Frankfurt Germany
Frankfurt Travel Guide
Welcome to Frankfurt, the financial hub of Germany! This vibrant city is a treasure trove of history, culture, and entertainment. As a traveler, you’ll find plenty to explore in this bustling metropolis.
Places to Visit
- Römer: The iconic Römer building is a must-visit attraction in Frankfurt. This 15th-century town hall is a stunning example of Gothic architecture and has been the seat of local government since the Middle Ages.
- Stadtschloss: Located in the heart of the city, Stadtschloss (City Castle) was once the residence of the Archbishop of Mainz. Today, it houses several museums and exhibition spaces.
- Frankfurt Cathedral (Dom St. Bartholomäus): This majestic cathedral is one of Germany’s most impressive Gothic churches. Take a guided tour to learn about its history and admire the stunning architecture.
- Senckenberg Museum: As one of Europe’s largest natural history museums, Senckenberg offers an incredible collection of fossils, minerals, and taxidermied animals.
- Festhalle: This massive convention center is home to numerous trade fairs and events throughout the year. Even if you’re not attending a specific event, it’s worth visiting for its impressive architecture.
Activities
- Take a stroll along the Main River: Frankfurt’s picturesque riverbank offers beautiful views of the city skyline. Take a leisurely walk or rent a boat to explore the waterway.
- Visit the Palmengarten: This tranquil oasis is one of Europe’s largest botanical gardens, featuring over 12 hectares of tropical plants and a stunning glasshouse.
- Explore the Sachsenhausen neighborhood: This historic district is known for its charming streets, quaint shops, and traditional German pubs.
- Attend a trade fair or exhibition: Frankfurt hosts numerous trade fairs and events throughout the year, showcasing everything from fashion to technology.
- Take in a performance at the Alte Oper: This stunning concert hall offers an impressive program of classical music, opera, and theater productions.
Where to Eat
- Café Schott: This cozy café serves delicious coffee, cakes, and pastries in a charming atmosphere.
- Restaurant Höhne’s: This family-run restaurant specializes in traditional German cuisine with a focus on local ingredients and seasonal dishes.
- Frankfurter Bierfassl: For a taste of authentic Frankfurt beer culture, head to this bustling brewery and enjoy their signature beer along with delicious pub grub.
- Krug & Co: This stylish restaurant offers an innovative menu featuring modern German cuisine with international influences.
- Stadtschloss Restaurant: Located within the city castle, this restaurant serves up traditional Hessian dishes in a stunning setting.
Where to Stay
- Hotel Adina: This luxurious hotel is situated near the Hauptbahnhof (main train station) and offers stylish rooms, a fitness center, and a rooftop bar with stunning views.
- Steigenberger Frankfurter Hof: This 5-star hotel has been welcoming guests since 1897 and features elegant rooms, a spa, and an upscale restaurant.
- Hotel Europa Style Frankfurt: For a more budget-friendly option, this cozy hotel offers clean and comfortable rooms, a 24-hour reception, and a tasty breakfast buffet.
- Ibis Frankfurt Centrum: This modern hotel is located in the heart of the city and features compact but comfortable rooms, a fitness center, and a friendly staff.
- Hostel 9: For backpackers and travelers on a tight budget, this stylish hostel offers dorms, private rooms, and a cozy lounge area.
Transportation
- Frankfurt Hauptbahnhof (Main Train Station): As one of Germany’s largest train stations, Frankfurt Hauptbahnhof offers convenient connections to major cities across Europe.
- S-Bahn and Regionalbahn trains: The S-Bahn network connects the city center with surrounding neighborhoods and suburbs, while Regionalbahn trains link Frankfurt to neighboring towns and cities.
- U-Bahn (Metro): Frankfurt’s U-Bahn system consists of two lines (U1 and U2) that cover much of the city, making it easy to get around without a car.
- Bus network: A comprehensive bus network connects all areas of the city, including many suburbs and surrounding towns.
Tips and Essentials
- Learn some basic German phrases: While many locals speak English, learning a few basic phrases like “Hallo” (hello), “Danke” (thank you), and “Auf Wiedersehen” (goodbye) will go a long way in showing respect for the local culture.
- Purchase a Frankfurt Card: This card grants access to many of the city’s attractions, public transportation, and discounts at participating shops and restaurants.
- Respect local customs: Frankfurt is a bustling metropolis with its own unique atmosphere. Be mindful of local customs, especially when visiting churches or other places of worship.
- Stay hydrated and energized: Frankfurt’s climate can be quite hot during the summer months, so be sure to drink plenty of water and snack on healthy treats throughout the day.
- Explore beyond the city center: While the city center has much to offer, don’t forget to explore other neighborhoods like Sachsenhausen and Nordend for a more authentic experience.
Safety
- Be aware of pickpocketing: As with any crowded tourist destination, be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas like train stations or popular attractions.
- Follow local advice: If you’re unsure about something or notice suspicious activity, don’t hesitate to ask locals for guidance or report it to the authorities.
- Keep valuables secure: Make sure to keep your valuables safe and secure when exploring the city, especially in crowded areas.
Events and Festivals
- Frankfurt Christmas Market (Weihnachtsmarkt): One of Germany’s largest and most famous Christmas markets takes place in Frankfurt every year.
- Frankfurter Frühling (Spring Festival): This lively festival celebrates the arrival of spring with live music, food stalls, and cultural events.
- Frankfurt Pride (Festumzug): Join the city’s LGBTQ+ community for a colorful parade through the streets of Frankfurt.
Weather
- Summer: Expect warm temperatures during the summer months (June to August), with average highs around 22°C (72°F).
- Autumn: Autumn brings mild temperatures and fewer crowds, making it an ideal time to explore the city (September to November).
- Winter: Frankfurt can be quite chilly in winter, with average lows around -1°C (30°F). Be sure to pack warm clothing for your visit.
- Spring: Spring is a lovely time to visit Frankfurt, with mild temperatures and blooming flowers (March to May).
Enjoy your time in Frankfurt!