Top things to see and do in Frankfurt, Germany

Frankfurt is the buzzing financial capital of Germany, famous for being home to one of the world’s largest stock exchanges and the headquarters of the European Central Bank. The city also has the perfect blend of old-world charm, with its gothic architecture and cobbled streets. Frankfurt is often referred to as ‘Mainhattan’, named after the Main River it’s located along and for its towering sleek skyscrapers, a play on New York’s ‘Manhattan’. It truly is an underrated destination for travellers seeking a captivating urban adventure. Continue reading for my top things to see and do in the city…

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1. Frankfurt river cruise

A scenic river cruise along the Main River is the perfect way to see Frankfurt’s dynamic cityscape from the water. I embarked on this 100-minute cruise, sailing both upstream and downstream, during which I was able to catch the city’s iconic sights including the European Central Bank and museum embankment. An audio guide is also provided during the tour which makes it a personalised experience, available in both English and German.

2. Main Tower

The panoramic rooftop at the top of Frankfurt’s tallest building, Main Tower, offers the best views across the city. This was the first high-rise building in Europe with a facade made entirely of glass. At 200m tall, this is a must-visit spot when visiting Frankfurt and getting a true feel for the ‘Mainhattan’ vibe.

Did you know Frankfurt is home to 14 out of 15 of the tallest buildings in Germany?!

3. European Central Bank

The newly designed European Central Bank (ECB) headquarters is one of the city’s most unique, urban landmarks. It features a twisted double tower, which rises to 185 metres. The ECB is located in Frankfurt as the Treaties of the European Union requires its seats to be located in the largest financial centre in the Eurozone.

The iconic Euro sign is located at the site of the former European Central Bank headquarters, in the Willy Brand Platz.

4. Frankfurt Stock Exchange

The Frankfurt Stock Exchange is the world’s third oldest and 12th largest stock exchange by market capitalisation. It’s the largest stock exchange in Germany. It was a fascinating experience to tour and walk along the Frankfurt Stock Exchange floor, see the trading in action, and discover 400 years of stock exchange history.

5. Iron Footbridge

The Iron Footbridge was the first pedestrian bridge in Frankfurt and is one of the best spots to see the city’s skyscrapers…

6. Alte Oper Frankfurt

Frankfurt’s old opera house is located in the inner city, Innenstadt, within the banking district. It has a historical facade and is home to one of the most outstanding concert halls in all of Germany and Europe.

7. Romerberg Square

The Römerberg is Frankfurt’s oldest central square, located in the Altstadt (Old Town). It’s lined with unique and colourful half-timbered buildings, and is home to the City Hall, Fountain of Justice, Frankfurt Cathedral and St.Paul’s Church. You can take a walking tour of the Old Town.

8. Fountain of Justice

Located in the centre of Römerberg Square is the Fountain of Justice. This is a bronze statue of a goddess, holding a sword in one hand, and symbolises fairness.

9. Frankfurt Cathedral

Frankfurt Cathedral, also known as St. Bartholomew’s Church, is famously known to be the most magnificent Gothic building in Germany. It’s 95m tall and was constructed between the 13th-15th centuries.

10. MyZeil shopping centre

MyZeil is a shopping mall, located in the centre of Frankfurt, on the PalaisQuartier development. It was designed by Italian architect Massimiliano Fuksas and has a free rooftop to enjoy views of the city!