15 Things to Do in Frankfurt, Germany in 2024

No.	Activity	Brief Description
1	St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral	Visit the iconic Gothic cathedral for history and views.
2	Discover Local and International Art	Explore diverse art scenes, including modern exhibitions.
3	Explore Quaint Sachsenhausen	Wander through this old-world neighborhood with charm.
4	Palmengarten	Relax in extensive botanical gardens.
5	Main Tower	Enjoy panoramic city views from this skyscraper.
6	Römerberg	Time-travel in Frankfurt’s old central square.
7	Frankfurt’s Riverside	Experience tranquility along the Main River.
8	Try Cider and Frankfurt Specialities	Savor local food and drink in traditional settings.
9	Städel Museum	View surreal works and other art spanning 700 years.
10	Eiserner Steg Bridge	Get a unique perspective from this iconic bridge.
11	Museums on the Banks of the Main River	Explore a variety of museums along the river.
12	Guided Food Tours	Delve into local culture through culinary experiences.
13	European Central Bank	See modern architecture and learn about its significance.
14	Frankfurt City Forest	Enjoy nature and outdoor activities in the city forest.
15	Conclusion	Frankfurt, a blend of historical and modern attractions.

In 2024, Frankfurt remembers and reimagines its past while continuing toward a dynamic future. Exciting openings create new reasons to visit, from riverside cafes to art exhibits. Experience high-end shopping, traditional cider taverns, cutting-edge art, and peaceful gardens for a multi-faceted German adventure.

As you plan your Frankfurt getaway, make sure to include these 15 top activities for experiencing this city’s unique fusion of yesterday and today.

Marvel at St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral

Name and Location: St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral, Domplatz 1, Frankfurt

History and Significance: St. Bartholomew’s is a Gothic-style Catholic cathedral dating back to the 14th century. With its red sandstone tower and ancient origins, it is one of Frankfurt’s most recognizable landmarks.

What to Expect: Admire the cathedral’s ornate exterior and interior with soaring columns, colorful stained glass, and an intricate high altarpiece. Climb the tower for panoramic city views.

Visitor Information: Located in Old Town. Open daily. Guided tours offered in English. Admission free, tower climb ticket required. Reach by foot or transit lines 11, 12.

Rising high over Old Town, St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral provides a Gothic centerpiece to Frankfurt’s skyline. Dating from the 14th century, the cathedral witnessed emperors being elected inside its soaring sanctuary. Red sandstone statues line the exterior, while intricate carvings ornament the pillars indoors.

Climbing the 334 steps rewards you with panoramic city views from the viewing platform. In 2024, new cathedral roof tours allow you to see its architecture even closer. Don’t miss this impressive medieval landmark that has anchored Frankfurt for centuries.

Discover Local and International Art

Name and Location: Art galleries and museums, Museumsufer area

History and Significance: Frankfurt has a thriving arts scene, concentrated along the Museum Embankment featuring over a dozen museums of art, sculpture, film, architecture and more.

What to Expect: See works by Dalí, Picasso, and German masters at the Städel Museum. Cutting-edge modern art at MMK Museum of Modern Art. Photography at Fotografie Forum gallery.

Visitor Information: Located south of city center along the Main River. Combination tickets available. Year-round open schedules, typically 10am-6pm. Accessible by tram and metro lines.

From world-class collections to small galleries, Frankfurt’s art scene captivates culture lovers. The Städel Museum impresses with 700 years of iconic European paintings and sculptures. Contemporary installations at Schirn Kunsthalle offer immersive experiences in an ultra-modern setting.

In 2024, exciting new exhibitions feature Dali’s dreamscapes, Chinese calligraphy, and nomadic art. Beyond museums, find edgy underground artists in the Eastend creative district and Opera Square. Frankfurt’s many masterpieces span eras, styles, and societies.

Explore Quaint Sachsenhausen

Name and Location: Sachsenhausen District, Frankfurt

History and Significance: Sachsenhausen is a traditional residential and restaurant district, located south of the Main River. It retains historic apple wine taverns andcharming cobblestone streets.

What to Expect: Sample apple wine and local cuisine in cozy taverns and beer gardens. Shop for antiques and crafts. Relaxing old town ambience, lively on weekends. Museums like the German Architecture Museum.

Visitor Information: Easily walkable from central Frankfurt across Eiserner Steg footbridge. Or take tram lines 11, 12, 14 to Lokalbahnhof stop.

Across the river from downtown, Sachsenhausen’s cobblestone lanes exude old-world charm. Half-timbered houses line the streets, now filled with traditional cider taverns serving Frankfurt’s beloved cider, along with bars and bakeries. The Museum Embankment displays 19th century villas and small museums for idyllic riverside strolling.

Local markets sell regional produce and flowers. In 2024, Sachsenhausen becomes even more pedestrian-friendly with car restrictions on side streets and expanded tram service. With apple wine flowing and music drifting from lively taverns, time seems to slow down in cozy Sachsenhausen.

Soak in the Green Serenity of the Palmengarten

Name and Location: Palmengarten Botanical Gardens, Siesmayerstr. 63, Frankfurt

History and Significance: The Palmengarten is Frankfurt’s lush botanical garden featuring tropical palms, roses, azaleas and more across 22 hectares near the city center. A popular oasis since 1871.

What to Expect: Stroll through outdoor areas like the Tropicarium and Subantarctic House. Relax in the rose garden and central fountain pond. Cafe onsite. Concerts and events held regularly.

Visitor Information: Open daily 9am-6pm, longer in summer. Admission fee required. Located next to the Frankfurt Zoo, reachable by tram line 16.

Covering nearly 60 acres, Frankfurt’s Palmengarten botanical gardens provide a treasured oasis in the city center. Wander curving pathways past thousands of plant species that fill tropical and temperate greenhouses, rose gardens, and flowering meadows. Water features, towering palms, and colorful beds of tulips and azaleas never cease to delight visitors.

In 2024, the Palmengarten will complete restoration projects including renovated pavilions and installations. Founded in 1871, this verdant escape continues offering peace, beauty, and wonder just steps from the bustling financial district.

Take in Panoramic Views from the Main Tower

Name and Location: Main Tower Observation Deck, Neue Mainzer Str. 52-58, Frankfurt

History and Significance: The Main Tower’s 200 meter high viewing platform provides sweeping 360° views over Frankfurt and the surrounding region. One of the city’s best vantage points.

What to Expect: Panoramic views of Frankfurt’s financial district and old town from nearly 700 feet up. Audio guides explain the skyline sights. The tower’s sleek architecture also houses shops and a restaurant.

Visitor Information: Open daily 10am-7pm, later on weekends. Admission ticket required, purchase online to skip queues. Located in financial district, short walk or tram ride from central Frankfurt.

Frankfurt’s skyline reaches its heights at the Main Tower, providing the city’s best vantage point. This 56-story skyscraper anchors the financial district with its sleek glass and steel design. Take the elevator 200 meters up to the public observation deck for stunning 360-degree views. Gaze out across the Frankfurt skyscrapers and surrounding countryside from airy windows.

The upper restaurant ushers in 2024 with a new seasonal menu focused on locally-sourced dishes you can savor alongside the vistas. Don’t miss this high-flying perspective!

Time Travel Through History at the Römerberg

Name and Location: Römerberg Square, Frankfurt Old Town

History and Significance: Römerberg is a charming plaza in Frankfurt’s Altstadt (Old Town) surrounded by reconstructed 15th-16th century buildings occupied by quaint shops, restaurants and taverns.

What to Expect: Soak up the historical ambience surrounded by half-timbered buildings. Browse through the annual Christmas market held here. Cafes for people watching. Nearby shopping and dining options.

Visitor Information: In central Frankfurt, walkable or short metro ride from Hauptwache and Hauptbahnhof. Close to other major sights. Beautiful any time of day, lively during events.

Frankfurt’s old central square invites you to step back in time among its medieval and Renaissance buildings. The iconic 15th century Half-Timbered House joins other pastel-painted structures that were reconstructed after WWII bombing. Today, these facades house shops, taverns, and museums like the German Leather Museum.

In 2024, reinvented plazas increase pedestrian-only spaces and seating for al fresco dining. Standing in Römerberg’s cobblestone plaza, you feel centuries of history come to life in Frankfurt.

Find Tranquility at Frankfurt’s Riverside

Name and Location: Frankfurt Riverside promenades

History and Significance: Frankfurt’s riverfront paths along the Main River provide scenic walking and cycling trails with views of the city skyline and museums. Popular green spaces in the heart of the city.

What to Expect: Stroll or bike ride along the Schaumainkai and Untermainkai promenades. Restaurants and cafes dot the paths. Relaxing atmosphere with riverboat cruises nearby.

Visitor Information: Located in central Frankfurt on both sides of the river. Accessible year-round. Walking, biking, skating trails along the waterfronts. Extensive parks provide green space.

Flowing through the heart of the city, the Main River provides picturesque scenery. Strolling or cycling along either riverbank leads you to cascading water features, lush gardens, and outdoor cafes. Cross pedestrian bridges to admire iconic landmarks from new angles up and down the river.

In 2024, expanded boardwalks and riverfront dining create even more ways to enjoy Frankfurt’s waterfront setting. Savoring local wines on a patio overlooking the river makes time slow down. Find your inner peace along the Main.

Try Cider and Frankfurt Specialities

Name and Location: Sachsenhausen District, Frankfurt

History and Significance: Sachsenhausen is a traditional residential and restaurant district, located south of the Main River. It retains historic apple wine taverns andcharming cobblestone streets.

What to Expect: Sample apple wine and local cuisine in cozy taverns and beer gardens. Shop for antiques and crafts. Relaxing old town ambience, lively on weekends. Museums like the German Architecture Museum.

Visitor Information: Easily walkable from central Frankfurt across Eiserner Steg footbridge. Or take tram lines 11, 12, 14 to Lokalbahnhof stop.

Frankfurt excels at old-world food and drink, best enjoyed in cozy taverns. For a true local experience, sample Frankfurt cider, either pure or mixed with fruit syrups. Other specialties include grüne sosse sauce, rippling green sauce paired with boiled beef or potatoes.

Another favorite, frankfurter schnitzel, features the thin fried cutlets paired with apple sauce. Handkäse mit musik combines strong cheese with onions and vinegar. In 2024, new gastro tours connect visitors with these delicious local tastes.

See Surreal Works at the Städel Museum

Name and Location: Städel Museum, Schaumainkai 63, Frankfurt

History and Significance: The Städel Museum houses a world-renowned collection of works spanning 700 years of European art. Paintings by Dürer, Vermeer, Monet, and more masters are on display.

What to Expect: View works by superb artists from the 14th century to today. The contemporary wing has modernist 20th century greats. Knowledgable audio guides provide context. On-site cafe and programs.

Visitor Information: Open Tues-Sun 10am-7pm, Wed-Thu until 9pm. Closed Mondays. Admission around €16. Located on Museumsufer, reachable by tram lines 11,12.

Spanning 700 years of art, the Städel Museum holds iconic masterpieces from the 14th to the 21st centuries. Here, you can admire Monet’s dreamy landscapes, Renaissance religious scenes, and remarkable modern sculpture all under one roof. The comprehensive collection provides a crash course in European art history.

In 2024, a special exhibition highlights Dali and the surrealists with signature melting watches that capture the movement’s provocative perspectives. Don’t miss this world-class art experience right in Frankfurt.

Ride to the Top of the Eiserner Steg Bridge

Name and Location: Eiserner Steg bridge

History and Significance: The Eiserner Steg is an iconic 1868 iron footbridge crossing the Main River, linking Frankfurt’s old town with Sachsenhausen and providing picturesque city views.

What to Expect: Walk across the bridge to enjoy scenic views of Frankfurt’s skyline and riverbanks. Distinctive red iron latticework design makes for striking photos day or night. Close to subway stops on both sides.

Visitor Information: Open 24/7 and free to access. Connects Schweizer Platz and Sachsenhausen areas. Trams #11 and #12 stop at both ends. Pedestrian and bicycle friendly crossing.

Built in 1868, the iconic Iron Bridge spans the Main River as a beautiful pedestrian walkway. Strolling across, you can admire Frankfurt’s cluster of skyscrapers and church spires from on high. Near the center, an elevator whisks you even higher to a viewing platform approximately 66 feet up.

Up top, marvel at panoramic riverfront views that allow a closer look at landmarks. It becomes clear how the Main River shapes Frankfurt. Schedule sunset visits for romantic scenes under the golden glow.

Explore Frankfurt’s Museums on the Banks of the Main River

Lining the riverbanks, Frankfurt’s Museum Embankment holds a cluster of fascinating museums within renovated 19th century villas. delightful destinations exhibit decorative arts, archeology, architecture, film, communication, and Jews in German history.

Riverside cafes provide breaks between exhibitions. In 2024, exciting events like the Museum Mile Festival bring live music, activities, and special hours to the museums. Expect everything from antiquities to avant-garde as you immerse yourself in culture.

Experience Local Culture Through Food on a Guided Tour

Name and Location: Food tours in Frankfurt

History and Significance: Food tours are a great way to experience Frankfurt’s cuisine and culture. Local guides lead informative tasting tours to markets, cafes, wine taverns and restaurants.

What to Expect: Try local delicacies like apfelwein (apple wine), grüne sosse sauce, and regional wines and beers. Visit historic venues and learn about food traditions from knowledgeable guides.

Visitor Information: Frankfurt tour companies like Foods of Frankfurt offer 3-4 hour walking tours. Advance booking required. Offered daily. Private group or public tour options.

Frankfurt teems with culinary treats, but it helps to have a guide reveal the best spots. New for 2024, in-depth food tours take you behind the scenes to markets, kitchens, historic taverns, and chocolatiers to understand local flavors. Enjoy insider moments like wine and cheese pairings where aficionados explain the perfection combination.

Other tours focus on cider, baked goods, Wurst, and seasonal delicacies. Tastings of fine chocolate and apple wine are included, too! Don’t just eat – engage with Frankfurt’s food culture.

See Modern Architecture in the European Central Bank

Name and Location: European Central Bank, Sonnemannstrasse 20, Frankfurt

History and Significance: The Eurotower at the ECB is the headquarters for the European Central Bank, the central bank for the Eurosystem. It has striking modern architecture.

What to Expect: Admire the sleek 185 meter tall Eurotower, designed by renowned architects. Free exhibits on the euro currency and the ECB’s work. Well-designed public spaces and fountains surround the complex.

Visitor Information: Located in Frankfurt’s financial district. Exhibition center open M-F 1pm-5pm. Free 45 minute guided tours on Saturdays. Photo ID required for security checks. Metro line 11.

The sleek Eurotower, home to the European Central Bank, provides contemporary contrast to Frankfurt’s historic sites. This 607-foot-tall modern marvel consists of two towers connected by a large atrium. Ride up to the public observation deck for free panorama views from its rooftop perch.

In 2024, new exhibits explain the importance of banking to Frankfurt and Europe as a whole, including the ECB’s role in the EU’s common monetary policy. Admire both the Eurotower’s design and European economic significance.

Find Green Serenity in the Frankfurt City Forest

Name and Location: Frankfurt City Forest

History and Significance: The Frankfurt City Forest is a large recreational wooded area covering over 46 square km just outside Frankfurt. Popular for hiking, cycling, and appreciating nature.

What to Expect: Hike and bike on miles of scenic trails. Pristine streams and ponds. Open meadows, sports facilities, playgrounds, cafes and beer gardens inside. A natural escape from the city.

Visitor Information: Free public access. Best accessed by car, bike, or bus #64 from Bornheim Mitte station. Trails for all fitness levels. Maps available at entry points and online.

Covering over 46 square miles, Frankfurt’s enormous city forest provides a natural respite right in town. Lace up your walking shoes to explore miles of hiking and biking trails under a leafy canopy. Stop at a traditional cider tavern for local snacks and refreshments. Gardens, playgrounds, bird sanctuaries, and lakes help you forget you’re minutes from downtown.

In 2024, city forest improvements include new nature education programs and installations of environmentally-friendly “forest furniture” made from natural materials. Breathe fresh air and soak up the sights and sounds of nature.

Conclusion

With global prestige as a financial hub paired with quaint medieval character, Frankfurt offers visitors the best of both worlds. The soaring modern skyline coexists with cozy cider taverns, timeless cathedrals, and peaceful gardens for well-rounded experiences. New openings in 2024 provide fresh perspectives on Frankfurt’s dynamic past, present, and future.

From sleek museums to bustling local markets, find both energy and tranquility as you explore. See where history was made alongside today’s financial powerhouses. Taste traditional dishes and local wines while discovering Frankfurt’s unique culture and resilience. These 15 activities only scratch the surface of Frankfurt’s many remarkable offerings waiting to be discovered in 2024!