Frankfurt Insider Tips: Best Sights & Things to Do

Frankfurt am Main is Germany’s fifth-largest city and a key hub for travel and finance in Europe. Whether you’re stopping over or here for work, there’s much more to see than most expect.
Since 2017, I’ve been living close to Frankfurt and visiting regularly—so let me show you around from a local’s perspective!

Map of Must-See Places in Frankfurt am Main, Germany

All the spots mentioned in this post are marked on the map below. Just tap the ⭐️ star icon to save it to your own Google Maps—it’ll help you plan your trip and figure out transport easily!

📌 Don’t Mix Them Up: There Are Two Frankfurts in Germany!

Yes, you read that right—Germany actually has two cities named Frankfurt:

1. Frankfurt am Main – located on the River Main, this is the major city you’re visiting. It’s the fifth-largest city in Germany and the focus of this guide.
2. Frankfurt (Oder) – located on the River Oder, near Berlin. Totally different place!

Make sure to double-check when booking hotels or train tickets—many travelers have accidentally booked the wrong one!

✅ The city you want is: Frankfurt am Main

Top Photo Spots and Sights in Frankfurt, Germany

📍 Römerberg (Frankfurt’s Historical market square)

Römerberg is one of the most iconic spots in Frankfurt, but don’t just stop here for a quick selfie!
There’s even more stunning architecture between Römerberg and St. Paul’s Church—don’t miss it!

📍 Paulskirche (St. Paul’s Church)

If you have enough time, I highly recommend stepping inside St. Paul’s Church.

The building might look quite simple from the outside—but it’s actually a powerful symbol of democracy in Germany!

Back in 1848–1849, Germany’s first-ever national parliament was held right here. This marked the beginning of German democracy.

Germany is a federal country with 16 states in total. For example, Frankfurt is located in the state of Hesse (Hessen).

📍 Neue Altstadt (New Old Town)

Frankfurt’s New Old Town is located between Römerberg and the Cathedral (Kaiserdom).

The original Old Town was sadly destroyed during World War II. For decades, people debated:
“Should we rebuild it?”

Eventually, the answer was yes—and in 2018, the beautifully reconstructed New Old Town was completed. It brings back the charm and spirit of historic Frankfurt!

Today, about 200 people live here, spread across 35 buildings—15 are reconstructions, and 20 are newly built in traditional style.

📍 Kaiserdom St. Bartholomäus (Frankfurt Cathedral)

See the best skyline view from the cathedral tower

Every German city has its own unique vibe: in Munich, no building is allowed to be taller than the Frauenkirche, while in Frankfurt, you’ll find Germany’s tallest skyscrapers.

Climbing the cathedral tower takes some effort (lots of stairs!), but I think it’s totally worth it. In fact, I prefer this view over the one from Main Tower—your photo will include a perfect composition of the skyline, the river, the Iron Bridge, and even Römerberg Square in the foreground.

Plus, the entrance fee is cheaper. The only challenge? Give your legs a little workout!

📍 Eiserner Steg (The Iron Bridge)

It was rainy and gloomy when I passed by the Iron Bridge that day, which meant fewer tourists—lucky for me, I managed to get a nicely composed photo without the crowds!

But on sunny days? The bridge gets packed. You’ll see street performers, vendors selling love locks (some even engrave them on the spot), and of course—wannabe influencers striking dramatic poses for the perfect photo.

This pedestrian bridge has been around since 1868, connecting both sides of the River Main.

📍 Mainufer (River Main Promenade)

When the weather’s nice, taking a walk along the River Main is a great way to slow down, soak in the moment, and experience that relaxed European pace of life.

I haven’t watched the K-drama Queen of Tears yet—but I’ve heard one of the filming locations was right here along the river! (I’m avoiding it on purpose… I know I’ll get hooked and this blog post might never get finished, haha.)

The cherry blossom season in Germany varies each year. Different varieties bloom at different times—some in late March, others in mid-April. If you’re visiting in spring, I hope you’ll catch them in full bloom!

Bring a picnic blanket, skip the busy sightseeing schedule for a while, and just enjoy the chill riverside vibe. 🌸

📍 Euro-Skulptur

Frankfurt is known as the financial heart of Europe, and a photo at the iconic “Euro-Skulptur” is a must for many visitors.

This 14-meter-tall sculpture was designed by artist Ottmar Hörl, and it’s especially beautiful at night when it’s all lit up. ✨

If you want to dive a little deeper into Frankfurt beyond the photo ops, don’t miss the Money Museum. It’s free to enter—and yes, you can even touch a real gold bar worth €400,000! You’ll get to try lifting it, too, and feel just how heavy gold actually is.

Check out my full post here:
👉 Frankfurt Money Museum: Touch a Real Gold Bar—For Free?!

📍 Frankfurt Central Station (Frankfurt Hauptbahnhof)

Thanks to its central location, Frankfurt Hauptbahnhof is one of the most important railway hubs in Europe. Trains from all over Germany and beyond connect through here.

The building itself—both inside and out—is actually quite beautiful.
But let’s be honest: the strong urine smell in some areas can be overwhelming… 😅

Also, be extra careful around the station—it’s known for petty theft and safety issues, especially after dark. Keep your belongings close and stay aware of your surroundings!

📍 Main Tower Observation Deck

Some people call Frankfurt the “Mainhattan” of Europe (Main = the river, Manhattan = well, you know).
But as someone from Hong Kong, I still think nothing beats our skyline at night!

That said, Main Tower is still one of the best spots to enjoy a panoramic view of Frankfurt. I recommend going around sunset—the lighting is softer and your photos will turn out better!

To be honest, from a Hong Konger’s point of view, it’s… not that impressive. 😅
It’s 259 meters tall (about 56 stories)—so yeah, it’s fine!
But since you’re here, might as well take in the view and enjoy the moment.

Explore Frankfurt in Depth – Museums, Park & Opera House

We’ve covered the top photo spots—now, if you’re looking to experience Frankfurt on a deeper level, these are the places you shouldn’t miss:

📍 Städel Museum

If you want to dive into Frankfurt’s art and culture, a visit to the Städel Museum is a must. Founded in 1815, it’s one of the most important art museums in Germany.

Its impressive collection spans over 700 years of European art history, featuring works by world-renowned masters such as Botticelli, Rembrandt, Monet, and Picasso.

👉 Read more here: Best Things to See at the Städel Museum + Insider Travel Tips

📍 Frankfurter Goethe-Haus

Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, one of Germany’s most famous writers, had strong ties to Frankfurt—his mother was the daughter of the city’s mayor, and Goethe himself was born right here.

You might know his famous works like Faust and The Sorrows of Young Werther. Although much of Frankfurt was heavily bombed during World War II, Goethe’s childhood home was carefully rebuilt—and what’s truly impressive is that many of the original furnishings he used are still preserved today!

It’s absolutely worth a visit if you want to step into the world of this literary genius. Come along with me as we explore Goethe’s early life and what shaped his success.

👉 Read more here: Goethe House Frankfurt: What Inspired the Great German Poet?

📍 Alte Oper (Old Opera House)

Alte Oper is another beautiful landmark in Frankfurt. Though it was rebuilt after World War II, it still stands proudly between the luxury shopping street and the banking district.
Its architecture looks stunning from both the front and the sides—truly photo-worthy!

↓ I searched through my camera roll and phone… but couldn’t find a good photo of the front of the building. Just this selfie instead!

↓ If you get the chance, buying a ticket to hear a world-class performance here is totally worth it. Many renowned musicians have performed on this stage!

Family-Friendly Spots in Frankfurt (Also Great for Couples!)

Although this section is about family-friendly places, the spots below are just as perfect for a relaxed date or quiet stroll with someone special. 💕

📍 Palmengarten Frankfurt

With over 150 years of history, Palmengarten is a true urban oasis in Frankfurt. You can wander through greenhouses filled with plants from different climate zones—desert cacti, tropical rainforest plants, and more.
Beyond the indoor areas, the seasonal flower gardens are beautifully maintained. Come in April for cherry blossoms, and in May or June for blooming roses.

I once visited in April during peak cherry blossom season. Though it was chilly outside, stepping into this peaceful space right in the middle of the city was incredibly calming. The gentle scent of cherry blossoms and the surrounding nature made it such a soothing escape.

🦋 Bonus tip: There’s a butterfly house here, where you can see different species up close!

💦 Visiting in summer with kids? There’s a fun splash playground (in German: Wasserspielplatz). Bring a change of clothes and a towel—it’s great for cooling off!

✨ Coming in December? After dark, the garden lights up with beautiful holiday illuminations—a magical winter experience.

Address: Siesmayerstraße 63, 60323 Frankfurt am Main

📍 Senckenberg Natural History Museum (Senckenberg Naturmuseum)

Right outside the Senckenberg Museum, a long-necked dinosaur (a Diplodocus!) greets visitors at the entrance—making it a favorite photo spot for kids and dino lovers alike.

This museum is home to one of Europe’s most extensive dinosaur exhibitions. But it’s not just about prehistoric giants—there’s also an impressive marine life section. Don’t miss the enormous whale heart specimen—a true highlight!

Address: Senckenberganlage 25, 60325 Frankfurt am Main

📍 Zoo Frankfurt

Home to over 5,400 animal friends and 470+ species, Frankfurt Zoo is one of the most accessible attractions in the city—the U-Bahn station is right next door!

You’ll find many species here that you might not have seen before, which makes it a fun and eye-opening experience—especially for kids! 🐾

That said, from my personal perspective, I felt that some of the animals didn’t seem very happy. The enclosures are a bit small, the facilities could use an update, and the zoo map wasn’t the easiest to follow. Still, it’s a popular place for families, and children always seem to have a great time.

Address: Zoo Frankfurt, Bernhard-Grzimek-Allee 1, 60316 Frankfurt am Main

📍 Just Outside Frankfurt: Opel Zoo – A More Spacious Zoo

Here’s another zoo option to consider—this one isn’t located right in Frankfurt city, but just outside, in the surrounding region.
Opel Zoo was founded by the German car company Opel, and it’s a great alternative for those seeking a more open, natural setting.

🚗 Getting there by car is simple, with plenty of parking right at the entrance.
🚆 By public transport, take the S4 to Kronberg, then transfer to a local bus 261. The journey takes about 36 minutes from Frankfurt Central Station. (More public transport tips are listed further below ⬇️)

As someone who’s visited both Zoo Frankfurt and Opel Zoo multiple times with my child, I personally feel that the animals at Opel Zoo seem happier—they have larger enclosures and more space to roam. 🐘🦒

Opel Zoo is home to around 1,700 animals across about 200 species. It also has a large playground area, making it especially suitable for families with kids.

Seasonal Activities in Frankfurt

Frankfurt Christmas Market (Seasonal Only)

If you’re visiting Frankfurt between late November and December 22, don’t miss the Frankfurt Christmas Market!
In my opinion, this market is seriously underrated—it’s easy to get to, just 20–30 minutes from Frankfurt International Airport, and located right around Römerberg, where many key attractions are. That means you can explore the city and enjoy the festive market at the same time!

✨ Pro tip: Don’t wait until it gets dark to go! Start browsing around 4 PM—you’ll catch the best lighting for photos at dusk.

🔔 Important note:
Christmas Markets are closed during the actual holidays—December 24, 25, 26, and 27—as people across Germany head home to celebrate.
Some markets (not the Frankfurt one) may stay open until the morning of December 24, but many close earlier, so always double-check the dates and times!

👉 For more info, check out this post: 🔗 Ultimate Guide To Frankfurt Christmas Markets 2025 with Travel Tips

Frankfurt Book Fair – The World’s Largest Book Fair (Every October)

The Frankfurt Book Fair (Frankfurter Buchmesse in German) is the largest book fair in the world, held every October. Publishers from all over the globe—yes, even from Hong Kong (where I’m from)—come here to exhibit and connect.

If you’re in Frankfurt in October, I highly recommend buying a ticket online (which is usually cheaper) and experiencing it for yourself! The venue is massive, so plan to spend at least 3–4 hours—or even an entire day.

I once visited on the last afternoon of the fair, which was… a mixed experience. Many booths were already packing up, and some had no staff at all.
But the upside? Lots of books were on sale, and some were even free to take home!

Frankfurt Food Highlights (Coming Soon!)

This post is already getting pretty long 😅—so I’ll save the detailed Frankfurt food guide for another article! But here’s a quick preview of what you definitely shouldn’t miss:

🍏 Apfelwein (apple wine) and Grüne Soße (green sauce) are local specialties. Fun fact: Apfelwein has even been recognized by UNESCO as part of Germany’s intangible cultural heritage—just like bubble tea in Taiwan or milk tea in Hong Kong (where I’m from!). So yes, you have to try it while in Frankfurt!

🥗 Want to sample authentic flavors? Head to 📍Kleinmarkthalle, an indoor food market filled with local ingredients, snacks, and small bites.

🍰 When it comes to cake, go beyond the classic Black Forest and try Frankfurter Kranz—a rich, layered buttercream cake known as the Frankfurt Crown Cake.

☕ For café lovers, I recommend:
Gresso, Aniis, Café im Liebieghaus, and Wacker’s Kaffee—each with its own charm.

🍖 And yes, I know everyone asks about pork knuckle and beer! While these are actually specialties from southern Germany, you can still enjoy a crispy, tender version at 📍Paulaner am Dom, along with an authentic German beer. Prost! 🍺

Where to Stay in Frankfurt

📌 Areas to Avoid (If Budget Allows)

If your budget allows, I recommend not staying directly next to Frankfurt Hauptbahnhof (the main train station), or in the Europaviertel area.

Yes, both areas are very convenient in terms of location—but safety can be an issue, especially at night. While it’s generally okay during the day, after dark you might come across drug activity, prostitution, and a high number of unhoused individuals. It’s not the most comfortable environment for travelers.

📌 Safer, More Convenient Neighborhoods

If you’re looking for a central but safer area, consider staying near Zeil, Hauptwache, or Eschenheimer Tor.
These spots are well-connected—most major attractions are within walking distance or just 1–2 U-Bahn/S-Bahn stops away.

Another great option is the Bockenheim district. It’s full of charming cafés, has good transport connections, and you can reach the main sights within a few stops.

🏨 Recommended Hotel – Great for Business Trips & First-Time Visitors (€€€)

When we first came to Frankfurt for a job interview, the company arranged for us to stay at the Flemings Selection Hotel Frankfurt-City—and I still think it’s a great choice, especially for business trips or first-time visitors.

The hotel is located right at Eschenheimer Tor, just a few steps from the U-Bahn station, and only a short walk to Hauptwache and MyZeil shopping mall.

Frankfurt (Main) Central Train Station is about 8–10 minutes away by train, and most city sights are easily walkable from here.

One of the coolest things? The hotel has a vintage paternoster lift—a continuously moving elevator with no doors. You just hop on and off while it moves (slowly, of course!).
If you stay here, definitely give it a try!

↑ Flemings Selection Hotel Frankfurt-City｜Booking.com

🏨 Recommended Hotel – Family-Friendly & Budget Option (€€)

Ever since I discovered the Premier Inn hotel brand, planning family trips has become so much easier!
Their concept is all about being simple, clean, and reasonably priced—but what truly makes them a parent’s dream is this:
If you’re traveling with kids, extra beds are free in family rooms! 🙌
And if adults pay for the breakfast buffet, kids eat for free too!
(Note: This usually applies for up to two adults with two children.)

In Frankfurt, I recommend the Premier Inn Frankfurt Westend.
It’s located in the Bockenheim district—a safe area filled with lovely cafés and great local vibes. From the hotel, you can walk to the Senckenberg Natural History Museum, and it’s also close to Frankfurt West or Frankfurt Messe stations.

↑ Premier Inn Frankfurt Westend｜Booking.com

📌 FRA or HHN? Don’t Confuse Frankfurt’s Two Airports

There are actually two airports with “Frankfurt” in the name:
1. Frankfurt International Airport (FRA)
2. Frankfurt-Hahn Airport (HHN)

How to Get from Frankfurt International Airport (FRA) to the City Center

If you’re flying internationally, or most long-haul destinations, you’ll likely land at Frankfurt International Airport (FRA).
From there, it’s super convenient—just a 15–20 minute train ride into the city center via S-Bahn lines S8 or S9.

How to Get from Frankfurt-Hahn Airport (HHN) to the City Center

The other airport is Frankfurt-Hahn Airport (HHN)… but heads up—this name is very misleading!
It’s actually located in another federal state and takes about 1.5 to 2.5 hours to reach Frankfurt city.
So yes, it’s nowhere near Frankfurt! They just chose the name for marketing.

This airport is commonly used by low-cost European airlines. There’s a shuttle bus that runs every hour, and every two hours during late-night hours. (By the way, the shuttle bus is not cheap!)

If you’re planning to use HHN, just be sure to weigh the time vs. money trade-off when booking your flights!

Getting Around Frankfurt City

📌 Recommended Transport Apps for Frankfurt

Locals in Frankfurt use the RMVgo app to check schedules and buy tickets—so it’s a good idea to download it in advance.

Inside the RMVgo Application, you can buy tickets directly with PayPal, which is super convenient.
If you’re planning to visit multiple places in one day, I recommend getting a day pass—it’s actually cheaper than buying two single tickets!

🚉 Unlike in Berlin, you don’t need to validate your train tickets in Frankfurt—just buy and go.

Another option worth considering is the Frankfurt Card, available as a 1-day or 2-day pass. It includes unlimited travel within the city plus discounts on museum admissions and other attractions.

FAQ: Is Frankfurt Safe for Travelers?

Let’s be honest.
About seven years ago, a friend of mine left a phone on a train in Frankfurt—and no one took it. That’s how safe it used to feel.

But things have changed in recent years.

At least two of my friends who live in Frankfurt city have had their homes broken into.
And at night, I highly recommend avoiding the area around the main train station. There are many unhoused individuals, sex workers, and drug activity in that neighborhood.

That said, I haven’t personally heard of violent street crime or blatant robberies, like what some experience in places like the Paris metro.

However, pickpocketing does happen in touristy areas—so always stay alert and don’t flash your valuables.

Let me share a real moment:
One time, after lunch near Frankfurt Cathedral, I was walking ahead while my husband and daughter were a few steps behind. To others, I probably looked like I was walking alone.
I turned around to check on them—and suddenly noticed a strange man standing uncomfortably close behind me. He looked startled when I made eye contact, and immediately pretended to tie his shoelaces. A pickpocket, perhaps?
Thankfully, I noticed in time and nothing happened.

The truth is, bad people exist everywhere. I’ve even had my bag slashed by a pickpocket back when I lived in Hong Kong.
Is Germany perfectly safe today? Not exactly.
But don’t let these things take away your curiosity for the world. Stay alert—but keep exploring! 🌍✨

📌 Did you find this article helpful?
If you did, feel free to subscribe via email or follow me on Instagram for more Germany & Europe travel inspiration! ✨

Looking for day trips from Frankfurt?

🚄 Cologne – Just an hour by high-speed train, home to the UNESCO-listed Cologne Cathedral, one of Germany’s most iconic landmarks. Perfect for a day trip!

🚄 Würzburg – Reachable in about an hour, this historic city is famous for the UNESCO-listed Würzburg Residence, a masterpiece of Baroque architecture.

🚄 Heidelberg – About an hour away, this charming university town is known for its stunning castle and picturesque old town. A great day trip option!

🚄 Limburg an der Lahn – About an hour away, this medieval town boasts Germany’s oldest half-timbered houses and the impressive Limburg Cathedral, known for its unique spires.

📌 First time visiting Germany? Don’t miss: “10 Essential Travel Tips for Your First Trip to Germany!“ This guide is packed with practical advice to help you plan a smooth and enjoyable journey.

✨ Enjoy your time in Germany! 🇩🇪 ✨