A Guide to Places to Visit and Things to Do in Frankfurt, Germany

Frankfurt, Germany is a vibrant and exciting city with plenty of activities and attractions to explore. From its historic old town to its modern museums and galleries, the city has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a day of sightseeing or a night on the town, there’s something for everyone in Frankfurt. Here are 10 places to visit and things to do in Frankfurt, as well as five places to avoid.

1. Wander Through the Old Town of Frankfurt

The old town of Frankfurt is a must-see when visiting the city. Here, visitors can explore the cobblestone streets and admire the traditional architecture of the area. There are plenty of restaurants and cafés here, as well as boutique shops and souvenir stores. The old town is also home to many historical sites, such as the Römerberg square and the Kaiserdom cathedral.

2. Visit the Museum Embankment

The Museum Embankment is a stretch of museums along the banks of the Main River. Here, you’ll find some of the city’s most famous museums, such as the Städel Museum, the Liebighaus, and the Schirn Kunsthalle. There’s something for everyone here, from classic art to modern exhibitions.

3. Explore the Sachsenhausen District

The Sachsenhausen district is one of the oldest parts of the city, and it’s filled with quaint cafes, traditional pubs, and small boutiques. It’s a great place to explore and get a feel for the city’s culture. You can also take a walk along the Main River, which offers stunning views of the city skyline.

4. Take in the Views from the Main Tower

The Main Tower is a skyscraper in the heart of Frankfurt, and it’s the perfect spot to get a panoramic view of the city. From the observation deck on the 50th floor, visitors can get a bird’s eye view of the cityscape. It’s also a great place to watch the sunset over the city.

5. Shop at the Zeil Shopping District

The Zeil Shopping District is one of the largest shopping areas in Frankfurt, and it’s filled with department stores, high-end boutiques, and designer labels. Here, you’ll find everything from clothing and accessories to electronics and home goods. It’s a great place to pick up souvenirs or just browse the shops.

6. Visit the Frankfurt Zoo

The Frankfurt Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in Germany, and it’s home to more than 4,000 animals from all over the world. Visitors can explore the various habitats, watch animal feedings, and even take part in interactive shows. It’s a great way to spend an afternoon for both adults and children.

7. Walk Through the Palmengarten

The Palmengarten is a botanical garden located in the center of the city. Here, visitors can explore the lush gardens and admire the various plants and flowers. There’s also a café, a playground, and a butterfly house. It’s a great place to spend a peaceful afternoon away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

8. Spend an Evening at a Jazz Club

Frankfurt is known for its lively jazz scene, and there are several jazz clubs scattered throughout the city. Here, visitors can enjoy live music while sipping on a cocktail or two. It’s a great way to spend a night out on the town and soak up the city’s vibrant atmosphere.

9. Visit the Goethe House

The Goethe House is the former home of the famous German poet and author Johann Wolfgang von Goethe. It’s now a museum dedicated to his life and works, and visitors can explore the various rooms and learn about his life and legacy.

10. Take a Boat Cruise on the Main River

A boat cruise on the Main River is a great way to see the city from a different perspective. Visitors can sit back and relax as they take in the sights and sounds of the city from the water. It’s a great way to end a day of sightseeing in Frankfurt.

Five Places to Avoid in Frankfurt

1. Gallusviertel: This neighborhood is known for its high crime rate, so it’s best to avoid it after dark.

2. Hauptbahnhof Station: This train station is notorious for pickpockets, so visitors should be extra vigilant when traveling through it.

3. Bahnhofsviertel: This area near the train station is known for its seedy bars and clubs, so it’s best to avoid it.

4. Offenbach: This city is located just outside of Frankfurt and is known for its high levels of air pollution.

5. Flughafen: This area around the airport is known for its traffic congestion and high noise levels.