Frankfurt is one of the central cities of Europe and the fifth most populated city in Germany. With a history that dates back to the Roman Empire, the city has a long and diverse timeline. With a large amount of the area rebuilt after the Second World War, Frankfurt is a perfect blend of ancient culture and very modern architecture.

There are many things to do in Frankfurt that you cannot do anywhere else, such as visit Anne Frank’s first home, wander through Johann Wolfgang Goethe’s childhood home and stop by the headquarters of the European Union.

Whether you like exploring castles, being led around town on a scary theatre piece, or simply sampling some local apple wine, Frankfurt has got something for you.

And it’s also a great home base for day trips, with historic towns, magnificent castles, and legendary cities just a short jaunt away.

So, when you’re ready to explore a dynamic city full of architectural, cultural, and artistic treasures – with distinctive German charm thrown in -, head on over!

1 – Hop on a bike tour past Paulsplatz

Paulsplatz, Frankfurt

Paulsplatz (St. Paul’s Square) is the largest square in Old Town Frankfurt and a hotspot of historic landmarks.

Stopping by the bronze Unity Memorial, gothic monastery or The Old Exchange stock market building are all quintessential things to do in Frankfurt.

In order to pack these sites in, a bike tour can take you through Old Town, as well as all the surrounding sites.

bike tours in Frankfurt

2 – See the city on a hop-on hop-off bus tour

bus tours in Frankfurt

A hop on hop off bus ticket is a budget-friendly way to see as much of Frankfurt as possible.

With 14 stops around the city, you are able to get on at any stop, explore and then board the next bus that comes by.

Tickets are valid for a whole day so you can really see the city at your own pace.

bus tours in Frankfurt

3 – Make friends (and give your liver a workout) on some pub crawls

pub crawls, Frankfurt

There’s no shortage of good places to get a drink in the city… so why not try a little bit of everywhere with a pub crawl?

These fun-filled events are perfect for getting to know your fellow travelers… not to mention the famously lively bar scene in the city!

And if you’re celebrating a special matrimonial event, they also offer bachelor and bachelorette party options!

pub crawls in Frankfurt

4 – Head to the bustling Römerberg

Römerberg, Frankfurt

Römerberg is a busy square in the heart of Frankfurt. Here you’ll find Römer — the city hall — and the 15th-century Old Saint Nicholas Lutheran Church.

As one of the oldest public areas in town, it has a long, fascinating history that includes everything from royal coronations to military gatherings.

Today, it’s a wonderful place to people-watch and admire the beautiful fountain and older buildings, showcasing the city’s medieval roots.

If you happen to be in Frankfurt during the winter months, the local Christmas Market takes over the space at Römerberg. The market starts in late November and runs until December 22.

walking tours in Frankfurt

5 – Go animal spotting at the local zoo

There are two main zoos in Frankfurt, Opel Zoo and Frankfurt Zoo, both offering a great way to see some wildlife so you won’t be disappointed.

Frankfurt Zoo has an aquarium open late (until 8 p.m.) and open feeding times so you can make sure you see your favorite animals in action.

Opel Zoo is slightly more open-air with a lot of animals roaming together and public barbecues and picnic spots.

6 – Climb the Main Tower

Main Tower, Frankfurt

Main Tower in Frankfurt is the highest vantage point in the city. The viewing platform provides a panoramic view of the city, perfect for landscape photographers.

This impressive, 56-story structure opened in 1999, and offers a unique vantage point of the skyline.

There’s also a restaurant and lounge on the 53rd floor for the foodies and a modern art gallery, so you can get a unique sky-high gallery experience.

From mosaics to multimedia installations, there’s far more creativity than you’d normally expect from an office building!

7 – Treat yourself (and your ears) to some candlelight concerts

candlelight concerts in Frankfurt — credit to Candlelight Experience / Fever

Among the city’s many illustrious cultural options, the Candlelight Concert series offers unique music and aesthetics.

Held in various venues around town, these spectacular symphonic performances cover just about every type of genre.

Whether you love the rousing film scores of Hans Zimmer, the grungy sounds of 90s’ rock, or the pop stylings of Ed Sheeran, there’s a perfect concert for you.

And not to worry, orchestra fans – there are plenty of classical music concerts as well!

candlelight concerts in Frankfurt

8 – Cruise down Main River

boat tours in Frankfurt

The Main River in Frankfurt runs alongside historic waterfront homes and the buildings of the city skyline.

Taking a cruise is a fitting way to make the most of the vantage point you get from this river.

You can choose from one- or two-hour cruises, so you can move as slow or as fast as you like before getting off at the landmark Gerbermühle to learn about a local poet.

boat tours in Frankfurt

9 – Cross the Eiserner Steg bridge

Eiserner Steg, Frankfurt

Eiserner Steg is an iron bridge that connects the city center and Sachsenhausen. The bridge is crossed by over 10,000 pedestrians a day and is where one of the most famous city skyline views can be obtained.

If landscape photography is your thing, taking your camera to Eiserner Steg is one of the essential things to do in Frankfurt for you.

Directions in Google Maps

10 – Catch a game of football at Deutsche Bank Park

Deutsche Bank Park, Frankfurt

Deutsche Bank Park is the home of local football team Eintracht Frankfurt. It was built in 1925 and has hosted world-class games, including the FIFA women’s world final.

There are concerts and football all throughout the year, so whatever your entertainment, the Deutsche Bank Park has something to offer.

11 – Explore Goethe House and Museum

Goethe House and Museum, Frankfurt

Johann Wolfgang Goethe is one of Frankfurt’s most famous poets, growing up and working in the city in the 18th century.

Goethe House and Museum is the very house the poet was born in and created some of his most famous works.

The museum displays several artifacts from his life and career, all in the most authentic setting of all: his own home.

As you stroll through this preserved timeline of his childhood and productive later years, you’ll be able to learn more about Goethe’s remarkable upbringing and creative process; and you’ll also get a more general sense of how daily life operated in the city in the 1700s.

12 – Glide around on a Segway tour

segway tours, Frankfurt

A Segway tour is an ideal option for those looking for an effortless and comfortable way to move around Frankfurt and see the sights.

The Segway tour runs along Frankfurts Greenbelt — a scenic road that runs through the city. You’ll glide past rolling hills, meadows and old architecture all in one trip!

segway tours in Frankfurt

13 – Step back in time at the Senckenberg Natural History Museum

Senckenberg Natural History Museum, Frankfurt

The Senckenberg Natural History Museum is Frankfurt’s premier collection of all things old, ancient and unique.

At the museum, you’ll find dinosaur bones, human evolution exhibits, as well as deep-sea and marine research.

The museum gets very busy so make sure to book admission ahead of time on its website to make sure you’ll get in!

14 – Tap into your inner Sherlock Holmes with some scavenger games

scavenger games, Frankfurt

Jam-packed with fun trivia and mystery, the city’s scavenger games are the perfect way to explore the town in a new and innovative fashion!

Using an app on your phone, you can caterwaul from one iconic destination to the next, using clues and fascinating puzzles to explore the secret sides of this dynamic metropolis.

It’s an exciting, interactive way to learn more about the Frankfurt way of life!

scavenger games in Frankfurt

Sponsored placement

Sip and paint in the dark at this unique workshop!

This retro-futuristic experience combines the thrill of painting with a fluorescent twist, offering a brush in one hand and a choice of drink in the other. The musical backdrop adds to the atmosphere, making it a perfect outing for friends. By the end of the night, not only will you have had an unforgettable experience, but you’ll also leave with a personal masterpiece to proudly display at home.

See price and reviews

15 – See the view from the Frankfurt Cathedral observation tower

Frankfurt Cathedral observation tower view

Frankfurt Cathedral is a gothic church built between 1315 and 1358 in the name of St. Bartholomew.

The cathedral is impressive from the outside but you can also climb the main tower up to a 66-meter high observation deck.

Looking out the window here gives you an intimate bird’s-eye view of the Frankfurt metropolis.

16 – Check out New Old Town

New Old Town, Frankfurt

In 1944, there were air raids that destroyed a key part of Frankfurt. Since then, New Old Town has been constructed to recreate the area that was destroyed.

The designers and builders used original blueprints, materials and construction techniques to build a space that was faithful to the original area.

At New Old Town, you’ll find everything from old shop fronts to the Goldene Waage — a renaissance-style timber frame house.

17 – Stop by Staedel Museum

Staedel Museum, Frankfurt

Staedel Museum has one of the biggest collections of art in Germany.

The museum holds 3,100 paintings, 660 sculptures, over 4,600 photographs and more than 100,000 drawings. Inside, you’ll find Monet, Rembrandt, Botticelli and many others.

Along with this spectacular collection, the museum offers plenty of opportunities for visitors to engage with the works on a deeper level, including guided tours and public discussions.

18 – Head to Heidelberg on a day trip

Heidelberg day trip from Frankfurt

If you hop on a bus tour out from Frankfurt, you can make it to the medieval town of Heidelberg.

The town is where you’ll find the world’s largest wine barrel, Heidelberg Castle and renaissance architecture.

You can choose from morning or afternoon departure times, and the tour lasts for about five and a half hours.

These trips often include visits to Nuremberg, another beautiful city with a complex history. It’s best known as the site of the Nuremberg Trials, where Nazis were prosecuted for their crimes after World War II.

Heidelberg day trips from Frankfurt

19 – Spend the day at Rothenburg

Rothenburg day trip from Frankfurt

If you have a full day to spare, heading out to the perfectly preserved town of Rothenburg is one of the best things to do during your stay in Frankfurt.

A day trip to this ancient town includes access to Rothenburg’s Medieval Crime Museum and a complimentary walking tour of the cobblestoned streets.

Rothenburg day trips from Frankfurt

20 – Delve into the Museum District

Museum District frankfurt

Museumsufer is a collection of museums placed along the banks of the River Main in Frankfurt. In the 1980s, politician Hilmar Hoffman began work to turn old villas and build new museums in the area to create a high concentration of museums in one area.

The museums that you can’t miss are the Frankfurt Museum of Modern Art, The Jewish Museum, Deutsches Filmmuseum, Liebieghaus and Museum Angewandte Kunst. The list goes on, but they’re all close together so it’ll be hard to put a foot wrong!

With 39 diverse cultural institutions in the conglomerate, you could easily spend a day – or several! – exploring, so it’s well worth looking into which ones you most want to see and planning accordingly.

And in between visits, you can stroll along the riverside, enjoying the spectacular scenery.

21 – Set out on a Rhine Valley river cruise

Rhine Valley river cruise from Frankfurt

The Rhine Valley is where you’ll find a lot of UNESCO-listed sites. If you hop on a vintage steamboat and head down the Rhine River, you can pass vineyards, medieval towns and mountaintop castles.

If you’re going on a full-day tour, you can even disembark and explore Loreley Rock, renowned by geologists and literature fans alike.

It is perhaps most famous as the setting for the iconic Heinrich Heine poem, which depicts a mysterious maiden luring ships to their doom – but don’t worry, your vessel will be plenty safe!

On this cruise, you can also sample some of the famous Rhine Valley wine and have a meal by the riverside before heading back into town.

Rhine Valley day trips from Frankfurt

22 – Let your hair down on a trip to Baden-Baden in the Black Forest

Baden-Baden day trip from Frankfurt

Baden-Baden is located in Germany’s Black Forest and is well known as a spa town where travelers go to unwind.

There are thermal bathhouses, luxury boutiques and peaceful botanical gardens which all contribute to the town’s tranquility.

A day trip from Frankfurt aboard a coach will take you to and from Baden-Baden, as well as to the photogenic lake Mummelsee.

Black Forest day trips from Frankfurt

23 – Escape to Cologne

Cologne day trip from Frankfurt

Cologne is a 2,000-year-old city that’s a short scenic drive north of Frankfurt.

A day trip to Cologne includes a ride to the city and a double-decker bus around town to see the local attractions, including Cologne Cathedral, Germany’s most visited site.

The trip back to Frankfurt stops by the medieval town of Limburg, making this tour full of exciting discoveries!

Cologne day trips from Frankfurt

Read more; Fun & unusual things to do in Cologne

24 – Unwind at Palmengarten Botanical Garden

Palmengarten Botanical Garden, Frankfurt

Palmengarten is a botanical garden that is home to more than 13,000 species of plant. Over its 150-year history, the garden has hosted many cultural events such as sound installations and sculpture displays.

Don’t miss the hearty plants of the Subantarctic House, the lush greenery of the Tropicarium, or the vibrant colors in the Flower and Butterfly House.

At Palmengarten, you can also come across a huge greenhouse that has famously held concerts and balls for Emperor Wilhelm I.

And the tradition continues (somewhat) to this day, with a steady stream of concerts and cultural celebrations held throughout the year.

25 – Catch the bus to Würzburg

Würzburg day trip from Frankfurt

Würzburg is a historic town in the north of the German state of Bavaria. This is where you’ll find the UNESCO-listed site Residenz Würzburg, a huge Baroque-style palace.

Along with its magnificent architecture, this elegant city is home to several gorgeous churches and administrative buildings, showcasing a range of styles from the Renaissance onwards.

And if you’re more museum-minded, there are plenty of great institutions in town, from the antiquities-filled Martin Von Wagner Museum to the Rontgen Memorial Site, which is dedicated to a pioneer in the field of X-rays.

There’s a one-and-a-half-hour bus ticket that will take you from Frankfurt Main Train Station (Hauptbahnhof) to Würzburg Main Railway Station, without having to change, making this a very easy — and budget-friendly — day trip.

Würzburg day trips from Frankfurt

26 – Make your way to Neuschwanstein Castle

Neuschwanstein Castle day trip from Frankfurt

Neuschwanstein Castle is a palace atop a rugged hill that overlooks the town of Hohenschwangau in southwest Bavaria, a short day trip from Frankfurt.

It is an example of what is known as a historicist castle, a castle that imitates the style of an older architectural movement.

Neuschwanstein Castle is a reconstruction of a castle from the romanticism period, built in the 1870s on the grounds of a previously destroyed palace.

Neuschwanstein Castle day trips

27 – Visit Anne Frank’s 1st Home

Anne Frank's 1st Home, Frankfurt

Anne Frank, widely known for her diary entries during the holocaust, hid out in Frankfurt. Her first home can be visited on a walk through the city.

Although at the time she was well hidden, travelers can now visit this special part of history located at Marbachweg 307.

See the beautiful neighborhood where the Franks once lived, and learn about how their ancestors (along with many other Jewish families) played a significant role in the city’s social fabric over the centuries.

It’s a poignant spot to visit, but a powerful one as well.

Directions in Google Maps

28 – Stroll through the Frankfurt Financial District (aka Mainhattan)

Frankfurt Financial District

The Frankfurt Financial District got the nickname ‘Mainhattan’ from its high concentration of skyscraper buildings.

After the historic center of Frankfurt was destroyed in the Second World War, the city needed to be rebuilt, thus, a lot of modern and tall skyscrapers were built.

This collection of huge offices and banks then turned Frankfurt into one of the business capitals of Germany.

While it may not seem like a traditional tourist area at first glance, it’s a fascinating spot to visit from both a design-based and cultural perspective.

And of course, wandering through a steel forest of skyscrapers is an experience unto itself!

29 – Stroll through Hauptwache

Hauptwache, Frankfurt

Hauptwache is one of the most famous plazas in Frankfurt. It lies in the heart of the shopping district of the city, so once you’ve picked up a few trinkets, you can check out the many landmarks in this plaza.

This square is where you’ll find the baroque-style Hauptwache building as well as St. Catherine’s Church.

As you stroll around, you’ll see a nice showcase of the whole history of the city, from the unique antique items in the stores to the glimmering buildings that reflect the redevelopment efforts after World War II.

And with its bountiful cafes and open spaces, it’s also a great place to enjoy the daily rhythms of local life.

Directions in Google Maps

30 – Relax at Grüneburgpark

Grüneburgpark, Frankfurt

Grüneburgpark is a public park in the Westend Quarter of Frankfurt. Originally constructed in 1789, the park has contained a French-style palace, English gardens and a German castle known as Grüne Burg over the years.

After an air raid in 1944, parts of the park were reconstructed and then opened to the public, with Grüneburgpark becoming a popular recreation spot for locals. There’s even a cafe within the park open in the summer, making it a perfect picnic spot.

Directions in Google Maps

31 – Explore Eltz Castle on a day trip

Eltz Castle day trip from Frankfurt

Eltz Castle is a well-preserved, centuries-old fortress in the picturesque German countryside. It’s known to be less crowded than other castles in the country, so you’ll have plenty of space to walk in the footsteps of royalty and aristocrats as you explore the castle.

On a day trip from Frankfurt, you’ll get to see the armory room, gold and silver 12th-century artwork before exploring the surrounding Eltz Forest — full of rare flora and fauna. The tour ends with a dinner on the banks of the Rhine River before being taken back to Frankfurt.

Eltz Castle day trips from Frankfurt

32 – Try new and old favorites at the local restaurants

local restaurants, Frankfurt — credit to Chairs Frankfurt

If you’re looking for a classy, delicious memento of your time in town, there are plenty of excellent restaurants in Frankfurt to enjoy!

Try the artfully arranged dishes and elegant decor of Emma Metzler, or some iconic Italian fare at No. 16.

Sample avant-garde meals while perching on equally daring furniture at Chairs, or try a little bit of Japanese at Ramen Muku.

Or head over to Atschel, which blends cozy art nouveau surroundings with regional favorites like sauerkraut and schnitzel.

33 – Test your driving skills with indoor go-karts

karting in Frankfurt — credit to Eco Kart

Go-karts can be a great way to blow off some steam and also get the adrenaline pumping along the way.

Eco Kart in Frankfurt is an electric go-kart track that gives you the pace and thrill of go-karts, without the noise and exhaust of typical engines.

There are three levels to choose from, so no matter your driving experience, there’ll be a track for you to enjoy.

34 – Get a taste of ancient Roman culture at Saalburg

Saalburg, Frankfurt

Saalburg is an ancient Roman fort that would have previously been very heavily defended and open only to returning Roman soldiers.

Nowadays, it is open to all, allowing travelers to step back in time and get a glimpse of the life of an ancient Roman.

The fort itself has been well maintained and there is also a packed program of marches and culinary activities to give you a true sense of the historic culture at Saalburg.

From the minute you step through the gates, you’ll feel as though you’re back in the days of the Roman Empire – with indoor plumbing, luckily!

Whether you’re sampling authentic treats, admiring ancient weaponry, or reading your way through the many informative displays, it’s immersive history at its finest!

35 – Visit the home of the euro at the European Central Bank

European Central Bank, Frankfurt

The inception of the euro is considered a huge moment in European history, and the head office is right in the middle of Frankfurt.

The 185-meter high tower was built in 2014 and is a delight for architecture enthusiasts, with an eco-friendly design and both modern and historic aesthetic elements.

Stop by the visitor center for a fascinating tour that includes interactive exhibits, fascinating informative displays, and behind-the-scenes facts about the inner workings of this remarkable financial institution.

From basics to bitcoin, you’ll get a great crash course in cash!

Directions in Google Maps

36 – Head out to Wildpark Alte Fasanerie

Wildpark Alte Fasanerie, Frankfurt

A half-hour drive from Frankfurt will take you to the nature reserve Wildpark Alte Fasanerie. The park contains wolves and wild boar — kept in large enclosures to keep visitors safe — as well as many scenic hiking trails and even ropes courses.

If you want to get a little more in touch with nature, swing by the petting zoo to meet some furry friends, get the kids set up on a pony ride, or watch an amazing display of falconry.

Escaping the bustle of Frankfurt and stopping by this reserve is one of the best things to do in Frankfurt for nature lovers.

37 – Hop on a rollercoaster at Holiday Park

Holiday Park, Frankfurt — credit to Holiday Park

Holiday Park is an amusement park that has everything from an Antique merry-go-round to water slides.

It has all the usual rides such as rollercoasters and ghost trains, but it also has attractions for any age such as balloon rides or ball pits for the younger visitors.

And as if all of the rides weren’t amazing enough, there are plenty of shows, meet and greets with costumed characters, and other amazing live events to check out throughout the day.

With so much family-friendly fun, it’s little wonder that this spot has been a beloved destination for over 50 years!

38 – Explore the city with an escape game

escape rooms in Frankfurt

ParaPoly is an urban adventure that combines a scavenger hunt, an escape room and a city tour.

You begin the game in a main square of Frankfurt then are taken around town with landmarks and monuments — forming part of the game where you will need to solve clues in order to make it to the next stop.

Not only will you test your lateral thinking, but you’ll also see most of the cities sites with about 2-3 kilometers walking!

escape rooms in Frankfurt

39 – Head to Eschenheim Tower

Eschenheim Tower, Frankfurt

Eschenheim Tower is the oldest and most unmodified building in Frankfurt’s city center.

With many surrounding buildings destroyed in the Second World War, the tower stands out as a 15th-century medieval monument among modern skyscrapers.

The structure got its start as a city gate, built to protect against marauding forces.

Today, you can stop by the ground floor to enjoy a bite or a beverage, and soak up the centuries of history around you.

Directions in Google Maps

40 – Look back in time with a Time Travel VR Experience

Time Travel VR experiences, Frankfurt

A time-traveling VR experience is the best way to make the most of modern technology to enter an ancient time.

This activity puts you in the shoes of a 19th-century merchant where you can see Frankfurt the way it was hundreds of years ago, and even go on a virtual carriage ride around the city!

Time Travel VR experiences

41 – Play golf in the dark with black light mini golf

black light mini golf, Frankfurt — credit to Schwarzlicht Helden

Right in the heart of the Römer area is one of the most unique things to do in Frankfurt: mini-golf under black light. You can play any of the 18 holes without any ordinary light, as the courses light up and animate themselves.

You can even pop on 3D glasses and have a truly immersive experience, as some of the graphics will jump out at you as you play your next shot!

42 – Meet the animals at Freizeitpark Lochmühle

Freizeitpark Lochmühle, Frankfurt — credit to Freizeitpark Lochmühle

Freizeitpark Luchmühle is an amusement park with an agricultural twist that’s been going for over 50 years.

The site used to be a flour mill, now it’s a park with rides, animals and great picnic and barbecue spots.

Get some thrills on the rollercoasters or let the kids put their muscles to the test on the climbing courses, then stop by the farming section to learn how mills work and meet some new animal friends.

You can even hike along a trail that leads to an authentic Roman castle – not bad for an afternoon out!

Getting there is easy, just a half-hour drive north out of central Frankfurt!

43 – Pick up some tasty treats at Kleinmarkthalle & Metzgerei Schreiber

Kleinmarkthalle, Frankfurt

Kleinmarkethalle is a market hall with over 60 vendors selling produce, flowers, wine and ready-to-eat meals.

One of the highlights of the market is Metzgerei Schreiber, who has been serving traditional German sausages for over 60 years. His place is loved by locals and tourists, so don’t get scared of the big line because the wait is surely worth it!

44 – See a concert at Alte Oper

Alte Oper, Frankfurt

Alte Oper is known as Frankfurt’s Opera House, the place where many concerts and operas are performed in the city. It was originally built in 1880, before significant damage in the 1944 air raids of Frankfurt.

Some of the structures survived so the current building is a blend of the old architecture and a rebuild in the 1970s. There are three different halls, all hosting shows of different sizes, so make sure to check out the program when you’re in town!

45 – Eat your way through a food tour

food tours in Frankfurt

Every city has a unique food culture and for those wanting to discover an authentic taste of Frankfurt, there’s a food tour.

The tour takes you to five hidden gems that serve up authentic cuisine from Germany and afar.

Stroll through local shops and sample meats and cheeses, or tuck into local favorites like marzipan and pork knuckles.

And this being Germany, many of the tours include the chance to sample some beers and wines as well!

food tours in Frankfurt

46 – Soak up the Nightlife

Nightlife, Frankfurt — credit to Gibson Club

Ready for a good time? Frankfurt’s got you covered!

The nightclubs in town have a flavor all their own, and they’re always welcoming to newcomers!

Enjoy the mellow vibes and social atmosphere of Velvet Club, or the acclaimed DJs and lively dance floors of Gibson Club.

Party down to the diverse musical sets of Belle Club, or the high-energy music sets at Batschkapp.

In this town, the hardest choice is where to go clubbing first!

47 – Soak up the sun at Taunus Wunderland

Taunus Wunderland, Frankfurt — credit to Taunus Wunderland

Taunus Wunderland is an amusement park that is nestled in the natural surrounds of the Taunus Hills.

Although the park has all the usual attractions such as rollercoasters and the like — instead of crowds and busy rides, there are fields and parklands to create a relaxing atmosphere.

There are also six themed restaurants to taste some local cuisine after a hard day running around from ride to ride.

48 – Get spooked on a scary walking tour

scary tours, Frankfurt

A scary walking tour is a trip around town led by professional actors that act out a scary play known as the ‘Bride of Satan’ that takes you around the main sites of the city.

Their tour combines theatre and education, as you will be thoroughly entertained while also learning about all the important spots around Frankfurt.

Visit old churches and haunted riverside spots in the company of the sinister Hangman, or come face to face with a vampire, as he recounts his tale of foiled romance and gruesome circumstances.

It’s a thrilling, chilling way to explore the city’s strange side!

scary tours in Frankfurt

49 – Go shopping on MyZeil & Zeil Street

MyZeil & Zeil street, Frankfurt

Zeil Street has been one of the busiest shopping areas of Germany since the 19th century. Zeil means row, originally referring to the row of decadent houses that used to line the street before being destroyed in the Second World War.

Nowadays, it is a mostly pedestrian-only street with countless stores and also the shopping arcade MyZeil.

50 – Take a dip at Brentanobad

Brentanobad, Frankfurt — credit to Brentanobad

Brentanobad is the largest outdoor swimming pool in Frankfurt nestled near the scenic Brentanopark.

The large pool is surrounded by ample lawn for sunbathing, a children’s paddling pool and a beach volleyball court.

There is also an open-air cinema on site that operates during the warmer months.

51 – Take a stroll down Mainkai

Mainkai, Frankfurt

Mainkai is a scenic walk by the Main River in Frankfurt. You can simply walk along its length or rent a chair and sit by the water with a book or a beer.

There are also bikes available to hire for those who want to see a little bit extra.

While it’s perfectly centralized within the city, its tranquil lawns and gorgeous riverside views make it feel like a bit of rural paradise.

Along with ample walking and loafing opportunities, it’s a great place to do some photography, with its nice mixture of urban and rural views.

Directions in Google Maps

52 – Try the apple wine at Alt-Sachsenhausen

Alt-Sachsenhausen, Frankfurt — credit to Zum Gemalten Haus

Alt-Sachsenhausen is an area that contains several traditional German bars and restaurants.

The most notable spots in the area are the old apple wine pubs which are a quintessential slice of local culture. The best ones to try are Adolf Wagner, Apfelwein Dax and Zum Gemalten Haus.

53 – Have a drink up at a rooftop bar

rooftop bars, Frankfurt — credit to GAIA Frankfurt

Frankfurt has an impressive skyline and there are several rooftop bars where you’re able to admire the sights, as well as taste some of the cities best beer and cocktails.

Long Island Summer Lounge is one of the best which is an office rooftop that is transformed into a summer deck with fold-out chairs when summer rolls around.

GAIA Frankfurt is perfect for a classy cocktail or a small nibble, while Citybeach Frankfurt brings more of a tropical vibe to this northern city.

Occhio d’Oro provides excellent Italian food and great glimpses of the skyline, and the Blasky Hotel and Rooftop Bar provides elegant settings and a seasonally rotating menu to pair with your view.

Meanwhile, the Ruby Louise Hotel & Bar provides unique cocktails and fun 19th-century-inspired decor, as well as beautiful terraced areas.

How to get to Frankfurt?

Like many cities in Germany, Frankfurt is fairly accessible by train from other parts of Europe.

But many tourists find it convenient to fly, arriving and departing through Frankfurt Airport.

And with an airport transfer, you can easily get into the city and settle into your hotel.

Where to stay in Frankfurt?

JW Marriott Hotel Frankfurt combines gorgeous scenery with world-class amenities, offering saunas and gyms to keep you occupied after all of your adventurings.

And at Melia Frankfurt City, you can enjoy the luxurious wellness center and bar, or head out to sample all of the nearby museums and tourist attractions, such as Palmengarten.

Leonardo Hotel Frankfurt boasts multiple restaurants for delicious culinary experiences, plus a variety of sporting facilities to get some energy out – when you’re not busy shopping or hitting the nearby dance clubs, that is!

Park Inn by Radisson Frankfurt Airport offers a nice blend of modern rooms, fabulous amenities (such as an onsite steakhouse!), and easy access to the airport – the perfect place to start or end your trip!

And Hampton by Hilton Frankfurt Airport offers similarly close proximity to transit, along with a delicious buffet breakfast and a lovely business center.

best hotels in Frankfurt

Visiting Frankfurt on a budget?

The Frankfurt Card is ideal for adventurous travelers on a budget, offering amazing discounts on many of the top sites in town.

And if you’re really on a budget, free walking tours are the perfect way to see the city like a local – just be sure to bring some money to tip your guide!

Where to go next?

When you’ve had your fill of Frankfurt (for now, at least), take a spin through the rest of Germany to see what’s available!

Nestled amid rolling hills, Stuttgart surprises with its rich automotive history, including the world-renowned Mercedes-Benz and Porsche museums.

The unique culture and lively atmosphere of Berlin are only matched by its unique history and fascinating kid-friendly attractions, making it the perfect destination for the whole family!

And in Hamburg, you can soak up some authentic German culture and beautiful scenery, all while exploring the intriguing areas nearby.

Meanwhile, Munich is packed to the brim with history, art, and unique excursions, as well as plenty of renowned and innovative public spaces that will have you feeling like a local in no time.

And if you want a nice mix of historical architecture, vibrant academic scenes, dynamic museums, and plenty of parties, Cologne is ready to welcome you!

Once you’re done exploring Germany, check out some of the other best places to visit in Europe!

Final thoughts

Packed with impressive cultural and financial institutions, excellent culinary options, and stunning scenery, the list of things to do in Frankfurt is neverending!

Whether you’re walking in the footsteps of ancient Romans or partying at the hippest nightclubs, the city has something for everyone.

So get historical, adventurous, and a little bit hedonistic – the German way!

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53 Fun Things to Do in Frankfurt, Germany