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Frankfurt, Germany, is a city of contrasts where medieval half-timbered houses stand alongside Europe’s tallest office towers, and centuries-old apple wine taverns sit just minutes from the European Central Bank. The Main River winds through town, giving it the nickname “Mainhattan” for its unique skyline.
Whether you’re on a quick layover, a weekend trip, or a longer stay, Frankfurt is surprisingly walkable and full of charm. Let’s discover the best things to do, including popular attractions and exciting hidden gems.
1. Explore Frankfurt’s Altstadt: Römerberg & Dom
Photo Credit: travelview
Römerberg is Frankfurt’s historic heart. Though heavily damaged in WWII, the old town was carefully reconstructed according to its original street plans, creating an authentic medieval atmosphere framed by half-timbered houses and church spires.
The Römerberg square dates back to the 9th century and has hosted Frankfurt’s town hall, the Römer, since the 15th century. The Fountain of Justice, built in 1543, is a classic photo spot. In winter, the Christmas market fills the square with festive stalls, while summer brings apple wine festivals and outdoor dining.
Kaiserdom St. Bartholomäus (Frankfurt Cathedral)
This Gothic cathedral, built mainly between the 13th and 15th centuries, was the coronation site for Holy Roman Emperors. It was heavily damaged in WWII but restored faithfully and is now one of the top attractions in Römerberg Square.
Neue Altstadt
Behind the square, the “Neue Altstadt” district offers boutiques, cafés, and authentic German restaurants. Don’t miss the chance to eat and drink alongside locals.
2. Walk the Main Riverfront & Eiserner Steg
The Main Riverfront is a green corridor with parks, walking paths, and museums on both banks. Locals enjoy jogging, picnics, and riverside drinks, especially at sunset when the skyline reflects in the water.
Eiserner Steg (Iron Bridge)
This pedestrian bridge opened in 1868 and connects the old town to Sachsenhausen’s apple wine district. It offers views of both historic and modern Frankfurt. Look for love locks on the railings and enjoy spectacular sunset photography.
River Cruises on the Main
Sightseeing cruises run from March to October, offering commentary in German and English. Onboard food features classic German dishes like schnitzel and sausages. Sunset cruises offer stunning city views and are a great opportunity for photography.
3. See Frankfurt from Above: Main Tower & Viewpoints
Photo Credit: Philip Lange
Frankfurt’s skyline, known as “Mainhattan,” features over 15 skyscrapers above 150 meters. See them from the city’s best viewpoints:
Main Tower Observation Deck
At 200 meters, Main Tower offers indoor and open-air viewing. Opened in 1999, it features Germany’s fastest elevator. Arrive before sunset to see daylight, golden hour, and city lights.
Other Viewpoints
The Domturm tower offers historic views after a steep climb. Some department stores have rooftop terraces with seasonal access.
4. Frankfurt’s Museums & Culture: Museumsufer
Museumsufer is Europe’s richest cultural district, home to 36 museums along the banks of the Main. Most close Mondays and Thursdays often have extended hours. A Frankfurt Card offers discounts and free transport, so it might be worth the investment if you’re in town for more than a day or two.
Städel Museum
Frankfurt’s flagship art museum has 700 years of European art, including works by Rembrandt and Monet. The modern extension features river views and a café, making it an ideal afternoon out.
Deutsches Filminstitut & Filmmuseum
This is a hands-on museum about cinema history, great for families and film buffs. It offers fascinating exhibits that showcase the evolution of filmmaking technology and iconic movies from around the world.
Museum für Moderne Kunst (MMK)
This museum, housed in a striking triangular building, focuses on contemporary art, making it one of the top museums for modern art enthusiasts in Frankfurt.
Senckenberg Natural History Museum
This is Germany’s largest natural history museum, featuring dinosaur skeletons and over 18 million specimens. It’s an ideal thing to do for families visiting Frankfurt.
5. Green Spaces & Gardens: Palmengarten & City Parks
Photo Credit: olrat
Despite its financial reputation, Frankfurt has many green spaces popular with locals.
Palmengarten
This 22-hectare botanical garden has 13,000 plant species, tropical glasshouses, and seasonal flower displays. It’s a must-see spot for nature fans.
Other Parks Worth Visiting
- Grüneburgpark: pretty lawns and skyline views
- Bethmannpark: includes a peaceful Chinese Garden
- Rothschildpark: explore green corridors near the financial district
6. Sachsenhausen: Apple Wine Pubs & Nightlife
Cross Eiserner Steg to Sachsenhausen, known for apple wine (Apfelwein) taverns, cobblestone streets, and timber-framed houses. The neighborhood is split between touristy streets and quieter residential areas with authentic taverns.
Tips for Enjoying Frankfurt’s Pubs & Nightlife
Start your experience with a small glass of pure Apfelwein, and be prepared for communal tables and rustic interiors that create a lively, authentic atmosphere. Evenings here come alive as locals and visitors alike gather to enjoy the vibrant bar scene. Keep in mind that some taverns only accept cash, so it’s best to bring some with you.
7. Food, Markets & Shopping: Kleinmarkthalle & Beyond
Frankfurt’s food scene blends traditional Hessian dishes with international flavors.
Kleinmarkthalle
A covered market with 120 stalls selling fresh produce, meats, cheeses, breads, wines, and international foods.
Try fresh bratwurst, regional sausages, local cheeses, pastries, and bread, accompanied by wine or beer at standing tables. These delicious options are available on weekdays and Saturdays, with the market closed on Sundays.
Local Dishes & Street Food
Popular local dishes include green sauce served with boiled eggs or schnitzel, Frankfurter Rippchen, Handkäs, and Frankfurter sausages. Additionally, food trucks and stands near Hauptwache and Konstablerwache offer quick and tasty meals, making it easy to enjoy traditional flavors on the go.
Getting Around Frankfurt
Frankfurt Airport is close to the city center, with S-Bahn trains taking about 15 minutes. Taxis cost around €35–40 (at the time of publication), while ride-hailing apps like Uber and FreeNow offer cheaper alternatives.
The city is pedestrian-friendly, with trams, buses, and bike rentals widely available. Electric scooters are popular for quick rides.
Enjoy the Best Things to Do in Frankfurt
Frankfurt surprises visitors with its blend of history, culture, and modern life. From medieval squares and historic cathedrals to rooftop views and riverside strolls, the city offers memorable experiences for all types of travelers.
Plan your visit to include museums, markets, and local specialties like apple wine and green sauce. Whether on a short layover or a longer stay, Frankfurt invites you to explore its unique charm and vibrant atmosphere.
To make the most of your trip and enjoy all the amazing things to do in Frankfurt, it’s essential to find the perfect place to stay. Don’t wait, book your accommodation today to secure the best rates and locations for your visit to this fascinating city!
