Frankfurt Uncovered: Hidden Gems and Must-See Attractions

Attractions and Things to do

Alte Oper / Old Opera

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Alte Oper is a concert hall in Frankfurt and one of the city‘s most iconic landmarks. The history of the house dates back to the late 19th century when it was constructed in October 1880, based on the designs of the Berlin architect Richard Lucae. The grand opening was celebrated with a performance of Mozart's Don Giovanni. However, after the destruction during the end of World War II, it took nearly four decades for the building, often referred to as the most beautiful ruin in Germany, to be restored with a magnificent facade and transformed into a modern concert hall. It was finally reopened with great solemnity on 28 August 1981.

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Neue Altstadt / New Old Town

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The New Frankfurt Old Town is the central district of the historic Old Town in Frankfurt am Main, which underwent a large-scale urban redevelopment project from 2012 to 2018. This area forms the core of the Old Town, which was one of the largest and most significant half-timbered towns, boasting around 1,250 buildings primarily dating back to the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, until it was destroyed during the air raids in 1944. Today, visitors can immerse themselves in the enchanting ambiance of this time-honored old town while enjoying a cup of coffee, exploring museums, or indulging in a shopping spree—all amidst the vibrant energy of an international metropolis.

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Palmengarten / Palm Gardens

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Spanning 20 hectares, the Palmengarten houses a remarkable collection of approximately 13,000 plant species within its outdoor areas and historic display houses. With exhibitions, guided tours, and musical events, the garden attracts visitors throughout the year. In addition to human guests, the Flower and Butterfly House, highlights the significance of various insect species, particularly butterflies. The establishment of Frankfurt's Palmengarten was made possible due to a financial crisis and the Prussian annexation of the Duchy of Nassau in 1866. Adolph von Nassau, facing financial difficulties, sold the Winter Gardens of Biebrich, including their exotic plant collection, which caught the attention of garden designer Heinrich Siesmayer. Siesmayer's vision of an artful landscape garden with a revolutionary glasshouse filled with exotic plants became reality through the sale of "Palmengarten shares" to Frankfurt's wealthy citizens and supporters.

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Römer (City Hall)

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Since 1405, this former patrician villa with a distinctive three-gabled roof has been Frankfurt's city hall, serving as the Lord Mayor's seat to this day. The origin of its name, "Römer" (Roman), is subject to various hypotheses, one suggesting that the merchant who lived there until the building was purchased by the city transacted the majority of his business with Italy, and in particular, Rome.

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Hafenpark / Harbour Park

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The Hafenpark is situated in the heart of the city, right along the Main river promenade and at the foot of the European Central Bank. It offers a wide range of sports facilities and is particularly popular during evenings and weekends, attracting teenagers, the skateboarding community, and sports enthusiasts of all ages. It features multiple open fields for soccer, volleyball, basketball, and badminton as well as fitness courses and a skateboarding and BMX park

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Kleinmarkthalle / Little Market Hall

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Kleinmarkthalle, a magnificent 1,500-square-meter indoor market hall, offers an unparalleled culinary experience. With 156 market stalls, it presents a wide array of fresh foods, regional delicacies like Frankfurt's renowned "Green Sauce," and a delightful selection of international delicacies imported from various corners of the globe. Kleinmarkthalle is not only a food lover's paradise but also a popular social spot, especially on Saturdays when many people gather there to enjoy a glass or two of wine or other beverages, especially during good weather.

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Paulskirche / St. Paul's Church

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Built in 1833 and consecrated as a church, this historical site gained significance as the venue for Germany's first National Assembly in 1848, which laid the groundwork for the country's current constitution. Today, it continues to be a prominent location for award ceremonies, political gatherings, and cultural events.

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Ebbelwei-Express

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The Ebbelwei-Express is a special line of the Frankfurt tram system. Originally introduced in 1977 to commemorate the retirement of the last two-axle trams, it was meant to be a temporary attraction. However, due to its immense popularity, this curiosity has endured until today. The beloved tram gets its name from the Hessian apple wine, "Ebbelwei," served on board the carriage.

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Bethmann Park

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Bethmann Park, once the private garden of Frankfurt's prestigious Bethmann family, now offers a tranquil oasis shielded from city bustle by its thick walls. With its magnificent floral displays resembling a spa resort's lush parklands, the park's main highlight is the serene Chinese Garden, designed according to feng-shui principles.

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Museums

Senckenberg Naturmuseum

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The Senckenberg Museum, one of Germany's largest Natural History Museums, showcases the evolution of life and the diversity of recent biodiversity. Its vast collection includes numerous unique exhibits of mammals, insects, and fishes, with a particular highlight being the impressive display of abandoned dinosaurs.

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Schirn Kunsthalle Frankfurt

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The Schirn stands as a significant exhibition venue in Europe. It presents a diverse range of contemporary and modern art, aiming to provide fresh perspectives, break traditional reception patterns, and act as a seismograph for explosive developments in the visual arts. From major survey exhibitions to focused retrospectives and solo showcases, the Schirn offers a multifaceted, international, and progressive approach to art-historical and historico-cultural themes and trends.

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Städel Museum

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Founded in 1815 by Johann Friedrich Städel, a banker and businessman, the Städel Museum is Germany's oldest museum foundation. Its collection offers an extensive survey of European art spanning seven centuries, including renowned works by artists like Dürer, Botticelli, Rembrandt, Monet, Picasso, Richter, and many others, totaling 3,100 paintings, 660 sculptures, over 4,600 photographs, and more than 100,000 drawings and prints.

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Best skyline view

Eiserner Steg / Iron Footbridge

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This iconic iron and concrete footbridge, connecting the city center and Römerberg with Sachsenhausen on the southern banks of the Main River, serves as a beloved photo spot with a stunning view of Frankfurt's skyline.

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Kaiserdom St. Bartholomäus / St. Bartholomew Cathedral

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The Frankfurt Imperial Cathedral, also known as St. Bartholomew's Cathedral, is a significant historical landmark built in the Gothic style between 1315 and 1358. Visitors can climb its tower for an unmatched view of the city's skyline and the Museum Embankment on the Main River. Besides its breathtaking vistas, the cathedral's art treasures, including the Mary's Sleep Altar and the Lamentation of Christ painting by Antonius van Dyck, as well as the Election Chapel and the Cathedral Museum, make it a must-visit attraction, with its rich history as the site of German royal elections and coronations dating back to the Middle Ages.

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MAIN TOWER Aussichtsplattform / Observation Platform

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Ascend to the Main Tower's observation deck and witness Frankfurt's breathtaking cityscape, with its towering skyscrapers and modern architecture. Price: EUR 9

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Deutschherrnbrücke (Bridge)

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The Deutschherrnbrücke is a two-track railway bridge with an accompanying pedestrian walkway over the Main River, providing a magnificent view of the Frankfurt skyline. It also offers direct access to the Hafenpark, making it a popular spot for enjoying the cityscape and recreational activities.

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Highlights outside the city

Goetheturm (Wooden Tower)

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Standing tall at 43.3 meters on the northern edge of Frankfurt's city forest, the observation tower has become a prominent landmark in the city. Constructed entirely from wood in 1931, the tower was dedicated to the renowned Frankfurt poet, Johann Wolfgang von Goethe. Unfortunately, in 2017, it fell victim to arson and was subsequently reconstructed in the years that followed, staying true to its original design as per the heartfelt request of the citizens of Frankfurt. The area around the Goetheturm is ideal for walks through the city forest. There is also a large playground and a minigolf course closeby. If you get hungry, the restaurant "Goetheruh" offers delicious German dishes.

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Lohrberg

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Frankfurt's local mountain, Lohrberg is the city's sole remaining vineyard. Apart from offering a panoramic view of Frankfurt's greenery and skyline, it provides a restaurant and beverage outlet, making it a perfect spot for leisurely strolls and picnics amidst the vineyards.

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Rheingau

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If you're a wine lover, I'd recommend a trip to the Rheingau wine region. The Rheingau, renowned for its picturesque vineyards along the Rhine River, is a delightful excursion destination near Frankfurt. Visitors can explore charming wine villages, taste exquisite wines, and enjoy breathtaking views of the river and surrounding landscapes.

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Restaurants in Frankfurt Tradition

Experience the flavors of the city's traditional cuisine while enjoying its warm and welcoming atmosphere.

Here are a few traditional dishes and drinks you should order:

Handkäs mit Musik

"Hand-cheese with music" is an appetizer consisting of small hand-formed round paddies of hardened, aged cheese marinated in chopped raw onions, vinegar, oil, and caraway seeds.

If you ask about the "Musik", Frankfurters would say "Musik kommt später" – "Music comes later" meaning the flatulence caused by onions.

Frankfurter "Grie Soß" / Frankfurter Schnitzel

Frankfurt Green Sauce is served cold over hard-boiled eggs and boiled potatoes. It is made of sour cream, boiled eggs, spices, and of course seven different kinds of herbs: borage, chervil, cress, parsley, salad burnet, sorrel and chives. 

If you also want to try a Schnitzel you can order the "Frankfurter Schnitzel", which is served with "Grüner Soße". The restaurant "Zum Eichkatzerl" even offers vegan "Frankfurter Schnitzel".

Ebbelwoi / Apfelwein

In Frankfurt, the art of drinking apple wine is truly a science of its own. There are various ways to enjoy this beloved beverage:

Straight Up (Pur): For the true connoisseur and when indulging in high-quality apple wine, this is the only true way to experience its authentic flavors.

Sour Spritzer (Sauer gespritzt): Mixing apple wine with mineral water (in a ratio of 1/3 to 2/3) creates a refreshing drink, especially during the hot seasons. Diluting the already smooth apple wine with water makes it even more enjoyable for many.

Deep Spritzer (Tief gespritzt): If you prefer your apple wine with even more water, you can order a "Tiefgespritzten."

Sweet Spritzer (Süß gespritzt): For those who find apple wine too tart when consumed straight or as a sour spritzer, substituting mineral water with light lemonade creates a sweeter and more balanced spritzer.

In Frankfurt, apple wine is traditionally served from ripped glasses ("Gerippte") - there is even a building (Westhafen Tower) that locals call "Gerippte", because the design resembles the glasses.

If you're thirsty, you can order a "Bembel" (traditional jug) in different sizes (4er, 6er, 8er, 10er, 12er, 20er). The number indicates the amount of glasses it can fill.

Mispelchen

The alcoholic beverage known as "Mispelchen" is a combination of Calvados, an apple brandy, and a preserved fruit called "Mispel" (medlar). People disagree on the order in which this should be consumed: Eat the Mispel first? Drink first? Or in turns?

Ebbelwoi Unser

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It's highly recommended to make a reservation in advance, especially on Fridays and Saturdays. The charismatic host often treats guests to entertaining singing performances, adding to the lively and enjoyable atmosphere. Cash only!!

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Apfelweinwirtschaft Frau Rauscher

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Located in the Klappergasse, within the vibrant nightlife district of Alt-Sachsenhausen in Frankfurt, you'll find the Apfelweinlokal Frau Rauscher right next to the "Frau Rauscher Brunnen" (Mrs. Rauscher Fountain). The legend of Frau Rauscher has even inspired a song, as she is said to have lived in Klappergasse during the 19th century. According to the tale, one Sunday afternoon, Frau Rauscher was found lying on the street with a bump on her head, becoming the subject of ridicule by local children. An overzealous Prussian police officer used this incident to create a criminal suspicion, meticulously recording the details and investigating whether the bump was caused by her husband or the result of imbibing too much Apfelwein (apple wine). This seemingly trivial incident was even mentioned in the newspaper's police report the following day, causing much amusement and mocking of the new law enforcement in Frankfurt.

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Apfelwein Solzer

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The Apfelwein-Solzer is one of the few Bornheim apple wine taverns that has preserved its authentic and cozy Alt-Bornheimer ambiance to this day. With a rich history dating back to the 16th century, the establishment embodies the traditional spirit of the Bornheim district. Bornheim is a lively and charming neighborhood in Frankfurt, known for its historic charm, vibrant streets, and diverse local culture. It offers a delightful mix of quaint cafes, boutique shops, and lively markets, making it a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike.

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Zum Eichkatzerl

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Especially suitable for vegans who want to enjoy the Frankfurter cuisine. Here you can find vegan green sauce ("Grüne Sauce") and vegan Frankfurter schnitzel.

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Cafés

ZEIT FÜR BROT

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The bakery "Zeit für Brot" is a popular destination in Frankfurt, specializing in artisanal, high-quality bread and pastries. With their authentic baking techniques and use of natural ingredients, they delight customers with delicious baked goods fresh from the oven. Especially, the various flavors of cinnamon rolls are highly sought after and beloved by visitors. With multiple branches across the city, it's recommended to check Google Maps to find the nearest "Zeit für Brot" bakery location to you.

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Wacker's Kaffee Grüneburgweg

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Wacker's Café, with its own coffee roastery, is a delightful destination in Frankfurt, offering a warm and inviting atmosphere where visitors can enjoy their exquisite coffee and pastries. With multiple branches throughout the city, it's a beloved spot for locals and tourists to indulge in the café's unique coffee blends.

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Sunny Side Up Westend

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"Sunny Side Up" offers a diverse selection of modern breakfast dishes from around the world, a healthy lunch menu, delicious coffee, and superfood lattes, along with freshly pressed juices and homemade cakes. It's especially suitable for vegans! "Sunny Side Up" has multiple locations throughout the city.

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Elaine's Deli

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Elaine's Deli is a dynamic day bar in Frankfurt that offers coffee, slow food and fresh drinks. With six locations throughout the city, each with a unique focus (restaurant, cafe, bar, event location), Elaine's World welcomes a diverse crowd of best friends, shareholders, locals, and urban dandies, providing a blend of trendy atmosphere, delectable food, and vibrant community spirit.

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Drinks

Alt-Sachsenhausen

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Old Sachsenhausen is a charming district in Frankfurt, alluring visitors with its historical timber-frame houses, narrow lanes, and rustic apple wine pubs. Originally surrounded by Frankfurt's city wall with nine towers, Sachsenhausen was once a village and a significant supplier of fish, fruits, and vegetables for the city. While beer and wine were popular beverages during the Middle Ages, a climatic change in the 16th century led to a shift from vineyards to fruit orchards. In the Goethe era, many wine taverns transitioned into the beloved apple wine pubs the area is known for today. In the evenings and on weekends, Old Sachsenhausen comes alive with bustling activity, creating a vibrant and lively atmosphere.

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Citybeach Frankfurt

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City Beach is a lively rooftop lounge located on top of a parking garage, offering a vibrant setting with a pool, artificial beach, and stunning city views. It's the perfect spot to unwind while enjoying delicious burgers, finger foods, and refreshing drinks. In the evenings and on weekends, there's a cash-only entry fee of 5 euros. During winter, the City Beach transforms into the City Alm, hosting a charming Christmas market.

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Logenhaus-Bar

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Logenhaus-Bar is a bar exuding the flair of the 1920s, nestled in the heart of Frankfurt's city center. The bar shares its residence with the Freemason lodges in a historical and atmospheric villa known as the Logenhaus. To access the public Night Salon of the Logenhaus-Bar, guests ring the bell and enter through the house's foyer. Additionally, there's an outdoor area called the Gartensalon, a serene and stylish open-air space surrounded by old trees and sheltered by sun awnings, offering an intimate and sophisticated ambiance akin to the indoor setting.

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Pearly Gates

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Pearly Gates is a bar with a reformed 1920s look, offering delicious drinks and cocktail specials. On weekends, DJs spin the tunes to get the party going.

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Bockenheimer Weinkontor

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The region around Frankfurt is one of the most important wine growing areas in Germany and of course there are some regional and international delicacies for gourmets to discover at the Bockenheimer Weinkontor.

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Yok Yok City Kiosk

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The "Yok Yok City-Kiosk" is a renowned hotspot and a true institution in Frankfurt's Bahnhofsviertel. For over 16 years, this small beverage corner on Münchener Straße has been offering drinks from all over the world, attracting a diverse crowd of locals, tourists, students, and professionals alike. The concept has proven so successful that a second "Yok Yok" kiosk was opened on Fahrgasse, making it the perfect place to grab a "Wegbier" ("way beer") - a beer or beer-based drink to enjoy on the way from work, to parties, or between locations.

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Freigut Frankfurt | Summer Lounge

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Freigut is a floating houseboat on the Main River that offers a unique experience with a view of the skyline and the pedestrian bridge Eiserner Steg. Indulge in superb wines and delectable cuisine amidst a maritime ambiance, relishing the feeling of vacation in the cosmopolitan city of Frankfurt.

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Yachtklub

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The Boat House on the Main River anchors at the Sachsenhausen shore, providing a picturesque view of the skyline from May to September. At Yachtklub, guests can enjoy weekend parties, regular concerts, and a diverse cultural program, along with a sunny spot, delicious snacks, and homemade cakes. This cozy and vibrant oasis in the midst of bustling Frankfurt invites visitors to unwind, relax, and celebrate in style!

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Blaues Wasser

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Blaues Wasser is a seasonal open-air restaurant, bar and event venue located on the banks of the Main River, offering a diverse menu of international cuisine.

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