Frankfurt
Exploring Frankfurt: A City of Contrasts and Charm
Frankfurt, Germany’s financial powerhouse and one of Europe’s most dynamic cities, is a fascinating blend of old-world charm and cutting-edge modernity. Situated on the banks of the Main River, this bustling city is often associated with its impressive skyline, home to some of Europe’s tallest skyscrapers, which stands in stark contrast to its charming medieval architecture and historic sites. Known as both the “Gateway to Europe” and “Mainhattan” due to its skyscrapers and role as a global financial hub, Frankfurt is also famous for its thriving cultural scene, a wealth of historical landmarks, and a lifestyle that celebrates diversity, innovation, and tradition.
Despite its modern skyline, Frankfurt holds a rich history that dates back to the Roman era. The city was historically significant in the Holy Roman Empire and has been an essential center for trade since the Middle Ages. Today, Frankfurt attracts millions of visitors every year, not just for business but also for its arts, festivals, culinary scene, and historical attractions, such as the Römerberg, the birthplace of German democracy, and St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral.
Whether you’re visiting for business, pleasure, or a mix of both, Frankfurt offers something for everyone. From its exceptional museums and vibrant cultural events to its lush green spaces and the bustling riverbanks, Frankfurt captivates travelers with a unique blend of traditional German charm and international flair. This guide covers everything you need to know to make the most of your time in Frankfurt, from how to get there to where to stay, and what to see and do in this remarkable city.
How to Get to Frankfurt
Frankfurt is one of Europe’s most accessible cities, thanks to its central location and excellent transportation infrastructure. The Frankfurt Airport (FRA) is Germany’s busiest airport and a major international hub, offering flights to and from destinations around the world. Located just 12 kilometers southwest of the city center, Frankfurt Airport is connected to the city via regular S-Bahn (urban train) services, making it easy for travelers to reach central Frankfurt in about 15 minutes.
In addition to air travel, Frankfurt is a central hub for Germany’s extensive rail network. Frankfurt Hauptbahnhof (Main Train Station) is one of the largest and busiest in Europe, providing high-speed ICE (InterCity Express) connections to cities throughout Germany and beyond. Travelers can reach Frankfurt by train from cities like Berlin, Munich, and Amsterdam within a few hours. The train station’s central location makes it convenient for travelers to access hotels, businesses, and attractions immediately upon arrival.
For those traveling by car, Frankfurt is connected to Germany’s Autobahn network, providing quick and convenient access to nearby cities and countries. Major highways like the A5, A3, and A66 converge near Frankfurt, making it a key road transportation hub. Long-distance buses are another option, with companies like FlixBus offering affordable connections from cities across Europe to Frankfurt’s central bus terminal near the Hauptbahnhof.
Where to Stay in Frankfurt
Frankfurt offers a diverse range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels, ensuring that there is something for every traveler. The Innenstadt, or city center, is one of the most popular areas for visitors to stay, as it provides easy access to major attractions, shopping, and dining options. This area is ideal for business travelers and tourists alike, with well-known hotels like Jumeirah Frankfurt and Sofitel Frankfurt Opera offering luxury amenities in the heart of the city.
The Bahnhofsviertel district, located near the main train station, is another popular area for accommodation. Known for its lively atmosphere and multicultural vibe, this area offers both upscale and budget-friendly hotels, as well as a variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars. While Bahnhofsviertel has a reputation for nightlife, it is also home to some affordable hotels like Hotel Excelsior and Mercure Hotel Kaiserhof Frankfurt City Center, making it a great choice for those who want to be close to the city’s vibrant scene.
For travelers seeking a more relaxed and residential environment, Sachsenhausen is an excellent choice. Located south of the river, Sachsenhausen is known for its traditional cider taverns, beautiful parks, and cobblestone streets. This district offers boutique hotels and guesthouses with a cozy, local feel. Staying in Sachsenhausen also provides easy access to Frankfurt’s green spaces and the Museumsufer, or Museum Embankment, which is home to many of the city’s top museums.
Sights in the City of Frankfurt
Frankfurt is filled with attractions that range from historic landmarks to modern art galleries. Römerberg is a must-visit in Frankfurt’s Altstadt (Old Town), known for its picturesque half-timbered houses and the historic Römer town hall, which has been the seat of Frankfurt’s city government since the 15th century. The Römerberg square is a great place to start a walking tour, as it’s close to landmarks like St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral, where German emperors were crowned in the Middle Ages.
Another iconic sight is the Frankfurt Cathedral (Kaiserdom St. Bartholomäus), a stunning Gothic structure with a striking red sandstone facade. Visitors can climb to the top of the cathedral’s tower for panoramic views of the city. Just a short walk from the cathedral is the Museumsufer, a cultural district along the Main River, home to over a dozen museums including the Städel Museum, known for its impressive collection of European art from the Renaissance to the present.
The Palmengarten, a botanical garden in the Westend district, offers a peaceful retreat in the heart of Frankfurt. Covering 50 acres, the Palmengarten showcases plants from different climate zones and has a tropical greenhouse, beautiful rose gardens, and a small lake with paddle boats. It’s a wonderful spot for families, nature lovers, and anyone looking to escape the city’s bustle.
Hotels in Frankfurt
Frankfurt’s hotel scene caters to a wide range of preferences and budgets, with many accommodations offering luxurious amenities, convenient locations, and unique styles. The Villa Kennedy, a Rocco Forte Hotel, is a luxurious choice located in the Sachsenhausen district. Set in a historic villa, this five-star hotel offers top-notch amenities including a spa, gourmet dining, and a lush garden courtyard.
For travelers who prefer boutique hotels, The Roomers in Bahnhofsviertel is a chic, modern option. Known for its stylish decor and rooftop bar, Roomers combines luxury with a trendy vibe, making it popular among young professionals and couples. Another boutique option is The Pure, a minimalist hotel housed in a former textile factory, offering a serene environment close to the main train station.
Budget-conscious travelers will also find affordable accommodations without sacrificing quality. Meininger Hotel Frankfurt/Main Airport is a great choice for those who want easy access to the airport and city center, offering clean rooms, modern facilities, and a convenient location. Hostels like Five Elements Hostel provide a social atmosphere in the heart of the Bahnhofsviertel, ideal for backpackers and solo travelers looking to meet other adventurers.
Culture and Events in Frankfurt
Frankfurt has a vibrant cultural scene, enriched by its historical legacy and diverse population. The city hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, with one of the most famous being the Frankfurt Book Fair in October. This is the world’s largest book fair and attracts publishers, authors, and literature enthusiasts from around the globe. It’s an excellent opportunity to experience Frankfurt’s cosmopolitan atmosphere and participate in literary discussions, book signings, and cultural events.
Frankfurt’s Museumsuferfest, held annually in August, celebrates the city’s impressive museum district with a weekend of art exhibitions, live music, and culinary delights along the Main River. The festival includes open museum tours, making it a fantastic opportunity to experience Frankfurt’s cultural heritage while enjoying outdoor festivities. Another popular event is the Frankfurt Christmas Market at Römerberg, one of Germany’s oldest and most beautiful Christmas markets, attracting visitors with its festive lights, delicious treats, and traditional crafts.
Frankfurt’s cultural offerings also extend to theater, music, and opera. The Alte Oper (Old Opera House) is a grand venue that hosts classical concerts, ballets, and operas, while the English Theatre is the largest English-speaking theater in continental Europe, offering a variety of productions that draw international audiences. The city’s music scene is diverse, with jazz clubs, electronic music venues, and live music bars, making it easy to experience both local and global sounds.
Food in Frankfurt
Frankfurt’s culinary scene reflects both traditional German fare and international influences, offering a wide range of dining options for all tastes. A must-try local specialty is Apfelwein (also known as Ebbelwoi or cider), a tangy apple wine typically served in rustic taverns in the Sachsenhausen district. Apfelwein is often paired with traditional dishes like Handkäs mit Musik (a sour milk cheese served with onions) or Grüne Soße (green sauce), a Frankfurt specialty made from seven herbs and served with boiled eggs and potatoes.
Frankfurter Würstchen, a type of sausage unique to Frankfurt, is another local favorite. This thin, smoked sausage is traditionally served with mustard and a bread roll, and can be found in markets and street food stands around the city. For a more international experience, Frankfurt’s culinary diversity is showcased in neighborhoods like Bahnhofsviertel, where visitors can find restaurants serving everything from Turkish kebabs to Japanese ramen.
The city’s upscale dining scene includes several Michelin-starred restaurants, such as Restaurant Lafleur, which offers fine French cuisine in an elegant setting, and Gustav in the Westend, known for its creative dishes inspired by local ingredients. The mix of traditional and contemporary cuisine makes Frankfurt a rewarding destination for food enthusiasts eager to explore both German and global flavors.
Weather in Frankfurt
Frankfurt has a temperate climate, with warm summers and relatively mild winters, making it an ideal destination to visit year-round. The summer months from June to August are warm and pleasant, with temperatures averaging between 20°C (68°F) and 25°C (77°F). This is a popular time for outdoor events, festivals, and riverside activities along the Main. However, occasional rain showers are common, so packing a light jacket or umbrella is recommended.
Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) offer mild temperatures and colorful scenery, especially in the city’s parks and gardens. During these seasons, temperatures usually range between 10°C (50°F) and 18°C (64°F), making them ideal for sightseeing and exploring the city’s outdoor attractions without the peak tourist crowds. These shoulder seasons also bring lower hotel rates and fewer crowds, making them attractive for budget-conscious travelers.
Winter in Frankfurt, from December to February, is typically mild compared to other German cities, with temperatures averaging around 1°C to 5°C (34°F to 41°F). Snowfall is rare but possible, adding a charming touch to the city’s Christmas markets, especially the one at Römerberg. For those who don’t mind bundling up, winter can be a cozy time to visit, with opportunities to enjoy Frankfurt’s festive atmosphere and seasonal events.
Sports Activities in Frankfurt
Sports are an integral part of life in Frankfurt, with options for both participants and spectators. Football is particularly popular, with Eintracht Frankfurt being the city’s main team. Matches are held at the Deutsche Bank Park stadium, where fans gather to cheer on their team, creating an electric atmosphere. Football fans can also explore the Eintracht Frankfurt Museum, located within the stadium, to learn about the team’s history and achievements.
Beyond football, Frankfurt hosts a variety of other sports events and facilities. The city is a major destination for running enthusiasts, as it hosts the annual Frankfurt Marathon in October. This event, one of the oldest and largest marathons in Germany, draws thousands of runners and spectators from around the world. With a scenic route passing by landmarks like the Römer and Main River, it’s a highlight for both athletes and the local community.
For those interested in water sports, the Main River provides opportunities for rowing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The Frankfurt Rowing Club, established in 1865, is one of Germany’s oldest rowing clubs, and visitors can often see rowers practicing on the river. Additionally, the city’s parks and green spaces offer plenty of options for jogging, cycling, and other outdoor activities, making Frankfurt a lively city for sports enthusiasts of all kinds.
Local Transport in Frankfurt
Frankfurt has an extensive and efficient public transportation system that makes it easy to get around the city. Operated by RMV (Rhein-Main-Verkehrsverbund), the system includes S-Bahn (suburban trains), U-Bahn (subway), trams, and buses, all of which are well-connected and cover the city’s main areas. The Frankfurt Card, available for purchase at the airport, train stations, and online, provides unlimited travel on public transport and discounts at various attractions, making it a convenient option for visitors.
The S-Bahn system is the fastest way to get to and from Frankfurt Airport, as well as between different districts of the city. The U-Bahn, while more localized within Frankfurt, is efficient for traveling within the city center and to nearby neighborhoods. Trams are another scenic and accessible way to get around, especially for shorter distances or for a more leisurely tour of Frankfurt’s main sights.
Cycling is also popular in Frankfurt, with numerous bike lanes and rental options available throughout the city. The city’s bike-sharing program, Call a Bike, operated by Deutsche Bahn, offers a convenient and eco-friendly way to explore Frankfurt. Additionally, taxis and ride-sharing services are widely available, providing flexible options for travelers who prefer private transportation.
Where to Go for a Trip Around Frankfurt
Frankfurt’s central location in Germany makes it an excellent starting point for day trips to other cities and regions. Just an hour away by train is the charming medieval town of Heidelberg, known for its historic castle, university, and picturesque Old Town. Heidelberg’s scenic location along the Neckar River and its impressive architecture make it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
The Rhine Valley, with its stunning landscapes, vineyards, and historic castles, is another popular day trip from Frankfurt. Travelers can take a scenic river cruise along the Rhine, stopping at towns like Rüdesheim and Koblenz to explore charming streets, taste local wines, and visit medieval castles. The region is especially beautiful in the fall, when the vineyards are full of color, and during the summer when wine festivals are in full swing.
For those interested in history, the Wiesbaden and Mainz areas, located less than an hour from Frankfurt, are ideal destinations. Wiesbaden, known for its hot springs and neoclassical architecture, offers a relaxing spa experience. Mainz, on the other hand, is famous for its connection to Johannes Gutenberg and his invention of the printing press. Visitors can tour the Gutenberg Museum and see a replica of the original press.
Cheap Flights to Frankfurt
As one of Europe’s busiest aviation hubs, Frankfurt Airport (FRA) offers numerous options for finding affordable flights to the city. Airlines such as Lufthansa, Ryanair, and EasyJet often provide competitive rates on both domestic and international flights. Booking in advance and using comparison sites like Skyscanner or Google Flights can help travelers find cheap flights to Frankfurt from various global destinations.
For budget-conscious travelers, flying into Frankfurt Hahn Airport (HHN), located about 120 kilometers from the city, can be a cheaper alternative. While this smaller airport is farther from the city, it’s served by several low-cost airlines, including Ryanair. Shuttle services connect Frankfurt Hahn to the city center, making it a viable option for travelers looking to save on airfare.
Traveling during Frankfurt’s shoulder seasons, in spring and fall, often results in lower airfare prices compared to the peak summer months. Booking flights on weekdays, avoiding major holidays, and being flexible with travel dates are additional ways to secure affordable flights to Frankfurt.
Districts of the City of Frankfurt
Frankfurt is composed of several diverse districts, each with its own character and attractions. Innenstadt, the city center, is home to Frankfurt’s most famous landmarks, including the Römer, St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral, and the Zeil shopping street. Known for its commercial activity and historic sites, Innenstadt is the ideal starting point for exploring the city’s main attractions.
Bahnhofsviertel, located near the central train station, is known for its multicultural vibe and vibrant nightlife. Over the years, this district has transformed into one of Frankfurt’s trendiest areas, with international restaurants, art galleries, and bars. The area is particularly popular with young travelers and offers an array of affordable dining and entertainment options.
Sachsenhausen, situated south of the Main River, is famous for its traditional apple wine taverns and cobblestone streets. This district offers a more local experience and is popular for its historic charm, scenic river views, and cultural attractions like the Museumsufer. Sachsenhausen is an excellent choice for those looking to experience Frankfurt’s traditional side.
History of the City of Frankfurt
Frankfurt’s history spans over a thousand years, with its origins as a Roman settlement along the Main River. In the Middle Ages, Frankfurt became a significant center for trade and commerce, hosting important fairs and serving as a place where German kings were elected and crowned. The city’s status as a free imperial city further boosted its economic and political significance during this period.
In the 19th century, Frankfurt became the birthplace of German democracy, with the Frankfurt Parliament convening at St. Paul’s Church in 1848 to draft the country’s first constitution. Though short-lived, this event remains a milestone in German history. The city’s rapid industrialization during this period transformed it into a financial powerhouse, a legacy that continues today.
World War II heavily impacted Frankfurt, with much of the city destroyed by Allied bombing. Post-war reconstruction efforts led to the creation of the modern skyline that defines the city today, while also preserving some of its historic buildings in the Altstadt. Today, Frankfurt stands as a symbol of resilience, blending its rich history with modern advancements to create a dynamic and forward-looking city
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