Here’s your practical backpacker guide from Frankfurt to Manchester:
How to Travel from Frankfurt to Manchester?
The most practical and often budget-friendly way to travel from Frankfurt to Manchester is by flying, with bus travel as a significantly longer, but potentially cheaper, alternative. Direct train travel is typically very expensive and involves multiple changes.
What are the Cheapest Travel Options from Frankfurt to Manchester?
The cheapest options typically involve budget airlines or long-distance buses.
- Flights: Budget airlines like Ryanair, EasyJet, or even full-service carriers with sales, often offer one-way tickets from Frankfurt (FRA) or Frankfurt-Hahn (HHN) to Manchester (MAN) starting from an estimated €30-80 without checked luggage, though prices can reach €150+ during peak times or for last-minute bookings.
- Buses: Long-distance bus operators like FlixBus offer routes from Frankfurt to Manchester, usually involving transfers (e.g., in London or Brussels). This journey is very long (typically 18-24+ hours) and prices are estimated to range from €40-90 for a one-way ticket, depending on booking time and connections.
How Can I Save Money on Transport?
Booking in advance is a crucial money-saving strategy.
- Advance Booking: For flights and buses, securing tickets 4-8 weeks in advance can typically result in 20-40% savings compared to last-minute purchases.
- Flexibility: Being flexible with your travel dates and times (e.g., traveling on weekdays instead of weekends, or during off-peak seasons) can significantly reduce costs.
- Luggage: Budget airline prices often exclude checked baggage; packing light with just a carry-on can save an estimated €20-50 per flight.
What’s the Typical Travel Time?
Travel time varies significantly by mode of transport.
- Flights: A direct flight from Frankfurt to Manchester takes approximately 1 hour 40 minutes to 2 hours. Including airport transfers and security, the total door-to-door travel time is usually 4-6 hours.
- Buses: A bus journey with transfers will typically take 18-24+ hours, making it a considerably longer option.
Where Can I Find Free Amenities in Both Cities?
For finding free amenities like public restrooms, Wi-Fi hotspots, or water fountains in both Frankfurt and Manchester, consider checking resources like AllInMap before or during your trip.