Sightseeing
Frankfurt is Main, Germany is a magnificent city with many exciting things to do and sights to see. To experience this city at its best, a great place to start is by exploring its many attractions. From the iconic Romerberg Square to the area’s biggest park, there are countless opportunities to experience Frankfurt’s culture, beauty, and history.
Let us take a closer look at the main tourist attractions Frankfurt has to offer:
Go to the Top of the Main Tower
Main Tower is one of the most breathtaking sights in Germany, with an incredible 360-degree view of Frankfurt am Main. Located at 607 feet (185 meters) high, the 37-story skyscraper offers spectacular viewing options from its ObservatoryObservatory and is a must for visitors to the city. At night, visitors can experience a light show with Projections on all sides of the tower, creating a living window into Frankfurt’s skyline.
The ObservatoryObservatory offers an exclusive opportunity to take in the sprawling cityscape from one of Europe’s tallest residential towers. Inside are six different levels, including two restaurants where you can enjoy culinary treats while relaxing and taking in your surroundings. The ObservatoryObservatory also hosts cultural events annually, giving visitors an insight into Germany’s culture and activities. You’ll find:
- Galleries
- Charming souvenir shops
- Educational gamification spaces with interactive exhibits will keep kids entertained while adults admire the views only Main Tower can offer.
Visit the Historic Römerberg Square
The historic Römerberg Square in the center of Frankfurt Main is a must-visit when sightseeing in the city. Located between two pedestrian shopping streets, it provides visitors direct access to many sights, including the Old Town Hall and Historisches Museum. The square has a long and varied history that dates back to 1250 AD when it was first created as a central marketplace for city merchants.
The area follows an irregular pattern of narrow courts, tiny passageways, and arcades, with old-style buildings constructed in many different architectural styles from the Middle Ages onwards. This eclectic mix is part of what makes the square so special and unique. A prominent landmark in Römerberg Square is the fountain “Grosse Wasserkunst,” which stands in one corner and has been there since 1608.
The traditional layout of Römerberg Square was almost destroyed by Allied bombing during World War II. After reconstruction was completed in 1957, much of its historical charm was restored, with authentic design details added to bring back its former glory. There are now several exquisite cafes, restaurants, and shops around the square to explore while enjoying its beautiful atmosphere. Visitors can also learn more about Frankfurt’s diverse history at Deutsches Architekturmuseum, within walking distance of the yard.
Explore the Museumsufer Area
The Museumsufer area of Frankfurt am Main is a must-see for sightseers. Here, a strip of road along the banks of the River Main is lined with 12 top-notch museums, all within walking distance. From contemporary paintings to ancient artifacts, impressive architectural sites, and interactive educational centers, this vibrant town has something to please all ages and interests.
These 12 fantastic museums form part of Frankfurt’s Live Culture Mile:
- Städel Museum: The main focus here is on European art from 1300 to the present day, with more than 4000 graphics, 715 paintings, and over 17000 art photographs on display, including masterpieces by Leibl, Cézanne, Renoir, and many others. There are also magical temporary exhibitions throughout the year.
- Museum Giersch der Schirn Kunsthalle: This museum displays recent works by internationally recognized contemporary artists such as Gerhard Richter, Jenny Holzer, and Sarah Morris alongside traditional pieces from antiquity through modernity. It houses one of Germany’s most acclaimed collections of 20th-century art.
- Jüdisches Museum Frankfurt: An illuminating experience into Jewish history and culture in Germany from early up until now using galleries full of fascinating multimedia presentations, precious artifacts, and interactive installations focused primarily on German Jewry and its integration into society throughout the years.
- FESPA – Forum for European Photography Archive & Study Centre: An enormous collection focusing mainly on photography before 1990 featuring photographic collections by well-known expressionists like Peter Keetmann or Heinz Hajek-Halke plus exceptional archives with prints from fashion magazines such as Elle or Vogue between 1949 – 1975.
And many more amazing cultural attractions! Explore this vibrant destination where art meets nature – you will have a memorable time!
Shopping
Whether you’re looking for souvenirs, designer labels, or antiques, shopping in Frankfurt am Main is unparalleled. From the bustling Market Hall and the Kaiserstrasse to boutique stores and flea markets, the city has something for everyone who loves shopping.
In this article, we’ll explain what the best shopping centers and markets in Frankfurt are Main are:
Go to the Zeil Shopping District
The Zeil Shopping District in Frankfurt am Main, Germany is a large, vibrant shopping area with many stores and attractions. With more than 250 shops in one district, the Zeil is the perfect spot for looking for everything from clothing to souvenirs and food.
This busy shopping district offers high-street stores specializing in fashion, from shoes to trendy streetwear to boutique boutiques with cutting-edge clothes and accessories. It also contains a variety of department stores, such as Galeria Kaufhof and Karstadt, where you can find anything from jewelry to homeware at bargain prices. Furthermore, the district’s side streets have some great small independent stores, ideal if you are looking for something unique or made locally.
If you’re feeling peckish during your shop, plenty of cafes, bars, and restaurants throughout the district offer cuisine worldwide. Complete your shopping trip with a visit to one of its cinemas or take in a show at one of its theatres afterward. For those brave enough to shop until their feet hurt, the Zeil district will fulfill all your shopping needs!
Visit the Skyline Plaza Mall
The SKYLINE PLAZA Mall offers visitors the chance to shop at over 100 stores of all types, with prices to suit all budgets. There is something for everyone here, from designer brands such as Ermenegildo Zegna and Paul Smith to the trendsetting Fielmann optician loft.
The shopping mall also boasts a large department store, supermarket, and other shops. Visitors can also take advantage of the drinking opportunities in Skyline Plaza – with coffee bars, restaurants, cafés, and fast-food kiosks – before or after a day’s shopping. The mall hosts various events throughout the year and offers free parking for up to three hours. Regular buses run directly to the Skyline Plaza Mall from central Frankfurt, making it easily accessible from any part of the city – an ideal place to relax while enjoying the local culture.
Explore the Kleinmarkthalle Market
Since 1876, the Kleinmarkthalle market in central Frankfurt has provided locals and visitors with a unique shopping experience. The market is full of stalls where vendors offer a variety of merchandise, from fresh produce to international delicacies, making it easy to find something for everyone. With over 130 booths in three interconnected halls, this lively market will tantalize your taste buds and fulfill any shopping needs.
Kleinmarkthalle offers visitors an excellent opportunity to sample some local flavors – traditional German sausages or the more adventurous African dishes. Choose from various restaurants ranging from Indian curry havens to Chinese dim sum spots; you’ll be amazed by all the multicultural options available here. From May to October, you can also enjoy an outdoor Biergarten and visit special events such as art markets and children’s days!
Food & Drink
Frankfurt Main is a great destination for food and drink enthusiasts. You can explore the city’s rich culinary scene and enjoy a range of traditional German dishes and international cuisine. From traditional taverns to innovative restaurants, you can find something to satisfy your appetite while in Frankfurt am Main.
Let’s take a look at some of the best places to eat and drink in the city:
Try the Local Apfelwein
Frankfurt am Main is home to various food and drink experiences that you won’t want to miss. Apfelwein (or “Apple Wine“) is a delicious local favorite. Apfelwein is a tart, bubbly drink made from apple juice, yeast, and sugar. It has a bright appearance, with a sweet and acidic taste that makes it incredibly refreshing.
This centuries-old beverage has been crafted in Frankfurt am Main since the early 1300s, evolving to its current form. If you’re looking for an authentic taste of Frankfurt am Main’s culture, trying Apfelwein is essential. You’ll find it on menus all over town in restaurants and pubs as well as in specialty shops and farmers’ markets – no trip to Frankfurt am Main would be complete without sampling this unique local tipple!
Though variations are available with other ingredients such as flavorings or herbs, the traditional Apfelwein uses only four simple ingredients for its preparation: apple juice, yeast, water, and sugar. The production process involves grinding apples into a mash before pressing them for juice that has been boiled down before mixing with the other ingredients. After letting it ferment for 12 – 14 days, it gets bottled up and ready for serving – chilled or mixed with sparkling water (known locally as apfelschorle).
Once you’ve tried this delicious specialty, why not come home carrying some lovely bottles of Apfelwein? It makes a great gift that will bring back fond memories of your time spent in beautiful Frankfurt am Main!
Sample the Local Sausages
Frankfurt am Main, Germany, is famous for its local sausages, and a trip to this fantastic destination wouldn’t be complete without sampling them. Traditional German sausages, such as frankfurters, bratwursts, bockwursts, and knackwursts, are part of the culinary heritage of Frankfurt and are offered at both modern eateries and traditional restaurants.
When eating out in Frankfurt am Main, ask the server which sausage they recommend or look for a dish showcasing all four types. You can also visit a “Wurst” market offering numerous varieties – from long pork buffalowurst to pork-vorst and kippchen bruschetta.
But beware, if you don’t know which sausage you like best, then it’s advisable not to sample several different types – what may sound delicious could easily become overwhelming once tested together! So take your time when ordering such dishes at the local eateries, and be sure to explore all that Frankfurt has to offer regarding its famous sausages.
Enjoy the Local Cheeses
Frankfurt am Main, Germany has a vibrant culinary scene. Something is here to satisfy your appetite for traditional German-style cuisine or international fare. One of the area’s specialties is its local cheeses – renowned domestically and abroad.
If you go to the local markets and shop from smaller vendors, you’ll have the opportunity to sample some of the best cheeses this region offers. Some of these unique varieties include:
- Weizenkase is an aged cheese made from raw goat’s milk with a sweet taste.
- Handkäse is an unusual cheese usually made with sour cream and herbs.
- Konditorkochschnittkäse is a soft-ripened cheese with a delicate tangy pepper crust.
- Ziegenprivatkäse, a milder version of its more intense cousin Weizenkase.
Beyond the traditional delights found in the markets and shops of Frankfurt am Main, there are several exceptional restaurants where you can enjoy these local cheeses in all their glory. Many restaurants include unique dishes with one or two types of locally-sourced cheese as part of their menu items – anything from omelets and quiches to dessert menus like creamy cheesecakes or ice cream desserts! Finally, don’t forget to sample various beers or wines to complete your experience – Frankfurt am Main is known for its excellent selection!
Culture & Entertainment
Frankfurt am Main, Germany, is a major city full of culture and entertainment. From delicious German cuisine to stunning historical monuments, there is something for everyone! So whether you want a night out on the town or cultural enrichment, Frankfurt has you covered.
Let’s dive into some of the amazing things to do in Frankfurt am Main:
Catch a Show at the Alte Oper
The Alte Oper (Old Opera House) in Frankfurt am Main is one of Germany’s most illustrious musical and cultural venues. It is located in the heart of the city, and it was built in 1880 to be a center for pedestrian flow, leisure activities, and entertainment. Over the years, the building has become an iconic landmark known for its architectural grandeur and exciting program.
Opera enthusiasts flock to see performances such as The Magic Flute and other favorites like Don Giovanni or La Traviata on the grand main stage. Enjoy the beauty of a classic ballet performance or witness modern dance works at new productions crafted by some of Europe’s most talented choreographers. There are also more light-hearted musical events, like concerts by local bands and jazz combos from around Germany, that fill up this vast hall with beautiful melodies spanning many genres.
No matter what kind of entertainment it is, visitors are guaranteed a fantastic experience living up to their expectations when they catch a show at the Alte Oper. In addition to numerous bars and restaurants inside the building, there is also a museum for those that want to learn more about its rich history. So make sure to come early enough to enjoy all this fantastic venue has to offer before putting on your best evening attire – you will surely make lasting memories here at Frankfurt’s finest opera house!
Visit the Städel Museum
The Städel Museum in Frankfurt, Germany, is one of Europe’s most renowned art museums. Here you will find a vast collection of European artwork dating back to the Middle Ages and up to the present. The museum’s extensive permanent collection features paintings from great masters such as Rembrandt, Rubens, Monet, and Cezanne, in addition to sculptures and drawings.
Visitors can also explore a wide range of temporary exhibitions featuring works by contemporary artists worldwide. Located close to the city center and with easy access by local public transportation, visiting the Städel Museum is an ideal way to spend an afternoon. The museum also offers educational events for adults and children alike, such as:
- Tours
- Talks
- Workshops
Which are suitable for all age groups.
Take a Tour of the Frankfurt Cathedral
The Frankfurt Cathedral (or the Mainz Cathedral) is a beautiful Gothic cathedral in Frankfurt am Main, Germany. It is one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks and offers a great view of Frankfurt from its tower. Dating back to 1260, it is the region’s largest Protestant church and contains many works of art and several tombs from old German kings. The cathedral also features unique attractions such as guided tours, organ recitals, and much jazz music.
Visitors to the Frankfurt Cathedral should take advantage of the self-guided tour, which provides information about all the fascinating artifacts. This tour begins with exploring the main stairs leading up to St Bartholomew’s ambulatory chapel at the end of a central corridor. Here you can admire some beautiful artwork, such as bronze figures, bible scenes etched in stone, and angel sculptures. As you continue into St Bartholomew’s Chapel, you’ll find yourself among an impressive collection of stained glass windows that glow brightly with sunlight during the day or are lit up for nighttime visits.
To get even close to these stunning works of art and history, guests can participate in guided tours led by knowledgeable staff members for an extra fee. So, after taking a tour through this grand place of worship, why not head outside to see stunning views from atop its 123-meter-high tower or visit Sankt Leonhard Church – another charming house of prayer located just southeast of Kaiserstraße? With plenty to do both inside and out – you won’t be disappointed when planning your visit here!
Outdoor Activities
Frankfurt am Main enjoys a pleasant climate for most of the year, so it’s the perfect place to enjoy outdoor activities and explore the city. From hikes in the nearby hills to boat cruises on the Main River, there is an array of activities to choose from.
In this section, we will cover a few of the most popular outdoor activities that you can do in Frankfurt am Main:
Go for a Walk in the Palmengarten
Located in the city center of Frankfurt am Main, the Palmengarten is an enchanting botanical garden with various plant life and outdoor sculptures. After an afternoon stroll through Palmengarten’s luscious greenery, enjoy its serene atmosphere.
The main attraction at the Palmengarten is its diverse collection of palms and other tropical plants, which makes it one of the top places to escape from your everyday hustle and bustle. However, for those who prefer a more active route, there are activities like boat rentals or exploring hidden tracks in the surrounding park.
Whether you are just strolling through or having a picnic with family and friends, this beautiful oasis is worth a visit on your German vacation.
Visit the Grüneburgpark
Grüneburgpark is one of the largest parks in Frankfurt, located in Westend. This 13-hectare park has a large English-style garden and an extensive sports field with a community-run outdoor swimming pool and tennis courts.
The park is excellent for those looking for a quiet escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with plenty of opportunities to relax or explore. One popular spot is the rose garden, where you can admire more than 50 varieties of beautiful roses in colorful bloom throughout the year. There are also several ponds, meadows, and forests, as well as numerous trails that offer miles worth of walking and hiking routes perfect for those wanting to explore nature at its best. The park also offers activities like picnic areas, playgrounds, and pony rides for younger visitors.
At night you can book Segway tours through the illuminated pathways or take part in events such as weekly open-air movie screenings (Sommerkino) on Thursdays during summer months or large musical concerts held on Sundays throughout June until August, which attract thousands of visitors each year. Grüneburgpark provides ample fun for all ages – whether you’re looking for a romantic stroll or an energized day out!
Take a Boat Ride on the Main River
Glide past beautiful sights and take in the best of what Frankfurt am Main offers with a boat ride on the Main River. From the Landungsbrücke area, you can hop on a sightseeing tour or invest in your day cruise for up to 58 people. On the other hand, you could enjoy a romantic evening river cruise, or if you prefer more pace, why not try one of the tremendous hourly speedboat rides?
In addition to traditional sightseeing boats, you can also hire pedal boats and rowing boats. It is a great way to explore the local area with family or friends and marvel at charming attractions like Romerberg Square as you travel along the river. Whatever boat ride suits your mood and budget, it’s sure to be an enjoyable adventure filled with memories of Frankfurt am Main!