Buzz
Frankfurt is a city that retains the historical imprint of Germany. Explore the famous tourist destinations in Frankfurt in this article.
Despite being one of Germany's largest cities, Frankfurt is not as popular a tourist destination as Berlin, Munich, or Cologne. As the financial hub of Europe, Frankfurt primarily attracts visitors for business rather than leisure tourism.
However, precisely because it hasn't been overly exploited for tourism, the city has preserved its ancient charm. If you're someone who loves German history and wants to explore famous past events, don't miss Frankfurt.
1. Römerberg Square in Frankfurt
Located in the heart of Frankfurt, Römerberg Square is a must-visit when exploring the city. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this area is steeped in history and unique architecture. The Frauenkirche, built between 1215 and 1257, is a stunning Gothic masterpiece at Römerberg. It was also the site of Germany's first democratic parliament, holding significant historical importance.
Römerberg Square is also renowned for its ancient buildings and narrow medieval-style alleys. It’s a culinary paradise with numerous cafes and restaurants, offering an ideal spot to experience the vibrant local life.
2. Goethe House in Frankfurt
The Goethe House in Frankfurt is a historic site preserving the life and legacy of Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, one of Germany’s greatest writers. This is where he was born, raised, and penned his first literary works, marking the beginning of his remarkable literary journey.
Visitors can explore the kitchen, the living room of Goethe’s mother on the ground floor, his father’s library, and art collection. You can also visit the music room to admire a rare pyramid piano from 1745. The upper floors showcase Goethe’s famous puppet theater and his study, where he created his earliest works.
Additionally, the Goethe House displays a collection of paintings reflecting Goethe’s connection to art and renowned artists of his time. The collection includes works from the late Baroque period to German Romanticism by artists like Johann Heinrich Füssli, Angelica Kauffmann, Jakob Philipp Hackert, the Tischbein family, and Caspar David Friedrich.
3. Museumsufer Museum in Frankfurt
An ideal destination to explore the culture and history of Frankfurt that you shouldn’t miss is Museumsufer, or the Museum Embankment. This vast area features numerous small streets, creating an intriguing maze. You can spend an entire day visiting museums dedicated to art, history, science, and culture.
Additionally, the Museumsufer Fest, held every August, is a highlight event that attracts visitors from all over. The festival not only showcases museums and art but also offers a chance to experience Frankfurt’s cuisine and culture. The festival’s highlight is the dazzling fireworks display over the Main River, creating a magical and enchanting scene.
4. Städel Museum in Frankfurt
Founded by banker and entrepreneur Johann Friedrich Städel in 1815, the Städel is one of Germany’s oldest museums. It houses a vast treasure trove of art, featuring a rich and diverse collection that reflects the panorama of European art history from the 14th century to the present.
Inside the museum, you can admire works from various movements, such as the Renaissance, Baroque, and modern art. The museum holds over 3,100 paintings, 660 sculptures, more than 4,600 photographs, and over 100,000 drawings and prints.
Masterpieces by renowned artists like Lucas Cranach, Albrecht Dürer, Sandro Botticelli, Rembrandt van Rijn, Jan Vermeer, Claude Monet, Pablo Picasso, Ernst Ludwig Kirchner, Max Beckmann, Alberto Giacometti, Francis Bacon, Gerhard Richter, Wolfgang Tillmans, and Isa Genzken are the museum’s highlights.
5. Senckenberg Natural History Museum in Frankfurt
The Senckenberg Natural History Museum is renowned as one of Germany’s oldest and largest natural history museums. With over 40 million artifacts collected over 200 years of research, it offers a treasure trove of knowledge about the natural world for visitors to explore.
Spanning 6,000 square meters of exhibition space, the museum provides an impressive experience showcasing the diversity of flora and fauna, ancient eras, the Big Bang, and the birth of our planet. You’ll encounter massive dinosaur skeletons, whales, elephants, colorful beetles, vibrant birds, and exhibits on plants and geology.
The museum also highlights the latest research and environmental conservation efforts. Exhibits like "Anatomy in a Bottle" and "Ocean Habitats" are captivating, while the "Dinosaur Excavation" research area offers insights into scientific processes. Special exhibitions and events, including dinosaur digs for children, are regularly hosted here.
6. Frankfurt Cathedral - Kaiserdom St. Bartholomäus
Frankfurt Cathedral, also known as Kaiserdom St. Bartholomäus, is one of the city’s most iconic and significant architectural landmarks. With its stunning Gothic-Renaissance design, the cathedral offers a memorable experience for every visitor.
Inside the cathedral, the vast and solemn space features towering stone columns, vibrant stained-glass windows, and a main altar considered one of the most remarkable in the world, leaving visitors in awe.
An unmissable experience here is climbing the 95-meter-high tower. After ascending over 300 steps, #teamMytour will be rewarded with a breathtaking panoramic view of Frankfurt. Note that accessing the tower requires a fee of around 3 euros, and it is only open from April to October.
7. St. Paul's Church in Frankfurt
St. Paul's Church (Paulskirche), located in Frankfurt, is a historic site of immense significance to Germany. Consecrated in 1833, it once served as the main church for the Lutheran Protestant community in Frankfurt.
With its elliptical design and construction from red sandstone, the church became a prominent architectural landmark of Frankfurt. In 1848, St. Paul's Church hosted the first German National Assembly. After the assembly dissolved, the church continued to be a venue for important national commemorations.
In 1944, the site was completely destroyed during the war but was later rebuilt and reopened on May 18, 1948, to mark the 100th anniversary of the German National Assembly. Since then, St. Paul's Church has stood as a symbol of German democracy.
8. Cruising the Main River in Frankfurt
Let the tranquil Main River guide you on a journey to explore the heart of Germany. From the deck, ancient architecture, traditional timber-framed houses, romantic castles, and majestic churches will unfold before your eyes like a vivid historical film.
You’ll be amazed as you visit charming old towns like Wertheim with Volkach Castle, St. Bartholomew’s Church, and the Charterhouse. Afterward, the lively atmosphere of Kleinmarkthalle, Römerberg, Museum Kilometer, and Main Tower awaits #teamMytour.
The journey becomes even more exciting with opportunities to savor traditional German cuisine, sip on local wines, or try kayaking. Don’t forget to enjoy relaxing moments on the deck.
9. Palmengarten Botanical Garden in Frankfurt
Opened in 1871, Palmengarten is one of the city’s three botanical gardens, captivating visitors with its beauty and diversity of rare plant species. Spanning approximately 22 hectares, it stands as one of Germany’s most impressive botanical gardens.
The garden is divided into various themed areas, from cactus gardens and rhododendron displays to sections showcasing plants from different climates like steppes, tropical rainforests, and more.
Did you know? Palmengarten also hosts recreational activities for all ages. Families can enjoy the children’s playground, boating on the lake, and riding the Palm Express train that runs through the park. Don’t miss the plant workshops and informative presentations.
10. Frankfurt Zoo
Frankfurt Zoo, one of Germany’s oldest zoos, is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts. With over 160 years of history, from its founding by wealthy merchants in 1858 to its reconstruction after wartime destruction, the zoo has become a symbol of Frankfurt.
At Frankfurt Zoo, young #teamMytour members can meet over 4,500 animals from 500 different species. It’s home to creatures from around the globe, including elephants, giraffes, tigers, and playful monkeys.
The Grzimek-Haus area offers a simulated environment of Madagascar’s mysterious wildlife. Beyond entertainment, Frankfurt Zoo is a hub for animal biology research and the conservation of rare species. By purchasing an entry ticket, visitors contribute to projects protecting endangered animals.
11. Main Tower in Frankfurt
Completed in 1999, the Main Tower, with its modern glass architecture, is a striking landmark in Frankfurt’s skyline. This 200-meter-high tower offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the city from its observation decks on the 55th and 56th floors. You’ll reach the top in seconds thanks to high-speed elevators and can then enjoy the stunning views of Frankfurt through large glass windows.
Additionally, you can savor German cuisine at the tower’s restaurant, combining delicious food with scenic views. If you love art, don’t miss the Landesbank Helaba lobby, which features unique art installations. The Main Tower is sure to be a memorable experience during your Frankfurt trip.
12. Eschenheimer Tower in Frankfurt
Standing tall at a bustling intersection, the Eschenheimer Turm is one of the few remaining medieval towers, serving as a historical symbol of Frankfurt. Built in 1428, this tower was once a crucial part of the city’s defense system.
Today, the Eschenheimer Turm retains its ancient charm with its thick walls, arrow slits, and unique architecture. Towering amidst the modern cityscape, it stands as a reminder of Frankfurt’s glorious past.
13. Alte Opera House in Frankfurt, Germany
Located in the heart of Frankfurt, the Alte Oper is a neo-Renaissance architectural masterpiece and a source of pride for the city’s residents. Built in 1880, this opera house has witnessed countless historical ups and downs, from glorious opera performances to wartime destruction.
Today, the Alte Oper has been reborn as a vibrant cultural center, hosting concerts, musicals, and international conferences. Visitors can also admire the theater’s magnificent architecture, from its grand staircase to its intricately decorated facade.
14. Kleinmarkthalle Local Market
Kleinmarkthalle, Frankfurt’s central market, is a must-visit for food enthusiasts. With its unique architecture dating back to the 1890s, the market offers a diverse and exciting shopping experience. You’ll find a wide variety of fresh produce, from bread, meat, and fruits to seafood and wine, all beautifully displayed.
Especially lively on weekends, the market attracts both locals and tourists eager to savor delicious food and shop. Don’t miss the chance to explore specialty stalls, enjoy on-the-spot meals, or buy ingredients to cook at home. In addition to local products, you can also find high-quality items from around the world at affordable prices.
15. Bustling Zeil Shopping Street
Zeil, once a cattle market, has transformed into Frankfurt’s bustling shopping paradise. This street is home to countless stores, from high-end fashion to affordable brands, catering to all your shopping needs.
The impressive architecture of Zeilgalerie, Palais Quartier, and Beehive House will leave you in awe. Highlights include Zeilgalerie, a 10-story commercial complex with a unique spiral design, and Palais Quartier, a shopping center blending modern and Baroque architecture. Here, you can find unique fashion items, accessories, household goods, and creative products from Frankfurt’s young designers.
After shopping to your heart’s content, recharge at the restaurants, cafes, and bars lining the street. Zeil is not just a shopping destination but also a cultural and culinary experience in the heart of Frankfurt.
Frankfurt is a unique city where German culture, history, and cuisine intersect in an impressive way. To make your trip to Frankfurt even more enjoyable, don’t forget to check out these handy tips on Mytour Blog: Tourist Spots in Germany, Attack On Titan in Real Life: 3 Must-Visit Destinations, Schengen Visa Application, Eurail Pass for European Travel, 14-Day Europe Travel Guide, 15 Must-Visit European Destinations, 14 Famous LEGOLAND Parks,…
Don’t wait any longer—start planning your trip to explore Frankfurt’s famous tourist spots today!
