Offenbach Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay and eat, and travel logistics in Offenbach, Germany.


Introduction to Offenbach

Offenbach is a city in the Rhine-Main region of Hesse, Germany. It is located on the south bank of the Main river, adjacent to the city of Frankfurt. Offenbach is a city known for its rich industrial heritage, a hub for leather and fabric production in the past. Over the years, the city has transitioned into a cultural and creative hotspot in the region, hosting numerous art festivals and exhibitions.

This comprehensive travel guide to Offenbach highlights the best attractions, things to do, where to stay, and eat, and travel logistics to make your trip enjoyable and memorable.

List of Places to Visit in Offenbach

Offenbach offers a variety of attractions that cater to the diverse interests of travelers. Here is a list of some of the must-visit places in Offenbach:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • German Leather Museum: A museum exhibiting the art of leathermaking and the history of leather production in Offenbach.
  • Klingspor Museum: An art museum dedicated to typography and book design, featuring exhibits from international artists.
  • Jewish Cemetery: An 18th-century cemetery, one of the oldest and largest Jewish cemeteries in Germany.

Natural Attractions of Offenbach: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Wilhelmsplatz: A park in the city center with a beautiful lake, a fountain, and plenty of benches to relax and enjoy the view.
  • Hafeninsel: A small island on the Main river with walking trails, picnic areas, and water sports equipment rentals.
  • Isenburgrunne: A nature reserve near Offenbach, featuring hiking trails, birdwatching, and scenic views of the countryside.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Offenbach

Offenbach’s location on the Main river and its proximity to beautiful natural reserves make it an ideal destination for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Some of the best hiking and biking routes in Offenbach are:

  • Hessian Mountain Route: A 185-mile long-distance hiking and biking trail that passes through the Odenwald Mountains and Offenbach.
  • Mainradweg: A 328-mile long-distance bike trail that follows the Main river, passing through Offenbach and other charming towns in the region.
  • Neckarsteig: A 87-mile long-distance hiking trail through the Neckar valley, passing through Offenbach and other nearby towns.

Best Things to Do in Offenbach: Activities and Tours

Offenbach offers numerous activities and tours that cater to the varied interests of travelers. Here are some of the best things to do in Offenbach:

  • Kunstansichten Offenbach: An annual art festival featuring exhibitions, workshops, and performances by local and international artists.
  • Offenbach Market Days: A weekly market that sells fresh produce, local delicacies, and handmade crafts.
  • City Tour: A guided walking tour of Offenbach’s historical sites, museums, and cultural landmarks.

Week-Long Itinerary for Offenbach

Here is an itinerary for a week-long trip to Offenbach:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit the German Leather Museum, Kunstansichten Offenbach Festival
Day 2 Hike the Hessian Mountain Route
Day 3 Explore the Klingspor Museum, visit Offenbach Market Days
Day 4 Tour the Jewish Cemetery, picnic at Wilhelmsplatz
Day 5 Bike the Mainradweg, visit Hafeninsel
Day 6 Visit the Offenbach City Museum, take a guided city tour
Day 7 Visit Isenburgrunne nature reserve

Food and Drink Scene of Offenbach

Offenbach has a vibrant culinary scene with plenty of eateries offering local delicacies and international cuisines. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Handkäse mit Musik: A local dish of sour milk cheese served with onions and vinegar.
  • Grüne Soße: A green sauce made of herbs, usually served with boiled potatoes and eggs.
  • Frankfurter Kranz: A traditional German cake made with buttercream, sponge cake, and caramelized nuts.

Local Beverages

  • Apfelwein: A regional apple cider, usually served in a Geripptes, a specially designed glass.
  • Kirschsaft: A cherry juice made from locally grown cherries.
  • Frankfurt Lager Beer: A Pilsner-style beer brewed in the Frankfurt region.

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

Offenbach offers a range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. Here are a few recommendations:

  • B&B Hotel Offenbach: A budget hotel offering clean and comfortable rooms.
  • Hotel Graf: A mid-range hotel with spacious rooms and a beautiful garden.
  • Hotel Mainbogen: A luxury hotel with modern amenities and stunning views of the Main river.

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

Offenbach has plenty of shops selling souvenirs and local products. Here are a few suggestions:

  • Leathergoods: Offenbach has a rich history of leathermaking, and you can buy high-quality leather products such as bags, belts, and jackets from local shops.
  • Typographic Art: The Klingspor Museum has a shop selling typographic art and poster designs that make excellent souvenirs.
  • Ebbelwoi Glasses: Buy a Geripptes glass and take home a piece of the local drinking culture.

Local Culture and Customs of Offenbach

Offenbach has a vibrant local culture, with fascinating customs and traditions. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

  • Greet people with a handshake or nod.
  • Tipping is customary in restaurants and cafes.
  • Smoking is prohibited in public places, including bars and restaurants.

Best Time to Visit Offenbach

The best time to visit Offenbach is from May to September when the weather is warm and pleasant. The city has several outdoor events and festivals during this time, making it an ideal time for tourists to experience the cultural vibrancy of the city.

Do’s and Don’ts of Offenbach

Do:

  • Explore the city on foot or by bike.
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.
  • Attend local festivals and events.

Don’t:

  • Smoke in public places.
  • Be loud in public and disturb the residents.
  • Litter the streets and parks.

Safety and Health

Safety in Offenbach

Offenbach is a safe city to visit, but it is advisable to take precautions and keep an eye on your belongings when in crowded places or public transport.

Health in Offenbach

Offenbach has an excellent healthcare system with several hospitals and medical centers. European Union citizens are entitled to emergency medical treatment with their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).

Getting to Offenbach: Transportation Options and Logistics

Offenbach is well-connected to major cities in Germany and Europe and has excellent transportation options.

Airports Near Offenbach

  • Frankfurt Airport: The closest international airport to Offenbach, located approximately 8 miles away.

Bus Stations Near Offenbach

  • Offenbach Central Station: The main bus station in Offenbach and a major transport hub for the region.

Other Options

  • Train: Offenbach has several train stations, and it is easy to reach the city by train from other German cities and European cities.

How to Get Around in Offenbach

Offenbach has an efficient public transport system comprising buses, trams, and trains. It is advisable to purchase a daily or weekly ticket if you plan to use public transport frequently.

Where to Go Next from Offenbach: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Offenbach’s central location in the Rhine-Main region makes it an ideal base for day trips and excursions to nearby towns and cities. Here are a few suggestions:

  • Frankfurt: The financial and cultural hub of Germany, located just across the Main river from Offenbach.
  • Heidelberg: A charming university town with a beautifully preserved historic center and a majestic castle.
  • Wiesbaden: A spa town known for its upscale shopping and cultural events.

Conclusion

Offenbach is a hidden gem, boasting a rich cultural heritage and a vibrant creative scene. This comprehensive travel guide highlights the top attractions, things to do, where to stay and eat, and travel logistics, making it easy for tourists to plan their trip to Offenbach. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a family with kids, Offenbach has something for everyone.