Frankfurt, known as the financial hub of Germany, is a city where contemporary skyscrapers blend seamlessly with historic neighborhoods. For those pondering things to do in Frankfurt, visiting the iconic Frankfurt Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, and exploring the Palmengarten, one of Germany’s largest botanical gardens, are essential experiences.
The city’s Main Tower offers a unique opportunity to view Frankfurt’s skyline from a high vantage point. The historic Römerberg square, with its picturesque half-timbered houses and the Old Town Hall, is a window into the city’s rich past.
Beyond its skyline and historical sites, Frankfurt is celebrated for its vibrant cultural scene, including the Museumsufer, a cluster of museums along the banks of the Main River. For those exploring the best places to visit in Germany, Frankfurt’s blend of modernity, history, and culture makes it a dynamic and fascinating destination.
Attractions & Things to Do in Frankfurt, Germany
1. Römerberg
Römerberg is Frankfurt’s picturesque old town square, surrounded by historic buildings and bustling with activity. This area has been the heart of the city for centuries and features the Römer, Frankfurt’s famous old city hall.
Location: Old Town (Altstadt), Frankfurt, Germany. Easily accessible from Frankfurt Hauptwache or Dom/Römer Station.
Scenic Spot: A historic square with half-timbered houses, the Old Town Hall (Römer), and the Fountain of Justice.
Best Time to Visit: December for the Christmas Market or spring for outdoor cafes and events.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but cobblestone streets may be difficult for strollers and wheelchairs.
Price: Free to visit.
Travel Tip: Visit during Christmas to experience one of Germany’s most beautiful Christmas markets.
2. Main Tower
Offering one of the best views over Frankfurt, the Main Tower is a 200-meter-high skyscraper with an observation deck. It provides a unique chance to see the city’s blend of modern and traditional architecture from above.
Location: Bankenviertel (Financial District), Frankfurt, Germany. Near Willy-Brandt-Platz Station.
Scenic Spot: An observation deck at 200 meters offering panoramic views of Frankfurt’s skyline.
Best Time to Visit: Just before sunset for stunning cityscape transitions from day to night.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but the height may be intimidating for those afraid of heights.
Price: €9 for adults, €6.50 for students and seniors, €5 for children under 12.
Travel Tip: Go just before sunset to witness the city transitioning from day to night.
3. Palmengarten
The Palmengarten is a large botanical garden that showcases exotic plants from around the world. With its greenhouses and outdoor gardens, it’s a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Location: Westend, Frankfurt, Germany. Near Bockenheimer Warte Station.
Scenic Spot: A botanical garden with themed greenhouses, tropical plants, and seasonal flower exhibitions.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and summer for full blooms, or during special events like concerts and light shows.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, with plenty of walking paths, playgrounds, and picnic areas.
Price: €7 for adults, €2 for children under 13.
Travel Tip: Check their schedule for special events, like concerts and flower shows, which add an extra layer of enjoyment to your visit.
4. Städel Museum
The Städel Museum, one of Germany’s most prominent art museums, houses an impressive collection of European art from the 14th century to the present.
Location: Museumsufer (Museum Embankment), Frankfurt, Germany. Near Schweizer Platz Station.
Scenic Spot: A world-renowned art museum with works by Rembrandt, Vermeer, Monet, and Picasso.
Best Time to Visit: Weekdays to avoid large crowds.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but younger children may find it less engaging.
Price: €16 for adults, €14 for students, free for children under 12.
Travel Tip: Don’t miss the contemporary art section in the garden halls, which is beautifully integrated into the landscape.
5. Goethe House and Museum
The Goethe House is where Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, Germany’s most famous writer, was born and lived until his early years. The adjacent museum displays artworks from Goethe’s time.
Location: Innenstadt (City Center), Frankfurt, Germany. Near Hauptwache Station.
Scenic Spot: The restored childhood home of Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, featuring 18th-century furniture and exhibits on his life.
Best Time to Visit: Weekdays for a quieter experience.
Suitable for All Ages: Best for history and literature enthusiasts; limited appeal for younger children.
Price: €7 for adults, €3 for students, free for children under 6.
Travel Tip: Take a guided tour to gain deeper insights into Goethe’s life and his impact on German literature.
6. Museumsufer (Museum Embankment)
Museumsufer is a unique cultural experience, with a high concentration of museums along the banks of the Main River. It includes museums like the German Film Museum, German Architecture Museum, and Museum of Applied Arts.
Location: Along the Main River, Frankfurt, Germany. Easily accessible by foot from the city center.
Scenic Spot: A cultural hotspot with over 10 museums, including the German Film Museum, Architecture Museum, and Museum of Applied Arts.
Best Time to Visit: The last Saturday of August for Museumsuferfest, when all museums stay open late with special exhibitions and performances.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, with different museums catering to various interests.
Price: €21 for a Museumsufer Ticket, which grants access to multiple museums over two days.
Travel Tip: Consider purchasing the Museumsufer ticket, which offers access to all the museums over two days.
7. Zeil Shopping Street
Zeil is Frankfurt’s premier shopping street, known for its wide range of shops, from department stores to international brands and boutiques.
Location: Innenstadt (City Center), Frankfurt, Germany. Near Hauptwache Station.
Scenic Spot: A vibrant pedestrian shopping street featuring department stores, boutiques, and the MyZeil shopping mall with its stunning glass architecture.
Best Time to Visit: Weekdays to avoid weekend shopping crowds.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but can be crowded, making it difficult for strollers.
Price: Free to explore; shopping costs vary.
Travel Tip: Don’t miss the “MyZeil” shopping center, with its impressive glass architecture and numerous retail options.
8. Frankfurt Cathedral (Kaiserdom)
The Frankfurt Cathedral, officially known as St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral, is a Gothic building with a towering spire that played an important role in German history.
Location: Domplatz, Frankfurt, Germany. Near Dom/Römer Station.
Scenic Spot: A Gothic-style cathedral with an observation tower providing views over the Old Town.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid large tourist groups.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, though the 328-step tower climb may be difficult for some visitors.
Price: Free to visit; €3 to climb the tower.
Travel Tip: Climb the tower for a panoramic view of the city, but be prepared for a narrow staircase.
9. Old Sachsenhausen
Old Sachsenhausen is a charming neighborhood known for its traditional apple wine taverns, cobblestone streets, and distinctive old-world atmosphere.
Location: South of the Main River, Frankfurt, Germany. Near Schweizer Platz Station.
Scenic Spot: A traditional German district with apple wine (Apfelwein) taverns, cobblestone streets, and historic pubs.
Best Time to Visit: Evening for the best atmosphere, especially on weekends.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes during the day, but more suited to adults in the evening due to nightlife.
Price: Free to explore; food and drink costs vary.
Travel Tip: Try the local apple wine in one of the traditional pubs and enjoy the local cuisine.
10. Senckenberg Natural History Museum
One of Europe’s largest natural history museums, the Senckenberg Museum boasts an extensive collection of dinosaur skeletons, an impressive array of taxidermied animals, and fascinating exhibits on human evolution.
Location: Bockenheim, Frankfurt, Germany. Near Bockenheimer Warte Station.
Scenic Spot: One of Europe’s largest natural history museums, featuring dinosaur skeletons, fossils, and exhibits on human evolution.
Best Time to Visit: Mornings for a quieter experience, especially on weekends.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, perfect for children and families.
Price: €12 for adults, €6 for students, €3 for children under 16.
Travel Tip: The museum is particularly great for families with children, offering many hands-on exhibits.
11. Frankfurt’s River Main Cruise
A cruise along the River Main is a relaxing way to see Frankfurt’s skyline, characterized by its striking mix of historical and modern architecture.
Location: Boarding points along the Main River, including Eiserner Steg (Iron Bridge).
Scenic Spot: A boat tour offering stunning views of Frankfurt’s skyline, historic bridges, and Museumsufer.
Best Time to Visit: Evening for the illuminated cityscape.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, with options for shorter or longer tours.
Price: €12-€20, depending on tour length and operator.
Travel Tip: Opt for an evening cruise to see the city lights reflecting beautifully on the river.
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Frankfurt, Germany: Ratings
Kid-Friendly Activities in Frankfurt: 7/10 – Frankfurt offers several family-friendly activities, including the Senckenberg Natural History Museum, which has impressive dinosaur exhibits, and the Frankfurt Zoo. Palmengarten, the botanical garden, is great for outdoor exploration. Additionally, there are numerous parks and playgrounds throughout the city, such as the Grüneburgpark.
Nightlife in Frankfurt: 8/10 – Frankfurt has a vibrant nightlife scene with a variety of bars, clubs, and live music venues. The Sachsenhausen district is known for its traditional apple wine pubs (Äppelwoi), while the Innenstadt and Bahnhofsviertel areas have trendy bars and nightclubs. The city also hosts various cultural events and festivals that add to the nightlife experience.
Sport in Frankfurt: 8/10 – Frankfurt offers excellent sports facilities and opportunities for outdoor activities. The Deutsche Bank Park (formerly Commerzbank-Arena) is home to Eintracht Frankfurt football team. The city has numerous gyms, swimming pools, and sports clubs. The Main River provides opportunities for rowing and kayaking, and there are extensive cycling and jogging paths.
Culture and Attractions in Frankfurt: 9/10 – Frankfurt is rich in cultural and historical attractions, including the Städel Museum, the Goethe House, and the Römer, the historic town hall. The city’s skyline, known for its modern skyscrapers, contrasts with historical sites. Frankfurt hosts numerous cultural events, such as the Frankfurt Book Fair and the Museumsuferfest, making it a cultural hub.
Gastronomy in Frankfurt: 8/10 – Frankfurt offers a diverse culinary scene with many restaurants serving traditional Hessian cuisine and international dishes. The city’s culinary highlights include specialties like Frankfurter sausages, Grüne Soße (green sauce), and Apfelwein (apple wine). Frankfurt has a range of dining options, from casual eateries to fine dining establishments.
Shopping in Frankfurt: 8/10 – Shopping in Frankfurt includes a mix of high-end boutiques, local artisan shops, and modern shopping centers like MyZeil and Skyline Plaza. The Zeil, one of Germany’s most famous shopping streets, offers a wide range of fashion stores, department stores, and specialty shops, making for an enjoyable shopping experience.
Prices in Frankfurt: 6/10 – Frankfurt is relatively expensive compared to other German cities, with higher prices for accommodation, dining, and shopping. However, the city offers a range of options to suit different budgets, ensuring good value for money.
Average price for a hotel night: 120 €
Cost of a lunch at a local restaurant: 15 €
Price of a beer: 4 €
Price of a coffee: 2.50 €
Beyond the City: Exploring Surroundings and Stays in Frankfurt, Germany
For those looking to explore beyond Frankfurt’s skyscrapers, top day trips near Frankfurt invite travelers to discover the varied landscapes of Hesse. The picturesque towns of Heidelberg and Mainz, along with the tranquil beauty of the Taunus mountains, offer peaceful retreats and historic explorations just a short journey from the city.
When it comes to finding the perfect place to stay, Frankfurt accommodations cover a broad spectrum, from sleek, high-rise hotels offering panoramic views of the city to boutique lodgings in the charming Sachsenhausen district, ensuring every visitor finds the ideal spot to unwind after a day of discovery.
FAQ About Things to Do in Frankfurt, Germany
What are the main attractions in Frankfurt?
Frankfurt’s main attractions include the Römerberg, the Frankfurt Cathedral, the Main Tower with its panoramic views, and the Palmengarten.
Can I explore the museum district in Frankfurt?
Yes, Frankfurt’s museum district, Museumsufer, is home to several renowned museums, including the Städel Museum, the German Film Museum, and the Museum of Applied Art.
Are there any parks or gardens in Frankfurt?
Frankfurt is rich in green spaces, with the Palmengarten, the Grüneburgpark, and the Nizza Park along the Main River offering beautiful spots for relaxation.
What shopping experiences are available in Frankfurt?
Frankfurt offers diverse shopping experiences, from the luxury boutiques on Goethestrasse to the popular Zeil shopping street and the traditional Kleinmarkthalle for local foods and goods.
Is Frankfurt a good destination for nightlife?
Definitely! Frankfurt has a vibrant nightlife with a variety of bars and clubs, especially in the Sachsenhausen district and the area around Fressgass.
Can I visit any historic sites in Frankfurt?
Yes, you can visit historic sites like the Römer, Frankfurt’s old town hall, the Goethe House, and the medieval Frankfurt Cathedral.
What are some family-friendly activities in Frankfurt?
For families, Frankfurt offers attractions like the Frankfurt Zoo, the Senckenberg Natural History Museum, and the Experimenta Science Center.
Are there any day trips I can take from Frankfurt?
Frankfurt is well-positioned for day trips, with easy access to the Rhine Valley, the historic city of Heidelberg, and the Taunus Mountains for hiking and nature experiences.
Sources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Frankfurt
https://www.getyourguide.com/frankfurt-l21/
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