Augsburg Airport

Augsburg Airport, AGB, Germany

Augsburg Airport (AGB) is a small regional airport located approximately 7 km northeast of the city center of Augsburg, Bavaria, Germany. Although primarily serving general aviation and private charter flights, the airport offers essential services for visitors to Augsburg, including access to transportation, car rentals, and basic facilities. As a first-time visitor to Augsburg and its airport, here’s a detailed guide covering key aspects of your arrival and how to get around.

General Information

  • Airport Name: Augsburg Airport
  • IATA Code: AGB
  • Location: Augsburg, Bavaria, Germany
  • Distance from City Center: Approximately 7 km (4.3 miles)
  • Runways: Augsburg Airport has one main runway, mainly handling smaller aircraft. It primarily serves general aviation, with limited scheduled passenger flights.
  • Airport Services: Since the airport is small, it offers fewer amenities than major international airports. However, you can find basic services like car rentals, parking, and food options.
  • Operating Hours: The airport generally operates from 7 AM to 8 PM, but hours may vary depending on flight schedules. Always check ahead for your specific travel date.

Transportation from Augsburg Airport

While Augsburg Airport does not have as extensive a public transport system as larger airports, there are still several options for getting to the city and beyond.

1. By Taxi

  • Taxi Services: Taxis are readily available at Augsburg Airport, and the journey to the city center takes approximately 15–20 minutes, depending on traffic. You can expect to pay around €20–€30 for a one-way trip to downtown Augsburg.
  • Tip: It’s a good idea to ask the taxi driver about the estimated fare before starting your trip.

2. Car Rentals

  • Available Companies: Car rental services are available directly at Augsburg Airport, with major companies like Sixt and Hertz operating at the airport.
  • Advance Booking: It’s recommended to book a rental car in advance, especially during busy periods, as the airport’s rental options may be limited compared to larger hubs.
  • Requirements: You will need a valid driver’s license, passport, and a credit card for the deposit.
  • Driving Tips: Germany has excellent road infrastructure, and driving in Bavaria is scenic and comfortable. Be aware of local driving rules, such as speed limits on highways (Autobahn) where certain stretches have no speed limit but still enforce safety regulations.

3. Public Transportation

  • Bus Services: Augsburg’s public bus network offers limited services connecting Augsburg Airport to the city center. Bus services may not be as frequent, so it’s important to check the timetable in advance. The journey typically takes about 30–40 minutes.
  • Nearest Train Station: Augsburg’s main train station (Augsburg Hauptbahnhof) is well-connected to the airport via taxis or buses. The train station is a major hub for regional and long-distance trains, including connections to Munich and other cities in Bavaria.
  • Local Transit Cards: Augsburg has a public transportation system (AVV – Augsburger Verkehrs- und Tarifverbund) that operates buses, trams, and trains within the region. Purchasing a day pass (Tageskarte) for the AVV network can be convenient for tourists as it provides unlimited travel on local public transportation for a single day.

Currency Exchange and Payment Methods

Augsburg Airport does not have a dedicated currency exchange counter, but you can find exchange services at Augsburg’s main train station or in the city center. Additionally, ATMs (Geldautomaten) are available at the airport, allowing you to withdraw euros using international debit or credit cards.

  • Tip: Many establishments in Germany, including restaurants and stores, still prefer cash (Bargeld) over credit cards, especially for small purchases. It’s advisable to carry some euros in cash.
  • Credit/Debit Cards: Most major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are widely accepted at hotels, restaurants, and larger stores. Contactless payments are increasingly common.
  • Mobile Payments: Payment services like Google Pay and Apple Pay are accepted at many locations, particularly in larger cities like Augsburg.

Local SIM Cards and Mobile Connectivity

If you need mobile connectivity during your stay, you can purchase a prepaid SIM card at mobile phone shops in Augsburg. While there may not be dedicated mobile service counters at the airport, several providers in the city offer tourist-friendly SIM cards with competitive rates.

1. Popular Mobile Providers

  • Telekom (T-Mobile): Offers a reliable network with good coverage across Germany, including Augsburg.
  • Vodafone: Another popular option with excellent nationwide coverage.
  • O2: Known for offering affordable prepaid packages with data plans.

You can find prepaid SIM cards at major electronic retailers like Saturn and MediaMarkt, as well as at smaller phone shops in the city center.

2. Documents Required: To purchase a SIM card, you will need to present your passport for registration, as required by German law.

Taxi and Rideshare Services

Taxis are a common mode of transportation from Augsburg Airport, but you can also use rideshare apps like Uber, although availability may be limited in smaller cities like Augsburg compared to major cities such as Munich.

  • Taxi Fare: The fare from Augsburg Airport to the city center typically ranges from €20–€30.
  • Ride-hailing Apps: Uber operates in some parts of Bavaria, but it’s not as widespread in smaller cities like Augsburg. Local taxi companies often provide reliable services, and many have apps or online booking systems.

Car Rental Services

Car rental is a convenient option for those planning to explore the region around Augsburg, including nearby cities like Munich, Nuremberg, or scenic areas in Bavaria. Rental agencies at the airport typically offer a range of vehicles, from compact cars to larger family-sized vehicles.

  • Booking: It’s recommended to book in advance, especially during the summer months when tourists flock to Bavaria.
  • Insurance: Be sure to confirm whether insurance is included in your rental agreement or if you need additional coverage. Most rental companies provide collision damage waivers (CDW) as part of the package.
  • Fuel: You’ll generally be expected to return the car with a full tank of fuel. Petrol stations are available near the airport for refueling before returning your rental.

Local Tips and Secret Spots

  • Augsburg Card: If you plan to visit several museums and attractions, consider purchasing the Augsburg Card. It offers discounts on public transportation and free or reduced entry to many local sights, including the Fuggerei (the world’s oldest social housing complex) and the Augsburg Zoo.
  • Day Trips: Augsburg is located just 40 minutes from Munich by train, making it a perfect base for exploring Bavaria. You can also easily reach the Romantic Road (Romantische Straße), a famous scenic route passing through medieval towns and picturesque landscapes.

Important Contacts and Emergency Services

  • Airport Information Desk: If you need assistance upon arrival, the airport information desk can help with general queries and transport arrangements.
  • Emergency Numbers: The emergency contact number in Germany is 112 for all urgent situations, including medical and fire emergencies.