Did you know Frankfurt is known as the financial capital of the European Union? It has over 200 banks (both domestic and international), and investment companies, and it is home to the Frankfurt Stock Exchange and the European Union’s Central Bank. It comes as no surprise since Frankfurt has held international trade fairs since 1240. Sitting along the Main River, Frankfurt isn’t just a financial capital, it is a city full of history and culture, and there is no shortage of exciting places to visit.
Whether you’re looking for lively nightlife, a cultural experience, or diverse cuisine options, Frankfurt has a little something for everyone. There is so much to see and do, so it can be hard to know where to start so here are 6 must-visit places to help you make the most of your time in Frankfurt and give you an unforgettable experience. From the Old Town historic squares to cruising in the river, travelers are sure to find something that appeals to their interests.
6 Must-Visit Places in Frankfurt
Take a cruise on the Main River
The Main River is one of the most popular and iconic places to visit in Frankfurt. It flows through the city center and you can join one of the many river cruises as they give you a skyline view of the city. The cruise tour takes you through the Main Plaza and the European Central Bank and passes along a historic tanning mill.
Another great way to experience the river is to walk along the riverbank path and sit on one of the many benches that line the river. You can also make a day trip out of it by visiting the Museum Embankment located along the river. There’s also easy access to the Römerberg by crossing the Eiserner Steg pedestrian bridge full of love locks. The nightlife along the riverbank is also something not to be missed, especially during a weekend visit.
Explore the Historic Center of Römerberg
Römerberg is the city’s historic center and is home to a variety of attractions. Located in the center of the city, it is the perfect location to start your visit. It is home to the Römer, which is Frankfurt’s city hall. The building is beautiful and is a great place to visit, especially if you want to learn more about Frankfurt’s history.
There is also the Struwwelpeter Museum near the Friedrich-Stoltze-Brunnen landmark, the museum is dedicated to the 19th-century children’s book Struwwelpeter and Heinrich Hoffman, its author. You can also do a tour of the Frankfurt Cathedral (Dom) Museum or visit the Junges (Young) Museum. Lastly, across the town hall is St. Paul’s Church you can visit to learn more about this political history in Germany.
Note that you won’t go hungry at the Römerberg as there are a variety of different shops, cafes, and restaurants to pick from for a meal. I recommend ConditCouture or Moenus for delicious desserts, Einstein Kaffee for some coffee, and the Zum Standesämtchen for traditional German cuisine.
See the art and history at the Museum Embankment
Situated on the east bank of the Main River, the Museum Embankment is an ideal place to visit when in Frankfurt. There are about nine exhibition buildings on the southern bank side lined out one after the other, including the Giersch Museum, Museum of Communication, German Museum of Architecture, Museum of World Cultures, and Museum of Applied Art.
On the opposite side, travelers can visit the Jewish Museum and Children’s Museum. Each year there is a Museum Festival in Frankfurt where there is art, culture, music, and food to enjoy and celebrate all things art. There are a variety of guided tours and activities for those who prefer them.
Visit St. Paul’s Church
If you love architecture and history, then St. Paul’s Church is a must-visit place in Frankfurt. The Church is open to the public, making it the perfect place to visit if you are looking for something free. You will learn about the building’s history and how it served as the place where the National Assembly created the democratic constitution for the country.
You will also learn how the Church was completely destroyed in 1944 and its reconstruction shortly after the war. You won’t be able to miss the building with its red sandstone and round shape.
Shop at the Farmer’s Market – Kleinmarkthalle
Kleinmarkthalle is a unique and exciting place to visit in Frankfurt. It is an authentic farmer’s market with a traditional atmosphere but with a modern twist. The Kleinmarkthalle house over 60 vendors selling fresh produce, cheese, sausages, and baked goods and vegetables.
It is the perfect place to feel like a local as you peruse the aisles of food and even sample some German cuisine. You can also pick up some gifts or souvenirs to take home with you.
Check out the Goethe House
There is no visit to Frankfurt without checking out the Goethe House. It is an incredible building that is home to the world’s most extensive collection of the works of literary giant and philosopher, Johann Wolfgang von Goethe. The Goethe House remains impressive despite being destroyed during World War II. Thanks to extensive records, the home was reconstructed to match its 1755 style in 1951.
You can visit the museum to check out the permanent exhibition or just view the outside of the building.
Despite being known for its financial hub, spending a day or two exploring Frankfurt will give you a taste of German history, art, and culture. Whether you are interested in architecture and history or just want to sample some delicious German food, Frankfurt will provide it.
Author Bio
Diana is a US freelance writer, travel blogger, and photographer based in Germany. On her family travel blog, Roam and Capture, it is her mission to help other travel moms easily plan their family adventures and capture memories. When work is done, you can find Diana practicing Yoga, on hiking trails with her family, or taking nature and landscape photographs.
