top things to do in frankfurt

Introduction : Top Things to Do in Frankfurt | A Local’s Guide to Germany’s Financial Hub

Hey there, fellow travelers! Thinking about visiting Frankfurt but not sure where to start? I’ve got you covered! As Germany’s financial powerhouse and a hub of culture and history, Frankfurt offers way more than just skyscrapers and business suits. Let’s dive into the best experiences this dynamic city has to offer.

Explore the Contrast of Old and New in Römerberg

Ever wondered what it’s like to stand in a place where the past and future collide? That’s exactly what you’ll experience at Römerberg, Frankfurt’s historic heart. The square’s medieval buildings with their distinctive stepped gables are straight out of a fairy tale—especially the Römer, the city hall that has witnessed over 600 years of history!

The contrast between these charming old structures and the modern skyline in the background makes for some seriously Instagram-worthy shots. And if you’re lucky enough to visit during December, you’ll stumble upon one of Germany’s oldest and most magical Christmas markets. The smell of roasted chestnuts and glühwein (mulled wine) is worth the trip alone!

Pro tip: Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and catch that perfect golden light for photos.

Climb the Main Tower for Epic City Views

If you’re anything like me, getting a bird’s-eye view of a new city is always on the to-do list. The Main Tower is your ticket to the best panoramic views of Frankfurt. At 200 meters high, it’s not the tallest skyscraper in the city, but it’s the only one with a public observation deck.

The elevator whooshes you up in seconds, and boom—the entire city unfolds before your eyes! On clear days, you can see all the way to the Taunus mountains. The sunset views are particularly spectacular, as golden hour transforms “Mainhattan” (Frankfurt’s nickname) into a glowing urban landscape.

FYI, there’s a restaurant up there too if you want to combine your sightseeing with some fine dining. Nothing beats sipping a glass of local apple wine while gazing at the city below!

Wander Through the Palmengarten

Need a break from the urban jungle? The Palmengarten is calling your name! This botanical garden is a lush paradise in the middle of the city, spanning a massive 22 hectares of beautifully landscaped grounds.

I absolutely love getting lost among the exotic plants from around the world. The tropical greenhouse is like taking a mini vacation to the rainforest—minus the humidity hair struggles! And the rose garden? Pure perfection when in bloom.

What makes this place special is how it changes with the seasons. Spring brings tulips and cherry blossoms, summer offers outdoor concerts on the lawn, fall transforms the landscape into warm colors, and winter brings a magical light show. No matter when you visit, there’s always something beautiful to see.

Immerse Yourself in Art at Städel Museum

Art lovers, rejoice! The Städel is one of Germany’s most important art museums and, IMO, a must-visit even if you’re not usually a museum person. With over 700 years of European art under one roof, from Botticelli to Bacon, there’s something here to impress everyone.

What I personally appreciate about the Städel is how approachable it is. The collection is extensive but not overwhelming, and the curation helps you understand the historical context of what you’re seeing. The modern extension underground with its distinctive circular skylights is an architectural marvel in itself!

Spent too much time gawking at the masterpieces? The museum café is perfect for a rejuvenating coffee break with a slice of their famous apple cake. Trust me on this one!

Sample Local Cuisine in Sachsenhausen

Ready to eat your way through Frankfurt? Head across the Main River to the charming district of Sachsenhausen, where traditional apple wine taverns (Apfelweinwirtschaften) line the cobblestone streets.

You haven’t really experienced Frankfurt until you’ve tried Handkäse mit Musik (marinated cheese with onions—the “music” refers to what happens after you eat it… if you catch my drift!) and Grüne Soße (green sauce made with seven herbs). Wash it all down with a glass of tart apple wine served in the traditional ribbed glass (Geripptes).

These taverns have a communal vibe with long wooden tables that encourage striking up conversations with locals. Don’t be surprised if you walk in planning for a quick bite and end up spending the entire evening making new friends!

Shop Till You Drop on Zeil

Is shopping your cardio? The Zeil is Frankfurt’s premier shopping street and one of the highest-revenue shopping streets in all of Europe. Locals call it the “Fifth Avenue of Germany,” though it’s actually much more diverse in its offerings.

The futuristic MyZeil shopping center is worth checking out even if you’re not planning to buy anything. Its glass facade and unique architecture with a giant vortex-like hole that tunnels through the building is simply spectacular.

Shopping making you hungry? The food court on the top floor offers a great selection of international cuisine with views of the city. And if you need a break altogether, the rooftop terrace is perfect for people-watching while resting your feet.

Step Back in Time at the Goethe House

Literature fans, this one’s for you! The birthplace and childhood home of Germany’s most famous writer, Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, has been meticulously restored to its 18th-century glory. Walking through the rooms where the author of “Faust” grew up feels like stepping into a time machine.

What struck me most was how vividly you can imagine daily life in the 1700s here. The writing desk where young Goethe penned his early works, the kitchen with its original utensils, and the art collection that influenced his aesthetic sensibilities—it all tells a story beyond the history books.

Even if you’re not familiar with Goethe’s works, the house offers fascinating insights into bourgeois life during the Enlightenment era. And hey, you’ll have some impressive cultural knowledge to drop into conversation later! 🙂

Relax by the Main River

Sometimes the best activities cost nothing at all. The Main River promenade is perfect for when you want to slow down and see Frankfurt at a leisurely pace. The landscaped paths along both sides of the river are popular with locals for jogging, cycling, or simply strolling.

During summer evenings, the riverbanks transform into one big outdoor hangout spot. Grab some snacks and drinks from a nearby market, find a spot on the grass, and join the locals in watching the sunset paint the skyline in dramatic colors. The silhouettes of skyscrapers against the pink and orange sky make for a view that rivals any official tourist attraction.

If you’re feeling energetic, you can rent a bike and explore the entire riverside path, which connects multiple parks and gardens. Or hop on one of the river cruises for a different perspective of the city.

Experience Modern Frankfurt at the European Central Bank

Frankfurt isn’t called “Bankfurt” for nothing! As the financial capital of continental Europe and home to the European Central Bank (ECB), the city’s modern identity is closely tied to its banking sector.

The ECB’s new headquarters in the Ostend district is an architectural marvel combining the historic Grossmarkthalle (wholesale market hall) with a striking modern twin tower design. While the bank itself isn’t open to casual visitors, the plaza around it offers interesting perspectives on this symbol of European unity.

What’s fascinating is the juxtaposition of this ultra-modern complex with the surrounding former working-class neighborhood, which is rapidly transforming into one of Frankfurt’s hippest areas with cool cafes and street art.

Conclusion

Frankfurt might not have the immediate charm of Munich or Berlin, but give it a chance and you’ll discover a city of fascinating contrasts. From medieval squares to futuristic skyscrapers, world-class museums to cozy apple wine taverns, Frankfurt offers experiences that satisfy both culture vultures and fun-seekers.

The best part? Frankfurt is compact enough to explore in a few days, making it perfect for a weekend trip or as a starting point for a longer German adventure. So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags, bring your curiosity, and prepare to be surprised by this underrated German gem!

Have you been to Frankfurt before? What was your favorite spot? I’d love to hear about your experiences!