Have you ever dreamed of a city where futuristic skyscrapers stand right next to half-timbered houses from the Middle Ages? Welcome to Frankfurt am Main, a vibrant hub in the heart of Germany.
It's not just about finance — it's a perfect mix of art, culture, history, and riverfront relaxation. Let's explore this amazing city step by step with everything we need to plan the perfect trip!
Getting to Frankfurt: Flights & Public Transport
Frankfurt is very easy to reach. Most travelers fly into Frankfurt International Airport (FRA), Germany's largest airport. From there:
- S-Bahn (S8/S9) trains run to the city center every 10–15 minutes.
- Travel time: Around 15 minutes
- Ticket price: About $5.50 USD (one-way)
If you're arriving by train, Frankfurt Hauptbahnhof is the main station with direct links to Berlin, Munich, Brussels, and more.
- Tip: Buy a Frankfurt Card for unlimited public transport and museum discounts:
- 1 day: About $13 USD
- 2 days: About $19 USD
Best Time to Visit & Weather Tips
Frankfurt is a year-round destination, but each season offers something special:
- May–September: Warm, sunny weather (best for walking tours and festivals)
- December: Magical Christmas markets in the Old Town
- Spring/Fall: Mild weather, fewer crowds
- Tip: Pack layers — even summer evenings by the river can be chilly.
Skyline Views: Where to See Frankfurt from Above
Frankfurt's skyline has earned it the nickname "Mainhattan". For the best panoramic view:
Main Tower Observation Deck
- Entry fee: Around $9.50 USD
- Hours: 10 AM–9 PM (until 7 PM on Sundays)
- Address: Neue Mainzer Straße 52–58
- Tip: Go at sunset for amazing golden views!
Explore the Old Town: Römerberg & Historic Buildings
The Old Town, centered around Römerberg Square, is like stepping into a fairy tale:
- Römer (City Hall): Free to view outside; guided tours available (~$4 USD)
- St. Paul's Chapel: Open 10 AM–5 PM, free entry
- Frankfurt Cathedral (Dom): Climb the tower for around $4.50 USD
- Tip: Visit early in the morning for peaceful photos without tour crowds.
River Life & Museumsufer (Museum Riverbank)
Walk or cycle along the Main River and visit world-class museums. Highlights include:
Städel Museum (European art from Rembrandt to Picasso)
- Entry: Around $18 USD, closed on Mondays
German Film Museum: Interactive exhibits for all ages
- Entry: About $8 USD
Museum of Communication: Great for families
- Entry: About $7 USD
- Tip: During Museumsuferfest in August, many museums offer discount entry or free access.
Shopping & Street Culture: Zeil Street
Frankfurt's shopping hotspot is Zeil Street:
- MyZeil Shopping Mall: Cool modern design with a giant spiral escalator
- Zeilgalerie Rooftop: Free viewpoint of the skyline
- Tip: Try window shopping in the morning, then relax at a café in the afternoon.
What to Eat in Frankfurt
Here are must-try local dishes (and their typical prices):
- Frankfurter Rindswurst (classic sausage): $4–6 USD at street stalls
- Handkäs mit Musik (cheese with onions and vinegar): $6–8 USD
- Frankfurter Kranz (buttercream cake): $4 USD per slice at bakeries
- Local spot to try: Café Karin – popular for brunch, meals under $12 USD
- Tip: Many restaurants offer lunch specials between $10–15 USD with drinks included.
Where to Stay in Frankfurt
Whether we're traveling on a budget or looking for comfort, Frankfurt has great options:
- Budget: a&o Frankfurt Galluswarte – Dorms from $25 USD/night
- Mid-range: Motel One Frankfurt-Römer – Double rooms from $90 USD/night
- Luxury: Steigenberger Frankfurter Hof – From $220 USD/night, excellent location
- Tip: Stay near the Old Town or Hauptbahnhof for easy walking access to most attractions.
Day Trips from Frankfurt
Got an extra day? Let's explore nearby towns:
- Heidelberg: Romantic town with a hilltop castle (1 hour by train, ~$22 USD roundtrip)
- Wiesbaden: Hot springs and spas (45 min by train, ~$14 USD)
- Rüdesheim: Vineyard region and Rhine River cruises (1.5 hours, ~$25 USD)
Frankfurt Is More Than You Expect!
Frankfurt isn't just about business and banks. It's a city where old meets new, where riverside cafes share space with glass towers, and where we can discover everything from fine art to street snacks in just a few blocks. Whether we're here for two days or a week, Frankfurt has a rhythm that makes us want to stay a little longer.
So — are we booking that ticket yet? Let's fall in love with Frankfurt, one step at a time!
