frankfurt germany travel guide

The exact origins of the festival are not clear, but many residents of Frankfurt were usually granted an additional holiday on the Tuesday after Whitsun to visit the festival grounds. Even though only a few companies still follow this tradition today, Wäldchestag has a special significance in Frankfurt.

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UEFA EURO 2024 in Frankfurt

Frankfurt loves and lives sport - and football in particular!

Hence, in the of summer 2024, Frankfurt will be in good company. Fans from all over the world will come together for UEFA EURO 2024 to cheer and celebrate - the sport, the football and the community. The most important facts about UEFA EURO 2024 and the Fan Zone in Frankfurt at a glance: 5 matches in Frankfurt and much more.

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18 essential travel tips for every first-time Frankfurt visitor

Everything first-timers need to enjoy Frankfurt, from transport hacks to can’t-miss attractions to tipping faux pas

Germany’s most international city? Being an economic powerhouse’s economic powerhouse will lend itself to such a set-up, and Frankfurt doesn’t let the side down. Walkable, well planned, with brilliant public transport networks and the rest, Frankfurt is a city that is easy to get around and even easier to enjoy. Of course, visitors aren’t prioritising urban planning, and the restaurants , attractions and nightlife here are all worth celebrating. If you’ve landed here for the first time and feel a little lost, fear not, take these essential travel tips for first time visitors to Frankfurt to heart and settle in nice and easy. 

RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the best things to do in Frankfurt

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Travel tips for first-time Frankfurt visitors

1.  Watch the calendar

When planning your visit, keep an eye on Frankfurt’s events calendar. The city is home to an enormous exhibition centre, the Messe Frankfurt, which houses trade shows frequently throughout the year. Hotels can get booked up quickly around particular dates, and prices will shoot up, too.

2.  Seat yourself

In most casual restaurants , you don’t need to wait to be seated. Simply find yourself a table and settle in; if there’s a sign saying the table is reserved later in the evening, just make sure you’re finished by the specified time.

3.  Grab a MuseumsuferTicket

If you’re planning to fill your time with museum visits, it’s well worth buying a MuseumsuferTicket, which grants entry to 38 of Frankfurt’s museums for two days. Some of the city’s biggest museums are included, as well as some lesser-known gems. Family tickets are available.

4.  …Or a Frankfurt Card

Another option is to pick up a Frankfurt Card (available for individuals or groups, for one or two days), which offers up to 50 percent off entry into to various museums, tours and attractions, and also includes travel on public transport, including to and from the airport.

5.  Round up to tip

The Germans tip modestly, and it’s standard practice to just round up the bill for a meal by a couple of euros. Don’t leave change on the table, but include your tip when you pay: if your lunch comes to €15.50, you could hand over a €20 note and say, ‘17, please’.

6.  Be red light aware

Frankfurt’s Bahnhofsviertel (the area around the main train station) has gentrified at high speed over recent years and is now home to some of the city’s trendiest bars and restaurants. However, it remains Frankfurt’s red-light district, home to dealers and addicts; if you want to avoid its grittiest bits, stick to Münchener Straße and Kaiserstraße.

7.  Watch for bike lanes

Keep your eyes on street markings to stay out of the designated bike lanes that sometimes take up a portion of wider pavements. If you’d like to make use of them by cycling the city, try the Frankfurt Call A Bike service run by Deutsche Bahn.

8.  Free museum days for kids

Good news for those travelling with little ones: there’s free admission to many of Frankfurt’s museums for under-18s on the last Saturday of every month (barring August and December). Known as ‘SaTOURday’, this family-friendly deal also includes free workshops and guided tours.

9.  No-shop Sundays

Aside from the odd pre-planned ‘shopping Sunday’, most shops are closed on Sundays in Germany. As a visitor wanting to make the most out of a visit, this can be pretty frustrating, so remember to bear ‘no-shop Sundays’ in mind when planning your souvenir hunting.

10.  Take a late-night taxi

In Frankfurt, public transport doesn’t run all night, and if you don’t want to download a ride-sharing app, you’ll need a taxi to get home in the small hours. These are an easily-spotted beige colour, and you can either phone for one, flag one down or queue at a rank.

11.  Peruse the fleas

Fans of bargain-hunting will love the flea markets that take place on alternate Saturday mornings on the riverbank at Sachsenhausen between Eisernem Steg and Holbeinsteg, and at the Osthafen along Lindleystraße. Root through trash and treasure including clothes and furniture, books and records, paintings and crockery.

12.  Avoid the Apfelwein hangover

Keen to try the local cider but wary of the infamous Apfelwein hangover? Try this Frankfurt speciality mixed with lemonade ( suß ) or soda water ( sauer ) for a fizzy version that won’t go to your head quite so fast (or hurt quite so much the next morning).

13.  Don’t discount the craft beer

In Frankfurt’s traditional taverns, most locals will be happily imbibing Apfelwein (apple wine), but Frankfurt’s craft beer scene is growing slowly but surely.

14.  Server swaps

At casual restaurants, pubs and cafés, it’s not uncommon for waiters to finish their shifts while you’re still in the middle of your drinks or meal. If you’re asked to settle the bill early, don’t be offended; you’re not being (un)subtly asked to leave, and a new server will take over.

15.  Smiles aren’t standard

If you’re used to very friendly service in busy restaurants, you might find things a little brusque in Germany. But ‘impolite’ servers aren’t being rude to you because you’re a tourist, they’re (mostly) just being efficient and professional, even if it means service doesn’t always come with a smile.

16.  Avoid Old Sachsenhausen

Alt-Sachsenhausen is home to a couple of great  Apfelwein taverns, but for the most part, the area has a bad rep as a horribly touristy party zone. Locals prefer to avoid it, instead making a beeline to Sachsenhausen, where the atmosphere is considerably less drunken and chaotic.

17.  Be wine-wary

When sampling Glühwein (mulled wine) at the Christmas markets, avoid the cheap-tasting sugary stuff by heading to the winery ( Winzer ) stands – there’s a cluster in front of the Schirn Kunsthalle. These offer Glühwein made with their own high-quality wines and whole spices, and they taste all the better for it.

18.  Fall back on English

You won’t have any trouble getting by in English in Frankfurt. A guten Tag (good day/hello), bitte (please) or dankeschön (thanks a lot) will be appreciated, but Germans will most likely slip into English when they realise you’re not a local (which can be frustrating if you’re keen to practise your German!).

And if it’s tip-top mixology you’re after?

The 10 best Frankfurt bars

• Bars and pubs

Breaking news: Frankfurt has shed its boring reputation. A steady influx of big business has transformed this city’s population and reinvigorated its art and nightlife scenes (hats off to Brexit). For tip-top drinks all night long, these are 10 best Frankfurter bars.

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Frankfurt am Main

Glinting with glass, steel and concrete skyscrapers, Frankfurt-on-the-Main (pronounced ‘mine’) is unlike any other German city. The focal point of a conurbation of 5.5 million inhabitants, ‘Mainhattan’ is a high-powered finance and business hub, home to one of the world’s largest stock exchanges and the gleaming headquarters of the European Central Bank, and famously hosts some of the world's most important trade fairs, attracting thousands of business travellers.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Städel Museum

Founded in 1815, this world-renowned art gallery has an outstanding collection of European art from masters including Dürer, Rembrandt, Rubens, Renoir,…

Frankfurt’s red-sandstone cathedral is dominated by a 95m-high Gothic tower, which can be climbed via 328 steps. Construction began in the 13th century;…

Senckenberg Museum

Life-size dinosaur mock-ups guard the front of Frankfurt’s natural history museum. Inside the early 1900s neo-baroque building, exhibits cover…

The Römerberg is Frankfurt’s old central square. Ornately gabled half-timbered buildings, reconstructed after WWII, give an idea of how beautiful the city…

Museum für Moderne Kunst

The outstanding Museum of Modern Art focuses on European and American art from the 1960s to the present, with frequent temporary exhibits. The permanent…

Museum Judengasse

Most of Frankfurt’s medieval Jewish ghetto – Europe's first, dating from 1460 – on narrow Judengasse (Jews’ Street) was destroyed by a French bombardment…

IG-Farbenhaus

The monumental seven-storey IG-Farbenhaus was erected in 1931 as the headquarters of IG-Farben (pronounced ‘ee geh far-behn’), the mammoth German…

Goethe-Haus

Completely rebuilt after WWII (only the cellar survived Allied bombing), the birthplace of Johann Wolfgang von Goethe (1749–1832) is furnished in the…

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1 Day in Frankfurt Guide (Frankfurt am Main)

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Only got 1 day in Frankfurt? Here’s how to plan the ultimate 1 day itinerary.

Although Frankfurt is mostly known for being the country’s main airport hub and a financial center for business trips, rather than a tourist destination, the lively city of Frankfurt is the gateway to Germany and an ideal place for easy travel connections and convenient day trips.

Frankfurt is the very first city I visited when I moved to Germany (well, I saw the airport and the train station!) but I didn’t return to actually explore the city for several years. I’d always thought of it as kinda blah but I wish I’d visited sooner because it’s a wonderful city!

Whether or not Frankfurt am Main is at the top of your list of German cities to explore, it’s worth considering a visit to one of Germany’s major cities.

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So if you ever find yourself in Frankfurt on a long layover or if you have an extra day or two before or after a flight, get ready to explore, because the city might just take you by surprise.

Keep reading to learn about the best places to visit in Frankfurt, Germany and how to plan the ultimate 1 day itinerary.

• 1 When to Visit Frankfurt
• 2 Frankfurt or Frankfurt Am Main?
• 3 How to Get to Frankfurt
• 4 Visiting Frankfurt Upon Arriving in Germany
• 5 The Best Way to Get Around Frankfurt
• 6 Frankfurt Card – Yes or No?
• 7 Frankfurt Guided Tours
• 8 What to Do In Frankfurt in 1 Day
• 9 If You Have 2 Days in Frankfurt

When to Visit Frankfurt

Summer is the most popular time to visit Germany in general and Frankfurt is no exception. Warm temperatures and long sunny days are perfect for vacation but they do attract tons of tourists, which translates to higher prices for airfare and accommodations. Air conditioning isn’t common anywhere in Germany but you’ll probably be spending most of your time outdoors by the river or in beer gardens in the summer months.

The changing of the leaves during the fall months bring cooler temperatures and golden views of the city. Prices begin to drop and crowds also begin to thin out. The weather in the fall is still pleasant enough for you to enjoy walking around the city.

The winter season is a great option if you want to celebrate the holidays by exploring the Christmas markets. But be prepared to brave freezing temperatures and rainy or even snowy days. An upside is that prices are usually at their lowest, especially after the holidays. And even though many people visit the Christmas markets, it doesn’t feel as “touristy” as it can in the summer.

The bad weather slowly starts to disappear once springtime arrives. Locals are happy to step out with just a light jacket and spend time outdoors as the gardens start blooming. One of the best times to visit would be in early spring, just before the summer peak.

Frankfurt or Frankfurt Am Main?

You’ve probably seen the city referred to both ways. While most people simply call it Frankfurt, the city’s official name is Frankfurt am Main, meaning Frankfurt on Main. “Main” is the name of the river that flows through Frankfurt, so Frankfurt am Main means Frankfurt on the Main river.

The reason “am Main” is added to Frankfurt is because there’s another Frankfurt in Germany – Frankfurt an der Oder. Yep, that means Frankfurt on the Oder river. That Frankfurt is in eastern Germany, a couple hours away from Berlin on the Polish border.

Frankfurt am Main is much larger than Frankfurt an der Oder, so if you simply say Frankfurt, most everyone will know which one you mean.

How to Get to Frankfurt

Home to Germany’s main airport and one of the busiest central train stations in Germany, Frankfurt is va well-connected and easy destination to reach.

Wherever you may be traveling from, it’s easy to find a good connecting flight to Frankfurt International Airport.

Getting from Frankfurt Airport to the main train station is a quick 15-minute ride via S-bahn. Getting to the city center is also just as easy and quick via public transportation. You can get off at the Hauptbahnhof (main train station) and walk or ride to a specific stop downtown.

Another great way to travel to Frankfurt is by train, especially if you’re coming from within Germany or other European cities in neighboring countries.

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Visiting Frankfurt Upon Arriving in Germany

If you’re flying into Frankfurt overnight from the US and want to catch a train to your final destination, but are worried about missing your train – and losing the money you paid for your ticket – due to a potential flight delay, plan a 1 day visit to Frankfurt!

Take public transportation from the airport to Frankfurt’s main train station (Hauptbahnhof), store your luggage, and then explore the city until shortly before your train departs.

Walking around the city will stave off jet lag, you won’t lose money by missing your train and forfeiting your ticket, and you’ll explore a lovely new city.

The Best Way to Get Around Frankfurt

Although Frankfurt spreads out in all directions, the inner city is pretty compact. On your visit, you’ll likely spend the majority of your time in the downtown or old town (Altstadt) area. You can easily reach historic Frankfurt and get to all sights in this area by walking from the train station.

For places that are a bit farther away, you can make use of the city’s public transportation which includes the U-bahn, S-bahn, trams, and buses.

If you’re only in the city for a day, going through the trouble of learning the transportation network might not be worth your time. In this case we suggest taking the Hop On Hop Off Bus tour since the bus routes bring you to all the best tourist attractions. For more information, head to the section on our recommended guided tours.

Frankfurt Card – Yes or No?

The Frankfurt Card offers you free unlimited travel on all public transport within the city of Frankfurt and Frankfurt International Airport (Zone 50 and Zone 5090). Not only that, it comes with up to 50% discount on select city tours, museums, restaurants, and other attractions.

The card is available for either one day (€ 11.50) or two days (€ 17.00). You can also choose between individual tickets or group tickets (3 to 5 persons). It’s a great deal but the question is – is it worth it for a 1-day trip?

If you’re mostly sightseeing in the downtown area, you might not get a lot of use out of it since you’ll be doing a lot of walking. But since it also includes transportation to and from the airport plus discounts on tourist spots, it’s worth looking into and deciding based on your itinerary.

All in all, we recommend buying your Frankfurt Card if you’re in the city for at least a day and a half to really make the most out of it. It’s especially worth it if you’re traveling as a group, since you can split the amount and avoid the extra cost of having to buy single tickets for every ride.

Frankfurt Guided Tours

Something that is definitely worth it for 1 day trips are guided tours. If you don’t have much time in a city the last thing you want to do is waste time arranging all the logistics and trying to find your way around.

The Hop On Hop Off Bus tour saves you the trouble of finding the best routes to get from one destination to another. Choose as many of the stops along the route to explore, all for the price of one ticket. Book your HOHO bus ticket here to discover Frankfurt at your own pace!

If you want to see the city from a different perspective, then book this tour that takes you on a cruise through the River Main . You’ll get great views of Frankfurt’s skyline while also passing through historical landmarks and neighborhoods. You can also choose between a 1-hour or 2-hour tour depending on how much time you have.

Want a more unique and personalized experience? Take this private tour with a local here! Upon booking, your guide get in touch and ask questions so they can customize the tour to your preferences. Get insider tips on the best places to eat, discover hidden gems, and experience the city like a true local.

What to Do In Frankfurt in 1 Day

Here are several things you can do and see in Frankfurt. You probably can’t fit all of them into just 1 day but you can definitely see several.

Old Town (Altstadt )

There’s no better place to start your Frankfurt itinerary than Old Town. It’s home to some of the city’s most important landmarks like Römerberg, the central main square. In the middle of the square amidst all the restored medieval houses, you’ll also find the Fountain of Justice around which the Christmas Market is set up each year.

Frankfurt’s City Hall ( Rathaus )

One of the most important medieval buildings in the historic old town is Römer, the city’s town hall since the 15 th century. The three-story building complex with its three-gabled roof and consisting of nine houses makes up for one of Frankfurt’s most iconic façades.

Frankfurt Cathedral (Frankfurter Dom )

A short walk away from the town hall, you’ll find the Frankfurt Cathedral, an impressive religious building with historical significance. This is also where coronation of emperors was hosted during the Holy Roman Empire. Visitors can also climb up the Gothic-style church’s tower and enjoy great views of Old Town.

Goethe House (Goethes Wohnhaus )

Take 5-minute walk from St. Paul’s Church to arrive at the birthplace of famous German author and poet Johann Wolfgang Goethe. Goethe lived here until the age of 16 and the preserved interior gives you glimpse into his youth. Next to the house, you’ll also find the Goethe Museum dedicated to his literary work.

St. Paul’s Church (Paulskirche )

Located opposite the town hall, St. Paul’s Church is an important symbol of German democracy. It was the seat of first German assembly in 1848 and in turn provided the basis for the German constitution. Now it’s a venue used for cultural events and award presentations. 

River Cruise on the River Main

Next, make your way down south to the Main river running through the heart of Frankfurt. If you want to take a break from sightseeing through busy streets, one of the best things you can do is stroll along the river banks and take in the city’s skyline.

To get an even better view of the skyline, you can take a river cruise departing from Eiserner Steg. You can book your ticket in advance here !

Iron Bridge (Eiserner Steg)

Eiserner Steg is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks and popular places to take photos against Frankfurt’s skyline. Aside from the views, you’ll also spot tons of love locks left on the bridge. Crossing the iron bridge from the city center brings you to Sachsenhausen, a fun district known for its vibrant nightlife and trendy restaurants.

Museum Embankment (Museumsufer )

The Museum Embankment is a group of museums lining both sides of the River Main. Some of the world-class museums located here include the Museum of World Cultures, Städel Museum, the German Film Museum, the Museum of Applied Art, and the Icon Museum.

If going to museums are a big priority for your travels, then they’re all worth visiting. But if you don’t have enough time for all, choose only one or two favorites to visit!

Städel Museum

The Städel Museum is known as Germany’s oldest museum foundation. This historical museum houses an impressive collection of over 700 years of European art from the 14 th century to Renaissance, Baroque, to early modern art. Highlights include masterpieces by Rembrandt, Monet, Picasso, and Vermeer.

Museum of Applied Art (Museum Angewandte Kunst )

On the other hand, the Frankfurt Museum of Applied Art is dedicated to contemporary art focusing on design, fashion, and performance. The alternating exhibitions aim to push the boundaries of aesthetics and the meaning of applied art. The museum’s architecture itself is a unique and experimental space that can be enjoyed with all the senses.

Main Train Station (Frankfurter Hauptbahnhof )

Frankfurt’s central train station is a major transportation hub for both short and long distance traveling, welcoming over 350,000 passengers per day. The station offers direct connections to major cities like Brussels, Paris, and Amsterdam. If you’re planning any other trips from the city, Frankfurt Hauptbahnhof will certainly offer you the best travel connections.

European Central Bank

The European Central Bank is the central bank of the 19 EU countries that use the Euro. As one of the most significant financial institutions in the world, they are tasked with maintaining price stability. Though a fairly new building, the European Central Bank is sure to become an important urban landmark and feature of the city’s modern skyline.

Old Opera House (Alte Oper )

For other tourist spots further out from Old Town, check out Alte Oper. The historic opera house was damaged in World War II but was rebuilt in the 1970s. Now, it’s a concert hall where visitors can watch world-class musical productions and concerts of various genres such as classical music, jazz, and blues.

If you don’t have a lot of time left to catch a show, you can visit their website to find out when they offer guided tours in English.

Frankfurt Christmas Market (Frankfurter Weihnachtsmarkt )

If you’re traveling to Frankfurt during the holidays then you’re in for a treat! The main market, Frankfurt Christmas Market is widely known as one of the oldest in Germany. Römerberg, at the heart of Old Town, transforms into a festive wonderland, complete with a vintage carousel, sparkling lights, and a giant tree.

The great thing about this market is that it stretches from in both directions. You can head south towards the river if you want a break from all the crowds. Heading north towards Paulsplatz you’ll find rows of stalls selling traditional handicrafts and souvenirs.

Go farther up to Hauptwach and discover even more food stalls. So grab your glass of Apfelwein (apple wine) , try Bethmännchen (Frankfurt traditional Christmas cookies) and enjoy the holidays! 

If You Have 2 Days in Frankfurt

Frankfurt’s central location and travel connections make it a great base for taking day trips , especially if you’re staying for more than a day. You can easily reach these places by train or let a guided tour take care of all the logistics.

A new city you can explore from Frankfurt is the romantic city of Heidelberg. Situated along River Neckar, this beautiful city is home to the impressive Heidelberg Castle ruins and Heidelberg University, Germany’s oldest university. Fall in love with Heidelberg and book your tour here !

While in Heidelberg you can also drive through the Romantic Road in Bavaria to make your way to Rothenberg ob der Tauber, the best-preserved medieval town in Germany. This historic town feels like a step back in time, especially as you wander through the Castle Gardens and Old Town. To maximize your time, consider booking this tour that goes to Heidelberg and then directly to Rothenberg.

If you want more medieval Germany, take a day trip to Burg Eltz . This perfectly preserved castle overlooking the Moselle river has stayed under the same family since the 12 th century. Inside you admire knight halls and weaponry that take you back to the medieval ages.

The Rhine Valley is a great place to visit if you want a day trip packed with activities. Start by walking along the picturesque villages or wine tasting in vineyards in the hillsides. You can’t leave without taking a boat along the Rhine River to admire the landscape.

Then to end your trip, enjoy a cozy dinner by the riverbanks. Because of how vast the Rhine Valley is, we recommend booking a guided day trip here to see as much of it as possible.

Cate has been traveling to Germany for 30+ years. She has lived in Germany, taught college German, and has a PhD in German Applied Linguistics. She loves helping travelers plan their dream trips to Germany!

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Here’s how we can help you plan your perfect trip in 2024.

GERMANY TRAVEL PLANNER:  Just getting started? Have questions about Germany’s confusing train tickets or how to find the best guided tours? Not sure which parts of Germany should be in your itinerary (and what to leave out)? Our  Germany Travel Planner  answers those questions and more via how-to videos, our interactive Germany Planning Map, City Cheatsheets, and MUCH more. Click here to unlock the best of Germany the easy way!

GERMANY TRAVEL CONSULT:  Feeling overwhelmed? Itinerary just not coming together? Wonder if a few tweaks would take your trip to the next level? Book a Mini or Full consult with Cate! She’ll help you create or tweak your itinerary, recommend train tickets/passes, hotels, things to do, guided tours, show you how to buy train tickets, orient you to specific cities, help you plan out day trips, and answer your Germany travel questions.

ACCOMMODATIONS:  We recommend using  Booking.com  since they have widest range of accommodations available from hostels, boutique hotels, luxury chains, aparthotels, at the best prices. Check out our  accommodation guides  for specific recommended hotels.

WHAT TO PACK: If you’re bringing your phone, be sure to bring this plug adapter , this power bank , and this wrist strap . They’ve been lifesavers for us! You can see our other packing essentials here and here .

TICKETS & TOURS:  For guided tours, day trips, private tours, and skip-the-line tickets,  Get Your Guide  is our go-to!

TRAINS & BUSES:  To research train schedules and buy tickets or a Germany Rail Pass, we recommend the official  Deutsche Bahn (German Rail System)  website (and download their DB Navigator app). For buses, look at  FlixBus  , which offers tickets for routes within Germany and to other European countries. FlixBus is often cheaper than trains but can take longer.

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Germany’s Most Underrated City Is the Place to Go in 2018

They're calling it "Mainhattan."

For its central location, Frankfurt is known as the “Gateway to Europe" — and travelers often only pass through, using it as a transit point to other major destination cities. More recently, however, Frankfurt has been going by a different moniker, which refers to the city’s emerging position as an exciting new destination on the Old Continent.

Frankfurt has become “Mainhattan.”

Spread along both banks of the Main River (hence its formal name, Frankfurt am Main), the city has always held a special place in German history. Not only did it give the country its most famous writer, Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, whose house is tucked away on a small downtown street, but it was also the site of important elections, and the coronations of kings and emperors of the Roman Empire. And the history is still a major tourism draw, even though many sites had to be rebuilt after the World War II.

But exploring Frankfurt through a historical lens only paints one part of the picture. To get a full view of what Frankfurt is now — and will become in the next few years — you need only toward its skyline. Locals liken it to Manhattan (thus, the “Mainhattan” portmanteau).

There's a fascinating mix of architecture, with modern glass high-rises looming over traditional red-brick churches. You’ll also notice an abundance of tower cranes stretching their necks ever higher, signifying the city’s continued metamorphosis.

Some say this growth was triggered by Brexit.

When Brits voted to break from the European Union, Frankfurt — home to the European Central Bank headquarters since 1998 — was immediately flagged as a potential relocation choice for many large financial institutions and companies that intend to leave London.

Despite having only 700,000 residents (compared to London's 8.6 million), it’s still becoming an international city in its own right. Already, more than half of its inhabitants have non-German backgrounds and more than 100 different languages are spoken on a daily basis. So for all the varied ways a rapid influx of wealth can transform a city , it’s also contributing to the development of a diverse art, music, and food scene that’s only getting more alluring for travelers.

Frankfurt’s neighborhoods each have distinct character and charm. Sachsenhausen, with its cobblestone streets and museums, is for those who like to experience a city’s historic and cultural heritage. Ostend and Nordend, with their many cafes and boutiques, are perfect for a daytime walk, while Westend — the old bourgeois district — is where the beautiful botanical garden, Palmergarten, is located.

On your next trip to Europe, don't just pass through Frankfurt's airport. Instead, take time to discover Germany’s fifth largest city.

What to Do in Frankfurt

Frankfurt has a number of exciting seasonal events worth noting on your calendar, such as Oktoberfest (in September), the annual Christmas market (in December), and the Frankfurt Book Fair (in October), among others . There is something interesting happening in Frankfurt at any given time of the year.

Of course, there are permanent attractions to keep you entertained, too. Art aficionados should head to Sachsenhausen, the neighborhood south of the river, where the city’s so-called Museum Mile is located. It’s home to the German Film Museum, the Communication Museum, and Staedel Museum, among many others. If you’re planning on visiting more than one, purchase the MuseumSufer ticket , which includes access to 34 museums for two consecutive days.

Staedel Museum

This 200-year-old institution houses one of the world’s most impressive and important collections, documenting 700 years of art history alongside visiting exhibitions . Visitors may recognize popular works of art such as Edgar Degas’ “Orchestra Musicians,” Claude Monet’s “The Luncheon,” and Rembrandt’s “The Blinding of Samson.” Other artists you’ll find in the museum ’s permanent collection include Vincent Van Gogh, Edvard Munch, and Picasso.

DialogMuseum

This museum redefines the common perception of a museum which, by definition, is a place where you go to see artifacts: see being the key word. The concept behind DialogMuseum , on the other hand, is unusual but impactful. Guests join a one-hour guided tour that moves through four rooms where, in absolute darkness, you will get to experience daily life without any visual components, the way blind or visually impaired people do. (All guides, as a matter of fact, will be visually impaired.) You will be surprised at the range of emotions you can feel in just 60 minutes — utter hopelessness being a major one — but it’s an incredible experience. Make sure to reserve your tour spot in advance.

Fotografie Forum Frankfurt

This independent center not only offers exhibitions of world-class photographers, artists, and photojournalists, but it also organizes regular workshops, classes, and lectures promoting the visual medium. The space is located in downtown Frankfurt on Braubachstrasse, in the city’s art gallery district, where you could easily spend an entire afternoon browsing.

Frankfurt suffered such extensive damage during World War II that much of its Altstadt (old town) had to be rebuilt. The restoration project, which started in the 1950s, was just completed in 2017. Fifteen historic houses were reconstructed and 20 new ones were built in the traditional style. Visitors can now enjoy the timber-framed buildings so popular in Germany, as well as the lively square in the heart of Römerberg. Some of the most notable buildings there are the Old St. Nicholas Church and the Haus Römer, which together with the Goldener Schwan (Golden Swan) building belonged to the Römer merchant family in the 15th century.

Where to Eat in Frankfurt

Whether it’s typical German food you’re craving or something more international, Frankfurt’s dining scene has it all. Just remember to always make a reservation, as the hottest tables tend to get booked up well in advance. Most restaurants, even small ones, have at least a few menus in English. But if they don’t, the friendly staff will surely translate for you.

German cuisine may be best known for its sausages, but that doesn’t mean vegans and vegetarians are doomed. This casual two-story restaurant , located in the city center, offers delicious meat-free options that even carnivores will love. The quinoa and wild rice plate with grilled vegetables and creamy spirulina dressing, for example, is perfect for refueling at lunch. Just be mindful that the place is cash-only, so make sure to have some Euros on you.

Freitagsküche

Founded by Frankfurt-native and contemporary artist Michael Riedel, and his friend Thomas Friemel, this cozy restaurant is a city staple. If you come here during the week, you might rub elbows with bankers from nearby financial institutions who fill up the small dining room for lunch, but on Friday nights, this restaurant transforms into a hangout for the art crowd. Order the guest chef’s menu, which is always prepared with fresh farmers’ market finds from that day.

Gang & Gäbe

The menu at Gang & Gäbe is inspired by the city’s international composition, so expect to find a combination of regional classics (Frankfurt’s famous green sauce, beef and potatoes, and kaese spaetzle, the German version of mac and cheese) and modern mash-ups, like baked duck breast with plum sauce and sautéed Swiss chard. There’s also an extensive cocktail menu with six different types of mojito. But if you’d rather drink as the locals do, opt for the Hugo, a St. Germain and prosecco-based cocktail that originated in Tyrol.

Matilda’s Kitchen

Located in the upscale Westend neighborhood, this small café is a favorite neighborhood brunch spot for locals. It has two cozy dining spaces with four to five tables each and — unlike most restaurants in the city where brunch is an all-you-can-eat buffet — you can order à la carte. It’s also just a few blocks away from the Palmengarten botanical garden.

Where to Shop in Frankfurt

While the pedestrian-only Zeil Strasse is where you will find a variety of big department stores like Peek&Cloppenburg, Galeria Kaufhof, and Karstadt, and brands like Zara, Mango, and C&A (which is similar to H&M price-wise but with a more conservative design aesthetic), travelers searching for more upscale options should head to the nearby Goethestrasse. Here are the Chanel, Gucci, and Salvatore Ferragamo boutiques. The entire area between Kurt-Schumacher Strasse and Taunusanlange Park and the Opera is also a shopper’s paradise with smaller, independent boutiques featuring European labels.

Right across the street from the Frankfurt Stock Exchange, there is a slew of salons, restaurants, and stores, one being Hayashi . The owner, Kerstin Görling, has an eye for elegant, timeless pieces as well as some pretty bold statement items. The brands you’ll find there include Isabel Marant, Marni, MSGM, and Joseph.

This high fashion s tore has been around for 13 years, and though the womenswear and menswear spaces are separate, they have one thing in common: an edgy, avant-garde aesthetic. Expect a lot of leather, candles, and fragrances from lesser-known Japanese and German designers.

Where to Stay in Frankfurt

It might not be a surprise that Europe’s economic hub has no shortage of luxury accommodation options, especially downtown where the international banks are located. But there are a number of more affordable boutique hotels in the surrounding neighborhoods, too, like Ostend, which lies on the bank of the Main river and offers great views of the city.

Moxy Frankfurt East

Moxy is Marriott’s new design-driven chain of affordable, hip hotels aimed at younger travelers (read: millennials). The latest property is located in Ostend, just a few blocks away from the new headquarters of the European Central Bank and about a half-hour walk from the city center. Guest rooms have a modern, industrial vibe and the bar doubles as the hotel’s check-in point. It's also a great place to hang out, have breakfast, and (of course) enjoy cocktails. The walls are lined with funky art that references Frankfurt’s local culture, like a mural featuring Goethe lounging on a bench.

Roomers Frankfurt

One of the most impressive features of this luxury boutique hotel is the design. From a gleaming glass façade to the dimly lit bar and dramatic chandeliers, everything in Roomers is visually delightful. If you stay here, make sure to save some time to soak in the glass bead-filled relaxation tubs at the spa, and to enjoy the beautiful view of the city from the Sky Lounge.

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The Ultimate Frankfurt Travel Guide

December 14, 2019 | sarah funky.

SPONSORED BY JUMEIRAH FRANKFURT

Frankfurt is known as the “Gateway to Europe” — and travelers often only pass through, using it as a transit point to other major destination cities. However, Frankfurt has emerged as an up-and-coming travel destination because of its stunning sightseeing, great restaurants, and luxury hotels. Frankfurt has been called the Manhattan of Germany and locals have even nicknamed it “Mainhattan” because of the skyscrapers that line the Main River! In this guide, I’m going to show you the best things to do in this modern German metropolis!

WATCH THE FRANKFURT TRAVEL GUIDE!

INTERACTIVE MAP TO BRING WITH YOU WHILE YOU EXPLORE!

I have put together a color coded map of sightseeing, entertainment, restaurants, cafes, and bars suggested to me by locals and my followers on Instagram who have been to Frankfurt, in addition to places that I loved while I was there. This map covers the best of the best. I recommend you  click here to view the Google map on your phone while you explore the city. It will make it easier to see everything you can while you’re in town!

• Tip: Press the box with the arrow in it in the upper left corner to see the different categories by color.

WHERE TO STAY:

Where you stay can define your trip, which is why I recommend staying at the luxurious Jumeirah Frankfurt hotel. It won the award for Germany’s leading hotel four times already! It is located in the heart of the city, walking distance to the Opera House, the New Old Town, the banking quarter, and famous shopping streets. As the highest hotel in the city, it offers great views of the city’s skyline and has a modern yet timeless design. One of the most unique things that Jumeirah offers is a rooftop apiary (beehive), where they have 40,000 honeybees making fresh honey that is used in the restaurant, bar and spa! It is one of the only hotels in the world offering this special service.

They also have great dining options. Jumeirah Frankfurt’s dining options consist of the modern grill restaurant Max on One Grillroom, El Rayyan Lebanese Restaurant (belly dancing Saturdays at 7pm), and the elegant Ember Bar & Lounge. Every morning I had breakfast at Max on One Grillroom.

Art lovers will also adore Jumeirah Frankfurt because there is local art hung throughout the space that takes you on a poetic visual journey thanks to local German artist Hartwig Ebersbach. In each room as well as in the hotel’s public areas, you can find one of the Leipzig artist’s large-size original paintings, the largest collection worldwide. Central themes in the artworks are dreams, tales and legends. Between the artwork and the stunning view the Jumeirah Frankfurt is a visual feast!

HISTORY AND SIGHTSEEING

Understanding Frankfurt’s history will allow you to connect with it in a deeper way, which is I recommend taking a history tour. There are many options for tour companies but I recommend a private tour because it is a more personal experience and the guide can tailor the tour to your unique interests.

One area you must visit (tour guide or not) is Römerberg. Frankfurt suffered such extensive damage during World War II that much of its Altstadt (old town) had to be rebuilt. The restoration project, which started in the 1950s, was just completed in 2017. Fifteen historic houses were reconstructed and 20 new ones were built in the traditional style. Visitors can now enjoy the timber-framed buildings popular in Germany, as well as the lively square in the heart of Römerberg. Some of the most notable buildings there are the Old St. Nicholas Church and the Haus Römer, which together with the Goldener Schwan (Golden Swan) building belonged to the Römer merchant family in the 15th century.

TRY THE LOCAL FOOD & DRINK:

Germany’s food is one of the main things that define it so you should try the local food and drink while you’re here! I recommend using my map linked above while you explore so you always have my top suggestions on food and drink. Did you know Frankfurt is known for its apple wine? You can try it at most restaurants but one of my favorites is Affentorschänke a modern German restaurant located in the traditional area Sachsenhausen.

Another great option for a dinner with a stunning view, is Franziska . It is situated atop the Henninger Turm, features floor to ceiling glazed panoramic windows, allowing guests to enjoy a 360-degree view of the surrounding countryside and the impressive skyline. It is the perfect place for a breathtaking view and holiday dinner. Franziska also has a completely open show kitchen with an integrated kitchen counter. The imposing panoramic restaurant thus combines two of the most popular gastronomic trends in the world right now: firstly, chef’s table-counter and, secondly, rooftop dining. The menu is progressive German vintage cuisine, inspired by the recipes of the great-aunt of Christian Mook. Franziska offers exciting German cuisine with a modern twist – a cuisine that’s not limited by conventions, ingredients or techniques.

KLEINMARKTHALLE

Kleinmarkthalle is an amazing food market with tons of German food. There are hundreds of different stands in this market selling every type of German food you could imagine, plus international food. If you’ve been to Chelsea Market in New York it reminded me of this!

VISIT DURING THEIR ANNUAL EVENTS

Frankfurt has a number of exciting seasonal events worth noting on your calendar, such as Museumsuferfest in August and the annual Christmas market in December. There is something interesting happening in Frankfurt at any given time of the year. I’m here for their Christmas Market. To see a full experience of what that was like, watch my Christmas in Frankfurt video below . In that video, I’ll show you how to spend your best Christmas ever in Frankfurt!

VISIT A MUSEUM

Frankfurt is a museum lovers haven – it has over 60 different museums in the city alone. Art lovers should not miss the 200 year old Stadel Museum . It has one of the most important art collections in Germany with 2,700 paintings, 100,000 drawings and prints, and 600 sculptures. Its most famous attraction at the moment (only temporary exhibition until February) is the Van Gogh Exhibit.

The exhibition focuses on the creation of the “legend of Van Gogh” around 1900 as well as his significance to modern art in Germany. It unites more than 120 paintings and works on paper. At the heart of the exhibition are 50 key works by Vincent van Gogh from all phases of his artistic work. It is the most comprehensive presentation in Germany to include works by the painter for nearly 20 years.

• Tip 1: Most museums are free to those under 18 the last Saturday of every month.
• Tip 2: If you’re planning to fill your time with museum visits, then it’s worth getting a MuseumuferTicket , which grants entry to 16 of Frankfurt’s museums. Some of the city’s biggest museums are included, as well as the less well known. Family tickets and reductions are available.

GO SHOPPING

Since Frankfurt is the financial hub of Europe it has a great shopping scene! The pedestrian-only Zeil Strasse, which is conveniently attached to the Jumeirah Frankfurt, is where you will find a variety of big department stores like Peek & Cloppenburg, Galeria Kaufhof, and Karstadt, and brands like Zara, Mango, and C&A. If you’re looking for more upscale options head to the nearby Goethestrasse. Here you’ll find Chanel, Gucci, and Salvatore Ferragamo boutiques. The entire area between Kurt-Schumacher Strasse and Taunusanlange Park and the Opera is also a shopper’s paradise with smaller, independent boutiques featuring European labels. For specific store suggestions see my Frankfurt map .

• Tip: Please note that most shops are closed on Sundays so you’ll need to plan around this.

VISIT BAHNHOFSVIERTEL

Once an area locals stayed away from, Frankfurt’s red light district is now a cool place to go out at night. It is lined with restaurants, cafes, and bars. One of my favorite bars is Kinly Bar , which has become known for its excellent cocktail art and recently been awarded the best bar in Germany. It offers mix art at the highest level, and in an unpretentious atmosphere. An inconspicuous dark door is the gateway to happiness. Shortly after pressing the bell button, the door opens, and you go down a staircase – and into another time. The two rooms of the Kinly Bar are decorated with all sorts of pictures and furniture from the 1920s and radiate an instant, comfortable underground salon atmosphere. The Kinly is now almost synonymous with a novel concept of bar and mixology.

TALISE SPA AT JUMEIRAH FRANKFURT:

No vacation is complete without a relaxing spa experience! The exclusive Talise Spa at Jumeirah Frankfurt features two separate saunas, dedicated relaxation areas, five treatment rooms and an extensive range of tailor-made experiences in a luxurious atmosphere. Since they are one of the only hotels in the world with an apiary producing fresh honey, they offer several unique spa experiences using the honey from the honey bees!

Frankfurt is a city that every traveler needs to add to their bucket list. It is so much more than a layover city, there are tons of amazing things to do here! If you enjoyed this guide, please share with friends and have a great time in Frankfurt!

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