My recent trip to Frankfurt was an unforgettable blend of rich history, modernity, and impeccable hospitality. I’m always eager to dive into a city’s culture, experience its unique vibe, and share my insights. Frankfurt is no different—it’s a city that offers both the cosmopolitan buzz of a financial hub and the charm of old-world Europe. Here’s my complete guide to visiting Frankfurt, from practical travel tips to navigating local etiquette, and recommendations for must-see sights.

Travel Essentials: Gear, Attire, and SIM Cards

Packing the Right Travel Gear

Frankfurt is a city that can easily be explored by foot, bike, or public transport. As someone who prefers packing light, I made sure to bring only the essentials: a comfortable backpack, a good pair of walking shoes, a reusable water bottle, and my camera to capture the city’s beauty. I also packed a portable phone charger—something I never leave behind—because you never know when you’ll need a quick recharge while on the go. A small, compact umbrella is also a must, as Frankfurt’s weather can be unpredictable.

If you’re planning to visit during winter or early spring, I highly recommend packing layers. A lightweight jacket, warm sweater, and scarf are all essentials. For summer visits, breathable clothing is key, as temperatures can soar.

Suitable Attire: Dressing Like a Local

Frankfurt is a stylish city, but also practical. You’ll notice that locals dress in a casual but chic manner. Dark jeans, comfortable yet fashionable shoes, and light layers worked well for me. During the day, I opted for comfortable walking shoes because exploring the city’s sights required plenty of walking. If you’re planning on dining out at one of Frankfurt’s more upscale restaurants, bring something a bit more polished, like a smart blazer or a nice dress. But for the most part, smart-casual will serve you well.

Currency Exchange and SIM Cards

One of the first things I did upon arrival was exchange some of my home currency for euros. While credit cards are widely accepted in Frankfurt, many smaller shops and cafes still prefer cash, so having some euros on hand is essential. You can exchange currency at the airport or in various locations throughout the city, though I found that rates were slightly better at exchange kiosks in the city center, particularly near Hauptbahnhof (the main train station).

Getting a local SIM card was also a priority for me. I wanted to stay connected without relying on expensive international roaming charges. I stopped by one of the many mobile shops in the city center, where I found it easy to purchase a prepaid SIM card. Many stores offer affordable packages with data, calls, and texts. I chose a package from Vodafone, which gave me plenty of data for Google Maps, social media, and staying in touch with family back home.

Navigating Local Etiquette

Frankfurt is a melting pot of cultures, but it still retains some classic German customs. Understanding and respecting these cultural nuances is crucial for any visitor. One thing that stood out to me right away was the emphasis on punctuality. Germans are known for being very punctual, and this holds true in Frankfurt. Whether I was meeting someone for coffee or catching public transport, everything ran like clockwork. Make sure you arrive on time or even a few minutes early for appointments or reservations.

Dining Etiquette

Another cultural point worth mentioning is the dining etiquette. In Germany, it’s customary to greet people with a simple handshake and say “Guten Tag” when entering small shops or cafes. I quickly learned that tipping is appreciated but not mandatory—usually rounding up the bill or leaving a 5-10% tip is sufficient.

I remember one incident at a quaint little restaurant where I misunderstood the tipping etiquette. I left a larger tip than expected, and the waiter returned part of it with a kind smile, explaining that smaller tips were customary. It was a humbling moment, but also a testament to the honesty and straightforwardness of the locals.

Street Etiquette

When walking through the streets, I noticed that people kept to the right on sidewalks and escalators, a practice that ensures everything runs smoothly. Speaking of streets, Frankfurt is a very bike-friendly city. Cyclists have dedicated lanes, and it’s important to watch out for them when crossing streets. On one occasion, I mistakenly stepped into a bike lane, causing a minor disruption. The cyclist gave me a polite bell ring and smile, and I quickly corrected my path.

Must-See Attractions in Frankfurt

Frankfurt may be known as a business hub, but it has plenty of cultural gems to offer. Here are my top four recommended spots to visit:

1. Römerberg: The Historic Heart of Frankfurt

Römerberg is Frankfurt’s old town square and undoubtedly one of the most beautiful areas in the city. Surrounded by medieval-style half-timbered houses, the square is packed with history. The Römer, a 15th-century building complex, is the center of this historic district and now serves as the city hall.

How to Get There: Römerberg is easily accessible by foot from the city center or via tram. You can take tram lines 11 or 12 to the Römer/Paulskirche stop.

Note: Try to visit early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid crowds. Also, bring your camera—the architecture here is breathtaking!

2. Palmengarten: A Green Oasis

For nature lovers, Palmengarten is a must-visit. This expansive botanical garden offers beautiful landscapes, a variety of exotic plants, and several greenhouses. It’s the perfect place to relax and unwind after a busy day of sightseeing.

How to Get There: You can reach Palmengarten by taking the U-Bahn (subway). Hop on line U4 and get off at Bockenheimer Warte, from where it’s just a short walk.

Note: Don’t forget to check the weather before you go. Frankfurt’s weather can change quickly, so if rain is in the forecast, bring an umbrella.

3. Main Tower: Panoramic Views of Frankfurt

If you want to see Frankfurt from a bird’s eye view, then the Main Tower is the place to go. This 200-meter-high skyscraper has an observation deck that offers sweeping views of the city and the River Main.

How to Get There: Main Tower is located in the financial district, and it’s easy to get there by tram, bus, or U-Bahn. Take the U6 or U7 line and get off at Willy-Brandt-Platz station.

Note: I recommend visiting at sunset for an incredible view of the city as the lights begin to twinkle.

4. Städel Museum: Art Lovers’ Paradise

Art enthusiasts shouldn’t miss the Städel Museum, which houses an impressive collection of European art, including works by renowned artists like Botticelli, Rembrandt, and Picasso.

How to Get There: The museum is situated along the riverbank and is easily accessible by tram or bus. Take tram line 15 or 16 to the Otto-Hahn-Platz stop.

Note: Allocate at least two to three hours for your visit. The museum is extensive, and there’s plenty to explore.

Street Food and Safety Tips

While Frankfurt has plenty of high-end dining options, I always find myself drawn to street food. The city has a thriving street food scene, and here are a few must-try items:

  • Bratwurst: A classic German sausage that’s grilled to perfection. You can find these at street vendors throughout the city.
  • Handkäse mit Musik: A Frankfurt specialty, this is a type of sour milk cheese served with onions and vinegar. It’s not for everyone, but it’s worth a try if you’re feeling adventurous.
  • Pretzels: You can’t go wrong with a fresh, warm pretzel from a street vendor. Pair it with mustard for a truly local experience.

Street Food Safety

When it comes to food safety, I always make sure the stalls are clean and busy. If a food stand has a line, it’s usually a good sign that the food is fresh and safe to eat. I also avoid any raw or undercooked items and stick to grilled or baked options.

Planning Your Itinerary and Adjusting Your Budget

Frankfurt is a city where you can spend lavishly or stick to a modest budget. For this trip, I decided to plan a balanced itinerary that included a mix of free activities and paid attractions. Here’s how I approached it:

  • Day 1: Visit Römerberg and walk along the River Main (both free). End the day with a visit to the Main Tower (€7.50 entry fee).
  • Day 2: Spend the morning at Palmengarten (€7 entry fee) and the afternoon exploring the Städel Museum (€14 entry fee).
  • Day 3: Explore the flea market and indulge in street food for a budget-friendly lunch.

Adjusting the Budget

To keep costs down, I took advantage of Frankfurt’s excellent public transport system and avoided taxis. Walking is also a great way to explore the city and get a feel for its neighborhoods. I also opted for street food over fancy restaurants for several meals, which helped save on dining costs.

Travel Insurance: A Must-Have

One of the most important things I’ve learned from my years of travel is to never skip travel insurance. For this trip, I chose a comprehensive policy that covered health emergencies, lost baggage, and trip cancellations. While I didn’t need to use it, having the peace of mind was worth every penny.