Route: S8 from any city center station (Marienplatz, Hauptbahnhof, Karlsplatz) directly to Flughafen München. Journey time: 41 minutes from Marienplatz, 38 minutes from Hauptbahnhof. Service frequency: every 10 minutes during peak hours (6am-10pm), every 20 minutes evenings/weekends, every 30-60 minutes overnight.

Tickets: €12.80 for Zone 1-5 day ticket on MVV system. Purchase at red Deutsche Bahn machines (English menu available) or MVV app. Critical: validate your ticket before boarding — Ticket inspectors check frequently and fines are €60. Day ticket also covers all Munich public transport if you're staying overnight.

Airport logistics: S8 stops at both terminals. For Terminal 1: stay toward front of train, exit at first airport stop. For Terminal 2: remain on train to final stop. Clear announcements in German and English. Trains have dedicated luggage racks and comfortable seating — Much better than cramming into city buses.

Cost comparison: Taxi costs €65-85 and takes 45-60 minutes in traffic. Airport taxi queue during peak arrival times (8-10am, 4-7pm) often exceeds 45 minutes. S-Bahn runs on schedule regardless of traffic conditions and connects directly to city center without transfers.