Frankfurt Sightseeing: A City Guide for First Time Tourists

Frankfurt is a vibrant and bustling city, located in the heart of Germany’s Rhine-Main region. It is the fifth largest city in Germany, and it is home to world-famous museums, historical sites, and impressive architecture. Visitors who come to Frankfurt will find a city packed with things to do and see, and this blog post will provide you with a comprehensive guide to the best sights and activities in the city.

Discovering Frankfurt’s Architecture and History

Frankfurt is known for its impressive architecture, which ranges from modern skyscrapers to centuries-old churches. The city is home to some of the most iconic sights in Germany, including the Römerberg, the city’s old town square, and the Hauptwache, a 17th century Baroque-style building. For more historical architecture, visitors can explore the St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral, a 13th century Gothic-style church, and the Paulskirche, the site of the first German National Assembly.

Exploring Frankfurt’s Museums and Galleries

Frankfurt is a cultural hub with many world-class museums and galleries. The city is home to the Museum der Weltkulturen, which showcases artefacts from all over the world, and the Städel Museum, which houses some of Germany’s best artwork. Other notable museums include the Goethe House, the birthplace of the famous writer, and the German Film Museum, which celebrates the history of German cinema.

Shopping and Eating Out in Frankfurt

Frankfurt is a great destination for shopping, with many stores, boutiques, and markets to explore. The city’s most popular shopping district is the Zeil, a pedestrianised area filled with department stores, high-street shops, and restaurants. Visitors can also head to the Kleinmarkthalle, an indoor market with stalls selling fresh produce, and the Iron Market, a bazaar filled with antiques and trinkets.

When it comes to eating out, Frankfurt has something for everyone. The city is home to a variety of restaurants, from traditional German eateries to international cuisine. Visitors can find German delicacies like Frankfurt sausages, pretzels, and apple wine in the city’s many bistros and pubs, while those looking for international flavours can head to the Sachsenhausen district, which is filled with restaurants serving dishes from all over the world.

Touring Frankfurt’s Landmarks and Attractions

Frankfurt is full of landmarks and attractions for visitors to explore. The city’s most famous sight is the Main Tower, a 56-storey skyscraper that offers sweeping views of the city. Other popular attractions include the Palmengarten, a botanical garden with tropical plants, and the Goethe House, the childhood home of the renowned writer.

Participating in Activities and Excursions

Frankfurt is a great destination for those looking to explore the city and its surroundings. Visitors can take part in a range of activities, from walking tours and river cruises to cycling tours and Segway tours. For an unforgettable experience, visitors can also book tickets to a concert at Alte Oper, the city’s historic opera house, or take a day tour of the surrounding countryside.

Additional Tips for Tourists

There are a few things to keep in mind when visiting Frankfurt. The city is known for its public transportation system, so visitors should make sure to familiarise themselves with the U-Bahn and S-Bahn before travelling. Visitors should also be aware that Frankfurt has a high cost of living, so it’s wise to budget accordingly. Lastly, visitors should bring appropriate clothing for the season, as Frankfurt experiences all four seasons and can get quite cold in winter.

Conclusion

Frankfurt is a bustling city with plenty of sights, activities, and attractions to explore. Visitors can discover the city’s impressive architecture and historical sites, enjoy shopping and eating out in the city’s many restaurants and markets, tour the city’s landmarks and attractions, and take part in activities and excursions. With this comprehensive guide, tourists can make sure they get the most out of their time in Frankfurt and have a memorable experience.

An Insider’s Guide to Frankfurt’s Best-kept Secrets

Frankfurt, also known as “Mainhattan” due to its impressive skyline, is a city that boasts a rich history, vibrant culture, and fascinating local attractions. While many tourists flock to the iconic landmarks, there are hidden gems that locals know and love. In this insider’s guide, we’ll show you the side of Frankfurt that you won’t find in travel brochures.

Local Attractions: Discovering Frankfurt’s Hidden Gems

While there’s no shortage of sights to see in Frankfurt, the city is hiding some lesser-known treasures that are just as worth seeing. Escape the crowds and check out these hidden spots:

– The Carmelite Monastery: This quiet and serene 17th-century monastery is the perfect retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city.

– The Kleinmarkthalle: This local market offers a plethora of fresh produce, goods, and food stalls. The ideal spot to grab a quick bite or grab some souvenirs.

– The Stoltze Museum: If you want to get a glimpse of Frankfurt’s history and culture, head to the Stoltze Museum. This small gallery hosts various exhibits showcasing Frankfurt’s art, literature, and journalism scene.

Dining Spots: Indulging in Frankfurt’s Culinary Delights

Frankfurt’s cuisine is diverse, delicious, and reflects the city’s rich cultural heritage. The city boasts a wide array of dining options that cater to both meat-lovers and vegetarians alike.

– Berger Strasse: This bustling street in Frankfurt’s Bornheim neighbourhood is home to some of the city’s lesser-known foodie gems. From Vietnamese street food to artisanal chocolates, Berger Strasse has it all.

– Apfelwein Dax: A visit to Frankfurt is incomplete without tasting the city’s traditional apple wine, locally known as Apfelwein. And the place to go for that is Apfelwein Dax, a local neighbourhood tavern right in the heart of Sachsenhausen.

Cultural Experiences: Getting to Know Frankfurt

Frankfurt, the birthplace of Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, harbours a lively art scene with numerous cultural offerings. Here are a few cultural events and activities worth checking out:

– Museum Mile: Frankfurt’s world-renowned Museum Mile is home to a plethora of world-class museums housing exhibition pieces ranging from classical to modern-day artwork.

– Goethe House and Museum: For literature enthusiasts, the Goethe House and Museum is a must-visit. This museum is dedicated to Johann Wolfgang von Goethe and houses his works, manuscripts, and a collection of paintings.

– Concerts in the Alte Oper: Frankfurt’s restored Opera House is an architectural masterpiece and regularly hosts concerts from musicians and orchestras from around the world.

Local History: Stories from Frankfurt’s Past

Frankfurt’s history is rich, with many fascinating stories and legends. Here are some unusual tales worth discovering:

– The Iron Footbridge: The Iron Footbridge spans over the Main river, but in its past was also a popular fishing spot. Locals believed that by placing a horseshoe on the bridge, they will ensure a plentiful fish catch.

– The Paulskirche: This 18th-century church was the first German national assembly seat and has been through many transformations throughout its history. Visitors can now experience a multimedia exhibition that shows its history as a seat of democracy.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Unique Experiences in Frankfurt

Finally, don’t miss out on these fun and quirky things to do:

– Klettern Squaire: Experience an adrenaline rush with this indoor skydiving simulation at the Squaire.

– Natural History Museum: For animal lovers, don’t miss the Natural History Museum, showcasing a collection of fossils and extinct species.

Frankfurt is a city that surprises and delights visitors who stray from the conventional tourist spots and explore its hidden gems. With this insider’s guide, you’re set to discover the best-kept secrets and soak up the authentic local atmosphere.