Hello looking for some advice. I will be stopping over in Frankfurt going to Barcelona, arriving at 7.05 in the morning. I have to spend about 3 hours in Frankfurt before leaving on a 1.00pm flight to Barcelona. I was thinking that I could make it downtown and see one or two things. Or try some of the apple cider. Does anyone have any suggestions, or is it not doable?

You can get into Frankfurt quickly by subway. From the main train station, I would suggest getting a cab to the Romerburg (old part of the city). You can walk, but cab will save time. After a look at the buildings you can walk across the river to Sachsenhausen for an apple cider, then return to the train station by bus or taxi. None of these places is very far (with more time, you could walk the lot) but will give you a good introduction to Frankfurt.

One can definitely get into Frankfurt quickly - but with only 3 hours I seriously recommend you don't do it. You have to deplane and go through immigration and then when you get back to the airport you have to go through security - plus the travel time to/from the city center. Just those could easily eat up your 3 hours w/o ever getting off the train and getting your cider.

Just have a cider or two at the airport.

I agree with Janis. Stay in the airport. It's huge, with lots of shops and cafes. IMO Frankfurt is not so fascinating that you just have to get a look at it, despite being jetlagged, rushed, and possibly anxious about getting back to the airport in time for your connecting flight.

We've changed planes in Frankfurt several times. We've always had to go back thru security to catch our connection. It can be a pain in the neck going thru their tunnel and changing terminals.

Go thru security, get to your gate, and have a couple of beers.

I stayed in Sachsenhausen overnight and got on an early flight without a problem. But it was pre 9-11. If I had only 3 hours I would go with budman's advise. Prost!

The last time I flew out of Frankfurt, I left the city eith about three hours for my flight. With traffic and lines, I barely made it for check-in. I wouldn't risk it.

"eith = with" (I shouldn't have had the fourth martini with my lunch)

Given that your incoming flight arrives at 7:05am, and outgoing leaves at 1:00pm, I take it that the 3 hours mentioned is the time you calculated you would have to spend in Frankfurt AFTER allowing for check-in, customs and security clearance etc.

Depending on how long this all takes, whether or not you are delayed, tired or at all nervous about getting back in time, I still believe it is possible. But then, I try to cram in whatever possible wherever I go. After all, no-one really knows if/when they'll be back and an airport is an airport is an airport at the end of the day. Just my opinion.

If you do decide to go into the city, keep two things in mind. Do take the subway and avoid any traffic hassles. Do know which terminal to get off at for your connecting flight.