Frankfurt

Frankfurt is a city of fascinating contrasts. On one side of the Main River, you have the towering glass and steel structures of the financial district, symbolizing Germany's economic prowess. On the other, you find the meticulously reconstructed Altstadt (Old Town), where half-timbered houses surround the historic Römer, Frankfurt's city hall for over 600 years. This juxtaposition makes walking through the city a journey through time.

The city is also incredibly green, boasting numerous parks, botanical gardens, and the expansive Frankfurt City Forest. The Museumsufer, a stretch along the riverbank, is home to an impressive collection of museums covering everything from fine arts and architecture to film and natural history. Whether you are sipping Apfelwein in a traditional Sachsenhausen pub or admiring the panoramic views from the Main Tower, Frankfurt is a destination that continually surprises and delights.

Reasons to Visit

• The Skyline: Frankfurt is the only German city with a large cluster of skyscrapers, offering breathtaking views from observation decks like the Main Tower.
• Museumsufer: A unique concentration of world-class museums located right along the banks of the Main River.
• Römerberg: The historic heart of the city, featuring beautiful half-timbered buildings and the iconic city hall.
• Culinary Traditions: Experience authentic Hessian culture in the cozy Apfelwein taverns of the Sachsenhausen district.
• Central Hub: Excellent transport links make it the perfect base for day trips to the Rhine Valley, Heidelberg, and beyond.

Things to Avoid

• The Hauptbahnhof Area at Night: While generally safe during the day, the streets immediately surrounding the central train station can be unsavory late at night.
• Jaywalking: Germans take pedestrian rules seriously; wait for the green man before crossing the street to avoid fines and disapproving looks.
• Eating Only in Tourist Areas: Venture away from the main squares to find more authentic and reasonably priced dining options.
• Assuming Everyone Speaks English: While many do, starting a conversation with a polite 'Sprechen Sie Englisch?' goes a long way.

Local Transportation Tips

Frankfurt boasts an exceptionally efficient and comprehensive public transportation network operated by the RMV. It includes the U-Bahn (subway), S-Bahn (suburban trains), trams, and buses. The system is fully integrated, meaning one ticket is valid across all modes of transport within the selected zones. Tickets must be purchased from machines at the stations before boarding. For visitors, the Frankfurt Card or a day ticket (Tageskarte) is often the most economical choice.

Travel Etiquette

• Punctuality: Being on time is highly valued in Germany, whether for a business meeting or a dinner reservation.
• Tipping: Round up the bill or add 5-10%. Hand the tip directly to the server when paying, rather than leaving it on the table.
• Toasting: When drinking, say 'Prost' (cheers) and make sure to maintain eye contact with each person as you clink glasses.
• Recycling: Germany has strict recycling rules. Pay attention to the different bins for paper, plastic/packaging, and general waste.
• Quiet Hours: Sundays are considered days of rest. Shops are closed, and loud noises (like mowing the lawn or loud music) are frowned upon.

Recommended Age Group

Frankfurt offers a diverse range of attractions that cater to visitors of almost all ages, from interactive museums to scenic river walks.

• Babies (0-2 years): Neutral. The city is stroller-friendly and has many parks, but specific attractions for this age group are limited.
• Kids (3-12 years): Recommended. Children will love the Senckenberg Natural History Museum (featuring dinosaur skeletons), the Frankfurt Zoo, and the Experiminta ScienceCenter.
• Teens (13-19 years): Recommended. Teens can enjoy the modern skyline, shopping on the Zeil, and interactive exhibits at the Museum of Communication.
• Adults (20-64 years): Recommended. Perfect for adults interested in history, architecture, fine dining, nightlife, and business networking.
• Seniors (65+ years): Recommended. The city offers excellent, accessible public transport, flat walking areas along the river, and world-class cultural institutions.

Accessibility Level: Medium

• Frankfurt is generally very accessible for travelers with mobility issues. Most U-Bahn and S-Bahn stations are equipped with elevators.
• The city center and the paths along the Main River are flat and well-paved, making them easy to navigate with a wheelchair.
• Major museums, galleries, and public buildings are required to be wheelchair accessible and often provide accessible restrooms.
• Low-floor trams and buses are standard across the city's public transport network.

Did You Know?

Did you know that Frankfurt is home to the largest city forest in Germany? The Frankfurter Stadtwald covers over 5,000 hectares and provides a massive green lung for the city, complete with hundreds of kilometers of hiking and cycling trails.

Cool Statistics

• Frankfurt Airport is the busiest airport in Germany and one of the most important aviation hubs in Europe.
• The city is home to over 30 museums, many of which are located along the famous Museumsufer.
• Frankfurt's Commerzbank Tower was the tallest building in Europe from 1997 to 2003.
• The Frankfurt Book Fair, held annually in October, is the world's largest trade fair for books.