Often dubbed "Mainhattan" for its modern skyline, Frankfurt is much more than just Europe's financial capital. This dynamic, cosmopolitan city, where a quarter of its residents are of foreign origin, offers a contrasting urban landscape blending futuristic skyscrapers with the old town rebuilt after the war. Frankfurt, with its rich historical and cultural past, is a real gem to discover. From its Gothic churches and half-timbered houses to its numerous museums and thriving art scene, the city boasts an unrivalled wealth of architectural and cultural treasures. So, what's there to do and see in Frankfurt? Join us in discovering the 14 must-sees!
1. Discover Frankfurt's historic heart: the Römerberg
With its half-timbered houses, statue of the Goddess of Justice, church and old mansions, the Römerberg is one of the few places in Frankfurt thatoffers a glimpse of what the city was like before the war. Having been 95% destroyed during the war, this historic square was rebuilt in 1986 and is now one of the city's most beautiful. The Römer, which serves as the residence of the mayor and his deputy, boasts a magnificent gabled facade adorned with statues of the emperors Barbarossa, Charles IV, Ludwig II and Maximilian II. At the center of the square stands the statue of the Goddess of Justice, a symbol of Frankfurt's democratic tradition. Take the time to stop in the square for a local delicacy and watch the bustle of this emblematic place.
Good to know: we strongly recommend that you book your Frankfurt Card here . You'll benefit from free public transport (also valid for the return trip to the airport) and half-price admission to the main museums. You'll also get discounts for activities such as the panoramic tour of the Main Tower among others.
Activities to book : embark on a captivating guided tour of Frankfurt's highlights and hidden gems by booking right here.
2. Go and see Goethe's house
Frankfurt has played a key role in Germany's history. Did you know that it was the birthplace of Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, one of Germany's greatest writers? For lovers of literature, be sure to visit his house ! This beautiful 18th-century bourgeois house bears witness to the wealth of the Goethe family. The most moving room is the great writer's study, located on the second floor. The walls are adorned with portraits of the poet, as well as a profile of Charlotte Buff, who inspired "The Sorrows of Young Werther". The other part of the house houses a museum dedicated to Goethe's work, where temporary exhibitions with a literary focus are organized.
Good to know: Frankfurt is also famous for its Christmas market, one of the most beautiful in Europe, making it one of the best destinations to visit this Christmas!
3. The Eschenheimer Turm: symbol of the city of Frankfurt
A vestige of the feudal past, the Eschenheimer Turm is well worth a stop on your stroll through downtown Frankfurt. It is one of the few remaining vestiges of the 15th-century ramparts. Despite centuries and conflicts, including the bombings of the Second World War, it is almost entirely preserved in its original state. Standing proudly on the lively Eschenheimer square, this 47-meter tower, topped by four turrets, evokes a fortress guardian of the past in the heart of the modern world.
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4. Saint-Barthélemy Cathedral, one of the city's oldest buildings
Frankfurt Cathedral, with its panoramic tower, is home to numerous altars adorned with remarkable sculptures and paintings. Its red sandstone tower, in the flamboyant Gothic style, is particularly impressive. Inside, there are some magnificent altars, including the 15th-century Maria-Schlaf-Altar. In addition to its architectural importance, the cathedral occupies a significant place in German history. It was the place of election of the German emperors under the Golden Bull of 1356, and the site of their coronations from 1562 to 1792. The panoramic tower offers a breathtaking view of the city.
Activities to book: discover the city of Frankfurt by booking this multi-stop bus tour that takes in all the must-see sights.
5. The Städel Museum: a must-see museum in Frankfurt
Frankfurt's Museum of Fine Arts, more commonly known as the Städel in honor of its founder, houses collections of exceptional works, covering every trend in European painting since the 14th century. German masters such as Dürer and Holbein rub shoulders with their Flemish, Dutch and French contemporaries. Italian painting from the 14th century is also well represented. The Städel is well worth a visit, if only to discover or revisit some absolute masterpieces. Among them, Rembrandt's "The Blinding of Samson by the Philistines", painted in 1636, is an early example of a "snapshot" in painting, capturing a scene "on the spot" like an instant photograph. Another masterpiece on display is Jerome Bosch's "Ecce homo" (Presentation of Christ to the People), in which the expressions of the people are particularly striking. The museum also features works by Rubens, Botticelli, Vermeer, Poussin, Renoir and Cézanne.
6. The city's historical museum
The Frankfurt History Museum traces the city's history through a rich collection of documents, paintings, furniture, crockery and other objects. These include portraits of the city and its key figures, as well as furniture, crockery and other artifacts. Extensive documentation traces the major events that shaped Frankfurt, from the battles of the Middle Ages to the spectacular post-war boom. A scale model of the pre-World War II city center also illustrates the extent of the destruction suffered by the city.
Book your ticket : Click here to reserve your ticket to the Frankfurt Historical Museum, one of Europe's largest city museums.
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7. Visit Frankfurt's Museum of Modern Art
The Museum of Modern Art houses one of Europe's finest collections of contemporary art. The central theme of the collection is "Pop Art", object art and spatial installations, with notable works by artists such as Andy Warhol. The historic building, recognizable by its triangular shape, houses classic works by major artists as well as Katharina Fritsch's astonishing "Tischgesellschaft" installation. American and European art of the 1960s forms the core of the collection. The museum continues at the Tower MMK, where more recent works and temporary exhibitions are presented. Finally, the Zollamt MMK is dedicated exclusively to temporary exhibitions.
8. The Main Tower: a breathtaking view of the city
Don't miss this 360° view of Frankfurt and the surrounding area! The Main Tower is Frankfurt's highest vantage point, with a gigantic red-and-white antenna at its summit. At 200 meters above the city, you'll find a restaurant and observation platform offering a magnificent, vertiginous panorama. The view from the 54th floor is spectacular, especially in fine weather (we recommend that you visit the tower on a clear day to take full advantage of this aerial view of the city). The price is reasonable and the tour lasts around an hour.
Activity to book: There's no better place to admire a view of Frankfurt than from the Main Tower. We therefore recommend that you book this guided tour of Frankfurt, including tickets for the Main Tower. You'll have an unforgettable time in the company of a guide.
9. Frankfurt's Palmengarten, Germany's largest botanical garden
A haven of peace in the heart of the city. Founded in 1868, the Palmengarten is not only Germany's largest botanical garden, but also one of the most beautiful in Europe. It is home to an impressive diversity of plants from all over the world. The Palmengarten is divided into several thematic sections, each offering a unique experience. The tropical greenhouses are particularly noteworthy, with exotic plants and majestic palms that transport you to another world. The cactus greenhouse, meanwhile, features a fascinating collection of plants and cacti of all shapes and sizes.
10. Senckenberg Museum
Founded in the 18th century on the initiative of the physicist Senckenberg,the Senckenberg Museum is an exceptional place that houses one of Europe's most important fossil collections. You'll see a large collection of animals, including a particularly impressive blue whale skeleton and heart. Great for children, this museum is also very interesting for adults, with a vast collection of stuffed birds. The display of dinosaur and mammoth skeleton casts is fascinating. This museum is definitely worth a visit!
The article to read: Top 8 places to visit and things to do with the whole family in Germany
11. Frankfurt City Hall (Romer)
With its striking three-peaked facade dominating the central Römerberg square, Frankfurt's historic Römer town hall is one of the city's most emblematic buildings. Built in the 15th century, its distinctive medieval design is characterized by three stepped gables, adorned with neo-Gothic embellishments and topped by a domed bell tower. Don't miss the magnificent Kaisersaal (Emperor's Hall), once used for coronation banquets. Here you'll see a unique collection of 19th-century portraits of the kings and emperors of the Holy Roman Empire.
Book my Frankfurt must-see guided tour
12. What to do in Frankfurt Cruise on the Main
Looking for an unforgettable experience in Frankfurt? Nothing beats a cruise on the Main. This majestic river flows through the heart of the city, offering breathtaking views of iconic landmarks such as St. Bartholomew's Cathedral and the Römer, the historic city hall. Our cruises, available in a variety of lengths and themes, allow you to discover the city from a unique and relaxing angle. Whether you're looking for a romantic sunset getaway or a family outing, a cruise on the Main is an activity not to be missed during your visit to Frankfurt.
The cruise to book : take advantage of our partner's special rates by booking your sightseeing cruise on the Main Riverhere!
13. Taste the typical culinary speciality: frankfurter!
During your visit to Frankfurt, be sure to sample the city's typical culinary specialties. One of the must-tries is the frankfurter, a true gastronomic icon. Often served with bread and mustard, this delicious sausage can be enjoyed in one of the city's many Wurstwirtschaften (sausage taverns). Handkäse mit Musik" is a regional cheese with pickled onions, vinegar and oil, often served with bread. Bethmännchen", a small almond cake, is another specialty not to be missed, especially during the Christmas season.
For drink lovers, Apfelwein (apple cider) is a traditional Frankfurt drink, often served in taverns called "Apfelweinwirtschaften". This lightly alcoholic beverage is the perfect accompaniment to local dishes.
Popular activity with travelers: Discover unique, hidden restaurants and enjoy an unforgettable taste experience by booking this popular Frankfurt culinary tour. You'll discover charming cafés, get tips on local restaurants and places not to be missed. All including tastings, of course!
14. EXPERIMINTA Science Center: the perfect family outing
At the Experiminta Science Center, you won't see any "Do not touch!" signs. On the contrary, visitors are encouraged to touch everything to learn how things work through hands-on activities. Over 130 experimental workshops covering physics, mathematics, technology, optics and computing invite you to explore and manipulate scientific phenomena and laws. Everyone becomes a researcher, whether lying on the fakir's bed of nails or playing the violin on singing iron plates.
Reservations required for admission: immerse yourself in the world of physics, mathematics, technology and engineering by booking your your ticket to Frankfurt's ScienceCenter EXPERIMINTA.
Where to stay in Frankfurt?
Frankfurt offers a variety of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. The Innenstadt (city center) is ideal for those who want to be close to the main tourist attractions, restaurants and stores. Sachsenhausen is a lively district with numerous bars, restaurants and a vibrant nightlife. Bornheim is a residential area with a more relaxed atmosphere, but still well served by public transport.
Here are our 3 favorite Frankfurt hotels:
- The quietest: the Alexander
Located near the zoo, to the east of the city center, in a very quiet and green area, the Alexander offers very comfortable rooms, with flowery decor and a sofa corner. Click here to to book your stay.
- The most convenient: NH Frankfurt Airport
The ideal location of this hotel, which can be booked right here, means that travelers can easily take advantage of public transport, with a train station and subway station nearby. Guests can also enjoy an à la carte restaurant serving international and German cuisine, as well as a terrace with beer garden and lounge area
- The pet-friendly hotel: ACHAT Hotel Offenbach Plaza
The ACHAT Hotel Offenbach Plaza is a hotel located 9 km from Frankfurt Cathedral, which you can book here. Rooms are sober and equipped with free Wi-Fi access, satellite TV, safe and private bathroom. The hotel has a trendy restaurant, a reception bar, a gym and a sauna. Bonus: breakfast is available and pets are welcome.
See also the most popular things to do in Frankfurt:
What to do in Frankfurt in the evening?
Frankfurt offers a variety of evening activities to suit different tastes and interests. Here are a few suggestions:
- Dining out: Frankfurt is known for its culinary diversity. You can try local restaurants serving German specialties such as Frankfurter Würstchen or international dishes.
- Spend the evening in bars and pubs: The city has a lively bar scene. Districts such as Sachsenhausen and Bornheim are particularly popular for their numerous bars and pubs. Clubs like the Cocoon Club, Robert Johnson and Tanzhaus West are popular destinations for electronic music fans.
Tempted? Take a Friday or Saturday night pub crawl and discover 4 different venues in Alt-Sachsenhausen, Frankfurt's hippest party district , by booking this nightly pub crawl with a guide!
- Theater and opera: If you prefer a cultural evening out, you can attend a performance at Oper Frankfurt or Schauspiel Frankfurt.
- Cinema: There are several cinemas in Frankfurt where you can watch films in their original version or dubbed into German. Cinestar Metropolis and Harmonie Kino are popular options.
What to do around Frankfurt?
If you're looking for activities and destinations within 30 km of Frankfurt, here are some interesting suggestions:
- Bad Homburg vor der Höhe
- Distance: Approx. 20 km north of Frankfurt.
- Attractions: Bad Homburg Castle Park, Bad Homburg Casino and Kurpark spa park.
- Activities: Stroll through the castle park, relax in the thermal baths and visit the casino.
- Königstein im Taunus
- Distance: Approx. 25 km northwest of Frankfurt.
- What to see: Königstein Castle, Opel Zoo wildlife park and hiking trails in the Taunus.
- Activities: Visit the castle, explore the animal park and hike in the Taunus mountains.
- Kronberg im Taunus
- Distance: Approx. 20 km north of Frankfurt.
- Attractions: Kronberg Castle, Opel Art Museum and Victoria Park.
- Activities: Visit the castle, explore the art museum and stroll through the park.
- Eschborn
- Distance: Approx. 10 km west of Frankfurt.
- What to see: Taunus nature park, hiking and biking trails, picturesque villages.
- Activities: Hiking, cycling and exploring the natural landscape.
- Hofheim am Taunus
- Distance: Approx. 20 km west of Frankfurt.
- What to see: Hofheim Castle, the town museum and the town park.
- Activities: Visit the castle, explore the museum and stroll through the park.
If you'd like to venture a little further afield (89km), you can also book this guided tour of Heidelberg from Frankfurt, which is very popular with travelers. You'll discover the beautiful city of Heidelberg, visit its famous castle and explore the medieval town center.
