start with Zeppelin Museum Friedrichshafen. Worth a stop if you have at least an hour to spare. Then, if time allows, make your way to Dornier Museum Friedrichshafen. You can see the highlights in about an hour without rushing.
If you’d rather stay inside FDH — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Zeppelin Hangar / Visitors Terrace
- Heinemann Duty Free Shop FDH
Best Bites Near FDH
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Friedrichshafen: Uferlos and Gasthof Riedle. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Bistro Check-in or Airport Kiosk & Bar. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Money & Budget Tips
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Friedrichshafen might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$10 USD
- A meal: ~$20 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$40 USD
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Friedrichshafen.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Dedicated luggage storage at FDH may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Friedrichshafen’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
Staying Connected
WiFi at FDH should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in Germany and you’re good to go.
Taking a Break at FDH
Long overnight layover? Your options at FDH include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Germany also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Friedrichshafen doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 45 minutes from FDH, you’ve got a real opportunity to turn a stopover into a mini-trip. The logistics are straightforward — it’s just a matter of deciding to go for it.
Watch the clock, travel light, and have a great time out there.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.