Best Time to Visit
April to October
Currency
Euro (€)
Language
German
Timezone
CET (UTC+1)
Discover Frankfurt
Frankfurt am Main, Germany's financial powerhouse, presents a captivating duality that few European cities can match. Gaze upward from the cobblestones of Römerberg square and you'll see the continent's most dramatic skyline, where the sleek Main Tower and Commerzbank Tower pierce the sky. Yet just steps away, the meticulously reconstructed half-timbered houses of the Altstadt (Old Town) transport you to a pre-war era, creating a striking visual dialogue between past and future that defines the city's unique character.
This contrast extends beyond architecture into daily life. Business travelers in sharp suits share apple wine taverns in Sachsenhausen with locals enjoying traditional Grüne Soße (green sauce). World-class institutions like the Städel Museum, housing seven centuries of European art, sit alongside the bustling Kleinmarkthalle food market where vendors have served Frankfurters for generations. The city isn't just a transit hub—it's a living museum of German history, finance, and culinary tradition compressed into one remarkably walkable metropolis along the Main River.
Why Visit Frankfurt?
Experience Europe's most dramatic architectural contrast—medieval Römerberg square literally in the shadow of skyscrapers like the Main Tower, whose observation deck offers unparalleled 360° views.
Immerse yourself in world-class museums along the Museumsufer (Museum Embankment), including the Städel's masterpieces and the German Film Museum, all within walking distance.
Discover authentic Apfelwein (apple wine) culture in Sachsenhausen's traditional taverns like Zum Gemalten Haus, where locals gather around communal tables with ribbed glasses.
Explore Germany's financial heart at the European Central Bank and Frankfurt Stock Exchange, then unwind in the sprawling Palmengarten botanical gardens.
Indulge in unique Frankfurt specialties from Handkäse mit Musik (sour milk cheese with onions) to Bethmännchen marzipan pastries at the historic Kleinmarkthalle.
Use Frankfurt's exceptional transport hub as a gateway to day trips including medieval Heidelberg, Rhine Valley castles, and the automotive history of Rüsselsheim.
Frankfurt is Known For
Ready to explore Frankfurt?
Frankfurt Neighborhoods
Altstadt (Old Town)
The meticulously reconstructed historic heart of Frankfurt, centered around Römerberg square. This compact area features the city's most iconic landmarks, including the Imperial Cathedral and Goethe's birthplace, with cobblestone streets lined with traditional shops and cafes.
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Sachsenhausen
Located south of the Main River, this charming district is famous for its traditional Apfelwein (apple wine) taverns and narrow, winding streets. By day it's a quiet residential area; by night it transforms into Frankfurt's most authentic drinking and dining destination.
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Bahnhofsviertel
The bustling area around Frankfurt's main train station that has undergone dramatic transformation. Once known for its red-light district, it now boasts some of the city's best international restaurants, trendy bars, and innovative galleries alongside its historic architecture.
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Westend
Frankfurt's most elegant and expensive residential district, characterized by beautiful 19th-century villas, embassies, and quiet, tree-lined streets. This neighborhood offers a peaceful retreat from the city center while being walking distance to major attractions.
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Top Attractions
Local Tips & Insider Knowledge
- •Visit the Main Tower observation deck on a clear weekday morning—you'll avoid crowds and get the best photos of the skyline without reflections.
- •When ordering Apfelwein, ask for 'Sauergespritzer' (mixed with sparkling water) if you find the traditional version too tart—locals won't judge.
- •Get the Frankfurt Card for unlimited public transport and up to 50% discounts at museums, attractions, and guided tours.
- •Sunday mornings are for flea markets—the best are along the Main River in Sachsenhausen and at the Osthafen.
- •Skip the expensive river cruises and take public ferry line FFM 16 from Eiserner Steg to Griesheim for the same views at a fraction of the cost.
- •The best view of the skyline is from the south bank of the Main River between Eiserner Steg and Friedensbrücke bridges at sunset.
- •Many museums along the Museumsufer offer free admission on the last Saturday of the month—plan accordingly.
- •Try Grüne Soße (green sauce) at a traditional restaurant during spring when the seven fresh herbs are at their peak.
- •Use the RMV app for seamless public transport planning and ticket purchases—it's more convenient than ticket machines.
- •Visit the Kleinmarkthalle food market around 11am on weekdays to avoid the lunch rush and have better conversations with vendors.
Frankfurt Food Scene
Frankfurt's culinary identity balances hearty Hessian traditions with international sophistication befitting a global financial hub. The city is defined by its Apfelwein tavern culture in Sachsenhausen and specialties like Grüne Soße (green sauce) made with seven fresh herbs. From traditional apple wine pubs to Michelin-starred restaurants, Frankfurt offers surprising depth beyond its financial reputation.
Must-Try Dishes
Traditional Apfelwein Taverns
- • Zum Gemalten Haus (Affentorplatz 4)
- • Apfelwein Wagner (Schweizer Straße 71)
- • Dauth-Schneider (Neuer Wall 5)
Look for a 'Bembel' (blue-grey jug) on the sign—this indicates a traditional apple wine tavern.
Market Hall Dining
- • Kleinmarkthalle (Hasengasse 7)
- • Metropolitan (fresh oysters)
- • Gref-Völsings (butcher for sausages)
Go between 11am-2pm on weekdays for the liveliest atmosphere and freshest selections.
International Fine Dining
- • Seven Swans (vegetarian Michelin star)
- • Franziska (creative German cuisine)
- • Emma Metzler (Mediterranean-inspired)
Book at least 2-3 weeks in advance for Michelin-starred restaurants, especially on weekends.
Street Food & Casual
- • Best Worscht in Town (currywurst)
- • Frittenwerk (Belgian fries)
- • Muku (Japanese ramen at Markt Halle)
The Bahnhofsviertel area has the highest concentration of diverse, affordable international street food.
Popular With
Best Time to Visit Frankfurt
Spring
Spring brings blooming flowers to Palmengarten and the return of outdoor dining. Temperatures range from 10-18°C, perfect for exploring the city on foot.
Pros:
- + Perfect weather for walking tours
- + Grüne Soße season begins with fresh herbs
- + Fewer tourists than summer
Cons:
- - Unpredictable rain showers
- - Cooler evenings require layers
Summer
Warm, sunny days averaging 25°C make summer ideal for riverfront activities and beer gardens. The city comes alive with festivals and outdoor events.
Pros:
- + Long daylight hours for sightseeing
- + Museumsuferfest and other festivals
- + Perfect for Main River picnics
Cons:
- - Peak tourist crowds
- - Some restaurants close for summer holidays
Autumn
Crisp air and golden foliage create a picturesque atmosphere. Temperatures range from 8-15°C, ideal for museum visits and cozy tavern evenings.
Pros:
- + Beautiful fall colors in parks
- + Frankfurt Book Fair in October
- + Apple harvest for fresh Apfelwein
Cons:
- - Increasing rain in November
- - Shorter daylight hours
Winter
Cold temperatures around 3°C and potential snow transform Römerberg into a magical Christmas market setting from late November.
Pros:
- + Frankfurt Christmas Market (one of Germany's largest)
- + Cozy Apfelwein tavern atmosphere
- + Fewer crowds at museums
Cons:
- - Short daylight hours (4pm sunset)
- - Can be damp and chilly
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Day Trips from Frankfurt
Heidelberg
55 min by direct train from Frankfurt Hauptbahnhof
Germany's romantic university town features a stunning hilltop castle overlooking the Neckar River and Europe's longest pedestrian zone. The picturesque Altstadt (Old Town) with its Baroque buildings and the famous Philosophers' Walk offer perfect photo opportunities.
Rhine Valley (Rüdesheim)
1 hour 10 min by train from Frankfurt
Experience the UNESCO World Heritage Rhine Gorge with its legendary castles, vineyards, and charming wine villages. Take a scenic river cruise between Rüdesheim and St. Goar to see Loreley Rock and numerous hilltop fortresses.
Mainz
40 min by S-Bahn from Frankfurt
The capital of Rhineland-Palatinate boasts 2000 years of history as a Roman fortress and Gutenberg's printing press birthplace. The magnificent Mainz Cathedral and the Gutenberg Museum showcase the city's rich cultural heritage.
Frankfurt Budget Guide
Frankfurt is one of Germany's more expensive cities due to its financial sector, but careful planning can make it accessible. Accommodation represents the largest expense, particularly during trade fairs when prices can triple.
Budget
€60-90 for budget travelers (hostel, street food, free attractions)
per day
Mid-Range
€120-200 for mid-range (3-star hotel, restaurant meals, museum entries)
per day
Luxury
€300+ for luxury (5-star hotel, fine dining, private tours)
per day
Money-Saving Tips
- •Avoid hotels during major trade fairs (especially IAA, Book Fair, Ambiente)—prices skyrocket
- •The Frankfurt Card pays for itself with just 2-3 museum visits plus transport
- •Many museums offer reduced admission after 4pm or on specific days
- •Eat lunch at department store food courts like Galeria Kaufhof for good value
- •Stay in neighborhoods like Bornheim or Nordend for better value than city center
Frankfurt Hidden Gems
Hühnermarkt
A tiny, picturesque square in the Altstadt that most tourists miss, surrounded by beautifully restored half-timbered houses.
It offers the perfect medieval atmosphere without the crowds of Römerberg, especially beautiful in the early morning light.
Nizza Park
A Mediterranean-style garden along the Main River with exotic plants, palm trees, and a promenade.
This unexpected subtropical oasis feels like a mini-vacation to the Mediterranean right in the city center.
Goethe's Garden House
The poet's small retreat in the Park an der Ilm, where he wrote some of his most famous works.
Far less crowded than his birthplace museum, it offers intimate insight into Goethe's creative process in a peaceful setting.
Dialog Museum
An exhibition in complete darkness where visually impaired guides lead visitors through simulated everyday situations.
This unique sensory experience changes perspectives on disability and perception in ways no traditional museum can.
Berger Straße Farmers Market
A local Saturday market stretching over a kilometer through the Bornheim district.
Authentic local experience with regional producers, far from tourist crowds, offering the best seasonal produce and street food.
Frankfurt Culture & Customs
Frankfurt culture blends Hessian traditions with international influences from its global business community. Punctuality and efficiency are valued, but the Apfelwein tavern culture shows a more relaxed, communal side. The city takes pride in both its financial importance and its cultural institutions, with residents often describing Frankfurt as 'klein aber fein' (small but fine).
Cultural Etiquette
- •Arrive punctually for appointments and reservations
- •Say 'Prost' before drinking Apfelwein and maintain eye contact
- •Separate waste recycling is taken seriously—use correct bins
- •Keep voices moderate in restaurants and public transport
- •Remove shoes when entering German homes unless told otherwise
Useful Phrases
Frequently Asked Questions about Frankfurt
Is Frankfurt worth visiting or just a business city?
Absolutely worth visiting! While it's Germany's financial capital, Frankfurt offers a unique blend of medieval Altstadt, world-class museums along the Museumsufer, authentic Apfelwein tavern culture in Sachsenhausen, and Europe's most dramatic skyline. The compact city center makes it perfect for a 2-3 day cultural getaway.
How many days do I need in Frankfurt?
2-3 full days is ideal. Spend one day exploring the Altstadt and skyline, another on the Museumsufer and Sachsenhausen, and a third for day trips or deeper exploration. The city is compact enough that you can see major highlights in 48 hours if pressed for time.
What's the best way to experience Apfelwein culture?
Head to Sachsenhausen's traditional taverns like Zum Gemalten Haus or Apfelwein Wagner. Order a 'Bembel' (jug) of Apfelwein with Handkäse mit Musik and Rippchen mit Kraut. Go in the evening when locals gather—the communal tables and ribbed glasses create an authentic experience.
Is the Frankfurt Card worth it?
Yes, if you plan to visit multiple museums and use public transport. The 1-day card (€12.50) includes unlimited transport and 50% off at 28 museums. With museum entry averaging €10-15 each, it pays for itself after 2-3 visits plus your transport costs.
When should I avoid visiting Frankfurt?
Avoid major trade fair periods unless attending them, as hotel prices triple and the city is extremely crowded. The biggest fairs are IAA (automotive, September), Frankfurt Book Fair (October), and Ambiente (consumer goods, February). Check the Messe Frankfurt calendar before booking.
Can I drink tap water in Frankfurt?
Yes, Frankfurt's tap water is of excellent quality and safe to drink. In fact, it's some of Germany's best—coming from the Spessart and Vogelsberg mountain regions. Restaurants must provide tap water if requested, though they may charge a small service fee for the glass.
What's the best view of the Frankfurt skyline?
The Main Tower observation deck (€9) offers the highest 360° view. For free alternatives, cross the Eiserner Steg footbridge to the south bank of the Main River—the view back toward the skyscrapers is spectacular, especially at sunset. The rooftop bar at 25hours Hotel also offers great views with a drink.
How do I get from Frankfurt Airport to the city center?
Take S-Bahn lines S8 or S9 directly from Terminal 1—it's a 15-minute ride to Hauptbahnhof (main station) for €5.30. Trains run every 15 minutes. Taxis cost €30-40. If arriving at Terminal 2, use the free SkyLine people mover to reach Terminal 1 for the S-Bahn.
Frankfurt Itineraries
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