I will be flying into Frankfurt on September 12 at 7 am to begin my Fulbright year. I will be picked up for my orientation near Köln at 2 pm, so I will have about 6 hours between when I land and when I go to my orientation. I know that I will be tired and I would really like to rest for a few hours in between so that I can stay up for the beginning of orientation. Does anyone know if there is anywhere in either Frankfurt or Köln where I could go to rest? I will be arriving at the Frankfurt airport and will be getting picked up from the Köln train station. Thank you so much!
Posted by
Rick Steves' Europe
16895 posts
In case you decide to nap during the one-hour train ride, it would help to notice whether Koeln is the end of the line for that departure, or whether it's a longer-distance train that only makes a short stop at Koeln.
Posted by
Green Bay
21166 posts
If you want to get a shower, they are available at Frankfurt airport at several locations. The airport website (at least the English version) is not entirely clear how to book them or the cost, but they do give a phone no. and email.
http://www.frankfurt-airport.com/en/flights---more/transfer.overview.map.html#maptransfer/page=1/search=Shower
Afterward, you might want to take the "slow" IC direct train at 9:58 to Cologne. It takes 2 hours but winds along the Rhine River through the scenic gorge and the Lorelei. It can be quite relaxing, getting you to Cologne just past noon, and after a leisurely lunch, you will be ready to be picked up.
Other than paying for a hotel room for a few hours, that is my only suggestion.