Frankfurt City Guide

Frankfurt's soul is best captured at the Römerberg, the city's historic heart where half-timbered houses stand in charming contrast to the gleaming skyscrapers of the financial district nearby. From here, a short stroll across the Eiserner Steg footbridge leads to the Museumsufer, a prestigious collection of world-class institutions lining the banks of the Main River. This riverside stretch is the city's cultural pulse, perfect for a leisurely walk or a deep dive into art history.

Beyond the glass and steel, Frankfurt offers lush retreats and traditional flavors. The Palmengarten provides a sprawling botanical escape with its majestic palm house, while the nearby Sachsenhausen district invites visitors to experience local life over a glass of tangy Apfelwein in a rustic tavern. For the best views of "Mainhattan," the observation deck of the Main Tower offers a breathtaking perspective of the city's unique skyline, the most impressive in Germany.

While most visitors cluster around the Römerberg, locals head to the Lohrberg. As Frankfurt’s last remaining vineyard, it offers a sweeping view of the skyline framed by rows of Riesling grapes. It is the perfect spot for a leisurely afternoon picnic or a glass of local wine at the MainÄppelHaus.

For a dose of medieval charm without the crowds, the Höchster Schlossplatz in the western district of Höchst is a hidden gem. With its timber-framed houses and the quiet Bolongaropalast nearby, it feels like a standalone village that time forgot, far removed from the banking towers.

To experience the city’s authentic social heart, bypass the busier cider houses and wander up Berger Straße in Bornheim. This lively neighborhood street is where Frankfurt’s residents shop at independent boutiques and gather in cozy apple wine taverns like Solzer to enjoy local specialties in a truly neighborhood atmosphere.

Frankfurt boasts a world-class public transport network managed by the RMV. The S-Bahn, U-Bahn, and trams connect almost every corner of the city with remarkable efficiency. Tickets must be purchased from station machines before boarding. A standard single trip within the city center costs approximately €3.40, while a day ticket offers better value at around €6.65 for unlimited travel. For those preferring two wheels, the city is bike-friendly with numerous rental schemes available throughout the main districts.

Navigating from Frankfurt Airport to the city center is seamless via the S-Bahn lines S8 or S9. A single ticket for this 15-minute journey costs about €6.30. For door-to-door service, taxis and ride-sharing apps like Uber and Free Now are readily available. A taxi from the airport to the city center typically ranges between €35 and €45. Within the city, taxi fares start with a base fee of €4.00, making them a reliable choice for shorter, direct trips.

Frankfurt’s compact layout makes walking one of the most enjoyable ways to see the sights. The area between the historic Römerberg and the modern shopping district of Zeil is easily navigable on foot. While the public system is extensive, wandering through the Altstadt or along the banks of the Main River allows for a more intimate experience of the city’s unique blend of medieval and modern architecture.

Frankfurt offers a diverse shopping experience that caters to every budget. For high-street favorites and international brands, head straight to the Zeil, one of Germany's most frequented shopping boulevards. Here, you will find the futuristic MyZeil mall and major department stores. If your tastes lean toward luxury, Goethestraße is the city’s premier destination, lined with world-class designer boutiques from the most prestigious global labels.

For those seeking a more local and eclectic vibe, neighborhoods like Bornheim and Sachsenhausen provide charming alternatives. Berger Straße is perfect for independent boutiques and unique finds, while Schweizer Straße is ideal for traditional gifts. Don't leave without picking up some local specialties; look for a Bembel, a traditional blue-gray stoneware jug for apple wine, or high-quality leather goods, for which the region has a long-standing reputation.

If you are looking for a sensory experience, the Kleinmarkthalle is an absolute must-visit. This bustling indoor market is the perfect place to sample regional delicacies like Frankfurt Green Sauce or local sausages. Whether you are hunting for high fashion or a modest souvenir, Frankfurt’s blend of modern malls and historic markets ensures every shopper finds something special.

In Frankfurt, tipping is a gesture of appreciation rather than a mandatory obligation. When dining at a restaurant, it is customary to leave a gratuity of between 5% and 10% for good service. For smaller café bills or taxi rides, most locals simply round up to the nearest euro. It is best to inform the server of the total amount you wish to pay, including the tip, as they process your payment at the table.

The local currency is the Euro (EUR), which currently trades at a rough exchange rate of approximately 1.10 US Dollars to 1 Euro. While credit cards are increasingly accepted in Frankfurt’s modern shops and restaurants, keeping some cash on hand is helpful for smaller establishments and service staff. For hotel porters or housekeeping, a small gesture of one or two euros is always warmly received.

Late spring (May to June) and early autumn (September to October) are the ideal windows to visit Frankfurt, offering mild temperatures perfect for strolling along the Museumsufer or enjoying an outdoor apfelwein. While summer brings vibrant festivals and lively riverfront activities, it also coincides with higher tourist numbers and peak humidity. For those who don't mind the chill, late November and December transform the city with enchanting Christmas markets, though the damp winter weather requires heavy layers.

Pricing in Frankfurt is heavily influenced by its status as a global financial hub rather than just the seasons. Hotel rates fluctuate dramatically based on the trade fair (Messe) calendar; major events like the Frankfurt Book Fair can cause prices to triple. To find the best balance of lower crowds and fair pricing, aim for weekends when business travel lulls, or plan your trip during the transitional spring and fall months while avoiding the busiest convention dates.