What is Frankfurt Like?

Living and exploring Frankfurt is an amazing experience. This German city is located at the heart of the country and is notable for its cultural diversity and being one of the most financially strong cities in Europe. Comparing to other cities in Germany, Frankfurt is truly unique – its economy is volatile, flourishing, yet diversified in many industries. On top of that, its cityscape is unconventional with bright high rises and up-to-date lifestyles that make it one of the most fascinating places to live in.

So what is Frankfurt like? Let’s take a closer look at this magical German city.

Economy

Frankfurt is one of the most powerful cities in Europe, often considered the “Capital of Banking’, due to its reliable and robust financial center. With a rich history of banking and commerce, Frankfurt underpinned the success of Europe after World War II. As a result, many of the major financial institutions are headquartered in the city and the GDP of the city is higher than any other city in Germany.

The banking industry isn’t the only productive sector in Frankfurt. It has a vibrant manufacturing scene and the region is a major center of innovation in technology and energy. Companies like ABB, Siemens and Bosch are significant employers in the area. An economic powerhouse like this attracts many international migrants and tourists, leading to diverse cultures, languages, ideas and beliefs represented in the city.

Culture & People

Frankfurt’s population is diverse and welcoming with multiple languages and cultures represented, especially in its neighborhoods of Hoechst and Sachsenhausen. Residents come from all over Europe and there are sizable Greek, Chinese, and Korean communities in the city. With this rich cultural influence and melting pot, there’s an abundance of activities to pursue. Whether you need to relax in the parks and gardens or prefer active lifestyle – concert halls, golf courses, tennis clubs are always available.

Residents of Frankfurt are friendly and welcoming people that enhance the overall culture with their vibrant attitude towards life. They will be more than happy to show you around their city, share some local dishes and stories about Frankfurt’s history. So don’t be afraid to ask around – you might make a few ideas lasting friends!

Attractions & Entertainment

The charm of Frankfurt doesn’t have to depend solely on its locals or great economy – there are plenty of attractions for those who love to explore and have some fun. Here’s what you can expect from the city:

• Historic buildings – the old part of the city such as Römerberg Square, St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral and turn-of-the-century houses on Zeil Street
• Museums – Goethehaus, Senckenberg Natural History Museum, and Liebieghaus Sculpture Collection
• Danube Tower – one of the largest viewing towers in Europe
• Skyline Plaza Shopping Mall – modern shopping center with views to rival the tower
• Frankfurt Zoo – home to some of the most exotic animals in Europe
• Clubs & Bars – active nightlife full of places to suit every taste

In addition to that, Frankfurt also offers great restaurants for foodies to discover, lively parks for leisure activities, plenty of art galleries for a cultural dive and modern shopping streets for retail therapy. Like most bigger cities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy here.

Final Thoughts

Frankfurt is a great example of how mixed cultures exist side-by-side in an economically strong urban environment. Whether you’re looking for business opportunities or just curious to experience its lifestyle first hand, this medium sized German city will make sure you never feel bored. A true multi-cultural hotspot with a liveliness that never subsides – that’s what makes Frankfurt truly special.

In case you want to learn more about the city make sure to check out Frankfurt Tourism Website , which gives a lot of valuable information about what things you can do while you are there and how you can best enjoy your experience living and exploring this great German city.

An Insider’s Guide to Discovering Frankfurt

Located in central Germany, Frankfurt is a bustling city with a mix of modern skyscrapers and historic architecture. Although it is often referred to as ‘Mainhattan’ because of the high number of towering structures, there is more to this city than just business and finance. Here is an insider’s guide to discovering Frankfurt and experiencing the city beyond its popular tourist attractions:

Local Attractions: Hidden Gems

While the Goethe House and Städel Museum are popular tourist attractions, there are hidden gems that are often overlooked. Take a stroll in the Gutleutviertel neighborhood and explore its street art and murals. Visit the Explora, a science museum where you can learn about natural phenomena and conduct your own experiments. During the summer, head to the city beach, Osthafenpark and relax on the sand or join a game of beach volleyball.

Dining Spots: Local Cuisine and Insights

Frankfurt’s traditional cuisine includes hearty meat dishes like pork knuckle and sausage, which are best enjoyed with the local drink ‘Apfelwein.’ You can find it on menus at Zum Gemalten Haus, a restaurant that has been serving traditional dishes since 1807. For a modern twist on regional cuisine, try Altes Zollhaus and experience flavorful dishes like beef tartare with truffle or cod with salsify.

Did you know that the famous cake, Frankfurter Kranz, originated in Frankfurt? The unique cake with a buttercream-filled core and a caramelized nut layer is a favorite dessert in the city. Head to Cafe Siesmayer, where it was invented, for a taste of this local delicacy.

Cultural Experiences: Traditions and Festivals

Frankfurt’s cultural experiences are diverse and include the Museum Embankment Festival, the largest museum festival in Europe, which takes place in August. It features an array of live music, exhibitions, and performances. Another fascinating event is Lichterfest, where you can watch hot air balloons soar above the city at night, and take in the light installations and fireworks display.

If you’re interested in learning about the city’s history, visit the Frankfurt Historical Museum, which covers the city’s past from Roman times to the present day.

Local History: Fascinating Stories

One remarkable story from the city’s history is the tale of the 17th-century Jewish cemetery in the Sachsenhausen district. The gravestones, which date back to the 13th century, were hidden during the Second World War to avoid destruction. After the war, locals used the gravestones to build roads and pavements. In the 1980s, archeologists discovered the gravestones and returned them to the cemetery. Today, the cemetery serves as a monument to Frankfurt’s Jewish community, with guided tours available to give visitors insight into this tragic history.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For an unforgettable experience, take a trip to the abandoned Opel-Werke factory in Rüsselsheim, just a short train ride from Frankfurt. The decayed buildings have been taken over by street artists, and the site offers a unique glimpse into the city’s industrial past and present artistic culture. If you’re looking for an outdoor adventure, head to the Taunus Mountains, which are just a short drive from the city center. Here you can hike, bike or even go rock climbing.

In conclusion, Frankfurt has much more to offer than meets the eye. By exploring beyond the typical tourist spots, you can discover the city’s hidden gems, delicious cuisine, rich culture, and fascinating history. With these insider tips, you’ll be sure to have an unforgettable experience in Frankfurt.