1. See Frankfurt from the highest vantage point at the Main Tower
A visit to the Main Tower in Frankfurt offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and beyond. The Main Tower is a 56-story, 200m (656ft)-high skyscraper in the Innenstadt district, named after the Main. From the observation deck, you can see the impressive skyline, the winding River Main, and the surrounding hills, providing a unique perspective of Frankfurt’s blend of both modern and historical sights. Start your trip and get your bearings, and experience the beauty of Frankfurt from above.
2. Visit the Frankfurter Goethe-Haus
Johann Wolfgang von Goethe (1749–1832) is widely recognized as the most important writer of German literature. Frankfurter Goethe-Haus, the birthplace of Goethe, was completely rebuilt after WWII (only the cellar survived Allied bombing) and is furnished in the haute-bourgeois style of his time, based on an inventory taken when Goethe’s family sold the property.
3. And then, the Deutsches Romantik-Museum (German Romanticism Museum)
The Deutsches Romantik-Museum is the very first of its kind in the world, deep-diving into the art and ethos of this unique Romantic movement. When visiting, don’t miss the Caspar David Friedrich paintings in the Romantic Painting Cabinet, the captivating miniatures gallery on the first floor, or the immersive interactive audio chamber where you can experience the emotional depth of Romantic art. Other highlights include the iconic Stairway to Heaven staircase and the stunning third-floor view of the Frankfurt skyline.
4. Climb the Kaiserdom tower for the best views of Frankfurt
The red-sandstone Imperial Cathedral of Saint Bartholomew, more commonly known as Kaiserdom or Frankfurt Cathedral, is in the heart of the Altstadt. An unmatched view of the city is your reward if you climb the 328 steps up the Gothic tower to the viewing platform at an impressive 66m (216ft). Sweeping views of Frankfurt’s attractions stretch in front of you, including the Altstadt, the Museum Embankment, St Paul’s Church, the Romer, Old St Nicholas’ Church and the city’s skyline along the Main River.
5. Shop for everything at Kleinmarkthalle
Stalls inside the traditional Kleinmarkthalle market hall sell everything from roasted nuts, pretzels, loose-leaf teas, cakes and chocolates to fruit, vegetables and fish. It’s unmissable for picnickers or self-caterers, or anyone wanting to experience Frankfurt life and traditional German foods. There’s also a popular espresso bar (good luck on a Saturday morning) and the upper-level wine bar opens to a terrace.
Detour: Nearby, high atop the Galeria Kaufhof department store, Leonhard’s, an upmarket food court with an outdoor terrace serves everything from coffee and baked goods to freshly prepared fish and meat dishes.
6. Relax on a cruise down the River Main
The River Main separates Frankfurt, on the northern bank, and Sachsenhausen, on the southern. On either side of the river the city has many charms and you can enjoy them while bobbing down the river on a boat. Sightseeing cruises leave hourly, and half-day, full-day and multi-day options are available, as well as evening cruises to catch the city’s glittering skyline against the night sky.
7. Embrace the holiday spirit at Römerburg Christmas Market
The beloved Römerburg Christmas Market, in Frankfurt’s old central square, dazzles from November 25th to December 22nd with decorated stalls, traditional German gifts and foods, and a tall, towering Christmas tree. While you enjoy the beautiful Christmas lights and festivities, try the Bethmännchen (a sweet marzipan pastry) or a cup of hot apple wine, a Frankfurt classic. Snag a Quetschemännchen as a souvenir, small figures of men and women made from dried plums and nuts, held together with wire, or one of the market’s annual mugs.
8. Dive into nature at the PalmenGarten
A botanical garden with roots dating to 1871, PalmenGarten covers some 49 acres, including meadows, ponds, creatively designed gardens and special exhibitions, and has about 13,000 plant species. Have some fun in the Flower & Butterfly House before exploring the playgrounds, a pond with easy-to-row boats, a gorgeous rose garden that begins blooming in late spring, and a mystical bamboo grove. The gardens also host varying music acts during the spring, summer and autumn months.
9. Enjoy an opera performance at Alter Oper Frankfurt
The Alter Oper Frankfurt is simply gorgeous, with dramatic lighting at night and a beautiful fountain. Today, performances range from classical music and jazz to musicals, and there’s a heavy focus on engaging young people with tailor-made programs. Guided tours of this historic building are available, but it is well worth seeing a performance inside the opera house itself.
10. Experience the local cafe culture
Frankfurt offers many opportunities to experience its vibrant cafe culture. Holy Cross Brewing Society should be top of your list. Roots Café stands out for its cool, intellectual ambiance and thoughtful seating, alongside superb coffee. Brühmarkt, a roastery with a focus on sustainability, encourages bringing your own reusable cup to reduce waste while serving delicious coffee. Moka Roasters roasts their own beans and serves exceptional drinks, with their beans making a great souvenir. Wacker’s Kaffee Geschäft is a local favorite, perfect for grabbing a coffee before or after a visit to the Kleinmarkthalle.
