History, High-rises: Frankfurt's Magic!
Frankfurt am Main
Frankfurt, the quintessential blend of age-old tales and towering future one could ever envision.
Frankfurt am Main, Germany

Hello, fellow wanderers! Prepare for a tale of my captivating jaunts to Frankfurt. Amidst my Viennese adventures, I managed to steal away for three quick but unforgettable trips to this German marvel.

Now, here's the twist. Frankfurt isn't your run-of-the-mill German city. Far from it! While proudly German, she's a maverick, setting her own pace. And she's as passionate about her lush urban forests as she is about her relentless drive towards the future.

You might have caught whispers of Frankfurt's storied past: a blend of complexity and inspiration, reminiscent of a master strategist from an epic tale. Her history has sculpted her skyline, creating a juxtaposition of age-old structures and modern marvels. It's this heritage that fuels the city's fervor for cutting-edge art and design, a trait cherished by all her inhabitants.

Yes, Frankfurt has nuances that might surprise you. Just when you think you've figured her out, she presents an unexpected facet. Yet, in no time, you'll find yourself charmed, regardless of how brief your stay is.

Here's my truth: Frankfurt has etched a permanent mark on my heart. It's rare to find a place that immediately feels welcoming and comforting, especially when you're miles away from home. That's Frankfurt's gift to every traveler. Cheers to our cherished memories in this German gem!

Frankfurt skyline from the street

Alright, let's dive into Frankfurt am Main, Germany's financial hub!

How to Get There:

  • Flight: Frankfurt am Main Airport is one of the key gateways to Europe. Check out some budget-friendly tips for affordable flights.
  • Train/Bus: If you're close by in Europe, consider a scenic train journey via Deutsche Bahn, with Frankfurt Hauptbahnhof as your destination. Alternatively, buses from providers like FlixBus offer another reliable option.
  • Car: Driving enthusiasts can revel in Germany's famed autobahns. Remember, be prepared for unrestricted speed zones, secure an environmental badge (Umweltplakette) for city entry, and pre-book parking spots.

*don't forget to check out my summary of travel hacks for European trips!

Getting Around Frankfurt:

  • Public Transport: The RMV system, which includes U-Bahn, S-Bahn, trams, and buses, ensures timely transport. Tickets are available at machines or on the RMV app (iOS / Android), with city journey prices starting around 2.75 EUR.
  • Taxis: Apart from traditional taxis, app-based services like Free Now offer convenient travel options.
  • E-Scooters/Bikes: Experience Frankfurt up-close with e-scooters or bike-sharing services like Lime and Call a Bike.
  • Car Sharing: For those keen on driving within the city, explore car-sharing platforms like Book-n-Drive.
From sweeping views atop the Main Tower to leisurely strolls by the River Main, Frankfurt beckons with diverse experiences. Whether by air, road, or rail, get ready to explore this German masterpiece!
Frankfurt Sleeps & Suites

Imagine Frankfurt, stretching across 248.31 square kilometers, bustling with over 700,000 souls. Hunting for the best bed in this city? It's akin to finding the crispest schnitzel in a sea of delectable options!

Now, I've always been partial to the Business District. Why, you ask? It's the city's heart, footsteps away from the cobblestones of the old town. Plus, there's an added comfort in knowing it's pretty safe - especially when you've had one too many apple wines.
Frankfurt flaunts an array of neighborhoods, each with its unique flair:

  • Altstadt: Your slice of history. Think half-timbered buildings and age-old charm.
  • Bornheim: Tradition meets trendiness. Perfect for those who want to taste both past and present.
  • Sachsenhausen: Cheers to its bustling nightlife and iconic apple wine pubs.
  • Westend: A dash of luxury, with stunning parks and architecture.
  • Nordend: A haven for your taste buds, bursting with eateries.

Though I might be biased towards the Business District (you can't beat that central location!), every nook of Frankfurt has its charm. So, decide your flavor, and let this German gem woo you.

Be aware!

Frankfurt, like many global metropolises, has its vibrant pulse but also a few shadows. Particularly around the Central Station (Hauptbahnhof), you might encounter individuals grappling with substance abuse. The city has a more lenient approach to drug policies, focusing on harm reduction rather than outright penalization. This means you may come across some drug addicts or, colloquially put, 'crackheads'. While most are harmless and keep to themselves, it's always a good practice to maintain awareness, avoid engaging, and steer clear of isolated areas, especially after dark. Remember, your safety first!

For more tips and hacks on how to save your money while traveling in Europe - CLICK HERE (my summary for traveling within Europe)
Frankfurt old town
Frankfurt's Fabulous Tourist Spots (And One Not-so-Secret Tip)

Alright, adventurers, ready to dive into Frankfurt's treasures? Let's meander through "Mainhattan", named for its skyscrapers and the River Main, but without the New York traffic! And speaking of names, ever hear the joke about why Germans seem to laugh less? Because it takes them a while to Frankfurt out the punchline!
Now, onto the sights you simply can't miss:

  1. Main Tower: From personal experience, this is a must-visit! Scale to the top and soak in the spectacular city panorama. It's Frankfurt on a platter, minus the apple wine!
  2. Römer: The city's historic gem. Seriously, this place is like diving into a page of your history textbook, only way cooler. Highly recommended!
  3. Goethe House: A literary shrine dedicated to Germany's very own Shakespeare, Johann Wolfgang von Goethe.
  4. Palmengarten: This isn't just any garden. It's a massive, green wonderland in the heart of the city.
  5. Städel Museum: Art buffs, rejoice! From medieval pieces to modern art, it's a visual treat.
  6. Old Sachsenhausen: Quaint alleys, apple wine pubs, and a dose of old-world charm.
  7. Alte Oper: Grandeur and music are married beautifully in this old opera house which plays a role of a concert house nowadays.
  8. Eiserner Steg: An iron bridge brimming with love stories, thanks to the countless love locks.
  9. Zeil: Shopping spree, anyone? Frankfurt's top shopping avenue awaits.
  10. Kleinmarkthalle: Your culinary passport to Frankfurt's gastronomic delights.
  11. Frankfurt Zoo: A treat for the young and the young-at-heart.
  12. Senckenberg Museum: Dinosaurs in Frankfurt? You bet!
  13. Börse Frankfurt: Witness the pulse of Germany's economy in action.
  14. Museum Embankment: Museums galore! Just pick a theme, and you'll likely find a museum for it.
  15. Frankfurt Cathedral: A testament to the city's rich history and architectural prowess.

So, whether you're an art lover, a history nerd, or just someone in search of a good laugh (or a bad joke), Frankfurt's got you covered. Dive in, and may the Main be with you!
Frankfurter Börse (Frankfurt Stock Exchange)
Frankfurt: More Than Just Financial Flair!

Step aside, Wall Street; Frankfurt isn't just about the Benjamins (or in this case, the Benjamins' German cousins). Dive past its financial façade, and you'll stumble into a culinary festival that’s waiting to wow you.

Alright, Frankfurt has its iconic sausages – because, let's face it, which German city doesn't? But if you think that's all, you're in for a delectable surprise. Beyond the renowned Frankfurter Wurstchen lies a culinary treasure trove, reflecting global influences from the Middle East to Asia and beyond.

Did you know that German gastronomy is as diverse as the Autobahn is long? And Frankfurt, in its global glory, stands as a testament to this diversity. Whether it's the tang of Green Sauce or the peculiar charm of Handkäse mit Musik, the city's menu is vast and varied.

Why did the tourist hesitate to eat local food in Frankfurt? He was told Handkäse was the original "cheese that cuts the cheese"! But in all seriousness, while sinking your teeth into local fare is essential, don't sleep on Frankfurt's international culinary scene. Whether it's elegant French bistros or spicy Indian delights, Frankfurt serves up global flavors with gusto!

So, if you're gearing up for a Frankfurt adventure, make sure to bring along two things: a big appetite and an open culinary mind. After all, in this city, your taste buds are in for a roller-coaster of flavors!

Alright, let's embark on a culinary journey through Frankfurt based on personal experience, local whispers, and some internet deep-diving:

  1. Thaihaus: Hidden amidst the urban hustle, this place offers a Thai feast that could give Michelin-star restaurants a run for their money.
  2. Berger Street Burgers: Nestled in Frankfurt's lively streets, their burgers are a harmonious blend of juicy and crunchy. And your wallet will thank you!
  3. Bakery Bliss: Located near the Main river, their pastries might just become your breakfast obsession.
  4. Frankfurter Botschaft: A traditional spot for some hearty German fare, their schnitzel is legendary!
  5. Sushi Circle: Frankfurt and sushi? Surprisingly, a match made in heaven.
  6. Pizzeria Montana: Tucked in Sachsenhausen, their wood-fired pizza is the stuff of legends.
  7. Kebab Kingdom: Their shawarmas are a fragrant and flavorful treat that's hard to resist.
  8. Taverna Amphitryon: A slice of Greece in the heart of Frankfurt, offering delicious moussaka and more.
  9. Café Karin: A perfect spot for brunch. Get a window seat and watch the world go by with a strong coffee.
  10. Brauhaus am Main: This brewery offers a plethora of brews that'll make beer enthusiasts hoppy!
  11. Avocado Bistro: An avant-garde culinary spot, their dishes are as Instagrammable as they are tasty.
  12. Kleinmarkthalle: An iconic food market in Frankfurt. Wander through aisles of local and international flavors.
  13. Ceviche 103: A Peruvian haven with flavors that'll transport you straight to Lima.
  14. Oceans & Earth: A seafood paradise for those looking to dive deep into marine delights.
  15. Casual by Kevin Fehling: Inspired by top-tier dining, but with a relaxed ambiance and inventive European dishes.
  16. SturmGarten: This apple wine tavern offers a true taste of Frankfurt's fruity wine culture.
  17. Sandwich Express: Speedy, delicious, and just downright comforting.
  18. Oatmeal & Chia: A unique spot dedicated to all things oats and grains. It's a breakfast revolution.
  19. Café Sugar Mama: Dessert lovers, brace yourselves for a sweet onslaught.
  20. Frankfurt Street Bites: A bustling area filled with eclectic food stalls. The world on a platter!

And remember, while Germans might love their sausages, in Frankfurt, it seems they're also quite adept at mastering world cuisines. So, why did I often skip local dishes? Let's just say after my first Knödel experience, any international dish suddenly looked a lot more tempting!

Flughafen Frankfurt (Frankfurt Intl. Airport)
Prices

And now... we're diving into the financial hub of Frankfurt – but not in the way you might think! We're here to talk Euros and cents.

Starting with the culinary scene: an appetizing meal at a mid-range restaurant in Frankfurt will cost you between €12-€25. Thirsty? Sip on a beer for about €4-€6 or recharge with a latte that'll be around €2.50-€3.50. And if we're comparing notes, Frankfurt won't break the bank as much as Vienna or Munich.

Planning to explore the city via public transport? That's a sound plan. A single ride is about €2.75, while a monthly pass hovers around €90. If you're contemplating accommodations, here's the breakdown: budget hotels range from €60-€80 per night, mid-range spots sit between €100-€140, and if you're splurging on a five-star experience, it starts from €250.

In terms of daily expenses, think of Frankfurt as being in the same ballpark as cities like Brussels or Milan. Not super cheap, but certainly more affordable than some of its European siblings.

In summary, Frankfurt offers a blend of high-value experiences without the steep prices of some other European heavyweights. So, enjoy the best of the city without emptying your pockets. After all, it's all about the memories, not the money, right?
I'm about to take you on a whirlwind tour of my favorite Frankfurt spots – and oh boy, do they leave an impression!

Frankfurt Stock Exchange: Okay, imagine strolling into the set of a high-stakes finance movie. That was my exact feeling when I first laid eyes on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange. The heart and soul of European finance, this place pulses with energy! I was half expecting Leonardo DiCaprio to walk out from around the corner. As iconic as those front-facing bronze bull and bear statues are, the real action unfolds inside. But a heads-up - red might not be the color of choice around that bullish fellow.

Palmengarten: Talk about a scene change! From the frenzy of stock trading, I found myself lost amidst the verdant beauty of Palmengarten. Seriously, who needs a plane ticket to the tropics when you have this botanical haven right in Frankfurt? The sheer variety of exotic plants had me thinking I'd accidentally wandered into a David Attenborough documentary. Spoiler alert: Resisting the urge to sneak a plant home is hard. They're just THAT pretty.

Frankfurter Römer: Stepping into the Römer was like diving straight into a history book. This iconic city hall, with its enchanting three-peaked façade, whispered tales of Frankfurt's rich past. Nestled in the heart of Römerberg, the city's old town, my visit here felt like a delightful blend of a nostalgia trip and a modern-day expedition. Snapping a pic (or ten) here is mandatory; trust me, your Instagram will thank you.

So, from Wall Street-esque adventures to tropical escapades and historic dives, my Frankfurt jaunt was nothing short of epic. If you find yourself in the city, these spots are unmissable. Take it from someone who's been there and has the memories (and photos) to prove it!

Frankfurt Hauptbahnhof (Frankfurt Central Station)
Conclusion

Frankfurt, a harmonious blend of historic charm and modern ambition, promises an enriching experience. Nestled between ancient landmarks and contemporary skyscrapers, this city showcases its deep-rooted traditions while looking confidently towards the future. However, it's worth noting that such an experience might come with a slightly elevated price tag.

From history enthusiasts to food lovers, from art aficionados to those seeking a multifaceted urban experience, Frankfurt is a welcoming haven. The city boasts an array of dining options, including elite restaurants recognized with Michelin stars for those with a taste for luxury.

Navigating through Frankfurt is a breeze, thanks to its top-tier public transport system. But for a more intimate experience, take a stroll by the River Main or meander through its parks. While Germans value punctuality, they equally appreciate relaxation, so let the city unfold at your own pace.

To truly embrace what Frankfurt offers, planning is crucial. With countless attractions vying for your attention, it's essential to prioritize but also allow some unplanned moments. Sometimes, getting a bit sidetracked and wandering through its diverse streets reveals Frankfurt's most genuine charm.

So, while budget considerations are essential, don't let them overshadow your adventure. Come with an open heart and let Frankfurt charm you in its unique way. The experience, undoubtedly, justifies the investment.