Frankfurt Top Attractions: A Comprehensive Guide For Tourists Visiting For the First Time

Frankfurt is the fifth largest city in Germany, renowned for its vibrant culture and historical landmarks. Located in the heart of Europe, Frankfurt is an ideal city for travelers looking to explore its rich history, vibrant nightlife, and modern attractions. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning guest, this comprehensive guide is filled with all the must-see attractions and activities in Frankfurt.

History of Frankfurt

Founded in the 10th century, Frankfurt was historically known as a major trading center with an established banking and finance industry. In the 19th century, due to its central location, Frankfurt became a major hub for transportation, with the opening of the first German railway line connecting to the city. Throughout its history, Frankfurt has served as an important military center, hosting various army and air force bases.

Frankfurt has been shaped by numerous wars throughout its history, but nevertheless it has continued to thrive as a major European city. Today, Frankfurt is an important cultural hub that is home to more than 700,000 people from over 180 different nationalities. It is home to one of the largest airports in Europe and a well-known financial district.

Things to See and Do in Frankfurt

From its medieval landmarks and world-renowned museums to its vibrant nightlife and modern attractions, Frankfurt offers something for everyone. Here are just some of the top attractions and activities visitors should check out while in the city.

Römerberg and Old Town Square

Located in the heart of the city, Römerberg is one of Frankfurt’s oldest squares. It dates back to the 13th century and is home to many of the city’s most iconic buildings, including the Römer and St. Paul’s Church. This incredible square is surrounded by traditional German architecture such as half-timbered buildings and cobbled streets. The square is also home to numerous shops and restaurants, making it a great place to explore and experience the city’s culture.

Frankfurt Cathedral

The Frankfurt Cathedral, also known as the Kaiserdom, is one of the most important religious sites in the city. Built in 1739, this impressive building stands as a monument to the city’s rich religious history. The cathedral features an impressive baroque façade and a stunning interior that includes a Gothic altar and several other historic works of art. Visitors can also explore the crypts and towers of the cathedral, which offer incredible views of the city below.

Goethe House

The Goethe House is the former home of Germany’s most famous writer, Johann Wolfgang von Goethe. Located in the Sachsenhausen district of Frankfurt, this building has been fully restored and includes exhibits dedicated to Goethe’s life and works, as well as other famous figures from Frankfurt’s past. Visitors can explore various rooms in the house, which have been recreated to look like they did in Goethe’s time. This is a great place to learn more about the city’s history and culture.

Frankfurt Zoological Garden

The Frankfurt Zoological Garden, also known as the Zoo Frankfurt, is one of the largest zoos in Europe. This incredible zoo is home to more than 4,500 animals from all over the world. There are numerous exhibits and activities for visitors to enjoy such as feeding the animals, watching shows, or simply taking a leisurely stroll through the gardens. This is a great place for families to explore and learn about wildlife from around the world.

Museumsufer

Museumsufer is a popular area along the banks of the River Main that houses some of Frankfurt’s most impressive museums. This area includes more than 15 different museums that cover various topics such as art, science, and history. There are also numerous cafes, restaurants, and shops that line this area, making it perfect for spending a day exploring one of Europe’s most impressive cultural hubs.

Frankfurt’s Skyline

One of the best ways to experience Frankfurt is by admiring its stunning skyline. The city is home to some of Europe’s tallest buildings such as Commerzbank Tower and Main Tower that offer incredible views of the city below. Visitors can also take a boat tour along the River Main or enjoy a meal at one of the restaurants or bars located in these skyscrapers to experience Frankfurt from a different perspective.

Popular Tours in Frankfurt

In addition to exploring the city by yourself, there are several popular tours that visitors can take to get an insider look at Frankfurt. Here are two popular tours that are perfect for first-time visitors looking to explore all that Frankfurt has to offer:

Frankfurt Highlights Tour

This four-hour tour takes visitors on a journey through Frankfurt’s most iconic landmarks such as Saint Paul’s Church and Römerberg Square. The tour also includes an exclusive visit to the top floor of Commerzbank Tower for breathtaking views of the city skyline and other attractions such as Stadel Museum and Alte Oper Opera House. With insightful commentary from experienced guides throughout the tour, visitors can learn more about the city’s history and culture while enjoying its many attractions. Book a Frankfurt Highlights Tour here.

Frankfurt Nightlife Tour

This two-hour tour takes visitors on an exciting journey through Frankfurt’s nightlife scene. Guests will get an exclusive look at some of the city’s top clubs and bars while learning about its vibrant music scene from experienced local guides. Along the way, visitors will get to enjoy some of Frankfurt’s signature drinks while taking in its unique atmosphere. With stops at some of the city’s hottest spots such as ClubKafka and Mango Bar, this tour is perfect for those looking to experience Frankfurt’s nightlife firsthand. Book a Frankfurt Nightlife Tour here.

Conclusion

Whether you’re looking for a historical tour or an exciting night out, Frankfurt has something for everyone. From its iconic landmarks to its vibrant nightlife scene, this incredible city offers something for all types of travelers. With this comprehensive guide you should now have all the information you need to make your trip to Frankfurt as memorable as possible!