Explore Frankfurt, Germany: The Perfect 2-Day Itinerary
Frankfurt, Germany
2 days
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.
2-Day Itinerary
Day 2
Botanical Beauty and Literary Legacy
Morning
Begin your second day with a visit to the Palmengarten, a beautiful botanical garden that houses a wide variety of exotic plants and flowers.
Lunch
Have lunch in a cozy café near the Palmengarten. Enjoy a light meal and try a slice of Frankfurt's famous apple cake.
Afternoon
In the afternoon, visit the Goethe House, the birthplace of the famous German writer Johann Wolfgang von Goethe. The house has been restored to its original 18th-century condition and offers a fascinating insight into Goethe's life and work.
Dinner
For dinner, enjoy a meal in a modern German restaurant. Try some innovative takes on traditional German dishes.
Evening
End your trip with a visit to the Old Opera House. If you're lucky, you might be able to catch a performance. If not, the building itself is worth seeing for its stunning neo-Renaissance architecture.
Attractions in Itinerary (5)
1Römer
A medieval building in the Altstadt of Frankfurt am Main, which has been the city hall for over 600 years.
2Städel Museum
One of Germany's most important art museums.
3Palmengarten
A beautiful botanical garden in the city.
4Goethe House
The birthplace of the famous writer Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, now a museum.
5Old Opera House
The Alte Oper (Old Opera) is a concert hall and former opera house in Frankfurt am Main, Germany. It was inaugurated in 1880 but destroyed by bombs in 1944. It was rebuilt, slowly, in the 1970s, opening again in 1981.
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 cocktail 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 |
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.
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
1
Frankfurt is the largest city in the German state of Hesse and the fifth-largest city in Germany.
2
The official language is German, but English is widely spoken and understood, especially in hotels, restaurants, and tourist areas.
3
The currency used in Frankfurt is the Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's always a good idea to carry some cash.
4
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).
5
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.
6
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.
7
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.
8
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.
9
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.
10
The city is known for its futuristic skyline and the busiest German airport.
11
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).
12
Frankfurt is a safe city, but like any major city, it's advisable to take standard precautions, especially in crowded areas and at night.
13
The city is a major hub for international travel, so it's easy to get to from almost anywhere in the world.
14
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.
15
The city is very walkable, especially in the city center. There are also many bike paths, and bicycles can be rented from various locations.
16
Frankfurt has a vibrant nightlife with many bars, clubs, and live music venues. Sachsenhausen is a popular area for nightlife.
17
The city is home to many international communities, making it a multicultural city with a wide variety of food and cultural experiences.
18
Frankfurt has a wide range of accommodation options to suit different budgets, from luxury hotels to budget hostels.
19
The city has a strong commitment to sustainability, with many parks, green spaces, and initiatives to reduce its environmental impact.
20
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
Socks
T-shirts
Pants/Jeans
Comfortable walking shoes
Sweater or jacket
Pajamas
Scarf, gloves and hat (if winter)
Raincoat or umbrella
Toiletries
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Shampoo and conditioner
Body wash or soap
Deodorant
Razor and shaving cream
Makeup and makeup remover
Hairbrush or comb
Prescription medications
First aid kit
Travel documents and essentials
Passport
Driver's license or ID card
Credit and debit cards
Cash and coins
Hotel and/or car rental reservations
Travel insurance documents
Emergency contacts and important addresses
Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone
Charger for smartphone
Headphones
Laptop and charger (if necessary)
Camera and charger (if necessary)
Travel adapter for German outlets
Miscellaneous items
Snacks
Books or e-books for the flight
Travel pillow and blanket
Earplugs and eye mask
Reusable water bottle
Travel guide and map
Notebook and pen
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?
Places near by Frankfurt, Germany
Heidelberg Castle
A mix of styles from Gothic to Renaissance, Heidelberg Castle has been part of Heidelberg's landscape since the 13th century.
Rhine River Cruise
Experience the beauty of the Rhine River with a boat cruise. You can see numerous castles, vineyards, and charming towns along the way.
Rüdesheim am Rhein
A winemaking town in the Rhine Valley. Known for the Drosselgasse, a narrow cobblestone lane lined with 15th-century buildings and wine taverns.
Mainz
A city known for its old town, with half-timbered houses and medieval market squares. The Romanesque Mainz Cathedral, with its cloisters, houses a museum of sacred art.
Würzburg
A city in Germany's Bavaria region. It's known for lavish baroque and rococo architecture, particularly the 18th-century Residenz palace, with ornate rooms, a huge fresco by Venetian artist Tiepolo and an elaborate staircase.
Darmstadt
A city in the state of Hesse in Germany, known for its Art Nouveau buildings, especially the Mathildenhöhe, which includes a Russian chapel and wedding tower.
Strasbourg
Known for its sandstone Gothic Cathedral with its famous astronomical clock, and for its medieval cityscape of Rhineland black and white timber-framed buildings.
Rothenburg ob der Tauber
A well-preserved medieval old town, a destination for tourists from around the world. It is part of the popular Romantic Road through southern Germany.
Black Forest
A mountainous region in southwest Germany, known for its dense, evergreen forests and picturesque villages. It is often associated with the Brothers Grimm fairy tales.
Brussels
The capital of Belgium, hosting the headquarters of the European Union and NATO. Known for its historic old town and world-class food scene.
