Frankfurt
About Frankfurt
Frankfurt am Main is Germany's financial powerhouse and a major international hub, home to the European Central Bank and a skyline of glass towers that's earned it the nickname "Mainhattan." But beyond the banking district lies a surprisingly charming city with a rebuilt medieval old town, world-class museums along the Main riverbanks, and a distinctive apple wine (Apfelwein) culture.
The city's central location and massive airport make it a natural gateway to Germany. Its multicultural population gives it one of the country's most diverse food scenes, from traditional Hessian taverns to international fine dining.
Useful links:
Quick Tips
- Currency: Euro (EUR). As a financial capital, card acceptance is better than most German cities, but still carry some cash.
- Transport: Buy an RMV day ticket for unlimited S-Bahn, U-Bahn, tram, and bus travel. The city center is compact and walkable.
- Tipping: Round up or add 5–10%. Straightforward and no-fuss, like the city itself.
- Apfelwein: Frankfurt's traditional drink is apple wine (cider), served in a Bembel jug. Head to the Sachsenhausen district for authentic Apfelwein taverns.
- Museumsufer: The Museum Embankment along the Main river has over a dozen museums. The Museumsufer Ticket (€21) gives two-day access to all of them.
Interesting Places to Visit
Römerberg
Frankfurt's picturesque old town square with half-timbered houses rebuilt after WWII. The Römer (city hall) has been the seat of government since the 15th century. The Justice Fountain at the center is an iconic photo spot.
Museumsufer (Museum Embankment)
A string of 13 museums along the south bank of the Main river. Highlights include the Städel Museum (European art), the German Film Museum, and the Museum of Communication. The annual Museumsuferfest in August is Germany's largest cultural festival.
Palmengarten
One of Europe's largest botanical gardens with tropical greenhouses, rose gardens, and seasonal flower displays. A peaceful escape from the city bustle. Entry €7. Great for families.
Main Tower
The only Frankfurt skyscraper with a public viewing platform (200m). Stunning 360-degree views of the skyline, Main river, and Taunus mountains. Entry €9. Open until late on clear evenings.
Sachsenhausen & Alt-Sachsenhausen
The neighborhood south of the Main, famous for traditional Apfelwein taverns with their distinctive blue-gray stoneware jugs. Wander through cobbled lanes lined with cozy pubs and eateries.
Goethe House (Goethe-Haus)
The birthplace of Germany's greatest writer, Johann Wolfgang von Goethe. A beautifully restored 18th-century townhouse with period furnishings and a museum of Romantic-era art. Entry €10.
Kleinmarkthalle
Frankfurt's beloved indoor market with over 60 stalls selling fresh produce, meats, cheeses, spices, and prepared foods from around the world. The upper-floor wine bar offers tastings and city views.
When to Visit
Frankfurt has a moderate climate with warm summers and cool winters. Business travel keeps it busy year-round:
🌸 Spring (March – May)
Ideal for sightseeing. Mild (8–19°C), parks in bloom, and the Main riverbanks come alive. Fewer business travelers on weekends mean better hotel deals.
- Dippemess spring festival (April)
- Palmengarten in full bloom
- Main river promenade walks
☀️ Summer (June – August)
Warm (19–28°C) with outdoor life along the Main. The Museumsuferfest in August draws millions. Locals picnic on the riverbanks and cool off in open-air pools.
- Museumsuferfest (August)
- Open-air cinema and concerts
- Main riverbank picnics
🍂 Autumn (September – November)
Cooler (6–16°C) with the Frankfurt Book Fair in October — the world's largest. Apple wine season peaks, and the Sachsenhausen taverns are at their coziest.
- Frankfurt Book Fair (October)
- Apple wine harvest festivals
- Fall colors in Palmengarten
❄️ Winter (December – February)
Cold (0–5°C) with atmospheric Christmas markets at the Römerberg. Frankfurt's market is one of Germany's oldest, dating to 1393. Fewer tourists, good hotel deals on weekends.
- Weihnachtsmarkt at Römerberg
- Hot Apfelwein with cinnamon
- Museum-hopping season
Where to Eat (Affordable & Good)
Frankfurt's food scene combines traditional Hessian cuisine with international flavors. Apple wine taverns are a must:
Adolf Wagner$ – $$
The most famous Apfelwein tavern in Sachsenhausen. Traditional Hessian dishes like Grüne Soße (green sauce with eggs), Handkäs mit Musik (marinated cheese), and schnitzel. Mains €10–16.
Zum Gemalten Haus$ – $$
Another beloved Sachsenhausen institution with painted murals on its facade. Generous portions of Frankfurt classics and apple wine from the Bembel. Mains €9–15. Outdoor garden in summer.
Kleinmarkthalle$
Not just a market — grab fresh food at various stalls. Try the famous Metzgerei Schreiber for sausages, or the Turkish gözleme stands. Most items €3–8. Perfect for a cheap, delicious lunch.
Café Karin$ – $$
Charming café near the Römer with excellent breakfast and brunch. Organic ingredients, homemade cakes, and a cozy, literary atmosphere. Dishes €7–13.
Apfelwein Solzer$
A local favorite in Bornheim, away from the tourist trail. Hearty Hessian home cooking and some of the best apple wine in the city. No frills, just honest food. Mains €8–12.
Maxie Eisen$ – $$
New York-style Jewish deli in the Bahnhofsviertel. Pastrami sandwiches, bagels, and craft cocktails. A hidden gem in Frankfurt's most eclectic neighborhood. Sandwiches €10–14.
IMA Teehaus$
Vietnamese restaurant near Berger Straße with authentic pho, bánh mì, and rice dishes. Fresh, flavorful, and affordable. Most dishes €8–11. Always busy at lunchtime.