Cobblestone streets adorned with festive lights, the crisp winter air infused with the scent of roasted chestnuts, and the unmistakable charm of a city that seamlessly blends modernity with centuries-old traditions. Welcome to Frankfurt, a hidden gem for those seeking a quick European getaway.
As a first-time visitor, navigating through the myriad of possibilities might seem overwhelming. Fear not! This guide will not only unveil the often-overlooked delights of this German metropolis but also provide you with a curated itinerary that lets you make the most of your 1-2 day escape.
Find this Frankfurt mural next to the Bockenheimer Warte Underground
Table of Contents
Why Go To Frankfurt
Let’s first address the obvious. Frankfurt isn’t usually a bucket list destination compared to its charming countryside neighbors, such as Cologne or Heidelberg. It’s a pass-thru city and less often the final destination for vacationers.
I’ve been to Frankfurt a few times but never left the airport. Sure, I’ve told people I’ve been to Frankfurt but let’s be honest. I had never really been to Frankfurt. Until now.
If you’re an expat seeking to experience every dreamy spot in Europe but choose to forgo Frankfurt, you are likely guilty of the same. But here’s the thing about Frankfurt. It’s SO easy to get to from major USA and European cities. And it exceeds expectations on winter charm and sights.
Let’s put it this way. I took a nonstop flight from Houston to Frankfurt for basically a weekend dose of Christmas markets, German food, and even snow. It was cheaper and faster than flying to Maine (where I travel a lot to)…and it overdelivered on all counts.
What To See & Do
Did you know that Frankfurt is home to 14 of Germany’s 15 tallest buildings? And that Frankfurt is referred to as “Mainhattan” after the river that divides it?
Christmas markets and Glühwein are what my original intentions were to visit Frankfurt but once I started digging, I realized this medieval meets modern city has so much more. Perfect itinerary combo of modern architecture meets cuckoo clocks here.
Römer Square / Römerberg
Römer Square is Frankfurt’s historic heart, making it the idyllic spot for the city’s most popular Christmas market.
The timber-framed buildings are like that out of a fairytale, and a must-see for a first-time visit to Frankfurt.
Christmas stalls line every angle of the square, with a carousel, Christmas tree, and more Glühwein and apfelwein than a girl can possibly drink in just 1 visit. (Spoiler alert, I went 3 times.)
The Römerberg Christmas market runs annually from late November to just before December 25.
Romer Square and Frankfurt’s Christmas market is absolutely stunning in winter
Lookup at Paul’s Church
Standing since 1833, Paul’s Church witnessed history as the birthplace of German democracy, hosting the first freely elected national parliament in 1848. It was meticulously rebuilt after WWII as a symbol of unity and continues to inspire as a venue for important events like the Peace Prize of the German Book Trade. Once inside, just look up!
Be sure to climb the stairs up to see Paul’s Church
Photograph the Euro Sculpture
The Euro Sculpture by Ottmar Hörl is a beloved symbol of Frankfurt’s financial heart. The iconic structure towers 46 feet above Willy-Brandt-Platz and was nearly auctioned off in 2022.
Iconic Euro sculpture that was nearly auctioned off!
Alte Oper – Old Opera House
Alter Oper, “Old Opera House”, was originally inaugurated in 1880 but was severely damaged during World War II. After extensive restoration, 101 years later it reopened. I’m not personally an opera fan, but the building is worth seeing given its history. And don’t miss out on a capture of the fountain at Opera Square.
Alter Oper, Opera House, Frankfurt
MyZeil Mall
MyZeil Mall is a large shopping mall that boasts Germany’s longest escalator at 46m. The top floor has a rooftop bar and a slew of dining venues.
Even if you have no intention of mall shopping or dining, the free escalator ride is a trip worth taking.
Fun spot at MyZeil on your way down from the top of the escalator
Main Tower – Sky Tower Viewing Deck
Conquer the Main Tower, Frankfurt’s highest skyscraper with a public viewing floor. Brace yourself for panoramic views. Look for iconic structures such as
- Westhafen Tower, Frankfurt’s circular green skyscraper which the gerippte glass for drinking apfelwein (apple wine) was nicknamed after
- Europaturm, commonly referred to as Frankfurt’s Space Needle or TV Tower, rises 337.5 meters into the sky
Did you know? On a clear day, you can see all the way to the Odenwald mountain range, 31 miles (50 kilometers) away.
Taking Main Tower to the top is a must on a first visit to Frankfurt
Eiserner Steg Bridge
Beyond its scenic charm, Eiserner Steg hides a secret—love locks.
Join the tradition by adding your own padlock to the pedestrian bridge before crossing to the museum side of Frankfurt. Remember to pack one for your trip or purchase at Kaufhof Galleria in the City Centre first. Sadly, there aren’t any conveniently for sale near the Eiserner.
Remember to bring your own padlock to “Love Lock Bridge”
Frankfurt Cathedral
The Frankfurt Cathedral, officially known as Saint Bartholomew’s Cathedral, is a Gothic-style building. The cathedral’s tower stands at an impressive height of approximately 95 meters (312 feet).
Light a candle at Frankfurt Cathedral
Portikus
Portikus is a small red building located halfway across Alte Brucke, the Old Bridge. Although we weren’t allowed inside during renovations, it’s a lovely spot for a whimsical winter photo.
Such a standout spot along the Alte Brucke & it was snowing!
Palmengarten – Botanical garden
The Palmengarten, Frankfurt’s botanical garden, is a tranquil escape from the bustling city scene. Sprawling across 22 hectares, this green haven hosts over 13,000 species of plants.
Eschenheimer Turm
Eschenheimer Turm is a rare medieval tower that guarded Frankfurt’s old city walls (there were 42 towers in total). What’s so interesting about Escenheimer Turm is its total contrast against its surroundings.
There is a lovely cafe inside to warm up and grab a bite to eat. You have to climb the tower to use the toilets, which are exposed to the outside elements. An experience not to miss!
Eschenheimer Turm is the perfect spot to start your day in Frankfurt
Städel Art Museum
Immerse yourself in the art world at Städel Museum. Home to a vast collection spanning seven centuries, it’s a journey through European art history that will captivate both art enthusiasts and casual visitors only interested in a glimpse of mainstream names. Think Monet and Munch (if you liked The Scream in Oslo).
Where To Eat
While I had every intention of eating at all of these places, I only managed the first 4 restaurants on my first visit. It was difficult finding current must-eat places in Frankfurt on other blog sites but I can personally vouch for the top 4:
Eschenheimer Turm
For breakfast or lunch eat at Escenheimer Turm, the medieval tower at the corner of a bustling intersection. Their flatbreads are delicious! Plus, this rare tower is one you’ll want to see. Combine sightseeing with eating to maximize your time in Frankfurt.
Grab breakfast and climb the tower to use the toilet!
Haus Wertheim – survived WWII
Haus Wertheim is an old half-timbered house that survived WWII. It’s the ONLY house that escaped the bombings of WWII in this area. Picture beer steins and other historical decor surrounding you while enjoying schnitzel. Hands down my favorite German restaurant experience on this trip.
It’s a very small restaurant on the edge of Römer Square so very difficult to get into during peak weekend hours, especially during the Christmas Market season.
Try to eat lunch at Haus Wertheim during a weekday and you’ll have a better chance of getting in. They do not accept reservations and take cash only.
The only building (restaurant) in Romerberg that escaped WWII bombings!
Zum Standesamtchen
For excellent casual German food (where you want to try the green sauce!) and views of Römer Square below, head to the second floor at Zum Standesamtchen.
Try to get a window-side table for awesome photos of the side-by-side timber buildings across the way and the famous Christmas market.
Abroad Purpose Tip: One Instagrammer opened the window while we were eating and had many photos taken of her sipping on hot chocolate with the Christmas market in the background but this annoyed the local patrons. There was German shouting about all the cold air she was letting in. So, if you’re going to open the window, be quick, mindful, and respectful.
Eat upstairs at Zum Standesamtchen for a great view of Romer Square
Zum Schwarzen Stern
For a fine German food experience in Römer Square, eat at Zum Schwarzen Stern. The food and service is excellent. Again, I went for the schnitzel. This may have been my favorite meal in Frankfurt.
Kleinmarkthalle
This is a large indoor market hall with 60+ vendors known for its diverse array of fresh produce, cheeses, and pastries. Will try next time!
SchillerstraBe Market
This is an outdoor market hall to have lunch on a decent winter day. Will give it a go next time!
22nd Lounge and Bar
22nd Lounge and Bar offers cocktails and music with a view. You must make a reservation well in advance to get into this Frankfurt hotspot.
Day Trips From Frankfurt
If you have more than 2 days in Frankfurt, consider adding Cologne or Heidelberg to your itinerary. Both are easy to get to by train. My husband and I chose to go to Cologne, and if we had a 4th day in Frankfurt we would have gone to Heidelberg, too.
Cologne
If you want to combine Frankfurt with another city, Cologne is 1.5 hours north by train. Cologne is home to Cologne Cathedral, the 3rd tallest church in the world. It’s shocking to see as you exit the Cologne train station.
Cologne is an easy day trip from Frankfurt
The Cologne Christmas Market lines the Cathedral making this a super easy logistical city to visit in winter from Frankfurt.
Find the Cologne Christmas Market on the other side of the Cathedral
Abroad Purpose Tip: If the Cologne Christmas Market is too overwhelming (it gets busier as the day goes on) and you’re looking for a different scene, take a short walk to this old-world style brewery: FRÜH Brauhaus. We spent a couple of hours sampling Kölsch and observing this different “perforated tray” style of serving beer.
Heidelberg
If you want to combine Frankfurt with another city that has a castle, Heidelberg is 1 hour south by train. The city is famous for its impressive 13th-century castle, Heidelberger Schloss, which is a combination of Gothic and Renaissance styles.
Heidelberg is also home to the oldest university in Germany, and the longest pedestrian street in Europe.
Final Tips For Your First Frankfurt Visit
Save all of these things to do in Frankfurt, including restaurants, and tips by printing my Frankurt one-page itinerary (PDF) before you leave for your trip OR save it as a photo to your phone.
This Frankfurt guide was super helpful for my husband and me while we were on the go in Frankfurt – and particularly useful when low on data or using the Metro underground.
Tap to save my Frankfurt Guide
Bring cash, including Euro coins, for lighting candles at the Cathedral, Christmas Markets (many stalls surprisingly only accept cash), and restaurants (like Haus Wertheim).
Brush up on your German! It’s essential for figuring out the train ticket kiosks in Frankfurt. I was able to navigate it due to my familiarity of living in Europe, but for a first-time visitor, this could be overwhelming. Prebook train tickets in Frankfurt here.
Remember, this itinerary is just a suggestion, and Frankfurt has much more to offer. Feel free to mix and match activities based on your preferences, and don’t forget to savor the unique atmosphere that this medieval yet modern city provides. Enjoy your weekend in Frankfurt!