4-Day Ultimate Frankfurt, Germany Adventure Itinerary

About Frankfurt, Germany

Experience the vibrant city of Frankfurt, Germany, a dynamic blend of tradition and modernity. As the financial hub of Germany, it boasts a skyline of towering skyscrapers, home to the European Central Bank. Yet, it retains its old-world charm with half-timbered houses in Römerberg and the iconic St. Bartholomew's Cathedral. Explore world-class museums along the Museumsufer, and savor local delicacies at Kleinmarkthalle. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Main River or immerse yourself in nature at Palmengarten. Frankfurt's nightlife is equally exciting with a variety of pubs, clubs, and live music venues. Don't miss the annual Frankfurt Book Fair and the festive Christmas Market. Frankfurt is not just a stopover, but a destination in itself.

4-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring Frankfurt's Historical and Cultural Landmarks

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the iconic Römer, Frankfurt's city hall that has been the city's political hub for over six centuries. Explore the medieval building's intricate architecture and soak in the historical atmosphere.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional German lunch in a local eatery in the city center. Try Frankfurt's famous green sauce with eggs and potatoes, or a hearty Frankfurter sausage.

Afternoon

Spend your afternoon at the Städel Museum, home to an impressive collection of European art spanning seven centuries. Don't miss the contemporary art in the museum's underground extension.

Dinner

Have dinner in a cozy restaurant in the Sachsenhausen district, known for its apple wine taverns. Try the local apple wine, a popular drink in Frankfurt.

Evening

Take a leisurely stroll along the River Main, enjoying the beautiful skyline view of Frankfurt, especially the illuminated skyscrapers.

Day 2

Discovering Frankfurt's Natural Wonders and Nightlife

Morning

Visit the Palmengarten, a beautiful botanical garden with a variety of exotic plants and flowers. Explore the different greenhouses and enjoy the serene atmosphere.

Lunch

Have lunch in a café near the Palmengarten. Try a traditional German pastry or cake for dessert.

Afternoon

Explore the Senckenberg Museum, one of the largest natural history museums in Germany. Marvel at the dinosaur exhibits and the extensive collection of bird species.

Dinner

Enjoy dinner in a restaurant in the Westend district, known for its upscale dining options. Try a traditional German dish like sauerbraten or schnitzel.

Evening

Experience Frankfurt's vibrant nightlife in the Bahnhofsviertel district, known for its diverse bars and clubs.

Day 3

Following in Goethe's Footsteps and Shopping in Zeil

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the Goethe House, the birthplace of the famous German writer Johann Wolfgang von Goethe. Explore the restored 18th-century house and learn about Goethe's life and work.

Lunch

Have lunch in a restaurant in the Innenstadt district. Try a traditional Frankfurt dish like Handkäse mit Musik, a sour milk cheese served with onions.

Afternoon

Spend your afternoon exploring the Zeil, Frankfurt's main shopping street. Browse the many shops and department stores, and don't miss the MyZeil shopping center with its impressive architecture.

Dinner

Have dinner in a restaurant in the Nordend district, known for its trendy eateries. Try a local Hessian dish like Rippchen, a cured pork cutlet.

Evening

Take a relaxing evening stroll in the Grüneburgpark, a beautiful park with a rose garden and a palm tree grove. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and the view of the Grüneburg Castle.

Day 4

Immersing in Frankfurt's Contemporary Art and Saying Farewell

Morning

Visit the Frankfurt Cathedral, a Gothic church that served as the coronation site for Holy Roman Emperors. Climb up to the tower for a panoramic view of Frankfurt.

Lunch

Enjoy a leisurely lunch in a café near the cathedral. Try a traditional German sandwich with cold cuts or cheese.

Afternoon

Spend your afternoon at the Museum für Moderne Kunst, a museum dedicated to contemporary art. Explore the diverse collection of paintings, sculptures, and installations.

Dinner

Have your farewell dinner in a restaurant in the Altstadt district. Try a traditional German dessert like Apfelwein Torte, an apple wine cake.

Evening

End your trip with a visit to the Main Tower, one of Frankfurt's tallest skyscrapers. Enjoy the stunning view of the city from the observation deck.

Attractions in Itinerary (9)

Römer

A medieval building in the Altstadt of Frankfurt am Main, which has been the city hall for over 600 years.

Attractions

Monuments

Architecture

Städel Museum

One of Germany's most important art museums.

Attractions

Museums

Cultural Experiences

Palmengarten

A beautiful botanical garden in the city.

Attractions

Parks

Gardens

Senckenberg Museum

The Senckenberg Museum is one of the largest natural history museums in Germany, featuring a wide range of exhibits on biodiversity and the history of life on Earth.

Museums

Cultural Experiences

Goethe House

The birthplace of the famous writer Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, now a museum.

Attractions

Museums

Cultural Experiences

Zeil

One of the most popular shopping streets in Germany.

Attractions

Shopping

Neighborhoods

Frankfurt Cathedral

A Gothic-style cathedral and one of the city's most important landmarks.

Monuments

Religious Sites

Architecture

Museum für Moderne Kunst

One of the world's most important museums of contemporary art, the Museum für Moderne Kunst is a must-visit for art enthusiasts. It is known for its extensive collection of post-war and contemporary art from around the world.

Museums

Cultural Experiences

Architecture

Main Tower

A high-rise building in Frankfurt with a public viewing platform.

Attractions

Landmarks

Architecture

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Frankfurter Würstchen

A smoked pork sausage that is traditionally boiled. It's a staple food in Frankfurt and is often served with bread and mustard.

Handkäse mit Musik

A sour milk cheese served with onions, caraway, and vinegar oil. The name translates to 'hand cheese with music', a popular dish in Frankfurt.

Grüne Soße

A cold herb sauce made from seven different herbs. It's a traditional dish in Frankfurt often served with boiled potatoes and eggs.

Frankfurter Rippchen

A dish of cured pork cutlets, slowly heated in sauerkraut or meat broth. It's a traditional dish in Frankfurt often served with sauerkraut and bread.

Apfelwein

A cider made from apples, it's a popular drink in Frankfurt and the surrounding region. It's often served in a special jug called 'Bembel'.

Sachsenhauser Suppe

A hearty soup made from beef, vegetables, and herbs. It's a traditional dish in Frankfurt, named after the Sachsenhausen district.

Frankfurter Kranz

A buttercream cake shaped like a wreath, symbolizing the crown of the German emperors who were crowned in Frankfurt.

Rindswurst

A beef sausage that is traditionally boiled or grilled. It's a popular food in Frankfurt often served with bread and mustard.

Schneegestöber

A co*cktail made from egg liqueur, rum, and cream. It's a popular drink in Frankfurt, especially during the winter season.

Frankfurter Brenten

A type of cookie made from almonds, sugar, and aniseed. It's a traditional Christmas treat in Frankfurt.

Geripptes

A traditional glass used to serve Apfelwein. It's a popular drinkware in Frankfurt, characterized by its diamond-shaped pattern.

Frankfurter Pudding

A vanilla-flavored pudding topped with fruit sauce or compote. It's a popular dessert in Frankfurt.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Frankfurt, Germany as a tourist is typically between April and September. During these months, the weather is most pleasant and suitable for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The city also hosts a number of festivals and events during this period, such as the Spring Dippemess in April, the Museum Embankment Festival in August, and the Apple Wine Festival in August. However, if you enjoy Christmas markets, you might want to consider visiting in late November or December. Frankfurt's Christmas market is one of the largest and oldest in Germany.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

Date	Day	Holiday Name
January 1	Mon	New Year's Day
January 6	Sat	Epiphany (regional holiday)
March 29	Fri	Good Friday
March 31	Sun	Easter Sunday (regional holiday)
April 1	Mon	Easter Monday
May 1	Wed	May Day
May 9	Thu	Ascension Day
May 19	Sun	Whit Sunday (regional holiday)
May 20	Mon	Whit Monday
May 30	Thu	Corpus Christi (regional holiday)
August 8	Thu	Peace Festival in Augsburg (Bavaria)
August 15	Thu	Assumption of Mary (regional holiday)
September 20	Fri	German World Children's Day (Thuringia)
October 3	Thu	Day of German Unity
October 31	Thu	Reformation Day (regional holiday)
November 1	Fri	All Saints' Day (regional holiday)
November 20	Wed	Repentance Day (Saxony)
December 25	Wed	Christmas Day
December 26	Thu	Boxing Day

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

U-Bahn (Subway)

Frankfurt's U-Bahn system is a convenient way to get around the city. It has nine lines (U1 to U9) that cover most of the city and suburbs. Trains run frequently throughout the day, and less frequently at night.

S-Bahn (Suburban Train)

The S-Bahn is a regional train system that connects Frankfurt with its surrounding areas. It's a great option if you're planning to visit nearby cities or towns. There are nine lines (S1 to S9), and trains run frequently throughout the day.

Tram

Trams are a popular form of transport in Frankfurt, with 10 lines (11 to 21) running across the city. They're a great way to see the city at a slower pace, and they stop at many popular tourist destinations.

Bus

Frankfurt has an extensive bus network that covers the city and its suburbs. There are numerous lines, and buses run frequently throughout the day. Some lines also operate at night.

Taxi

Taxis are readily available throughout Frankfurt. They can be hailed on the street, picked up at taxi stands, or booked in advance. They're a convenient, though more expensive, way to get around.

Ridesharing

Ridesharing services like Uber are available in Frankfurt. They can be a convenient way to get around, especially if you're traveling in a group or have a lot of luggage. Just download the app, set your pickup and drop-off locations, and wait for your ride.

Bicycle

Frankfurt is a bike-friendly city with numerous bike lanes and paths. There are several bike rental companies in the city, making it easy to rent a bike for a few hours or a few days. It's a great way to explore the city at your own pace.

Car Rental

If you prefer to drive, there are several car rental companies in Frankfurt. Keep in mind that parking can be difficult in the city center, and there's a lot of traffic during peak hours. Also, remember that Germany drives on the right.

Walk

Many of Frankfurt's attractions are within walking distance of each other, especially in the city center. Walking is a great way to explore the city, and there are plenty of pedestrian-friendly areas.

Ferry

Frankfurt is located along the Main River, and there are several ferry services that offer scenic trips along the river. It's a unique way to see the city, and some services even offer dinner cruises.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency€ EUR

Time zoneUTC+1

Driving sideRight

Emergency phoneAmbulance and Fire: 112; Police: 110

Drinking waterYes

Power sockets

Voltage230 V

Things to know about Frankfurt, Germany as a first time visitor

Frankfurt is the largest city in the German state of Hesse and the fifth-largest city in Germany.

The official language is German, but English is widely spoken and understood, especially in hotels, restaurants, and tourist areas.

The currency used in Frankfurt is the Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's always a good idea to carry some cash.

Frankfurt has a temperate seasonal climate. Summers (June to August) can be warm to hot with temperatures from 20 to 30°C (68 to 86°F). Winters (December to February) can be cold, with temperatures from -2 to 3°C (28 to 37°F).

Public transportation in Frankfurt is excellent. The city has an extensive network of trams, buses, and a subway system. The Frankfurt Card offers unlimited travel on Frankfurt's public transport system and discounts on various attractions.

Tipping is customary in Frankfurt. It's typical to round up to the nearest Euro in casual establishments and to tip 10-15% in more upscale places.

Frankfurt is one hour ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT+1). During daylight saving time (last Sunday in March to last Sunday in October), it's two hours ahead of GMT.

Frankfurt is known for its 'Apfelwein' or 'Ebbelwoi' as it's called in the local dialect. This apple wine is a popular drink in the region.

Frankfurt has a high standard of living and is considered a global city. It's a major financial hub that's home to the European Central Bank.

The city is known for its futuristic skyline and the busiest German airport.

Frankfurt's culinary specialties include Handkäse mit Musik (a sour milk cheese served with onions), Grüne Soße (a sauce made from seven different herbs), and Frankfurter Würstchen (sausages).

Frankfurt is a safe city, but like any major city, it's advisable to take standard precautions, especially in crowded areas and at night.

The city is a major hub for international travel, so it's easy to get to from almost anywhere in the world.

Frankfurt has a mix of high-end designer stores, traditional boutiques, and large shopping malls. The Zeil is one of the most popular shopping streets.

The city is very walkable, especially in the city center. There are also many bike paths, and bicycles can be rented from various locations.

Frankfurt has a vibrant nightlife with many bars, clubs, and live music venues. Sachsenhausen is a popular area for nightlife.

The city is home to many international communities, making it a multicultural city with a wide variety of food and cultural experiences.

Frankfurt has a wide range of accommodation options to suit different budgets, from luxury hotels to budget hostels.

The city has a strong commitment to sustainability, with many parks, green spaces, and initiatives to reduce its environmental impact.

Frankfurt is not just a business city, it also has a rich history and culture, with many museums, galleries, and theaters.

Basic German to know as a first time visitor

English phrase	Native phrase	Pronunciation	When to use it
Hello	Hallo	ha-lo	Greeting someone
Goodbye	Auf Wiedersehen	owf vee-der-zayn	Saying goodbye
Please	Bitte	bit-te	Making a request
Thank you	Danke	dahn-ke	Expressing gratitude
Yes	Ja	ya	Agreeing or confirming
No	Nein	nine	Disagreeing or denying
Excuse me	Entschuldigung	ent-shool-dee-goong	Getting attention or apologizing
I'm sorry	Es tut mir leid	es toot meer lite	Apologizing
Do you speak English?	Sprechen Sie Englisch?	shpre-shen zee eng-lish	Asking if someone speaks English
I don't understand	Ich verstehe nicht	ish fer-shtay-uh nikht	Expressing difficulty in understanding
Where is...?	Wo ist...?	vo ist	Asking for directions
Bathroom	Toilette	toi-let-te	Looking for a bathroom
Help	Hilfe	hil-fe	In need of assistance
Food	Essen	es-sen	Talking about food
Water	Wasser	vas-ser	Requesting water
Beer	Bier	beer	Ordering a beer
Wine	Wein	vine	Ordering wine
How much does it cost?	Wie viel kostet das?	vee feel kos-tet das	Asking for the price
I would like...	Ich möchte...	ish moe-sh-te	Making a request
Good night	Gute Nacht	goo-te nakht	Saying goodnight

Packing List

Clothing
Underwear (4 pairs)
Socks (4 pairs)
T-shirts (4)
Long-sleeve shirts (2)
Jeans or trousers (2 pairs)
Comfortable walking shoes
Sleepwear
Light jacket or sweater
Raincoat or umbrella
Scarf, gloves, and hat (if in winter)

Toiletries
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Deodorant
Razor and shaving cream
Shampoo and conditioner
Body wash or soap
Face wash and moisturizer
Sunscreen
Makeup and makeup remover
Travel-size first aid kit
Prescription medications

Travel documents and essentials
Passport
Driver's license or ID card
Credit and debit cards
Cash and coins in local currency
Hotel and transportation reservation confirmations
Travel insurance information
Emergency contacts and addresses

Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone and charger
Headphones
Laptop and charger (if necessary)
Universal power adapter
Portable power bank
Camera and charger (if necessary)

Miscellaneous items
Travel pillow and eye mask
Earplugs
Snacks
Reusable water bottle
Books or e-books for entertainment
Travel guide and map
Notebook and pen
Laundry bag
Ziplock bags for toiletries

Weather Conditions

Frankfurt, Germany, experiences a temperate seasonal climate, which means it has variations in weather throughout the year. Therefore, it's essential to plan your visit according to the weather conditions you prefer.If you're a fan of warm weather, the best time to visit Frankfurt would be from May to September. During these months, the average high temperatures range from 64°F to 75°F (18°C to 24°C). However, these months also see the most rainfall, so don't forget to pack a raincoat or umbrella.For those who prefer cooler temperatures, October to April would be the ideal time to visit. The average high temperatures during these months range from 39°F to 59°F (4°C to 15°C). Winters can be quite cold, with temperatures dropping to 32°F (0°C) or below, especially in December and January. So, make sure to pack warm clothing, including hats, gloves, and scarves.Regardless of when you visit, it's always a good idea to check the forecast before your trip to ensure you're packing appropriately. Also, keep in mind that weather can change quickly, so it's wise to pack layers to accommodate fluctuating temperatures.Lastly, Frankfurt is known for its wind, especially in the spring and autumn months. A windproof jacket would be a useful addition to your suitcase during these seasons. Remember, the weather shouldn't deter you from enjoying what Frankfurt has to offer. Each season brings its own charm to the city's landscape and attractions. Enjoy your trip!

Month	Hi / Lo (°C)	Weather Overview
January	4° / -2°	January is the coldest month in Frankfurt, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. It's a good time to visit if you enjoy winter activities, but make sure to pack warm clothes.
February	6° / -1°	February is still quite cold, but temperatures start to rise slightly. Snowfall is less common than in January, but still possible.
March	11° / 1°	March sees the start of spring, with temperatures rising and more hours of daylight. However, it can still be chilly, especially in the evenings.
April	16° / 4°	April is a pleasant month to visit Frankfurt, with mild temperatures and plenty of sunshine. It's a great time to explore the city's parks and outdoor attractions.
May	20° / 8°	May is a beautiful month in Frankfurt, with warm temperatures and lots of greenery. It's a perfect time for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
June	23° / 11°	June marks the start of summer in Frankfurt, with long days and warm temperatures. It's a great time to visit the city's beer gardens and outdoor festivals.
July	25° / 13°	July is the hottest month in Frankfurt, with temperatures often exceeding 25 degrees. It's a great time to visit the city's swimming pools and lakes.
August	25° / 13°	August is another hot month in Frankfurt, with plenty of sunshine. It's a great time to enjoy the city's outdoor dining and nightlife.
September	20° / 10°	September marks the start of autumn in Frankfurt, with temperatures starting to drop. However, it's still warm enough for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
October	15° / 6°	October is a beautiful month in Frankfurt, with autumn foliage and mild temperatures. It's a great time to visit the city's parks and forests.
November	10° / 2°	November is a chilly month in Frankfurt, with temperatures dropping and days getting shorter. It's a good time to visit the city's museums and indoor attractions.
December	5° / -1°	December is a festive month in Frankfurt, with Christmas markets and holiday decorations. It's cold, so pack warm clothes, but the festive atmosphere makes it a special time to visit.

Did you know?

Did you know that Frankfurt's Palmengarten is one of the largest botanical gardens in Germany, featuring more than 13,000 species of plants?

Did you know that Frankfurt is the largest city in the German state of Hesse, and the fifth-largest city in Germany?

Did you know that Frankfurt is home to the European Central Bank, which is one of the world's most important financial institutions?

Did you know that Frankfurt's skyline is unique among German cities because of its many high-rise buildings and is therefore often called 'Mainhattan', a portmanteau of the local Main River and Manhattan?

Did you know that Frankfurt Airport is one of the busiest airports in the world, serving more than 70 million passengers in 2019?

Did you know that Frankfurt is home to the Frankfurt Stock Exchange, which is one of the world's largest stock exchanges by market capitalization?

Did you know that Frankfurt's city center, known as the Römer, is a complex of nine houses that form the Frankfurt city hall (Rathaus)?

Did you know that Frankfurt is home to the Städel Museum, which is one of Germany's most important art museums with a collection spanning 700 years of European art?

Did you know that Frankfurt is the birthplace of the famous writer Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, and his former home is now the Goethe House Museum?

Did you know that Frankfurt hosts one of the world's largest trade fairs, the Frankfurt Book Fair, which has a history spanning more than 500 years?