Frankfurt Travel Guide (Rhine-Main/Hesse/Germany/Central Europe/Europe)

Introduction to Frankfurt
List of Places to Visit in Frankfurt
- Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- Natural Attractions of Frankfurt: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
Hiking/Biking Routes of Frankfurt
Best Things to Do in Frankfurt: Activities and Tours
Week-Long Itinerary for Frankfurt
Food and Drink Scene of Frankfurt
- Must-Try Dishes
- Local Beverages
Where to Stay in Frankfurt: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
What to Buy in Frankfurt: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Local Culture and Customs of Frankfurt
Best Time to Visit Frankfurt
Do’s and Don’ts of Frankfurt
- Do:
- Don’t:
Safety and Health
- Safety in Frankfurt
- Health in Frankfurt
Getting to Frankfurt: Transportation Options and Logistics
How to Get Around in Frankfurt
Where to Go Next from Frankfurt: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
Conclusion

Introduction to Frankfurt

Frankfurt, located in the Rhine-Main area of Hesse, is a vibrant and modern city that has something to offer everyone. Its impressive skyline of sleek, towering buildings has earned it the nickname “Mainhattan,” and it’s a global hub for commerce, finance, and transportation. But Frankfurt is much more than a business destination - it’s also a city steeped in history and culture, with world-class museums, stunning architecture, and delicious food and drink.

Whether you’re interested in exploring Frankfurt’s past or enjoying its modern attractions, this comprehensive travel guide has everything you need to plan your trip.

List of Places to Visit in Frankfurt

There is no shortage of things to see and do in Frankfurt, and tourists can easily spend several days exploring the city’s top attractions. Here are some of the must-visit places in Frankfurt:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Städel Museum: One of Germany’s most important art museums, the Städel Museum has a collection of more than 3,000 paintings, 600 sculptures, and 4,000 photographs.
Frankfurt Cathedral: A stunning Gothic cathedral dating back to the 14th century, located in the heart of the city.
Historical Museum Frankfurt: This museum showcases the history of Frankfurt, from its medieval beginnings to its role as a major European financial center.
Goethe House: The birthplace of famed German writer Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, this house has been preserved as a museum and is now open to the public.
Römerberg: The central square of Frankfurt’s old town, the Römerberg is home to the city’s most iconic buildings, including the Römer, a beautiful medieval building that has been used for centuries as a town hall.

Natural Attractions of Frankfurt: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Palmengarten: A beautifully landscaped botanical garden featuring thousands of plants from all around the world.
Main Tower: The city’s second-tallest building, with a viewing platform at the top that offers spectacular views over Frankfurt and the surrounding countryside.
Frankfurt Zoo: One of the oldest zoos in Germany, the Frankfurt Zoo is home to over 4,500 animals representing 510 different species.
Nidda Valley: A picturesque valley north of Frankfurt that’s perfect for hiking and biking, with a network of well-marked trails.
Main River: A major waterway that runs through the heart of Frankfurt, the Main offers opportunities for boat tours, jogging, and cycling along its banks.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Frankfurt

Frankfurt is a great place for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of hiking and biking trails to explore. Here are some of our top picks:

Frankfurt Green Belt: A network of connected parks and green spaces that encircle the city, with over 100 km of hiking and cycling trails.
Rheinsteig Trail: This picturesque trail along the Rhine River offers stunning views of the surrounding vineyards and forests.
Limes Trail: A historic trail tracing the path of the ancient Roman Limes border fortifications, with interesting ruins and information panels along the way.

Best Things to Do in Frankfurt: Activities and Tours

In addition to the city’s top attractions, there are plenty of activities and tours that will help you get the most out of your visit to Frankfurt. Here are some options to consider:

Frankfurt by Bike: A guided bike tour of the city that takes you through the most interesting neighborhoods and landmarks, including the Main River and the city’s many museums.
Frankfurt Food Tour: A walking tour of the city’s culinary scene, with stops at local markets, bakeries, and restaurants to sample traditional German dishes.
Frankfurt Nightlife Tour: A guided pub crawl through the city’s best bars and clubs, featuring local beer and live music.
Rhine River Cruise: A leisurely boat tour through the scenic Rhine Valley, with stops at charming historic towns and picturesque vineyards.

Week-Long Itinerary for Frankfurt

If you’re planning to spend a week in Frankfurt, here’s an itinerary that will help you make the most of your time:

Day	Activity
1	Explore the city’s top museums, including the Städel Museum and the Historical Museum Frankfurt
2	Take a walking tour of the city’s old town, with stops at the Römerberg and Frankfurt Cathedral
3	Spend the day hiking or cycling in the nearby Nidda Valley
4	Visit the Palmengarten botanical garden and the Frankfurt Zoo
5	Take a day trip to the nearby town of Heidelberg, home to a beautiful old town and a picturesque castle
6	Explore the city’s modern skyline by taking the elevator to the top of the Main Tower
7	Take a Rhine River cruise through the scenic Rhine Valley, with stops at local wineries and historic towns

Food and Drink Scene of Frankfurt

No visit to Frankfurt would be complete without sampling some of the city’s traditional dishes and local beverages. Here are some must-try items:

Must-Try Dishes

Frankfurter Würstchen: A small and flavorful sausage that’s a local specialty.
Ebbelwoi: A tart and refreshing apple wine that’s a favorite beverage of Frankfurt locals.
Grüne Sosse: A creamy green sauce made from seven different herbs, served with boiled potatoes and hard-boiled eggs.
Schnitzel: A classic German dish of breaded and fried meat, often served with potatoes and a side salad.
Bethmännchen: A small marzipan cookie made from ground almonds and powdered sugar.

Local Beverages

Ebbelwoi: As mentioned above, this tart apple wine is a favorite of locals and can be found in many bars and restaurants around the city.
Apfelwein mit Schuss: A variation of apple wine that’s mixed with a shot of fruit syrup, such as raspberry or blackcurrant.
Bier: Germany is known for its excellent beer, and Frankfurt is no exception - local breweries like Binding and Henninger produce a range of delicious brews.

Where to Stay in Frankfurt: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Frankfurt has a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and tastes. Here are some recommendations:

Luxury: The Jumeirah Frankfurt is a five-star hotel located in the heart of the city, with stunning views of the skyline and a luxurious spa.
Mid-range: The 25hours Hotel is a trendy boutique hotel with colorful and quirky decor, located in the trendy Bahnhofsviertel district.
Budget: Five Elements Hostel is a popular choice for budget travelers, with clean and comfortable dorms and private rooms.

What to Buy in Frankfurt: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for souvenirs and local products to bring home from your trip to Frankfurt, here are some suggestions:

Ebbelwoi Glasses: These traditional glassware items are a perfect way to remember your trip to Frankfurt’s apple wine country.
Frankfurt City Guidebook: A comprehensive guidebook to the city, which makes a perfect gift for anyone planning a trip to Frankfurt.
Sausage: Pick up some locally made sausages to enjoy back at home - they make a great addition to any barbecue or party.

Local Culture and Customs of Frankfurt

Frankfurt is a modern city, but it’s also steeped in history and tradition. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

Greetings: It’s customary to shake hands when meeting someone new, and it’s polite to address people by their professional title or last name.
Tipping: In restaurants, it’s customary to leave a tip of between 5% and 10% of the total bill.
Language: German is the official language of Frankfurt, but many locals also speak English, especially in the city’s tourist areas.
Punctuality: Germans value punctuality, so it’s important to be on time for appointments and meetings.

Best Time to Visit Frankfurt

The best time to visit Frankfurt depends on your preferences and priorities. Here’s some information to help you decide:

Spring (March to May): This is a great time to visit Frankfurt if you’re interested in flowers and gardens - the Palmengarten is especially beautiful during spring.
Summer (June to August): The peak tourist season, with warm weather and plenty of outdoor events and festivals.
Fall (September to November): A quieter time of year with mild weather and fewer crowds - this is a great time to visit if you’re interested in outdoor activities like hiking and cycling.
Winter (December to February): Cold and often snowy, but this is also a magical time of year in Frankfurt, with Christmas markets, ice skating rinks, and festive decorations throughout the city.

Do’s and Don’ts of Frankfurt

If you want to make the most of your trip to Frankfurt, here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

Explore the city’s museums: Frankfurt has world-class museums that are definitely worth a visit.
Try traditional German dishes and drinks: Eating and drinking your way through Frankfurt is a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture.
Take a walking tour of the city: Exploring on foot is a great way to get to know Frankfurt’s neighborhoods and landmarks.
Attend a festival or event: Frankfurt has a lively cultural scene, with many festivals and events held throughout the year.

Don’t:

Expect everyone to speak English: While many locals speak English, not everyone does - it’s always polite to learn a few basic German phrases.
Forget to bring cash: Many smaller shops and restaurants don’t accept credit or debit cards, so it’s a good idea to have some cash on hand.
Be loud or disruptive: German culture values quiet and orderliness - be respectful of those around you.

Safety and Health

Frankfurt is a safe and clean city, but it’s always a good idea to take basic precautions when traveling. Here’s what you need to know:

Safety in Frankfurt

Petty crime: Like any big city, Frankfurt has its share of petty crime - be aware of your surroundings and keep your valuables secure.
Emergency services: The emergency number in Germany is 112, which can be used to call for police, fire, or medical assistance.

Health in Frankfurt

Health insurance: Visitors to Germany are required to have valid health insurance - check with your provider to make sure you’re covered.
Tap water: The tap water in Frankfurt is safe to drink and of high quality.
Vaccinations: There are no specific vaccination requirements for visitors to Frankfurt.

Getting to Frankfurt: Transportation Options and Logistics

Frankfurt is a major transportation hub, with excellent connections by air, rail, and road. Here’s what you need to know:

Airports Near Frankfurt

Frankfurt Airport: This is one of Europe’s busiest airports, with direct flights to cities all over the world.

Bus Stations Near Frankfurt

Frankfurt Central Bus Station (ZOB): This is the main bus station in Frankfurt, with connections to cities all over Germany and Europe.

Other Options

Train: Frankfurt has excellent rail connections to cities all over Germany and Europe.
Car rental: If you’re planning to explore the surrounding area, renting a car can be a convenient option.

How to Get Around in Frankfurt

Frankfurt is a compact city that’s easy to explore on foot or by bike. The city’s public transportation network, consisting of buses, trams, and trains, is also efficient and easy to use. Here are your options:

Walking: Frankfurt’s city center is relatively small and can easily be explored on foot.
Biking: Frankfurt has an extensive network of cycling routes and bike lanes, and many hotels and hostels offer bike rentals.
Public transportation: The city’s public transportation network is operated by the RMV, which offers a range of ticketing options, including single tickets, day tickets, and weekly or monthly passes.

Where to Go Next from Frankfurt: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have more time to explore the region surrounding Frankfurt, here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

Heidelberg: A picturesque town located about 1.5 hours south of Frankfurt, known for its historic old town and castle.
Rüdesheim: A charming wine town in the nearby Rheingau region, known for its excellent Riesling wines and scenic vineyards.
Cologne: A vibrant and historic city located about two hours north of Frankfurt, known for its stunning Gothic cathedral and modern art scene.

Conclusion

Frankfurt is a fascinating and vibrant city that has something to offer every traveler. Whether you’re interested in exploring its rich history and culture, enjoying outdoor adventures and scenic views, or sampling its delicious food and drink, this comprehensive travel guide has everything you need to plan the perfect trip to Frankfurt.