What to do in Frankfurt

Activities, attractions and tours

A city skyline at dusk with illuminated buildings reflecting on a river.
A city square with historic buildings, a modern skyscraper, and outdoor cafes.
A cityscape at dusk with illuminated buildings, a river, and a bridge.
A tree-lined promenade with a river and a historic cathedral in the background.
A historic building with intricate architecture, a cobblestone plaza, and surrounding traditional buildings.

Frankfurt Attractions

Located along the Main in Germany, Frankfurt is a bustling city that boasts a rich history, vibrant nightlife, and a medieval feeling people of all ages will enjoy. Because of the city's ideal location, Expedia recommends staying in downtown Frankfurt, if you plan on participating in Frankfurt excursions to cities in surrounding areas.

To get started on your historical journey through Frankfurt, begin by visiting one of the most popular places in the city, the Frankfurt Romans. Used as the city's main hub for official government business since 1405, the Frankfurt Romans offers a unique look at medieval architecture. The current building, like so many other historical sites in the city, has been beautifully preserved throughout the centuries.

One of the most popular Frankfurt tours among both tourists and local citizens alike is The Main tour. This tour takes you down the river past a number of must see gorgeous medieval castles, historical spots and beautiful scenic landmarks. A variety of companies offer both full day and half day river tours.

Among the many attractions in Frankfurt the whole family can enjoy, the Main Tower is a must visit. Being the tallest building in Frankfurt, the Main Tower offers a complete view of the entire city. Expedia recommends a visit to the tower after you've eaten dinner, as the best time to view the entire city is when the lights are on.

Continue your history tour with one of the top tourist spots in Germany, the Cathedral of St. Bartholomew. For over three hundred years, this well-preserved cathedral has been the focal point of many coronations for Roman Catholic emperors since it was built centuries ago.

Because there are so many things to do in Frankfurt, the Big Ebbel is a great focal point to start your day from. Be sure to have a map with you at all times as you will not want to miss all of the great Frankfurt activities and city tours available.

Things to do


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Top places to visit

1. Deutsche Bank Park

Join the throngs of spectators as they cheer on their home team of Eintracht Frankfurt at the Commerzbank-Arena. The newly rebuilt stadium plays host not only to soccer games, but also to concerts and business events. It is a true slice of Frankfurt culture and a great place to feel the passion and energy of the city’s residents.
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A large, modern stadium with a curved roof and multiple levels of seating.

2. Römerberg

Picture-perfect Römerberg is the gateway to Frankfurt’s atmospheric Old Town (Altstadt). Ever since the 9th century, this vast square has been the heart of the city’s historic center and a location for coronations, executions, markets, pompous festivals and royal tournaments. Today, the stepped gable and half-timbered houses of Römerberg present a wonderful snapshot of Frankfurt’s medieval cityscape.
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A bustling European square with traditional half-timbered buildings, a prominent church tower, and outdoor cafes.

3. Congress Center Messe Frankfurt

Attend one of the vast and superbly organized conferences at the Congress Center Messe Frankfurt. Located in the heart of the thriving business city, the conference center is a specially designed venue which plays host to a wide range of events.
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A modern building with a curved glass facade, flags, and a sign for 'MARITIM'.

4. MyZeil

The area around Zeil in Frankfurt’s city center is a shopper’s paradise. Although its origins date back to the 14th century, it wasn’t until the 1800s that this street found its current calling. Since then, the Zeil Shopping District has been one of Germany’s most popular retail destinations. Whether you are searching for a unique German gift idea or the latest in high street fashion, you will find plenty to fill your bags with around Zeil.
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A modern glass structure with a geometric pattern.

5. Alte Oper

The Alte Oper is a faithful reconstruction of a building that was originally opened in 1880, but destroyed in World War II. Take a tour around the building to see its many lavish sculptures, balconies and columns or reserve a seat to attend a performance in this beautiful venue.
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A historic building with ornate architecture and a large open square in front.

6. Palmengarten

Palmengarten means “palm garden,” but this 54-acre (22-hectare) garden complex contains far more than just tropical plants. An elegant rose garden, a succulent garden with huge cacti and a greenhouse containing plants of the sub-Antarctic are just a few of the Palmengarten’s features.
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A calm lake surrounded by lush green trees and several small boats.

What to do in Frankfurt


Stay near popular Frankfurt attractions

Where to stay in Frankfurt

Find the best Frankfurt areas for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Frankfurt
Learn more about Frankfurt

Altstadt Frankfurt

Altstadt Frankfurt is highly notable for its popular shops, and you might want to visit top sights like Römerberg and Frankfurt Christmas Market. See more of Frankfurt by jumping on the metro at Römer-Paulskirche Tram Stop or Dom-Romer U-Bahn.

Bahnhofsviertel

Bahnhofsviertel is highly notable for its popular shops, and you might want to visit top sights like Kaiserstrasse and Museumsufer. See more of Frankfurt by jumping on the metro at Weserstraße-Münchener Straße Tram Stop or Münchener Straß/ Frankfurt Central Tram Stop.

Sachsenhausen Nord

Known for its abundant dining options and stunning river views, there's plenty to explore in Sachsenhausen Nord. Top attractions like Staedel Museum and Museumsufer are major draws, and you can catch the metro at Schwanthalerstraße Tram Stop or Schweizer Place U-Bahn to see more of the city.

Innenstadt

Enjoy the popular shops in Innenstadt. MyZeil is a worthwhile stop, and you can jump on the metro at Frankfurt (M) Hauptwache Station or Eschenheimer Tor Station to see more of Frankfurt.

Gallus

You might take some time to check out the abundant dining options in Gallus. Spend some time visiting top spots like Skyline Plaza, and catch the metro at Frankfurt (Main) Galluswarte S-Bahn or Galluswarte Tram Stop to see more of the area.


 

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Day trip destinations from Frankfurt

Frequently asked questions

Is Frankfurt worth visiting?
Famous for its views and markets, discovering awesome things to do in Frankfurt is easy. Be sure to add Staedel Museum to your itinerary when here.
How do I spend a day in Frankfurt?
Begin your day with a visit to Frankfurt Zoo and Senckenberg Museum. Then, explore different areas of Frankfurt for a bite to eat and some retail therapy.
What is the top tourist attraction in Frankfurt?
The top tourist attraction in Frankfurt is Staedel Museum, so don't forget to add it to your agenda.
Is three days enough to stay in Frankfurt?
Three days will give you time to check out many city sights, including Staedel Museum, Frankfurt Cathedral and Frankfurt Zoo. The average stay in Frankfurt is two days. If you have the urge to extend your escape, Kelsterbach isn't far away.
Is Frankfurt a walkable city?
Some leading attractions in Frankfurt, such as Staedel Museum and Frankfurt Cathedral, are within walking distance. You can also experience several of the city's neighbourhoods on foot. Only 3 kms (2 miles) from the city centre of Frankfurt is Frankfurt am Main Süd and Innenstadt 1 is 3 kms (2 miles) away.
What are some activities to do in Frankfurt with kids?
Planning what to do in Frankfurt with kids is easier than ever. Whether you're getting away with little ones or teenagers, there's no shortage of family-friendly tours and activities to keep everyone entertained here.

What to do in Frankfurt for adults?
There are plenty of things to do in Frankfurt, with entertainment for adults of all ages. Round off your day with a visit to Festhalle Frankfurt or Süwag Energie Arena.
Are there free things to do in Frankfurt?
In Frankfurt, Frankfurt Cathedral is a popular spot for anyone wishing to experience the city without taking their wallet out. Also, wander around the local parks and neighbourhoods, and ask a local tour guide for recommendations. It's a good way to find out about the best free things to do in Frankfurt.

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