Travel Notes: Destinations: Europe: Germany - Frankfurt Travel Guide.
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Most people only see Frankfurt through an airplane window or during a hurried airport transfer, but the financial powerhouse of Germany deserves another look. Share on Facebook
Dismissing Frankfurt as merely a stopover would be like judging a book by its departure lounge.
This gleaming metropolis along the River Main is worth far more than a fleeting glance between flights.
Visiting Frankfurt am Main
Frankfurt am Main, to give it its proper name, is where medieval charm meets Manhattan-style skyscrapers; where traditional apple wine flows alongside champagne toasts in boardrooms; and where you can explore 2,000 years of history before catching your evening flight home.
It's Germany's most international city, and perhaps its most underrated flight destination.
Frankfurt boasts Germany's only true skyline, earning it the nickname 'Mainhattan'.
The cluster of gleaming towers houses the European Central Bank, the German Stock Exchange, and countless international corporations.
For the best views, head up the Main Tower's observation deck; it's the only skyscraper in Frankfurt open to the public, and the 360-degree panorama will have you reaching for your camera faster than you can say "Commerzbank."
The Städel Museum (Schaumainkai 63) houses one of Germany's most important art collections, spanning 700 years from medieval masters to contemporary works.
But Frankfurt's cultural crown jewel is the Museumsufer; Museum Embankment, where thirty-nine museums offer endless opportunites for discover along the River Main's south bank.
You could spend a rainy afternoon museum-hopping, from the German Film Museum to the Museum of Applied Arts.
You can use the MuseumsuferTicket to visit 39 museums on two consecutive days for one price only; an absolute bargain for culture vultures.
On every last Saturday of the month admission is free for many museums in Frankfurt.
Frankfurt's public transport system puts many European cities to shame.
The Rhein-Main-Verkehrsverbund (RMV) network connects buses, trams, U-Bahn (underground), and S-Bahn (suburban trains) seamlessly.
A day ticket covers the entire city centre; perfect for sightseeing without the hassle of parking.
The reconstructed Altstadt (Old Town) around the Römerberg square showcases Frankfurt's medieval heritage.
Largely rebuilt after WWII bombing, the half-timbered buildings and cobblestone streets still ooze authentic German charm.
The Gothic Cathedral (Kaiserdom) crowned Holy Roman Emperors for centuries; rather impressive for a city many consider 'just business'.
The Westend offers elegant hotels near the financial district, while Sachsenhausen provides charming guesthouses closer to the nightlife.
When choosing where to stay in Frankfurt, consider your priorities such as proximity to attractions, budget, and the type of atmosphere you prefer.
For those looking for nightlife and dining, areas like Sachsenhausen top the list, while families may prefer quieter neighbourhoods with easy access to parks and family-friendly activities.
This area is ideal for first-time visitors and those interested in sightseeing.
It is located at the heart of the city, allowing easy access to historical sites, restaurants, and shops.
Staying here means you can explore attractions like Römer and St. Bartholomew's Cathedral on foot.
Similar to Altstadt, the Innenstadt is bustling with activity and is close to major attractions.
It’s a great choice for travellers who want to be in the middle of the action, with plenty of dining and shopping options nearby.
While not the most visually appealing area, it is very convenient and offers access to nice places just a short walk away.
It’s a good option if you prefer a quieter stay while still being close to the city centre.
Steigenberger Icon Frankfurter Hof (Am Kaiserplatz) - A luxurious option located near Römer, perfect for travellers looking for high-end accommodations.
Motel One Frankfurt-Römer (Berliner Strasse 55) - A more budget-friendly choice that still offers comfort and convenience.
Adina Apartment Hotel (Wilhelm-Leuschner-Str. 6) - Known for its excellent location and amenities, making it a popular choice among visitors.
Budget travellers could consider the Frankfurt Hostel (Kaiserstr. 74), often rated among one of Europe's best.
Frankfurt's international business community has created a dining scene that rivals London or Paris.
The Westend district buzzes with trendy restaurants, while the Bahnhofsviertel (red-light district, but don't worry) offers some of the city's best international cuisine, from Vietnamese pho to Lebanese mezze.
No Frankfurt visit is complete without sampling Apfelwein (apple wine) in a traditional tavern.
Head to Sachsenhausen's cobbled streets, where local Apfelwein-Wirtschaften serve this tart, alcoholic cider alongside hearty plates of Handkäs mit Musik (cheese with onions).
Zum Gemalten Haus (Schweizer Str. 67) has been serving apple wine since 1860, complete with blue-and-white chequered tablecloths and waiters who've mastered the art of friendly gruffness.
This covered market has been Frankfurt's culinary heart since 1879.
Over sixty stalls sell everything from fresh pasta to exotic spices, making it perfect for picking up picnic supplies or simply people-watching over a coffee.
The Zeil pedestrian zone attracts over 13,000 shoppers an hour; making it one of Europe's busiest shopping streets.
The MyZeil shopping centre's glass facade creates a stunning architectural statement, while traditional department stores like Galeria Kaufhof offer everything from lederhosen to luxury goods.
Germany's most romantic city lies just an hour south of Frankfurt.
The baroque old town, ruined castle, and Germany's oldest university create a fairytale atmosphere that's captured hearts for centuries.
Just forty-five minutes by train, the Rhine Valley offers castle-dotted landscapes and world-famous Riesling vineyards.
The towns of Rüdesheim am Rhein and Bingen make perfect day trips, complete with wine tastings and river cruises.
May through September offers the warmest weather and longest days.
The city's numerous parks and beer gardens come alive, and outdoor dining terraces buzz with activity.
Frankfurt's Christmas markets rank among Germany's finest.
The Römerberg transforms into a winter wonderland, while the scent of Glühwein (mulled wine) and roasted almonds fills the crisp December air.
Frankfurt am Main Airport (FRA) is one of the world's busiest hubs, with direct flights from virtually everywhere.
The airport express train reaches the city centre in fifteen minutes, making it remarkably convenient for short breaks.
Germany uses the Euro, and Frankfurt's prices reflect its status as a financial centre; expect London-level costs for dining and accommodation.
However, many attractions offer excellent value, and the efficient public transport keeps costs manageable.
Whether you're connecting flights or planning a dedicated visit, Frankfurt rewards those curious enough to look beyond the airport arrivals hall.
After all, the best travel discoveries often come from the places we least expect to fall in love with.
Frankfurt might not have Berlin's edginess or Munich's beer-soaked charm, but it offers something equally valuable; a glimpse into modern Germany's confident, international face.
It's a city where Roman ruins sit beside gleaming skyscrapers, where traditional taverns serve apple wine to international bankers, and where you can explore centuries of history in a single afternoon.
So next time you're planning a European city break, consider giving Frankfurt more than just a passing glance.
You might just discover that Germany's most international city has been hiding in plain sight all along.
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