Flying to Frankfurt
Routes we sell to Frankfurt. Search your dates for live fares.
Johannesburg (JNB)
about 11 hours · Non-stop
Cape Town (CPT)
about 11 hours 30 minutes · Non-stop or one stop
Best time to fly
Weather, crowds and fares move together in Frankfurt. These are the trade-offs.
May to September
Warm and long-dayed, the best months for travelling on into Europe.
April and October
Cooler shoulder seasons with fewer crowds.
November to March
Cold, with the Christmas markets in December a genuine draw.
Before you go
Schengen visa
Required in advance, with appointments often booked out weeks ahead. Start early and do not book non-refundable travel first.
Rail hub
The airport's own long-distance station makes it one of the easiest entry points to Europe by train.
Cash
Germany is more cash-oriented than South Africa. Carry some euros, particularly for smaller establishments.
About Frankfurt
Frankfurt is Germany's financial centre and one of Europe's biggest aviation hubs, with a skyline unlike any other German city. For many South African travellers it is the gateway into Europe rather than the destination.
The Rhine valley, Heidelberg and the Black Forest are all within a couple of hours by train, and Germany's rail network makes onward travel straightforward.
Getting in from the airport
Frankfurt Airport (FRA) has its own long-distance railway station, so onward travel across Germany often starts at the terminal. The city centre is about 15 minutes by suburban train.
Entry requirements for South African passport holders
Germany is in the Schengen area, and South African passport holders require a Schengen visa arranged before travel. Applications involve an appointment, biometrics and supporting documents, and processing takes weeks. Follow official guidance and apply early.
Entry rules change. Confirm the current requirements with the destination's embassy or consulate before you travel — this page is a guide, not an authority.
Flying to Frankfurt, answered
Still unsure about something? Talk to our team.
Also worth a look
Flexible payment. Fully secured.
Pay with names you already trust, on a platform built to keep your booking and details safe.
IATA-accredited
A recognised travel agent
SSL-secured checkout
Encrypted end to end
POPIA compliant
Your data stays protected
Instant approval
A decision in seconds
Last reviewed by Fly n Pay Later editorial team.