Things to Do in Frankfurt in 2025 - Top Attractions, Local Food, Hotels & Travel Tips (Updated May 2025) | Trip.com

About Frankfurt

Recommended trip: 2–4 day(s)

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Frankfurt Local Travel Guide 2025

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Frankfurt Brief Guide

Frankfurt am Main is the fifth-largest city in Germany. Germans sometimes refer to Frankfurt as "Mainhattan", a portmanteau of the local Main River and Manhattan. The banks of the Main River are, on one side, surrounded by a forest of skyscrapers and, on the other side, surrounded by the historical old town. There is a stark contrast between the two, yet also a sense of perfect harmony. Altstadt, the historical old town, was more or less destroyed in World War II. However, it was rebuilt afterward and has since been restored to its former beauty. You can go to the Former Residence of Johann Wolfgang von Goethe to explore the author's life. From the banks of the Main River, to the Eiserner Steg (the steel footbridge that crosses the Main), to the Museumsufer (the museum district), you will be able to feel and appreciate a rich cultural atmosphere. Frankfurt is Germany’s—and all of Europe's—most important financial center. The big blue Euro symbol at the entrance of the Eurotower and the bronze bull and bear figures at the door of the stock exchange are frequently seen in media reports on financial developments.

Frankfurt Must-try Local Experiences

1. Explore the Roman Forum Roman Forum is the historic heart of Frankfurt, featuring medieval architecture, the iconic Römer City Hall, and the beautiful Fountain of Justice. It’s an ideal starting point for exploring the city. 2. Visit the Museumsufer The Museumsufer along the Main River is home to world-class museums, including the Staedel Museum, the German Film Museum, and the Museum of World Cultures. It’s a must-visit for art and culture enthusiasts. 3. Ascend the Main Tower For panoramic views of Frankfurt, head to the Main Tower. The observation deck offers stunning vistas of the city skyline and the Main River, especially breathtaking at sunset. 4. Tour Frankfurt Cathedral Frankfurt Cathedral is a historic Gothic masterpiece. Climb the tower for a unique city view, and take in its impressive interior as you explore this remarkable landmark. 5. Soak in Frankfurt’s Artistic Atmosphere The old opera house is a stunning concert hall where Mozart once performed. Enjoy opera performances, classical concerts, and contemporary music events at this cultural gem. 6. Experience the Festive Christmas Market Frankfurt’s Christmas Market, held in the Roman Forum and St. Paul’s Square, is one of Germany’s oldest and most beautiful. Here, you can enjoy festive decorations, sample delicious treats, and shop for unique gifts. 7. Savor Local Delicacies Don’t miss Frankfurt’s signature dishes, such as Cider、Handkäse and Salsa verde. Frankfurt sausages are also famous; enjoy them with mustard and fresh bread at a local restaurant. 8. Embark on a Shopping Adventure in Frankfurt Zeil Street is Frankfurt’s premier shopping destination, featuring high-end boutiques, department stores, and unique local shops. Discover the Kleinmarkthalle, a bustling indoor market offering fresh produce, local specialties, and culinary delights. It’s perfect for tasting local flavors and finding unique souvenirs. 9. Discover Frankfurt’s Photogenic Spots The Iron Footbridge offers one of the best views of Frankfurt’s skyline and is ideal for capturing stunning sunset photos. Palm Gardens, Frankfurt’s botanical garden, features lush greenery, colorful flowers, and serene ponds, providing countless picturesque scenes for photography lovers. 10. Take a Main River Cruise Experience Frankfurt from a new perspective on a Main River cruise. It’s a relaxing way to see city landmarks and enjoy beautiful views.

Frankfurt Must-see Attractions

Frankfurt offers rich historical and cultural experiences, from the archaeological treasures of the Roman Forum in Nida to the architectural grandeur of Frankfurt Cathedral and Römer City Hall, the intimate setting of Goethe House, and the beloved Iron Footbridge, each providing unique insights into the city's past and present.

Frankfurt Food Guide

Frankfurt's food scene showcases unique and traditional delights like the beloved Cider with 250 years of history, the cherished Frankfurter smoked with premium lean ham pork, the meticulously crafted Salsa verde made with a specific blend of seven herbs, and the historical Handkäse, a sour milk cheese dating back to 1813, all reflecting the city's rich culinary heritage.

Frankfurt Transportation

Frankfurt's transportation infrastructure, with its major airports and train stations, plays an essential role in its connectivity both domestically and internationally. Frankfurt Airport, one of Germany's busiest airports, serves as a vital hub for both passenger and cargo traffic. Situated approximately 12 km from the city center, it handles millions of passengers annually, offering extensive facilities, including two main passenger terminals. Travelers can conveniently reach the city center from Frankfurt Airport using the S8 or S9 S-Bahn lines directly connected to the Frankfurt Flughafen Regionalbahnhof. The main train station, Frankfurt (Main) Hauptbahnhof, located on Poststrasse near the city center, provides seamless connections to various parts of Germany and major European cities. It is renowned for being the busiest train station in Germany, equipped with extensive services and amenities to facilitate travelers' journeys. Conveniently, direct connections to the city center are available via the U-Bahn, S-Bahn trains, or buses, ensuring efficient travel options for passengers arriving in Frankfurt.

Frankfurt Where to Stay

Frankfurt is a vibrant city characterized by its dynamic blend of historical and modern architecture, offering travelers diverse accommodation options throughout distinct districts. From the bustling city center to the quieter residential outskirts, Frankfurt has options available for every type of traveler, ensuring accessibility and a rich cultural experience regardless of where one chooses to stay.

Frankfurt Best Time To Visit

The best time to visit Frankfurt is in October during the Frankfurt Book Fair when the city's cultural scene is particularly vibrant. October falls in autumn, a season highlighted for its pleasant weather and fewer crowds compared to peak tourist seasons. This allows visitors to enjoy the events in more comfortable and less crowded conditions. Shoulder seasons, particularly from late September to November, are also recommended due to moderate weather, lower travel costs, and the unique experience of apfelwein season. During these months, you can witness the city’s transformation with colorful foliage and enjoy local beverages at their seasonal best.

Frankfurt Travel Tips

1.Plan Your Visit: To avoid long queues and ensure your spot, it's recommended to book tickets for Main Tower in advance. Note that the observation deck closes earlier than you might expect. The deck provides a stunning view of Frankfurt's skyline. Consider visiting at sunset for spectacular views and check the weather as the deck may close during inclement conditions. 2. Respect Personal Space: Germans value personal space. Avoid standing too close to others in queues or public transport to respect their comfort. 3. Punctuality is Key: Germans value punctuality highly. Arrive on time for tours, reservations, and meetings. Being late is considered disrespectful and may result in missed opportunities or appointments. 4.Quiet Hours: Respect 'Ruhezeit' (quiet time) from 10 pm every day, 6 am to 7 am on weekdays, and all day on Sundays. Avoid loud activities during these times to be considerate of locals and fellow travelers. 5. No Jaywalking: Cross streets only at designated pedestrian crossings and wait for the green signal. Jaywalking is illegal and can result in fines. Germans strictly adhere to this rule, even if the streets seem empty. 6. Recycling Diligence: Germany has strict recycling laws. In Frankfurt, you'll find separate bins for paper, biodegradable waste, plastics, and general waste. Make an effort to sort your trash correctly to avoid fines. Glass should be sorted by color and deposited in designated bins around the city. Additionally, bottles with a Pfand logo can be returned for a deposit refund.

Frankfurt Useful Guide

Frankfurt's official language is German, proficiently spoken by a significant population, reflecting German roots and cultural prevalence. Numerous dialects exist, such as High German and Bavarian, due to regional variations. The city, a diverse and international hub, also accommodates English speakers, especially within business contexts and among the city's international residents. For non-German speakers, translation apps and multilingual signs at places like airports aid in communication. Embracing basic German phrases, gestures, and expressions can prove essential for smoother interactions.