Frankfurt, Germany

Frankfurt, Germany’s financial capital, is a city where modern skyscrapers meet historical charm, offering visitors a mix of cultural, architectural, and scenic attractions. Below is a detailed list of must-visit tourist attractions in Frankfurt:

1. Römerberg and Römer

Römerberg is the historic heart of Frankfurt’s Old Town (Altstadt), featuring beautifully restored medieval half-timbered houses around a charming square. The Römer, Frankfurt’s city hall, is a set of three Gothic-style buildings with a striking facade and has been the center of the city government for over 600 years. The area is particularly lively during the Christmas Market season, when it’s filled with festive stalls and lights.

2. Frankfurt Cathedral (Kaiserdom St. Bartholomäus)

The Frankfurt Cathedral, also known as St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral, is a stunning Gothic cathedral that played a significant role in the history of the Holy Roman Empire as the coronation site for emperors. Visitors can climb the cathedral’s 95-meter-high tower for panoramic views of the city. The interior is equally impressive, with beautiful altars, chapels, and a serene atmosphere.

3. Main Tower

Standing at 200 meters, the Main Tower is one of Frankfurt’s tallest buildings and the only skyscraper with a public observation deck. The deck offers 360-degree views of the city’s skyline, the Main River, and the surrounding countryside. It’s especially popular at sunset, and the building also has a restaurant and bar for dining with a view.

4. Goethe House and Museum

The birthplace of the famous German writer Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, this museum allows visitors to explore Goethe’s family home, which has been restored to its original 18th-century condition. The adjoining museum features exhibits about Goethe’s life, works, and the Romantic period, offering insight into the cultural heritage of Germany’s most celebrated literary figure.

5. Palmengarten

Palmengarten is Frankfurt’s largest botanical garden, covering 22 hectares and home to a wide variety of exotic plants from around the world. Visitors can explore tropical greenhouses, rose gardens, cactus gardens, and a beautiful lily pond. It’s a peaceful oasis in the city and a great place to relax, especially during spring and summer when flowers are in full bloom.

6. Städel Museum

The Städel Museum is one of Germany’s premier art museums, housing an impressive collection that spans 700 years of European art. It includes works from masters like Rembrandt, Vermeer, Monet, Picasso, and Baselitz. The museum’s underground extension, featuring contemporary art, is as much a draw as its classical pieces, making it a must-visit for art enthusiasts.

7. Museumsufer (Museum Embankment)

Frankfurt’s Museumsufer, or Museum Embankment, is a stretch along the Main River that’s home to some of the city’s best museums. These include the German Film Museum, the Jewish Museum, the German Architecture Museum, and the Museum of World Cultures. The area hosts the annual Museumsuferfest, a festival celebrating art and culture with exhibitions, music, and food stalls.

8. Senckenberg Natural History Museum

One of Germany’s largest natural history museums, the Senckenberg Museum is a family-friendly attraction featuring an extensive collection of fossils, dinosaur skeletons, and exhibits on biodiversity. Highlights include a T-Rex skeleton, displays on evolution, and an impressive collection of taxidermied animals. The museum also has interactive exhibits, making it a great stop for kids and adults alike.

9. Eiserner Steg (Iron Footbridge)

This iconic pedestrian bridge spans the Main River and connects the Old Town with the Sachsenhausen district. The bridge offers beautiful views of the river, the city skyline, and nearby attractions. It’s also adorned with love locks left by couples, adding to its charm. A walk across Eiserner Steg is a must for panoramic city views.

10. Frankfurt Zoo

Founded in 1858, Frankfurt Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in Germany, home to more than 4,500 animals representing 500 species. Highlights include the Grzimek House for nocturnal animals, an aquarium, and the Borgori Forest, an indoor rainforest habitat for apes. The zoo is well-maintained and popular with families and animal lovers.

11. Alte Oper (Old Opera House)

Built in the late 19th century, the Alte Oper is an impressive concert hall with neo-Renaissance architecture. It was heavily damaged in World War II but was beautifully restored and now hosts operas, concerts, and cultural events. Even if you don’t attend a performance, the building’s facade and fountain make it a beautiful photo spot.

12. Sachsenhausen District

Sachsenhausen is one of Frankfurt’s most vibrant neighborhoods, known for its cobbled streets, traditional cider houses (Apfelwein or Ebbelwoi taverns), and nightlife. The district is the best place to try Frankfurt’s famous apple wine, often served with local dishes like green sauce and schnitzel. It’s a lively area with a local feel, ideal for an authentic German dining experience.

13. Zeil Shopping Street

Zeil is Frankfurt’s main shopping street, lined with department stores, boutiques, and shopping centers like MyZeil, known for its futuristic architecture and glass facade. It’s a bustling area where visitors can shop for international brands, German products, and souvenirs. The street is particularly busy during weekends and the holiday season.

14. Frankfurter Grüngürtel (Green Belt)

The Frankfurter Grüngürtel is a 75-kilometer green belt that surrounds the city, providing outdoor enthusiasts with plenty of space for cycling, hiking, and picnicking. Highlights within the green belt include the Nidda River, scenic trails, and several parks. It’s a fantastic area for nature lovers looking to escape the urban environment.

15. Commerzbank Tower

Designed by British architect Norman Foster, the Commerzbank Tower is an architectural marvel and one of the tallest buildings in Europe. Though it’s an office building and not open to public tours, visitors can admire its distinctive eco-friendly design from the outside. The tower is particularly striking when lit up at night.

16. Frankfurt Stock Exchange

One of the world’s largest stock exchanges, the Frankfurt Stock Exchange is an interesting stop for those curious about finance and economics. Guided tours provide insight into the world of stock trading and the history of Frankfurt as a financial center. The building also features the famous bull and bear statues representing market trends.

17. Holbeinsteg

Holbeinsteg is a pedestrian bridge across the Main River, known for its unique cable-stayed design and art installations. The bridge connects the Städel Museum on the south bank to the city center, offering lovely river views. It’s a great place for photography, especially at sunset.

18. Frankfurt Christmas Market

The Frankfurt Christmas Market is one of the oldest and largest in Germany, taking place annually on Römerberg and St. Paul’s Square from late November to December. Visitors can enjoy traditional holiday treats like gingerbread and mulled wine, shop for handmade crafts, and enjoy the festive atmosphere created by beautifully decorated stalls and holiday music.

19. St. Paul’s Church (Paulskirche)

St. Paul’s Church is an important historical building in Frankfurt and a symbol of German democracy. It hosted the first freely elected German parliament in 1848. Today, it serves as a memorial and hosts exhibitions and events. The church’s red sandstone facade and circular interior design make it architecturally unique.

20. Westend Synagogue

The Westend Synagogue is one of the few synagogues in Frankfurt to survive World War II and remains an active place of worship. The synagogue’s architectural style combines Romanesque and Art Nouveau elements, and its impressive interior includes beautiful stained-glass windows. Guided tours provide insight into Jewish heritage in Frankfurt.

21. Kleinmarkthalle

Kleinmarkthalle is an indoor market where locals shop for fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and baked goods. The market has over 60 vendors selling both local and international products. It’s a great place to sample Frankfurt specialties like Handkäse (a local cheese), and try international dishes in a lively, authentic setting.

22. The Palmengarten and Grüneburgpark

Grüneburgpark is a large public park adjacent to Palmengarten, offering open green spaces for picnics and recreation. Together with Palmengarten, it’s a wonderful place to enjoy the outdoors, with expansive lawns, gardens, and paths perfect for walking or jogging.

23. Ebbelwei Express

For a unique way to see Frankfurt, the Ebbelwei Express is a colorful tram that takes visitors on a scenic ride through the city. During the tour, passengers are served apple wine (Ebbelwei) and pretzels while enjoying folk music. It’s a fun and traditional experience that’s especially popular with first-time visitors.

Frankfurt’s blend of old-world charm, modern architecture, and cultural diversity make it a fascinating destination for all types of travelers. Whether you’re interested in art, history, food, or outdoor activities, Frankfurt offers a unique and memorable experience.