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Frankfurt is one of Germany’s delightful cities, located on the banks of River Main. The city is best known for its cultural appeal, home to a wide variety of galleries and museums. Frankfurt is particularly appealing during the festive season when its city squares transform into magical Christmas markets.
Other highlights of Frankfurt include boundless shopping opportunities at boutiques, markets, and department stores, exploration around trendy neighbourhoods, river cruises, an eclectic nightlife, and bustling entertainment centres. The city also has a wonderful mix of historic charm and contemporary appeal with towering skyscrapers set among centuries old buildings and sites. Check out our Frankfurt holiday packages and treat yourself to the ultimate city break.
Frankfurt has a relatively low crime rate compared to other major cities worldwide. Violent crime is uncommon, but petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur, particularly in crowded areas. Areas such as Sachsenhausen, Westend, and the city centre (Altstadt) are typically safe, especially during the day. While some neighbourhoods have higher crime rates, most areas are safe for tourists.
As in any large city, stay vigilant, especially in crowded places such as train stations, markets, and popular tourist attractions. Use anti-theft bags and keep personal belongings secure. Be cautious in crowded areas or on public transport, where pickpockets are more active.
U-Bahn (Subway) - the Frankfurt U-Bahn has 9 lines (numbered U1 to U9) and connects key areas of the city, including the main train station, downtown, and the suburbs. Trains run frequently, typically every 5-10 minutes during peak hours.
S-Bahn (Suburban Train) - the S-Bahn connects Frankfurt with surrounding cities and the airport, with multiple lines (S1 to S9) serving different routes. Ideal for reaching destinations outside the city centre, such as Wiesbaden and Mainz.
Trams - Frankfurt has a comprehensive tram system with 10 lines, providing service to various neighbourhoods and major attractions. Trams are a great way to explore the city, especially for short distances.
Buses – the city’s bus network complements the U-Bahn and S-Bahn, providing access to areas not served by rail. Night buses operate when other services have ended, ensuring transportation throughout the night.
Cycling - Frankfurt is bike-friendly, with dedicated bike lanes and paths. Various bike rental services, including nextbike and Call a Bike, offer easy access to bicycles.
Walking - the city centre is compact and walkable, making it easy to explore on foot. Many attractions are within walking distance of each other. Look for pedestrian zones in the Altstadt (Old Town) and shopping areas, where cars are restricted.
Taxis - taxis are readily available throughout the city. They can be hailed on the street or booked via phone. Taxi fares are metered.
Frankfurt has a diverse culinary scene that reflects both its traditional German roots and modern influences.
Frankfurter Würstchen - these are thin, smoked sausages made from pork and seasoned with spices. Often served with mustard and bread, they are a popular street food item.
Handkäse mit Musik - this is a traditional sour milk cheese from the region, often served with a marinade of onions, vinegar, and oil. The term ‘mit Musik’ refers to the onions, which are said to create ‘music’ (i.e., gas) when eaten.
Grüne Soße - a cold herb sauce made from a mix of fresh herbs like parsley, chives, and dill, combined with sour cream and yogurt.
Frankfurter Rippchen - this dish consists of cured and boiled pork ribs that are often served with sauerkraut and mashed potatoes or bread.
Apfelwein (cider) - a popular local beverage made from fermented apples, Apfelwein (or Äppelwoi) is a traditional drink in Frankfurt and the surrounding Hesse region.
Käppelchen - small cakes or pastries that are often filled with cream or jam, typically enjoyed with coffee or tea.
Frankfurt Christmas Market
The Frankfurt Christmas Market (Frankfurter Weihnachtsmarkt) is one of the oldest and most popular Christmas markets in Germany, primarily held in the Römerberg square and surrounding areas, including Paulskirche (St. Paul’s Church) and the historic Old Town.
The market typically runs from late November until just before Christmas, usually starting in mid-November and ending a few days before Christmas Eve. In 2024, it is scheduled from November 27 to December 22.
The market features numerous wooden stalls adorned with twinkling lights, selling a wide variety of handmade crafts, holiday decorations, and unique gifts.
Frankfurt Book Fair (Frankfurter Buchmesse)
The largest book fair in the world, held annually in October, featuring publishers, authors, and literary professionals from around the globe. Highlights include opportunities for networking, book presentations, and discussions on literary trends.
The Frankfurt Book Fair (Frankfurter Buchmesse) is the largest book fair in the world and a significant event in the global publishing industry. Held annually in Frankfurt, Germany, it attracts publishers, authors, literary agents, and book enthusiasts from around the globe.
Frankfurt Old Town - Frankfurt's Old Town (Altstadt) is a charming area that showcases the city’s rich history and architectural heritage.
Römer - the Römer is a historic building that serves as the city hall of Frankfurt. It features a distinctive façade with a gabled roof and is an iconic symbol of the city.
Frankfurt Cathedral - this Gothic cathedral is the tallest church in the city and served as the coronation site for Holy Roman Emperors.
Museumsufer (Museum Embankment) - this area along the Main River is home to several of Frankfurt’s most important museums, including the Städel Museum and the German Film Museum.
Main Tower - a prominent skyscraper that offers an observation deck with panoramic views of Frankfurt skyline.
Zeil - Frankfurt's main shopping street, known for its diverse range of shops, boutiques, and department stores.
Frankfurt Stock Exchange (Frankfurter Wertpapierbörse) - one of the world's largest stock exchanges, located in a striking historical building.
Goethe House (Goethehaus) - the birthplace of the famous German writer Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, this museum offers a glimpse into his early life and works.
Eiserner Steg (Iron Bridge) - a pedestrian bridge over the Main River that connects the city centre with the Sachsenhausen district.
Kleinmarkthalle Frankfurt – a bustling market hall filled with stalls selling fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and local specialties.
Frankfurt experiences a temperate oceanic climate, with moderate seasonal variations.
Frankfurt winters are cold and damp with occasional snowfall, particularly in January. Overcast skies are common. Average high temperatures are around 3°C to 6°C and lows are around -1°C to 1°C.
Frankfurt in spring is mild and increasingly sunny, with blooming flowers and trees. Rainfall increases as the season progresses, especially in April. Average highs range from 10°C to 20°C with lows from 1°C to 9°C.
It is warm to hot in the summer with plenty of sunshine. Thunderstorms can occur, especially in July and August. Average highs range from 22°C to 28°C and lows range from 12°C to 17°C.
Autumn in Frankfurt is cool and gradually becomes colder. Expect a mix of sunny days and rain, particularly in October. Average highs range from 18°C to 10°C and lows range from 12°C to 5°C.
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