Introduction
I was so lucky to explore Frankfurt with its stunning attractions! Here are some unmissable sites to check out. Begin your journey in the timeless Römer Square. Admire the medieval architecture and sip coffee while people watching. Next, journey to the Main Tower for a breathtaking 360-degree view of the city. Don’t forget to go to Goethestraße for luxury shopping, Sachsenhausen for delectable local food and traditional cider bars, and the Städel Museum for an unforgettable art experience.
Did you know? Römerberg is one of Frankfurt’s oldest and most historic squares. Why settle for one when you can experience all the beauty the city has to offer?
Top Must-Visit Attractions in Frankfurt
To discover the best sights in Frankfurt, you need to explore the top must-visit attractions. In order to help you with that, let me introduce you to the Römerberg, St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral, Main Tower Frankfurt, Frankfurt Zoological Garden, and Palmengarten. These are the most visited and interesting sites that you can’t miss during your visit to Frankfurt.
Römerberg
Römerberg: An Enchanting Tourist Hotspot.
Step back in time to Frankfurt’s Old Town and its bustling, picturesque central square. Admire the timber-framed houses and ornate fountains that line this historic landmark. Take a leisurely stroll and snap some photos of the colorful buildings. Or sip on a coffee at one of the many cafes that dot the perimeter.
Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Frankfurt at Römerberg. This iconic plaza is surrounded by stunning architecture, such as the Gothic-style Römer City Hall that once hosted Holy Roman Emperor coronation ceremonies. Today, visitors can explore quaint shops and enjoy traditional German cuisine at cozy restaurants.
Don’t miss out on the chance to see an enchanting Christmas Market during the holiday season- an event that transforms Römerberg into a winter wonderland of lights and festivities.
Once a legal affairs hub in medieval times, Römerberg now serves as a vibrant tourist hotspot. Its history dates back to 1290 when it began as a market for fresh produce. Today, travelers from all corners come together to experience this magnificent part of town.
St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral: Where you can finally look up and not feel like the only one going to hell.
St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral
Main Tower Frankfurt is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Frankfurt. At Domplatz, stands a towering gothic symbol of beauty. Inside, intricate designs are seen on stained-glass windows and high vaulted ceilings; while outside, ornate sculptures and carvings make a grand impression.
Climb 324 stairs to the bell tower’s top for a panoramic view of the city. Or, stroll through the attached cloister – home to a museum with religious art and artifacts. Feel the history embedded in its walls – from consecration in 1239 to near destruction during World War II.
St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral offers an experience like no other. It truly should be on every traveler’s itinerary. Go there to see the city without having to ask for directions!
Main Tower Frankfurt
The Main Tower stands tall in the Frankfurt skyline, representing the city’s modern elegance. Its sleek design and impressive height provide amazing panoramic views of Frankfurt and beyond. The tower is a hub for communication technology, symbolizing Frankfurt’s financial center status. You can take one of Europe’s fastest elevators to the top and witness the aerial view from 200 meters high.
The observation deck offers a breathtaking backdrop of Frankfurt’s skyline, especially during sunset when the sky’s colors blend with the city’s lights. Various exhibitions related to architecture, art, and culture are also hosted here throughout the year.
Inside the tower lies sophisticated technological infrastructure. It facilitates radio broadcasting, television production, mobile phone networks, and much more. This innovative aspect of Main Tower reflects Frankfurt’s outlook towards modernization.
The Main Tower is one of the only two high-rise buildings open to public visitors in Germany that include elevator riser rooms in their tours which contain elevator engines. These machines were deemed too expensive to install on each story during construction.
The combination of remarkable architecture and cutting-edge technology make the Main Tower a must-visit attraction in Frankfurt. For an even wilder experience, you can visit the Frankfurt Zoological Garden to see more than just pigeons and squirrels!
Frankfurt Zoological Garden
This renowned conservation park is a gem in the city. It boasts a wonderful selection of animals and rare species from around the world. Frankfurt’s nature resort stands out for its extraordinary collection of primates, big cats, and tropical birds.
Visitors get to learn about conservation initiatives worldwide, while having exciting animal encounters. This attraction goes beyond being a tourist centre; it plays an essential role in promoting wildlife preservation and biodiversity advocacy globally.
At every turn, you will be immersed in a jungle-like experience. Wander the rainforest simulation enclosure, or have a close-up view of tigers roaming their natural habitats. Kids will love the child-friendly section, including campfires, lab sessions, and petting zones.
Experience one of Europe’s most renowned wildlife parks when you visit Frankfurt. Have a great time with your loved ones and take plenty of pictures in the lush greens and unique animal exhibitions. If you’re longing for some botanical beauty, head to Palmengarten for an outdoor fix!
Palmengarten
Welcome to a botanical oasis in Frankfurt! The gardens span 22 hectares, offering a diverse range of indoor and outdoor exhibitions. With the Tropicarium, Palm House and Botanical Museum, you can explore flora from around the world. Plus, take in views of the River Main.
The grounds feature formal gardens, rock gardens, herbaceous borders and water features that showcase the biodiversity of various cultures. And, the ‘Great Floristic Exhibition’ showcases beautiful flowerbeds and exotic plants.
Events throughout the year include workshops, guided tours, concerts and culinary festivals. Plus, there are art installations on display.
This hidden gem provides a refreshing break from city life. One visitor shared her experience as, “Palmengarten provides a tranquil escape every time I visit Frankfurt. Walking through the lawns with tropical birds has a calming impact. I always learn something new about unique species.”
So, don’t get lost in Frankfurt – search for its hidden gems!
Hidden Gems and Off-The-Beaten-Path Sights
To discover some of Frankfurt’s hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path sights, explore the following places: the bustling Kleinmarkthalle market with its rich culinary offerings, the birthplace of Johann Wolfgang von Goethe – Goethe-Haus, the fascinating Senckenberg Natural History Museum, the diverse array of museums located at Museumsufer, and the charming and vibrant Berger Street with its restaurants, cafes, and art galleries.
Kleinmarkthalle
Take a deep-dive into the vibrant Kleinmarkthalle near the old city! Located in Frankfurt, Germany, this bustling market is popular among locals and tourists alike. Hours of operation are Monday – Saturday 8 am – 6 pm, and you’ll find fresh produce, spices, flowers, wine, regional specialties, and more.
Plus, there are plenty of international vendors in the market hall, and a seating area outside to enjoy the delicacies. Explore the hidden corners too – where you can find curious local food vendors.
Visiting Kleinmarkthalle is the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in German culture! And be sure to check out Goethe’s birthplace – but watch out for the souvenir shop.
Goethe-Haus
Johann Wolfgang von Goethe's residence, tucked away on a quiet street, is a must-visit for literary fans. The Goethe Birthplace and Museum gives an insight into the influential writer’s life and works. On display are artwork, manuscripts, and furniture from his era. Visitors can also take a break in the tranquil courtyard garden. Don’t forget to check out the gift shop for unique souvenirs like Chinese tea sets and replica busts of Goethe.
Pro Tip: Don’t miss the chance to watch live performances of Goethe’s plays at the close by Frankfurt Opera House. Not your regular stuffed animal display, unless you consider a giant squid typical.
Senckenberg Natural History Museum
Unleash your inner explorer and discover a world of natural history at the Senckenberg Research Institute and Natural History Collections in Frankfurt! With millions of specimens from all around the world, you can learn about evolution and the effect of humans on nature.
Stroll through life-sized dinosaur skeletons and interactive exhibits on ecology and climate change. Get up close to animals, minerals, insects, fossils, and live animal habitats from historic expeditions.
Enjoy innovative installations across four floors, like bioluminescence and large-scale models of sea creatures. Get an inside look with guided tours by passionate experts.
Take the “World of Birds” tour to the taxidermy workshop and get insights into bird preservation techniques.
Museumsufer is your gateway to astounding natural diversity. Spend afternoons filled with fun-educational activities for visitors of all ages. Don’t settle for just one museum!
Museumsufer
Along the River Main in Frankfurt lies a paradise for art-lovers! It’s a merging of culture and cutting-edge art. Ten museums, each with their own unique focus, await your exploration. From classic paintings to modern digital installations, there’s something for everyone.
Highlights include the Städel Museum and the Liebieghaus Sculpture Collection. The first has a wide array of works – from old masters to modern pieces. The second houses sculptures from different cultures and eras.
Take a stroll through the parks, admire the river views, or get a drink at one of the nearby cafes. Once upon a time, these museums were all housed on separate streets. But when someone had the genius plan to bunch them together by the riverfront, it created an entirely new experience! And don’t forget about Berger Street – not only does it have burgers, but it also has surprises!
Berger Street
Berger Street is a narrow, vibrant street in the heart of the city – a hidden gem for those keen to explore something new. Here, you can find independently-owned boutiques, cafes and restaurants, as well as painted buildings and stunning murals.
It’s a great place to get a sense of the city’s creative soul. You can browse unique locally made products, from ceramics to leather goods. The bakeries here have aromas that will tantalise your taste buds!
Weekends bring performances by local artists, with music, dance and theatrical activities. Take one of the walking tours to learn about the street’s culture and history. Each shop holds surprises – it’s worth browsing through them all.
Best Food and Drink Experiences in Frankfurt
To discover the best food and drink experiences in Frankfurt, immerse yourself in the unique local culture. Indulge in the city’s famous apple wine taverns where you can enjoy traditional dishes. Visit the Frankfurt Christmas Market for authentic festive treats and gifts. Experience the local cuisine and explore the diverse flavors of the city. Discover the vibrant Sachsenhausen district and its atmospheric bars. Lastly, don’t miss out on the best local bakeries for sweet treats and pastries that will tantalize your taste buds.
Apple Wine Taverns
Are you seeking an authentic experience in Frankfurt? Look no further than the famous Apple Wine Taverns! Here are 4 must-dos when visiting:
- Head to Sachsenhausen district for atmospheric taverns
- Sip on homemade Apfelwein and regional specialities
- Listen to lively conversations and experience communal seating
- Indulge in German cuisine like cured meat platters, sausages, and pretzels
For a more unique touch, try smaller family-run establishments. Don’t forget to try Zwiebelkuchen (onion tart) during autumn months!
Book a visit to an Apple Wine Tavern for a chance to savor savory drinks and savory food. Immerse yourself in true German atmosphere!
Also, check out the Frankfurt Christmas Market for a festive food and drink experience that will fill your heart with joy.
Frankfurt Christmas Market
The annual Yuletide bazaar in Frankfurt is a must-visit for tourists during the holiday season. Streets come alive with animation as visitors explore decorated alleys lined with intricate booths. Here, they can enjoy local delicacies like bratwurst and pretzels dipped in mustard, accompanied by mulled wine.
At the stalls, traditional crafts such as Christmas ornaments and wooden toys are on display, alongside modern gifts. As night sets in, twinkling fairy lights create a magical ambiance, and performances by musicians and choirs grab tourists’ attention.
At last year’s Yuletide market, Santa Claus held his prime spot by a brightly lit tree. His jolly laughter filled the air as visitors enjoyed seasonal delights amid the grey snowy weather. Frankfurt cuisine might not be the prettiest, but it’s like that unattractive friend who always has the best jokes!
Frankfurt Cuisine
Frankfurt’s Gastronomy:
The food and drinks of Frankfurt reflect its rich history and culture. Here are 6 must-try dishes you can find here:
- Handkäse mit Musik – cheese with onion dressing and spices
- Rippchen mit Kraut – pork chops with sauerkraut
- Gruene Sosse – green sauce made from seven herbs with boiled eggs and potatoes
- Apfelwein – the signature Frankfurt apple wine
- Frankfurter Würstchen – thin, smoked sausages with mustard or horseradish
- Knödel – bread dumplings usually served with gravy.
Frankfurt’s food also features international influences. Mantis Roofgarden offers a unique South Korean-German fusion cuisine.
Don’t forget to try some of these traditional dishes while visiting Frankfurt. The apple wine in Sachsenhausen is worth the hangover.
Sachsenhausen District
Sachsenhausen, a cultural and historic neighborhood in Frankfurt, is the perfect destination for foodies. It is known for its shopping district and its unique apple wine taverns. You can sample traditional German fare, like green sauce and frankfurter schnitzel, or try something new at Frau Rauscher.
On Saturdays, Sachsenhausen hosts an outdoor farmers’ market. Here, you can pick up fresh produce and artisanal treats in a picturesque atmosphere. If you’re looking for a truly authentic experience, head to Apfelwein Wagner. This apple wine tavern serves homemade cider in signature blue-and-white glasses and offers traditional German dishes.
Exploring Sachsenhausen’s food scene is a great way to experience the local culture. And don’t forget to try some of Frankfurt’s delicious bakeries – carbs worth breaking your diet for!
Best Local Bakeries
Crave pastries in Frankfurt? Don’t look any further! Here are must-try patisseries.
- Lokalbahnhof Bakery for savory pies & tarts
- Jochen Gaueser Bakeries for artisanal bread
- Bäckerei Hessler for German twist on French croissants
- Bäcker Eifler for traditional Frankfurter Kranz.
Do not miss these cafes, offering amazing bread and confectionaries. Capture the essence of Frankfurt’s bakery culture with our top picks. You’ll have an unforgettable experience!
Frankfurt also offers thrilling outdoor activities, so you can burn off calories from all the food and drink you’ve enjoyed.
Outdoor Activities and Adventure Spots
To explore Frankfurt’s outdoors with excitement, check out the adventure spots that include the Hessian Bergstrasse Wine Route, Rhine River Cruise, Taunus Mountains, Frankfurt City Forest, and Wetterau District. Experience the beauty of these destinations in Frankfurt, including a scenic route of vineyards and towns, a cruise down Germany’s most famous river, a mountain vastness with historic significance, a haven of nature inside the city, and a countryside that boasts of castles and impressive landscapes.
Hessian Bergstrasse Wine Route
Exploring the Hessian Bergstrasse area is a must-do for wine lovers. This renowned wine-producing area is based in Germany’s Hesse region. It’s full of charming villages and gorgeous countryside landscapes.
Check out the table for information about the Hessian Bergstrasse Wine Route!
Winery Name | Wine Type | Address |
---|---|---|
Bensheim Winery | Riesling | Kirchbergstraße 32, 64625 Bensheim-Auerbach |
Schloss Auerbach Winery | Spätburgunder | Burggasse 2, 64625 Bensheim-Auerbach |
Weingut Barth Winery | Silvaner and Dornfelder | Strietweg 27, 64625 Bensheim |
The region has lots to offer – from hikes through scenic vineyards and biking trails to unguided town explorations. It even dates back to the Roman Empire, when they first discovered the potential for winemaking here. Now, it produces some of Europe’s finest wines. Cruise the Rhine River with a smooth drink in hand – it’s the perfect way to take in the area’s beauty.
Rhine River Cruise
A Rhine River Cruise promises a luxurious and tranquil journey. Gaze at lush pastures and majestic castles that line its banks. Enjoy fine dining, wine tasting and exciting local excursions. Get ready for novel views and unforgettable memories.
Visit enchanting towns and cities along the way. Delight in their unique culture and history. Did you know the Rhine is one of Europe’s oldest trade routes? It transported commodities such as timber, spices, silver, silk and luxury goods. Empires like the Romans, Germanic tribes and French aristocrats used it as a transportation network.
Explore the Taunus Mountains. It’s perfect for both your body and Instagram feed.
Taunus Mountains
The gorgeous Taunus Mountains, in Central Germany, offer visitors a stunning escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The lush greenery and ancient rocks set the perfect backdrop for exciting activities like hiking, cycling, skiing, rock climbing, and zip lining.
The picturesque mountains also boast incredible views of the nearby cities. For a more relaxed experience, visitors can camp under starry skies or visit one of the nearby resorts for a spa day.
Taunus Mountains also have a lot of historical significance. Explore the old castles and medieval ruins that give life to this terrain. Locals still tell tales of young boys sliding down steep mountain slopes on sleds made from tree branches and cloth during heavy snowfall.
So if you’re in search of some peace and quiet, head to Frankfurt City Forest and be surrounded by the sounds of nature!
Frankfurt City Forest
In the heart of Frankfurt lies a vast natural area. It’s perfect for outdoor lovers and those seeking adventure! There are numerous trails and diverse terrain – ideal for getting away from the hustle and bustle of city life. The Frankfurt City Forest has stunning views, abundant wildlife, and an ancient history that dates back to Roman times.
You can explore the forest on foot, bike or horse. Uncover hidden gems such as old ruins, tranquil ponds and gorgeous waterfalls. With over 48 square kilometers of wilderness, you can easily immerse yourself in nature while experiencing the best of Germany.
For a thrilling experience, check out some of the forest’s exciting spots – high-rope courses, boulder caves and even zip-lines! Don’t forget to take your camera – you’ll want to capture every moment of this beautiful landscape.
Pro Tip: Dress for the weather and wear comfy shoes. Plan ahead, bring snacks and water. Facilities may not be nearby. So why stay indoors when you can explore the Wetterau District and get wetter than a seal?
Wetterau District
Hessen’s Wetterau District lies north of Frankfurt and is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and adventurers. Discover beautiful natural parks, forests and castles, perfect for a day out with family and friends. Cycle through tranquil paths with rivers in the background. Enjoy hiking in Taunus Mountains or explore the wildflowers blooming around. Visit Tierpark Sababurg animal park and observe lemurs, flamingoes, rhinos and colourful butterflies!
For an insight into history, visit Adolfsturm Watchtower, dating back to 600 AD. Travel through countryside roads lined with historic timberframe farmhouses, making it feel like time has stopped. Don’t miss out on wildflowers blooming in spring and explore hidden trails! Start planning your trip today!
Shopping and Entertainment
To explore the diverse range of shopping and entertainment options in Frankfurt, we’ve got some great suggestions. If you’re wondering what to do or where to go in Frankfurt, then the following places are definitely worth a visit: the MyZeil Shopping Center, Skyline Plaza, Alte Oper Frankfurt, English Theatre Frankfurt, and Festhalle Frankfurt.
MyZeil Shopping Center
MyZeil is an urban retail center in Frankfurt. It has a unique, contemporary architecture, full of extravagant shopping and entertainment options. Enjoy a 360-degree Skyline view from the rooftop and take stunning photos! There’s an impressive range of stores – over 100 – to choose from. Fashion aficionados and gadget enthusiasts alike will find something here. Plus, try local and international cuisine from exquisite restaurants.
At MyZeil, the glass façade and artworks create an exciting atmosphere. For the adventurous, there’s an indoor tyrolean traverse course offering the chance to soar above the atrium. Shop trendy brands like Zara, H&M or Six. Or, indulge in luxurious labels such as Michael Kors or Prada.
Pro Tip: Visit early morning to avoid crowds for a smoother shopping experience! Enjoy shopping at Skyline Plaza – you never know what you’ll find!
Skyline Plaza
Skyline Plaza is an urban shopping and entertainment complex located in the city center. It has a chic design, ultra-modern stores, gourmet restaurants, a multiplex cinema, and fitness centers. There’s even a rooftop garden with mesmerizing views of the skyline. Plus, there’s always something new to do, from performances to pop-up exhibitions of local talent and food festivals from around Europe.
A young couple visiting Skyline Plaza were surprised to find talented artists at one of the exhibitions. They left with art pieces full of meaningful memories of their trip. Skyline Plaza is more than just a shopping destination- it’s a must-visit attraction for locals and tourists alike.
Alte Oper Frankfurt
The Alte Oper Frankfurt is an iconic cultural establishment, renowned for its exquisite opera performances, orchestral concerts and captivating theatrical productions. Built in the late 19th century, it has evolved into an all-in-one destination, offering exceptional culture and a unique shopping experience with high-end boutiques and restaurants.
This cultural center has an impressive history dating back to its opening in 1880. It was initially built as an opera house. However, WWII saw its destruction. After extensive renovations and restorations, it re-opened its doors in 1981 and continues to draw visitors from all over the world.
At this center, visitors can enjoy a luxurious shopping experience with designer brands such as Louis Vuitton and Gucci occupying retail spaces. Plus, they can indulge in gourmet restaurants like Restaurant Opéra serving tantalizing cuisine. English Theatre Frankfurt: Where Shakespeare meets shopping mall food courts!
English Theatre Frankfurt
Festhalle Frankfurt is the place to be! Here you can enjoy theatre performances in English all year round. Both native and non-native speakers alike get the chance to experience the culture and improve their language skills.
The stage features a mix of old and new plays, performed by actors from all walks of life. Plus, the plays often tackle important topics, which makes for an engaging and thought-provoking show.
The English Theatre Frankfurt has been delighting audiences since 1979. Plays like ‘The Great Gatsby’ have received rave reviews from audience and critics alike. And they also contribute to society through educational programs for all ages.
I recently had the pleasure of attending one of their performances. The acting was superb and the storyline was captivating – a reminder of the power of theatre to move us.
Festhalle Frankfurt
Located in the heart of Frankfurt, Festhalle boasts an impressive glass dome that floods the space with light. With over 6,000 sq. meters of retail space, it offers high-end brands and local boutiques. Enjoy leisure activities like restaurants, cinemas, art exhibitions and concerts. Indulge in a shopping experience with world-class designs. Plus, explore numerous cultural events held at Festhalle throughout the year.
Built in 1907, it has hosted many historical events from political gatherings to rock music performances. Get ready to be wowed by the sights and attractions of Frankfurt – it has more to offer than just shopping!
Conclusion: Experience the Best of Frankfurt’s Sights and Attractions.
Explore Frankfurt’s Finest Sights and Attractions. From street art to the incredible skyline, Frankfurt has plenty to explore. Visit the Historical Museum or go for a stroll through Fressgass, and enjoy local treats and shopping.
Don’t miss out on the spectacular St. Paul’s Church and Goethe House. Relax in Palmengarten botanical gardens, or take in culture at Alte Oper theatre. For something unique, visit Kleinmarkthalle market, full of fresh produce and artisanal goods.
Don’t forget to marvel at Main Tower and Europaturm. Take a journey back in time at Römerberg Square, with its ornate half-timbered buildings. Don’t forget to experience everything this city has to offer!
Finally, take a river cruise on The Main river and marvel at Frankfurt’s beauty from the water.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the most visited sites in Frankfurt?
Frankfurt’s most visited sites include the Römerberg, St. Paul’s Church, the Goethe House, and the Frankfurt Cathedral.
2. What are some interesting sites to see in Frankfurt?
Other interesting sites include the Museum Embankment, the Palm Garden, the Main Tower observation deck, and the Städel Museum.
3. What are the best attractions in Frankfurt?
The best attractions in Frankfurt include the Frankfurt Zoo, the Senckenberg Natural History Museum, and the Rheingau wine region outside the city.
4. What should I see in Frankfurt if I’m short on time?
If you only have a short amount of time, be sure to visit Römerberg, the Goethe House, and the Main Tower observation deck for stunning views of the city.
5. Where can I find the best views of Frankfurt?
You can find the best views of Frankfurt from the top of the Main Tower, from the Eiserner Steg bridge, and from the Palm Garden.
6. Is there anything unique to see in Frankfurt?
Yes, some unique sites in Frankfurt include the Eschenheimer Turm, a medieval tower, and the Alte Oper, a concert hall that was destroyed during World War II and later rebuilt.