Franhatten. Mainhattan. Manhattan on the Main. Frankfurt (am Main) is a city with many nicknames. Whatever you call it, Frankfurt is the undisputed banking & financial powerhouse in Germany, which often gives it the reputation of being boring for tourists. And look – there is some truth to that. Frankfurt is admittedly not my favorite city in Germany. I think there are more interesting large German cities to explore, such as Cologne, Berlin or Dresden. 

But that doesn’t mean there is nothing to do in Frankfurt or that Frankfurt isn’t worth visiting for a day or two. This city is indeed more than business suits and banking districts.

With its rich history, vibrant food scene, and stunning skyline, Frankfurt offers plenty to explore. Frankfurt is a city of contrasts—where medieval charm meets modern skyscrapers, and traditional taverns sit beside trendy cafes. From iconic landmarks like Römerberg and the Goethe House to bustling markets and scenic river walks, there are plenty of things to see in Frankfurt for a few days. If you think Frankfurt is just a stopover city, I hope this travel guide will change your mind.

All the Best Things to See, Eat & Do in Frankfurt

Best Things to See & Do in Frankfurt

Goethe House

Frankfurt is the birthplace of Germany’s most famous writer, Johann Wolfgang von Goethe. He was born in a small house in Frankfurt in 1749, which has now been turned into a museum. The museum recreates the 18th-century world in which young Goethe grew up, complete with period furniture, original manuscripts, and portraits of the literary genius. A visit here is a journey through history, showcasing the environment that inspired Goethe’s early works. Next door, the Goethe Museum houses an impressive collection of paintings and artifacts from the Romantic period, offering deeper insight into Goethe’s impact on German literature and culture.

Römerberg

If there’s one place that captures Frankfurt’s historical soul, it’s Römerberg. This picturesque square in the heart of Frankfurt’s Old Town (Altstadt in German) is lined with beautifully restored half-timbered houses. The area was completely destroyed during WWII. During the rebuilding, they tried to infuse as much of the old charm as they could into Römerberg. 

Nowadays, it is the city’s main square. The highlight of Römerberg is the Römer, Frankfurt’s medieval town hall, which has served as the city’s administrative center since 1405. Step inside to see the Kaisersaal (Emperor’s Hall), where Holy Roman Emperors once held lavish banquets. The area is also home to historic churches like St. Nicholas Church. 

Main Tower

Frankfurt is one of the few German cities, maybe even European cities, that has a skyline composed of skyscrapers. Want the best view of Frankfurt? Head straight to Main Tower, a 200-meter-tall building offering breathtaking 360-degree views of the city. Named after the Main River, this tower is one of the only skyscrapers in Frankfurt that has a public observation deck. Take the high-speed elevator to the top, and you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views stretching from the historic Old Town to the modern banking district.

Christmas Markets

I visited the Frankfurt Christmas Markets for the first time this year, and I was quite surprised how much I enjoyed them! Coming from Cologne, my Christmas Market standards are pretty high. The primary Frankfurt Christmas market is located in Römerberg. For the holiday season, the square transforms into a festive wonderland, complete with a vintage carousel, sparkling lights, and a giant tree. From there, you can head north towards to find rows of stalls selling traditional handicrafts and souvenirs.

How to Spend 1 Perfect Day in Frankfurt

Morning: Old Town Walk

Start your day in Frankfurt’s Altstadt, the city’s charming old town, which is actually a charming new town. The neighborhood was severely damaged during WWII and reconstruction plans were tedious. But the idea emerged to turn the district back into a historic-feeling German Altstadt. After a long period of construction between the Römer and Kaiserdom, the once-in-a-century New “Old Town” restoration project was completed in 2018

Although Frankfurt plays a really important role in German history, many travelers aren’t familiar with it, which is exactly why I would recommend doing a walking tour of Frankfurt’s historic core. You can find licensed and knowledgeable guides through the Frankfurt Tourism Office. 

A few of the notable attractions to see in the Frankfurt Altstadt are:

• Römerberg: picturesque square lined with half-timbered houses and home to the historic Römer, Frankfurt’s medieval town hall since 1405
• Fountain of Justice (Justitia-Brunnen): Standing proudly in the center of Römerberg and dates back to 1543. Features Lady Justice holding her scales, symbolizing fairness and law. 
• St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral (Kaiserdom): striking Gothic cathedral where Holy Roman Emperors were crowned between the 16th and 18th centuries. Climb the 95-meter tower for breathtaking panoramic views of the city.
• St Paul’s Church (Paulskirche): A symbol of German democracy, St. Paul’s Church hosted the first freely elected German National Assembly in 1848. 
• St. Nicholas Church (Alte Nikolaikirche): charming medieval church existing since the 13th century. Known for its 35 bells, which chime beautifully during festivals.

Early Afternoon: Kleinmarkthalle

By now, you’ve probably worked up an appetite, so head to Kleinmarkthalle, Frankfurt’s beloved indoor food market. If you’re a foodie with your eye on finding the most delicious eats in all of Frankfurt, Kleinmarkthalle is the place for you. This lively marketplace features over 150 stalls in a sprawling 16,000 square foot space. You can find everything from fresh produce and meats to cheeses and international delicacies. 

The vendors tend to be friendly, so you can ask questions and get recommendations. Whether you choose to pack up your favorites to take with you or try one of the many dishes prepared fresh on the spot, your taste buds will thank you for the special treat. You can even wash down your meal with a glass of wine from a local winery.

Late Afternoon: Main River Walk

Time to burn off some calories with a scenic river walk along the Main. Take a short walk to the Eiserner Steg, Frankfurt’s iconic iron footbridge, which offers stunning views of the Main River and the city skyline. This bridge is also known for its love locks, so if you’re visiting with a loved one, bring a lock to leave your mark on Frankfurt.

From there, stroll along the Museumsufer (Museum Embankment), home to some of Germany’s best museums, including the Städel Museum, which features masterpieces from Rembrandt to Picasso. For a more relaxing experience, consider a river cruise, which offers a unique perspective of the city’s mix of historic and modern architecture. 

Evening: Skyline Views & Dinner

End your perfect day in Frankfurt with a stunning sunset view from one of Frankfurt’s rooftop patios. Many of the best rooftops are atop various hotels around Frankfurt, such as the Blasky Hotel, Gekko House or Fleming’s Hotel. Another option is GALERIA Restaurant, which is a rooftop spot on top of a shopping mall near Hauptwache. 

Of course, the Main Tower is a great option for skyline views. If you want to really splurge, eat at the fine-dining restaurant inside the Main Tower after visiting the panorama deck. 

For a traditional experience, visit a cozy Apfelwein tavern, where you can enjoy hearty German fare with a glass of apple wine. A couple I can recommend include Haus Wertheym, one of the oldest restaurants in Frankfurt or Zum Gemalten Haus which is said to have the best traditional apple wine.

Day Trips from Frankfurt

Heidelberg

A fairy-tale destination just an hour from Frankfurt, Heidelberg is home to Germany’s oldest university and one of the country’s most romantic castle ruins. Perched on a hill overlooking the Neckar River, Heidelberg Castle offers breathtaking views of the city’s red rooftops and the Old Bridge below. Stroll through the charming Old Town (Altstadt), visit the Philosopher’s Walk for a scenic panorama, and soak in the lively student atmosphere that has inspired poets and philosophers for centuries. 

Mosel Wine Region

For wine lovers, a trip to the Mosel Wine Region is a must. This stunning area, which just so happens to be my favorite region in all of Germany, is known for its steep vineyard slopes and medieval villages. It produces around 70% of all German Riesling wines. Take a leisurely drive or river cruise through picturesque towns like Cochem, Bernkastel-Kues, and Traben-Trarbach, where half-timbered houses line the riverbanks. Stop at family-run wineries for tastings, explore fairytale castles like Burg Eltz, and enjoy breathtaking views of the winding Mosel River.

Würzburg

A hidden gem along the Romantic Road, Würzburg is a Baroque beauty brimming with history, wine culture, and architectural splendor. The city’s crown jewel is the Würzburg Residence, a UNESCO-listed palace with opulent interiors, including the world’s largest frescoed ceiling. Wander through the palace’s beautifully manicured Hofgarten, visit the impressive Marienberg Fortress, and cross the Alte Mainbrücke, a historic bridge where visitors sip local Franconian wine while enjoying sunset views. 

Romantic Rhine Valley

Few places in Germany capture the magic of a storybook landscape like the Romantic Rhine Valley. Stretching between Koblenz and Bingen, this UNESCO-listed region is famous for its medieval castles, charming villages, and vineyard-covered hills. Take a scenic river cruise to admire the Lorelei Rock, a legendary cliff that has inspired poets and myths for centuries. Stop in Rüdesheim, a lively wine town known for its charming Drosselgasse street, or visit Bacharach, a perfectly preserved medieval village.

How to Get Around in Frankfurt

Frankfurt’s central train station is a major transportation hub for both short and long distance traveling, welcoming over 350,000 passengers per day. If you’re coming from Frankfurt Airport, nearly all of the trains will go here. Such an easy connection! Just be mindful that the area around the train station can be dodgy, because it is right next to a large red light district.

Frankfurt is well-connected by public transport, including trams, buses, and the U-Bahn (subway). Tickets can be purchased on the platform or in the train stations. The Frankfurt Card offers unlimited travel on public transit and discounts on attractions. Walking and cycling are also great ways to explore the city, and taxis or ride-sharing services are widely available.

What to Eat in Frankfurt

Like so many regions in Germany, there are several regional dishes that are iconic to Frankfurt. 

• Apfelwein (Apple Wine): Frankfurt’s signature drink! Served in unique glassware, this tart, refreshing cider is best enjoyed in a traditional Apfelwein tavern 
• Frankfurter Sausage: A must-try! These thin, fine grind, smoked pork sausages are typically served with mustard and fresh bread.
• Handkäs mit Musik: sour milk cheese is served with onions, vinegar, and oil. You’re either love it or hate it, but at least you tried it.
• Frankfurt Kranz: layered sponge cake baked in a ring-shaped baking tin. Thick layers of buttercream icing and red jam (typically strawberry, blackcurrant or cherry jam) are inside, while the outside of the cake is then thickly coated with more buttercream and topped with caramel-covered brittle nuts, called Krokant, and toasted almond flakes.

Where to Stay in Frankfurt

• Motel One Frankfurt-Römer ($$)– just a short walk to the Römerberg. The rooms are on the small side, but have a nice contemporary design.
• Scandic Frankfurt Museumsufer ($$$)– Walking distance to the main train station. Comfy rooms with Scandinavian design, and a good hotel breakfast buffet. 
• 25hours Hotel – The Goldman ($$$): Trendy German hotel chain with 2 locations in Frankfurt. The Goldman is in the Frankfurt harbor district, which is rapidly gentrifying and turning into a hip area.
• Steigenberger Icon ($$$$): Dates back to 1876 with a great location, and luxury offerings. 
• Jumeirah Frankfurt ($$$$): five-star comfort with skyline views

Have thoughts or questions about this Frankfurt itinerary? Tell me in the comments!