How to Get to M'era Luna Festival: Travel Guide for 2026

Key Facts: Venue and Dates

The festival is held at the Airfield Hildesheim-Drispenstedt, a former military airbase repurposed for large-scale events. The nearest major city is Hildesheim, located about 30 kilometers south of Hanover. For the 2026 edition, the festival runs on August 8 and 9, as confirmed on the official M'era Luna Festival website.

Understanding the venue's layout is crucial: parking areas, camping zones, and the festival grounds are separate. The official site map marks the drop-off and pick-up point at the corner of Am Flugplatz and Hottelner Weg, which is also where you'll find the shuttle stop.

Arriving by Train

Hildesheim's main station is well connected to the German rail network, served by ICE, S-Bahn, and regional trains. From there, you can take the paid festival shuttle from the station square to the festival grounds, with the stop conveniently named 'An der Scharlake'.

To reach Hildesheim station, you can catch an ICE from cities like Hamburg, Frankfurt, or Berlin, with journey times typically around two to three hours from major hubs. Once you arrive at Hildesheim, follow the signs toward the shuttle area; the station square is easy to navigate. For detailed train schedules and ticket options, check the official German railway website.

Traveling by Car or Motorcycle

If you prefer driving, the venue is accessible via the A7 motorway, taking the Hildesheim-Drispenstedt exit. Parking and camping are separate, and parking is only possible with a parking ticket, which you should purchase in advance. Note that all types of trailers attached to cars are not allowed on the campsite and must be parked in the car park.

Guests arriving by motorcycle can use the motorhome area free of charge, a nice perk for two-wheeled travelers. The on-site traffic service will assign your parking spot, so be ready to follow their instructions and clear the access roads quickly to avoid congestion. Since parking areas are not supervised, avoid leaving valuables in your vehicle.

For those dropping off or picking up passengers, use the designated strip at the corner of Am Flugplatz and Hottelner Weg, as indicated on the site map. This keeps the main traffic flowing and ensures a safe exchange zone.

Flying via Hanover Airport

Many international attendees fly into Hanover Airport, the nearest major air hub, as noted in festival coverage such as on Wikipedia. From the airport, you can take the S-Bahn (line S5) directly to Hanover Central Station, then transfer to a regional train or ICE to Hildesheim, a journey of roughly one hour in total.

Alternatively, consider car rental or a long-distance taxi from the airport, but be mindful of traffic on festival weekends. Booking flights well in advance is advisable, as Hanover sees a spike in arrivals during the festival period. For the most current flight options and ground transport connections, consult the airport's official website.

Festival Shuttle from Hildesheim Station

The festival shuttle is a paid service that connects Hildesheim station directly to the festival grounds, specifically to the stop 'An der Scharlake'. This is the most straightforward option for train travelers, as it eliminates the need for local buses or taxis. Shuttle services typically run frequently during peak arrival and departure times, but exact schedules are not published far in advance.

To find the shuttle, look for official festival signs at the station square; staff will be on hand to direct you. Payment is accepted on board, but having cash or a contactless card ready speeds things up. For the latest updates on shuttle operations, check the official how-to-get-there page closer to the event.

Getting Around Onsite

Once you're at the festival, the site is compact enough to explore on foot. The distance between the main stages and tents is manageable, and walking is the best way to catch multiple acts. For those camping, the camping areas are adjacent to the festival grounds, so you won't need transport between the two.

Bicycles are not a common sight inside the festival, and given the crowds, walking is recommended. If you have mobility concerns, consider renting a wheelchair or using the accessible viewing platforms, which are detailed in the festival's accessibility guide.

Late-Night Return Options

After the headliners finish, the shuttle service operates late into the night, with buses running back to Hildesheim station. The frequency decreases towards the early hours, so it's wise to leave a bit early or be prepared to wait. Since schedules are not confirmed until closer to the event, ask staff or check the festival app on the day.

Alternative return options include taxis, which can be booked at designated taxi stands, or ride-sharing services like Uber, though availability may be limited. Some attendees arrange private shuttles with friends or join carpool groups. If you're staying at a nearby campsite, consider walking if you're within a reasonable distance.

Accessibility Information

The festival aims to be accessible for all visitors, with special arrangements for reduced-mobility guests. Accessible parking is available close to the main entrance, and wheelchair-friendly paths connect major areas. The shuttle buses are low-floor and can accommodate wheelchairs, but it's recommended to notify the festival in advance via their accessibility contact form.

For deaf or hard-of-hearing attendees, some stages have hearing loops, and visual interpretation services may be offered. The official accessibility page provides detailed information on how to book assistance and what facilities to expect. Always check this page before your trip to stay updated on available services.

Tips for a Smooth Arrival

To minimize stress, pack light and use the drop-off/pick-up point if you're being driven. This designated area is at the corner of Am Flugplatz and Hottelner Weg, separate from general parking. Follow the signage and traffic officers' instructions, as they're there to keep things flowing efficiently.

Bring your ticket and any parking passes printed or ready on your phone for quick scanning. If you're arriving by train, avoid peak arrival times like Friday afternoon to skip the longest shuttle queues. Staying hydrated and carrying earplugs can also make the journey more comfortable.

Final Checklist

Before heading out, double-check your festival ticket, any parking ticket needed for your vehicle, and valid ID for age-restricted areas. If you're camping, remember to reserve a camping spot separately if required. Also, have your hotel or campsite address saved for your GPS or taxi driver.

For a comprehensive list of what to pack, refer to our m'era luna festival packing list, which covers essentials from tents to reusable water bottles. With your transport sorted and gear ready, you're all set to enjoy the unique atmosphere of M'era Luna.

Plan Your Visit

Choosing between driving and taking the train comes down to your starting point and how much independence you want upon arrival. The train-plus-shuttle option is hands-off and lets you skip parking hassles, while driving offers flexibility for exploring the region before or after the festival.

Whichever way you choose, keep an eye on official festival communications as your travel date approaches. Schedules, shuttle details, and parking information can evolve, so staying informed ensures a smooth journey. Now that you know how to get there, you can turn your attention to planning the rest of your festival experience.