In the heart of Europe lies Frankfurt am Main. Here you’ll find not only Eintracht Frankfurt, a famous football club, but much more to look at. Twenty of Germany’s twenty-two skyscrapers are located in this city on the Main River, giving it the nickname "Mainhattan". Its skyline is truly unique in Germany. But what makes Frankfurt especially fascinating is the contrast: between the glass towers are timber-framed houses, cozy taverns, and a vibrant cultural scene. Besides local specialties like "Handkäs’ mit Musik" and "Ebbelwoi" (apple wine), there's much more to discover. And we’re here to share it with you!
Römerberg
Römerberg is one of Frankfurt’s most famous squares and forms the historic heart of the old town. With its timber-framed houses, the famous town hall known as the "Römer," and the Fountain of Justice, it’s a popular attraction for visitors. Its history dates back to the Middle Ages, when markets, tournaments, and imperial coronations were held here.
On the south side of the square stands the Alte Nikolaikirche, a Gothic church with a striking tower. In the center of the square is the Fountain of Justice, which once played a symbolic role during imperial coronations. The eastern part of the Römerberg, known as Samstagsberg, was already a site for markets and festivals as early as the 9th century. Today, Römerberg is not only a place steeped in history but also the venue for major events, including the famous Frankfurt Christmas Market.
A particularly striking feature is the Römer Town Hall. Serving as the seat of the city administration since the 15th century, it impresses with its triple-gabled facade and the renowned Kaisersaal (Emperor's Hall). The balcony has been used for welcoming state guests and celebrating sporting victories, while the interior boasts Baroque architecture and portraits of emperors.
St. Bartholomew's Imperial Cathedral
Also located right in the heart of the old town is the Imperial Cathedral of St. Bartholomew. Built between 1315 and 1358, it served as the coronation site for ten German emperors and kings up until 1792. Inside, visitors can find tombs of significant historical figures and elaborately crafted altars. More about the cathedral's history can be explored at the nearby Cathedral Museum.
One of the main highlights for visitors is the viewing platform at a height of 66 meters, offering a spectacular view of the Frankfurt skyline, the Museum Embankment, and the old town. Additionally, the cathedral houses Germany’s second heaviest bell.
>> More information about the Imperial Cathedral of St. Bartholomew
Main Tower
The Main Tower is one of the tallest buildings in the city and a landmark of Frankfurt’s skyline. Its 200-meter-high observation deck offers breathtaking panoramic views over the city, the Main River, and the surrounding region. A convenient elevator ride takes visitors to the 56th floor, where iconic sights like the Commerzbank Tower, the Messe Tower, and the Imperial Cathedral can be seen.
Besides the stunning views, a visit to the Helaba art collection or the restaurant on the 53rd floor is well worth it, offering fine dining paired with a panoramic backdrop. Thanks to its central location, the Main Tower is an ideal starting point for further explorations of the city.
Palm Garden
The Palm Garden is a green oasis in the heart of Frankfurt and one of the city’s largest urban parks. Spanning 22 hectares, it hosts an impressive collection of tropical plants from around the world. Particularly striking are the over 200-year-old palm trees that define much of the garden’s character.
The park is divided into various climate zones, including the Tropicarium, the Cactus and Fuchsia Garden, and the Rose Garden. Another major highlight is the Flower and Butterfly House, home to colorful butterflies. In addition to its botanical wonders, the Palmengarten offers playgrounds, sunbathing lawns, and cultural attractions like the Papageno Theater and an art gallery.
Money Museum
The Money Museum of the Deutsche Bundesbank offers a fascinating insight into the world of money. In four themed areas—cash, book money, monetary policy, and global financial flows—visitors can explore the subject in an interactive way. Historical and modern exhibits, a 360° cinema, and the opportunity to touch a real gold bar make the visit a truly unique experience.
Frankfurt Zoo
Frankfurt Zoo is one of Germany’s most popular zoos, attracting around 840,000 visitors annually. Spread across 11 hectares, it is home to over 5,000 animals from about 470 species, housed in enclosures designed to mimic their natural habitats. Highlights include Ukumari-Land with spectacled bears and anteaters, the cat jungle with lions and tigers, and the Exotarium featuring reptiles and fish. The zoo also offers interactive stations, a playground and petting zoo for children, as well as restaurants and souvenir shops for a relaxing break.
Städel Museum
The Städel Museum in Frankfurt is one of Germany’s oldest and most important art museums. Covering 7,000 square meters, it showcases paintings, sculptures, drawings, and photographs from various eras. The museum boasts an impressive collection of European art spanning seven centuries, featuring works by Rembrandt, Vermeer, Monet, and Picasso.
Additionally, it hosts rotating special exhibitions and offers a VR app that allows visitors to explore the museum as it was in 1878. The Städel Garden, freely accessible, features modern sculptures and artworks, along with a beautiful view of the skyline. The museum also includes a terrace, a café, and a museum shop.
Frankfurt Airport Visitors Center
Frankfurt Airport is not only one of Europe's largest transport hubs but also an experience destination with numerous attractions. In addition to restaurants, shopping opportunities, and lounges, the Fraport Visitor Center offers interactive experiences like the Motion Ride, simulating a luggage journey firsthand, and "The Globe," a real-time display of global air traffic, among many other exciting features.
Those who want to experience the airport up close can join a guided tour offering fascinating insights into airport operations — from aircraft refueling to the airport fire department. A special highlight is the viewing platforms, providing an impressive view of takeoffs and landings.
>> More information about the Frankfurt Airport Visitor Center
Senckenberg Natural History Museum
The Senckenberg Natural History Museum has been fascinating visitors since the 1820s with unique exhibits from expeditions around the world. Located at its current site since 1907, it impresses with a wide range of permanent and special exhibitions that offer exciting insights into natural history.
Particularly noteworthy are the lifelike reconstructions, such as the dodo, and the skeleton of a 21-meter-long fin whale. The museum also offers interactive experiences like the "Aha?! Research Workshop" and dedicates exhibits to the human brain. In addition to guided tours and workshops, there are digital offerings to enhance the experience, as well as a bistro and shop for a relaxing break.
More Highlights
Frankfurt is a diverse city full of history, impressive landmarks, and interesting museums. Beyond the highlighted attractions, the city has much more to offer. You can get an overview of this here: