13 Cool and Unusual Things to Do in Frankfurt

Frankfurt is perhaps most famous for being a leading financial hub and a significant business location in Germany. However, it is also a cultural hub, with numerous art galleries, theatres, restaurants, and other places of interest that make it one of the five major cities in Germany filled with interesting things to do and see for tourists and inhabitants of this city. From art murals and graffiti to ‘90s television shows, here are 13 of the coolest and most unusual things to check out in Frankfurt for any short weekend getaway or even an extended visit.

1. Cross the iron bridge known as the Eisernen Steg

It is an iron footbridge spanning across the River Main; the structure was built in the nineteenth century. To have a look at the old town of Frankfurt or take a picture of the Frankfurt skyline, spend some time walking across the bridge. If only to capture the best angles of popular tourist attractions like the Old St Nicholas Church mid-demolition. By night, the bridge is illuminated and the view over the river presents an enchanting experience.

2. Explore the Museum Embankment

The cultural treasures of the museum embankment in Frankfurt on the Main can be visited in 13 museums or exhibition premises within walking distance. There are several different galleries that the visitors can enjoy visiting including Städel Museum, Liebieghaus Sculpture Collection, Museum of World Cultures, and the Museum of Applied Art On the weekend during the summer, one should also visit the Riverside Food Market.

3. Goethe was born in the town of Frankfurt an der Oder, in Germany.

Book lovers should not miss out on a visit to Goethe House, the birthplace and early life home of outstanding German writer Johann Wolfgang von Goethe. The 16th-century house boasts a museum with relics that relate to Goethe. Across from it is the Goethe Museum which contains art pieces from the Goethe period in Germany. For instance, fans can visit Goethe University Frankfurt to see the poet’s 250000 book collection that contains his library.

4. Take the Main Tower Skyscraper Building

If one wants to get some breathtaking views, the Main tower tower standing at 200 meters should be considered. You can travel in the fastest elevator in Europe that takes visitors from the ground floor to the 57th floor in a record time of 35 seconds. At the observation platform, one gets to have an unobstructed panorama view of the city of Frankfurt; places of interest such as the Cathedral, Old Opera House, and the banking area are easily identifiable from the platform.

5. Before concluding, it is vital to consider the kind of Apple Wine Taverns that are available in Sachsenhausen.

The old town of Sachsenhausen with its old colored buildings is lined up with the traditional apple wine taverns that offer the freshly made Apfelwein also known as the apple wine or cider and other specialties. Savor apple wine while strolling through the cobblestone streets and visiting taverns that offer the specialty. Apple wine specialties should be tried with local specialties, such as Handkäse mit Musik (stinking cheese) and frankfurter rippchen (ribs of pork).

6. Flea Marketing A visit to the Old Flea Market is good for antiquing.

On one of the weekend mornings, get to the historical quarter of the city and visit Old Flea Market close to the Main River. There are over 100 outside stalls for browsing antiques, crafts, books, and miscellaneous vintage pieces. You will get a feeling of the flea market when you walk past the vendors selling a variety of items.

7. Visit Hoi An Ancient Town

The area of Frankfurt known as Altstadt or Old Town was completely newly built after the war having destroyed the originally historic part of the city; the main square with various eating establishments and shops as well as museums and hotels are located in medieval style buildings which where constructed in the 20th century. Walking in the open area was delightful and seeing reconstructed structures such as the Gothic St Leonhard’s Church and the ornamental fountains that depict the narrative of the city.

8. Which takes us to our next idea – why not take a day trip to a nearby castle?

Frankfurt has convenient connections to beautiful countryside and to many historical castles for those who want to take a day trip. Particularly, nearby castles are Burg Eppstein which has its tradition from 1122 as well as Burg Frankenstein which is said to have been the base for the part of the Gothic novel in which Mary Shelley was inspired. For royal grandeur, see the Kronberg Castle which Empress Victoria was linked to, and a yearly Christmas, fairytale market is held.

9. Relax at Bethmannpark

Surrounded by buildings but providing a lush green environment, the Bethmannpark is situated near the downtown area of the city of Frankfurt. Go for a picnic at the Great Meadow lawns, with flower beds, weeping beeches, and rose gardens in the area. You can sit and people-watch at the China Garden or the side of the central lake with the fountain. Formerly known as Schlossplatz, it is topped by Palmengarten botanical gardens and is ideal for spending an afternoon at.

10. Sightseeing: Visit the Frankfurt Zoo

Known as one of the most prestigious and largest zoos in Europe, Frankfurt Zoological Garden was built in 1858 and has been through various renovations over the years and is now home to over 9,000 animals. Go for a wildlife viewing session as there are indoor/outdoor vivariums that emulate the natural environment such as the elephant, the hippo, the big cats, the gorillas, and the endangered species. The petting zoo and the baths and feedings of elephants are also tremendous favorites with the big kids!

11. Join a Cider Tasting

You may not be aware that Frankfurt is located in one of the biggest apple-producing zones of Europe and do you know that they enjoy a fabulous cider called Apfelwein? For an insider’s tip, opt for a guided cider-tasting tour whereby you are taken through the different types of apple wines, how they are made, and the ideal foods to eat alongside ciders. Prost!

12. Visit an English Theatre and watch a Show

Frankfurt, in particular, offers a great choice of performances and stage productions. To look for plays and shows in English, go to the English Theatre. Established in the historical Gallustheater building, this theater company presents a repertoire that ranges from modern comedies to Shakespearian plays for English-speaking people.

13. Get to know the Frankfurt Cultural Mile

Fancy getting the general feeling about culture in Frankfurt? Check out the Frankfurt Cultural Mile Street promenade. The event covers both operas and theatres, cinemas, literature houses, art galleries, and museums, highlighting Frankfurt’s dynamism in cultural differences. Some of the places of interest are the Alte Oper concert hall, the English Theatre, the largest library in Germany, and the Museum Street.

Conclusion

Crack the “other side” of Frankfurt: between business appointments and city trips, it is essential to find time to explore the weird sights, the historic taverns, the river-front bazaars, or the greenery of the city’s parks. Where else can you find a city that is home to one of the world’s leading financial hubs and a city that is steeped in history, culture, arts, and nature? Germany’s treasury offers an extraordinary soul of Munich that even seasoned travelers would not have seen.