Frankfurt am Main is one of the five largest cities in Germany. Often dubbed “Mainhattan” due to its significant international stock market and business center, Frankfurt is much more than just a financial hub. Here, I’ll guide you on planning the ideal trip to the city, highlighting 12 must-see attractions in Frankfurt.
Navigating Frankfurt is relatively simple, with excellent air and land connections making it accessible from nearly anywhere. However, there are a few tips to keep in mind before you visit.
Frankfurt hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, such as the Festival of Stoneware, Day of the Forest, Night of the Clubs, Festival of Light, Skyscraper Festival, and Museums Riverbank Festival. Check the dates of these festivals because the city can get crowded, and accommodation prices can rise significantly or become fully booked. If you’re not keen on festivals, try to avoid these times. If you love festivals, Frankfurt is a fantastic place to experience them. Check event dates in advance to plan your visit around them.
Frankfurt is among Europe’s most visited cities, meaning it can be bustling, especially on weekends, public holidays, or during festivals. It can be challenging to book tours or access main sights without waiting in long lines during these times. Even on a regular day, you might face an hour-long wait for popular attractions. To skip the lines, consider using TripVerse, which offers tickets for many of Frankfurt’s main sites.
With a temperate oceanic climate, Frankfurt’s average annual temperature is around 10.6°C, with summer highs around 25°C and winter lows rarely dropping below 0°C in January. The best time to visit is between May and September, depending on the festivals you want to experience or the climate you prefer.
Römerberg, the historic heart of the old town, was completely reconstructed after World War II bombings. Iconic for its gabled houses, the square also features the Fountain of Justice, built in 1612, representing the virtues of justice, hope, moderation, and love. Watching the crowds while enjoying coffee in a café here is delightful, especially in summer. In December, the square hosts a traditional German Christmas Market, perfect for getting into the festive spirit with roasted chestnuts and mulled wine.
The Main Tower, standing at 259 meters, is Germany’s fourth tallest building and offers stunning city views from its 198-meter-high viewing platform. Tickets are €7.50, or €5 for students, and can be purchased online to avoid long waits.
Germany is renowned for its beer, but Frankfurt’s local drink, Ebbelwoi (apple wine), is a refreshing alternative. At 5% alcohol, it’s lighter than beer and pairs well with traditional German meals like pork ribs and sauerkraut. Check out Ebbelwoi Unser or Apfelwein Dax for authentic cuisine and a taste of this local specialty.
For a different perspective, take in Frankfurt’s impressive skyline from the water. Sunset cruises range from €10 to €13, with discounts for Frankfurt Card holders. You can relax on the deck or indoors while enjoying the urban architecture. Primus-Linie offers various tours, including sunset cruises and Sunday brunches.
Both sides of the riverbank in Frankfurt offer diverse cultural exhibitions. For a rainy day, the Museumsufer-Ticket allows access to all permanent and temporary exhibitions for two days at €18. Events like Nacht der Museen in Spring and the Museumsuferfest in August are perfect for culture enthusiasts, combining exhibitions with food and drink.
The Zeil, Frankfurt’s oldest and most popular shopping district, has been a prestige spot for centuries. It’s one of Europe’s highest-revenue shopping streets, lined with countless shops and designer stores. The Zeil Gallery, with its seven stories and rooftop restaurant, offers fantastic city views.
Paulskirche, pivotal in German history and democracy, can be visited daily for free. It also hosts exhibitions and memorials.
The Kleinmarkthalle is a traditional German food market brimming with smoked sausages, pretzels, and pastries. It’s perfect for grabbing a snack or ingredients for a picnic. Open weekdays and Saturdays, the upper-level terrace is great for winding down with a glass of wine.
The 43-meter-high Goethe Tower offers beautiful views of Frankfurt’s Green Belt. Surrounded by playgrounds, it’s a great spot for both the view and entertaining children.
The Opera House in Frankfurt, reconstructed in the 1980s, is a cultural highlight offering various music concerts. Tickets are available online, but the building itself is worth visiting for its historical significance.
The Hessenpark Outdoor Museum recreates 18th-century rural German life, making it perfect for families. Featuring farmhouses, shops, a bakery, and a brewery, it offers an immersive experience. Admission is €8 for adults and €2.50 for children, with workshops available.
For something different, try Frankfurt’s popular Escape Games. Suitable for groups, these games revolve around solving puzzles linked to a crime story. Book online for a 60-minute game, with prices ranging from €20 to €30 per person.
Frankfurt may be known as Germany’s financial capital, but it offers a wealth of exciting activities, making it a vibrant destination for millennials, students, and anyone looking to explore chic restaurants, cafes, and a lively nightlife.
