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Frankfurt, Germany’s financial hub, embodies a unique blend of modern dynamism and rich cultural heritage. This vibrant city offers visitors an exceptional array of experiences, from its towering skyscrapers and bustling business districts to quaint neighborhoods and historic sites. As the birthplace of Germany’s most famous writer, Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, Frankfurt also boasts a variety of museums, theaters, and galleries. With its renowned annual book fair and lively culinary scene, Frankfurt is a compelling destination for both culture enthusiasts and business travelers.
Embrace the blend of old and new by visiting the Römerberg, Frankfurt’s old central square, which offers picturesque views and a sense of historical depth.
Don’t miss a chance to sample Frankfurt’s famous apple wine in the traditional Sachsenhausen district, which provides a genuine taste of local culture and hospitality.
How to best experience Frankfurt?
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Frankfurt: The Gateway to Europe
| Country | Germany |
| Time in Frankfurt | GMT+1 |
| Language spoken | German |
| Population | 760,000 (source: City Population Review 2023) |
| Currency | Euro (€, EUR) |
| Airports |
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Frankfurt, the bustling metropolis at the heart of not only Germany but also Europe, significantly epitomizes the confluence of business, culture, and modernity. With an illustrious history that dates back to the Roman Empire, Frankfurt has always been a pivotal city in various epochs. Today, it stands as a global hub for finance, commerce, culture, and tourism.
Perhaps most renowned for its iconic skyline, Frankfurt hosts some of Europe’s tallest buildings and a variety of architectural styles from different eras. Its financial district, often referred to as ‘Mainhattan’, is home to the European Central Bank, symbolizing Frankfurt’s key role in European finance.
Aside from finance, Frankfurt is a cultural giant with museums like the Städel Museum housing 700 years of art under one roof, ranging from classics to contemporary pieces. The city’s vibrant festival culture, most notably its book fair, the largest of its kind in the world, and its auto show, draw global audiences annually.
The city also serves as a major transport hub with Frankfurt Airport being one of the busiest in Europe, offering flights to 300 destinations across all six inhabited continents. This connectivity extends to its well-developed road and train systems, making it a primary node in European and global logistics.
Despite its position as a bustling modern city, Frankfurt is rich in natural beauty. The River Main offers a scenic backdrop to the city’s skyscrapers and is a popular site for both locals and visitors who enjoy peaceful walks or boat tours. Frankfurt’s extensive green belts and parks encapsulate its commitment to maintaining an eco-friendly environment amidst urban growth.
Where is Frankfurt?
Located centrally in Germany, Frankfurt lies on the banks of the River Main. It’s positioned strategically as a continental transport hub.
Distances:
| Route | Distance by car | Time by car |
|---|---|---|
| Berlin to Frankfurt | 343 miles | 5 hours 10 mins |
| Munich to Frankfurt | 242 miles | 3 hours 40 mins |
What is Frankfurt famous for?
Frankfurt is internationally known for its financial powerhouse status, highlighted by the European Central Bank, and its vibrant cultural offerings including numerous museums and annual fairs.
History
Prehistoric to Medieval (Before 794 AD)
Frankfurt, as a city, boasts a rich historical tapestry that begins well before written records. Archaeological finds suggest that the area now known as Frankfurt was inhabited thousands of years ago during the Neolithic era. It wasn’t until the Roman era that the significance of this region began to emerge distinctly. The first major settlement, a Roman fort, dates back to the 1st century AD, aimed at securing the empire’s frontier. However, Frankfurt’s true strategic importance began to shine with the establishment of the Franconofurd, which means the ford of the Franks, around the 6th century AD. By medieval times, Frankfurt was a crucial center for trade and commerce owing to its location at a fordable part of the Main river.
High Medieval Period (794 AD – 1350 AD)
This period in Frankfurt’s history began with its mention in a royal charter of Charlemagne in 794 AD, marking the first official recording of the city. Following this, the city rapidly became a vital center for the Holy Roman Empire, hosting important imperial elections and coronations. By 843 AD, the Treaty of Verdun saw Frankfurt positioned at a strategically vital spot in the fragmented empire. The city grew both in influence and size, fortified by the Staufen imperial dynasty with high walls and towers which defined its medieval layout that can still be seen in the city’s historical core today.
Golden Ages (1350-1806)
Frankfurt experienced significant growth during the late medieval and early modern period. It was officially recognized as a free imperial city in 1372, which gave it a special status that allowed self-governance and exemption from external control. The city thrived as a center of trade, and its fairs, notably the Autumn Fair and the Spring Fair, became integral to the European trading system. Frankfurt also became a hub for financial services, a role it maintains to this day. The establishment of the Frankfurt Stock Exchange in 1585 marked the beginning of its global financial significance.
Modern Era (1806-Present)
The dissolution of the Holy Roman Empire in 1806 brought significant changes to Frankfurt. It briefly became the capital of the Grand Duchy of Frankfurt, a Napoleonic puppet state, before joining the German Confederation in 1815 as a free city. The 19th and 20th centuries saw the city’s further transformation with the industrial revolution and the construction of the railway connecting Frankfurt with other major German cities. Despite severe damage during World War II, post-war rebuilding initiatives were remarkable, leading to the modern skyline so characteristic of Frankfurt today, symbolizing its resilience and enduring economic importance through its vibrant financial sector and cultural offerings.
Visit Frankfurt
What to see and do in Frankfurt
Frankfurt, often referred to as the “Manhattan of Europe,” is a vibrant city with a rich blend of historical and modern attractions. Visitors should not miss exploring the Römerberg, Frankfurt’s old central square, which is surrounded by picturesque half-timbered houses and the iconic Römer building. The city’s museum district, Museumsufer, located along the banks of the River Main, houses museums like the Städel Museum, which holds a comprehensive collection of European art. For a panoramic view of the city, climbing the Main Tower is a must. Additionally, the Palmengarten, a large botanical garden, offers a tranquil escape with its extensive collection of exotic plants. To experience Frankfurt’s modern pulse, a stroll through the Zeil, a premier shopping street, is highly recommended.
- Römerberg
- Museumsufer
- Main Tower
- Palmengarten
- Zeil Shopping Street
Festivals and Events in Frankfurt
Frankfurt hosts several significant events throughout the year, making any season a great time to visit. The Frankfurt Book Fair in October is one of the world’s largest gatherings for the publishing industry, drawing visitors and exhibitors from numerous countries. In spring, the Museumsuferfest turns the museum embankment into a vibrant festival ground with cultural performances and art exhibitions. During Christmas, the Frankfurt Christmas Market, one of Germany’s oldest, fills the Römerberg with festive cheer and traditional treats.
Best time to visit Frankfurt
The best time to visit Frankfurt generally falls in the late spring (May and June) and early autumn (September and October), when the weather is pleasantly mild and the city’s major events, like the Book Fair and Museumsuferfest, take place. This period avoids the peak summer tourist season while offering vibrant local experiences and comfortable weather for exploring the city.
Is Frankfurt worth visiting?
Frankfurt, with its unique blend of historical depth and modern dynamism, offers a compelling case for a worthwhile visit. Known as the economic powerhouse of Germany, its skyline, dotted with high-rises, stands as a symbol of economic influence. However, beneath its commercial façade lies a city rich in culture and history, seen in its wealth of museums, historical sites, and live events. On the flip side, Frankfurt can be expensive, and its busy pace might not appeal to those looking for a more relaxed or traditional cultural experience. Nonetheless, for those interested in finance, art, history, or architecture, Frankfurt provides an intriguing and enriching travel experience.