Is Frankfurt worth visiting? Yes, it is. I’ll admit that before my first visit, I mainly thought of Frankfurt as a business city filled with banks and office towers. While those are certainly part of the city, I quickly discovered there was much more to it. I enjoyed walking through the historic centre, exploring the museums along the river, and seeing how modern skyscrapers sit alongside traditional German architecture. It was a city that surprised me more than I expected.
Frankfurt is one of the most important cities in Germany and is known as the country’s financial capital. Located on the Main River, it offers a mix of modern architecture, historic landmarks, cultural attractions, and green spaces. The city is also one of Germany’s main transport hubs, making it easy to include in a wider trip around the country.
In this guide, I’ll cover the top reasons why Frankfurt is worth visiting and share some useful travel tips and advice to help you plan your trip. If you’re looking for a destination that combines history, culture, and a modern city atmosphere, keep reading to discover the many reasons why Frankfurt is worth visiting.
Table of Contents
Top Reasons You Should Visit Frankfurt
1. A Fascinating Mix of Old and New Architecture
Frankfurt is a city that effortlessly blends the old with the new. As Germany’s financial capital, it is known for its impressive skyline, with towering skyscrapers giving it a modern, international feel. At the same time, the city has a well-preserved historic centre that offers a glimpse into its medieval past. This contrast between traditional and contemporary makes Frankfurt one of the most unique cities in Germany.
One of the best places to see this mix is Römerberg, the historic heart of the city. This charming square is lined with reconstructed half-timbered houses, giving it the feel of a traditional German town. Walking through the area, I could almost forget I was in a major financial hub, especially when visiting Frankfurt Cathedral, a striking Gothic church that played an important role in the Holy Roman Empire. Just a short walk away, however, the towering Main Tower offers a completely different experience. I took the lift to the observation deck, where the panoramic views over the skyline and the River Main showed Frankfurt’s modern side in all its glory.
2. One of Europe’s Best Transport Hubs
Frankfurt is one of the best-connected cities in Europe, making it an ideal gateway for travellers. Frankfurt Airport is one of the busiest in the world, with direct flights to almost every major destination. The city’s central location also means it has excellent rail links, with high-speed trains connecting it to Berlin, Munich, Paris, and beyond. Whether you’re using Frankfurt as a base for further travel or just passing through, the city’s transport options make getting around incredibly convenient.
I found the public transport system to be one of the best I’ve used in Germany. The U-Bahn (underground) and S-Bahn (suburban trains) are fast, reliable, and easy to navigate, making it simple to reach any part of the city. I used the trains to take a day trip to Heidelberg, a stunning university town just an hour away, and the journey was smooth and efficient. Even the trams and buses run frequently, meaning you rarely have to wait long to get to where you need to go. Unlike some cities where public transport feels confusing or unreliable, Frankfurt’s system is well-organised and makes exploring stress-free.
3. A World-Class Financial and Business Hub
As the home of the European Central Bank and the Frankfurt Stock Exchange, Frankfurt is often called the financial capital of Germany. While this might not sound like an exciting reason to visit, it actually gives the city a cosmopolitan feel, with an international community, excellent business opportunities, and a dynamic cultural scene.
Walking through the Bankenviertel (Banking District), I was struck by the energy of the area, with modern glass buildings, luxury hotels, and high-end restaurants catering to professionals from around the world. The city’s financial status also means that it hosts major international events, such as the Frankfurt Book Fair, the world’s largest publishing trade fair. Even if you’re not visiting for business, the global influence is noticeable in the city’s restaurants, cultural festivals, and diverse population. Frankfurt might be a centre for finance, but it’s far from just a city of suits and office buildings—it has a vibrant, lively atmosphere that makes it an exciting place to visit.
4. A Fantastic Museum Scene
Frankfurt is home to some of Germany’s best museums, particularly along the Museumsufer (Museum Embankment), a stretch of cultural institutions lining the banks of the River Main. Whether you’re interested in art, history, science, or film, there’s a museum for everyone, making it a fantastic destination for culture lovers.
One of the highlights for me was the Städel Museum, which has an outstanding collection of European art, including works by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Monet. The museum itself is beautifully designed, with a modern underground exhibition space that feels almost futuristic. Another fascinating museum was the German Film Museum, which explores the history of cinema through interactive exhibits and classic film screenings. Even smaller, lesser-known museums like the Museum of Communication offer unique and engaging experiences. With so many options, it’s easy to spend an entire day exploring Frankfurt’s rich cultural offerings.
5. A Great Food Scene with International and Local Specialities
Frankfurt has a surprisingly diverse food scene, offering everything from traditional German dishes to international cuisine influenced by its multicultural population. The city’s location in Hesse means it has its own regional specialities, many of which are different from the dishes found in Bavaria or Berlin.
One of the must-try local foods is Grüne Soße (Green Sauce), a cold herb-based sauce traditionally served with boiled eggs and potatoes. I was sceptical at first, but the fresh, tangy flavour was incredibly refreshing, especially on a warm day. Another local favourite is Handkäse mit Musik, a strong-smelling cheese marinated in vinegar and onions, often eaten with a side of rye bread. If you prefer heartier fare, Frankfurt’s version of the Bratwurst, known as the Frankfurter Wurstchen, is a simple but delicious sausage often served with mustard. Beyond local cuisine, the city has excellent international food options, from Turkish kebabs to authentic Japanese ramen, reflecting its diverse population.
6. A Relaxed Riverside Atmosphere Along the Main
Despite being a major financial hub, Frankfurt has plenty of green spaces and relaxing spots, especially along the River Main. The riverbanks are lined with walking and cycling paths, creating a peaceful escape from the busy city streets. Whether you want to take a leisurely stroll, have a picnic, or simply sit by the water and watch the boats pass by, the riverside is a perfect place to unwind.
I particularly enjoyed walking along the Eiserner Steg, the city’s famous iron footbridge, which offers stunning views of the skyline and the Old Town. The area around Holbeinsteg, another pedestrian bridge, was also a great spot to sit with a coffee and enjoy the calm atmosphere. In summer, the Mainuferfest, a festival along the river, brings the area to life with music, food stalls, and entertainment. The riverside is one of Frankfurt’s best features, offering a balance between city life and natural beauty.
7. A Vibrant Christmas Market in Winter
If you visit Frankfurt in December, the Frankfurter Weihnachtsmarkt (Frankfurt Christmas Market) is one of the best in Germany. The festive stalls, twinkling lights, and smell of mulled wine create a magical atmosphere that makes the city feel completely different from its usual modern businesslike image.
I visited the Christmas market in Römerberg, and it was everything I had hoped for—wooden huts selling handcrafted ornaments, the scent of roasted almonds filling the air, and a giant Christmas tree glowing in the centre of the square. I tried Glühwein (mulled wine) and Bethmännchen, a local marzipan treat traditionally made during the festive season. Unlike some smaller Christmas markets, Frankfurt’s is large and lively, with a great mix of food, drinks, and holiday decorations. Even if you’ve seen other Christmas markets in Germany, Frankfurt’s festive atmosphere makes it a must-visit during the winter months.
Travel Tips for Visiting Frankfurt
What to Do in Frankfurt
Frankfurt often gets overlooked because many people see it as a business city, but I enjoyed it much more than I expected. It has a unique mix of modern skyscrapers, historic squares, riverside walks, and easy access to some of Germany’s best wine regions. These are the experiences I enjoyed most.
- Take a Rhine Valley Day Trip and Castle Cruise – This was my favourite experience because the scenery, vineyards, and castles along the Rhine are some of the most beautiful sights in Germany.
- Visit the Main Tower Observation Deck – I loved the views from the top because they show just how different Frankfurt looks compared to other German cities.
- Join a Frankfurt Walking Tour – This helped me discover the city’s history and gave me a better appreciation of its mix of old and new architecture.
- Take a River Main Sightseeing Cruise – Seeing the city skyline from the water was a great way to experience Frankfurt from a different angle.
- Visit Heidelberg on a Day Trip – This was one of my favourite excursions because Heidelberg’s castle and old town are absolutely worth the journey.
- Join a Food and Apple Wine Tour in Sachsenhausen – I think this is one of the best ways to experience local culture and try Frankfurt’s famous apple wine.
When to Visit Frankfurt
I think the best times to visit Frankfurt are May to June and September to October. The weather is usually pleasant, making it easy to explore the city on foot. Summer brings outdoor events and busy riverside areas, while autumn is perfect for wine region day trips. December is also a great time to visit thanks to Frankfurt’s Christmas markets. I visited during late spring and enjoyed being able to walk along the River Main without dealing with extreme temperatures or large crowds.
How to Get to Frankfurt
Most visitors arrive through Frankfurt Airport, which is one of the busiest airports in Europe. Airlines such as Lufthansa, British Airways, KLM, Air France, United Airlines, Emirates, Ryanair, and many others operate flights here. The airport is connected directly to the city centre by S-Bahn trains, with journeys taking around 15 minutes. Frankfurt is also Germany’s largest rail hub, with high-speed train connections across the country and Europe. Personally, I think the airport train is the easiest option because it’s fast, affordable, and avoids traffic completely.
Where to Stay in Frankfurt
- Steigenberger Icon Frankfurter Hof – Located in the city centre, this luxury hotel combines historic elegance with easy access to major attractions.
- Sofitel Frankfurt Opera – Situated near the Alte Oper, this upscale hotel offers excellent service and one of the best locations in the city.
- The Westin Grand Frankfurt – Located close to shopping streets and transport links, this hotel is a great choice for both leisure and business travellers.
- Motel One Frankfurt-Römer – Situated near the historic Römer square, this modern hotel offers excellent value and a fantastic location.
- Scandic Frankfurt Museumsufer – Located near the riverfront, this comfortable hotel is ideal for sightseeing and exploring the city.
- a&o Frankfurt Galluswarte – One of the best budget-friendly places to stay in Frankfurt, this hostel offers affordable accommodation and good transport connections.
Getting Around Frankfurt
Frankfurt has an excellent public transport system that includes U-Bahn trains, S-Bahn trains, trams, and buses. Tickets can be purchased through the RMVgo app, which makes journey planning easy. The city centre is surprisingly walkable, especially around the Old Town, shopping areas, and riverfront. Cycling is also popular thanks to dedicated bike paths. Personally, I found walking and using the S-Bahn to be the best combination. Most major attractions are easy to reach without needing a car.
How Long to Spend in Frankfurt
I think two to three days is the perfect amount of time for Frankfurt. Two days gives you enough time to explore the city centre, visit museums, enjoy the riverfront, and take in the skyline views. With three days, you can add a day trip to Heidelberg or the Rhine Valley. If you’re using Frankfurt as a base for exploring central Germany, you could stay even longer. Personally, I would recommend three days because the nearby day trips are some of the best experiences in the region.
Conclusion
So, is Frankfurt worth visiting? Absolutely. From its unique skyline and historic old town to its excellent museums, riverside walks, and cultural attractions, there are plenty of reasons to spend time here. Frankfurt offers a different side of Germany that blends tradition with modern city life. If you’re planning a trip to Germany and want to experience more than just the country’s famous tourist hotspots, Frankfurt is well worth adding to your itinerary.