Frankfurt, a city full of history and modernity, is an excellent city to explore on foot in a short time.
Our expert Maja, who lives in Frankfurt, created this tour for independent travelers who only have a few hours at their disposal, a compact tour that covers the most important sights and at the same time offers the opportunity to soak up the flair of the city is ideal.
So, here’s what you can see on this 2-hour Frankfurt walking tour.
Discover the Top Sights of Frankfurt in a Short Time
Follow the audio guide for this tour-hour Frankfurt walking tour below:
Frankfurt HBF – Train station
Welcome to Frankfurt Central Train Station! The start of your Frankfurt walking tour.
This station is one of the largest in Europe, dating back to 1888, and it sees over 350,000 travelers passing through every day.
Personally, I love heading towards the Main River from here. Along the river, there are some fantastic spots I can’t wait to show you.
If you need a public transportation card for getting around Frankfurt, I recommend the “Frankfurt Card.” You can choose between a 1-day or 2-day pass, giving you access to all public transportation options.
With the Frankfurt Card, you’ll also get a 50% discount at museums and theaters. This comes in handy for our visit to the Städel Museum, where you can save €2-4.
Feeling hungry? Let’s head to my favorite restaurant in Frankfurt, located in the charming marina of Westhafen.
If you’re not in the mood for a meal, grab a drink at this scenic spot by the waterfront.
Westhafen
The Westhafen in Frankfurt is a vibrant mixed-use area along the Main River, just south of the Central Station. Developed in the early 2000s, this waterfront spot is a must-visit!
Treat yourself to delicious meals at spots like Frankfurter Botschaft, L’Osteria, Marina, Chamäleon, and Cron. And don’t miss the iconic Westhafen Tower at the marina entrance – locals lovingly refer to it as the “Ebbelwoi-Glas” due to its apple cider glass-like appearance.
Imagine living in one of the homes with their own boats along the marina – pure bliss!
For a unique experience, consider renting a private boat and cruising the waters with Skyline Boat Tour. Check them out here.
Located conveniently near the central station, it’s a perfect way to explore the area.
Städel Museum
The Städel, also known as the Städelsches Kunstinstitut und Städtische Galerie, is a fantastic art museum located in Frankfurt, Germany. It boasts an impressive collection, including 3,100 paintings, 660 sculptures, over 4,600 photographs, and more than 100,000 drawings and prints.
In 2012, the Städel was recognized as Museum of the Year, a well-deserved honor for this cultural gem. Founded in 1817, it is one of the oldest museums along Frankfurt’s Museumsufer, or museum embankment, thanks to a generous bequest from the art-loving banker Johann Friedrich Städel.
With European paintings spanning seven centuries, from the early 14th century to the present day, the Städel offers a rich artistic journey through time. You could easily spend hours exploring all it has to offer, but if you’re short on time, you can simply focus on your favorite painting style and enjoy a more targeted visit.
Don’t forget to take advantage of the Frankfurt Card for a discount of €2-4, which includes access to public transportation. It’s a great way to save some money while immersing yourself in the world of art at the Städel.
Eiserner Steg
Now that you’ve made it to the Main River, you’ve stumbled upon a lovely oasis in the midst of this bustling city. Got some time to spare?
Well, why not hop on one of the boats docked at the end of the bridge on the right side?
You’re in for a treat as you cruise along the river, especially during the summer months when you’ll spot plenty of cheerful folks biking along the Main or simply lounging by the banks.
Embark on this scenic tour along the Main River and take in Frankfurt’s impressive skyline from the water. Sail upstream or downstream, passing by historic neighborhoods, museums, and charming riverside pubs. Explore the historic Sachsenhausen district, one of the city’s oldest and largest neighborhoods. Marvel at the panoramic view of Frankfurt’s financial district. Make a pit stop at the beautifully renovated Gerbermühle and delve into the world of Goethe.
The 50 or 100-minute tours set sail from Eiserner Steg, with boats departing every hour. Take your pick between a 50-minute downstream cruise, a 50-minute upstream journey, or go all out with the 100-minute combo tour.
Römerberg
Römer is the city’s historic town hall. The impressive building, with its characteristic staircase façade, is a must-see for every visitor.
The Römer’s silhouette is iconic and totally Frankfurt! It’s been home to the city council since way back in the 15th century, giving the square its name. Since the 9th century, Römerberg has been a hub for markets, fairs, tournaments, and all sorts of events – from executions to imperial elections and coronations.
Back in the 16th century, it was even hailed as the most stunning square in the Holy Roman Empire of the German Nation. And check out the Fountain of Justice at its heart – Frankfurt’s very first fountain, featuring a Justitia statue with eyes, scales, and a sword.
The Römerberg, with its historic half-timbered houses, offers numerous details and photo opportunities. The Haus der Goldenen Waage is particularly noteworthy, a reconstructed half-timbered house with an impressive gilded façade. The imperial cathedral of St. Bartholomew, with its 95-metre-high tower and cathedral museum, is another highlight not to be missed.
St. Paul’s Church
Right next door is St. Paul’s Church, an important symbol of German democratic history. Both sights are within easy walking distance and offer plenty of photo opportunities.
It’s pretty amazing to visit the Paulskirche in Frankfurt, Germany. This place has such a rich history and is a symbol of German pride and identity.
This is where the National Assembly made history by creating Germany’s first democratic constitution. Even after the parliament was dissolved, national commemorations continued to take place at St. Paul’s Church. Sadly, the church was completely destroyed in 1944, but reconstruction efforts began shortly after the war ended. The newly rebuilt church was officially inaugurated on May 18, 1948, marking the centenary of the German National Assembly. Since then, it has stood as a symbol of the birth of German democracy.
From 1988 to 1991, the Paulskirche underwent renovations. In 1991, a stunning mural titled “The Procession of the People’s Representatives to St. Paul’s Church” by Berlin painter Johannes Grützke was unveiled in the basement with great ceremony.
A visit to this historic site offers not only architectural beauty, but also profound insights into the history of Germany.
Kleinmarkthalle
The Kleinmarkthalle is right in the heart of Frankfurt’s city center. It’s a bustling hub for locals and tourists alike, offering a wide variety of goods and serving as the main covered market in Frankfurt.
In this vibrant market hall, Frankfurt truly showcases its cosmopolitan side, rivaling even the towering skyscrapers of the financial district. It’s a melting pot of cultures and flavors, with around 150 stalls selling everything from antipasti to fresh fish, sourced locally from the Rhine-Main region or imported from Asia and South America. The atmosphere is warm and friendly, with many regulars sharing stories with vendors they’ve known for years.
It’s not just a place to shop; it’s a place to connect, enjoy good food, and have a chat. The gallery upstairs is a popular spot for gatherings.
Zeil – Shopping Paradise
The Zeil in Frankfurt is the city’s most famous and beloved shopping street. Packed with a wide range of stores, shopping centers, and attractions, it offers an unbeatable shopping experience. Here, you’ll discover a diverse selection of fashion boutiques, department stores, restaurants, and cafes. The Zeil is a central hotspot in Frankfurt and a must-visit for any shopping lover.
You’ll find well-known international fashion chains like Zara, H&M, and Mango on the Zeil. However, there are also exclusive designer stores and charming local boutiques that showcase their unique styles and collections. Whether you’re in search of clothing, shoes, accessories, or gifts, the Zeil has something for everyone.
In addition to fashion outlets, the Zeil boasts a wide array of electronics stores, jewelry shops, toy stores, and more. Whether you’re on the hunt for the latest tech gadgets, a stunning piece of jewelry, or a special gift for a loved one, you’ll discover it on the Zeil.
One standout attraction on the Zeil is the recently renovated MyZeil shopping center. With its striking architecture and contemporary design, it’s not just a place to shop but also an architectural gem that captures attention.
With its diverse range of stores and shopping opportunities, the Zeil is a definite must-visit for all shopping enthusiasts in Frankfurt.
Fressgass – Große Bockenheimer Straße
The vibrant streets of Große Bockenheimer Straße and Kalbächer Gasse, known as Freßgass, are a foodie’s paradise in Frankfurt.
Lined with gourmet stores, cafes, and restaurants, this area exudes a special charm that beckons visitors to relax and indulge under the shade of plane trees. Locals affectionately refer to this bustling pedestrian zone as “Fressgass,” where culinary delights from around the world await.
Whether you’re looking to explore upscale restaurants or enjoy a casual meal at a street cafe, Freßgass offers something for every palate.
Don’t miss the annual Fressgass festival in May and the Rheingau wine market in August, two of Frankfurt’s most popular events that showcase the city’s vibrant food and wine scene.
Alte Oper
If the Alte Oper in Frankfurt were a person, she’d be the “grande dame” of the city’s cultural scene. This stunning concert hall, standing tall at 34 meters in Wilhelminian style, was funded by 67 wealthy citizens back in 1880. Even Kaiser Wilhelm I was impressed by its grandeur!
Though it started as an opera house, it took a 35-year hiatus after being destroyed in World War II before reopening in 1981.
Now, it’s a hub for pop, jazz, musicals, and classical music festivals, welcoming top-tier performers from around the world to its stage. While you won’t find operas here, the Alte Oper continues to shine with over 460 events each year, featuring a diverse range of musical talents.
This is where our walking tour wraps up, and I hope you had a blast!
But wait, there’s still so much more to explore in Frankfurt. If you want to continue, a short walk away is the Main Tower, from whose viewing platform you can enjoy a breathtaking view of Frankfurt’s skyline.
Now’s your chance to jump on one of the popular Hop-on Hop-off buses.
Relax and take in the sights of Frankfurt from the top deck of a double-decker bus. If the weather’s nice, the roof will stay open, offering you a panoramic view of the city’s beautiful architecture and green spaces.
If you haven’t experienced a river cruise yet, now’s the time to give it a try.
Check out these two popular options:
Or maybe you’re intrigued by the idea of stepping back in time to the 19th century Frankfurt? If so, the TimeRide VR Time Travel Experience is a must-visit.
Secure your Time Travel Ticket here.
With virtual reality, you’ll be transported into the shoes of a respected merchant, reliving Frankfurt’s history as if you were right there. Follow the fictional businessman, Theodor Riedel, on a captivating journey through Frankfurt’s past at three immersive stops.
Guided Frankfurt Tours: Discover the City with Experts
Public guided tours are available for those who want to learn more about the city. These tours are ideal for delving deeper into the history and culture of Frankfurt.
Public city tours
There are fixed dates for public city tours, which you can easily book online. Daily tours of the Old Town take place at 11:00 and 14:00 (in the low season only at 14:00). These tours offer an excellent opportunity to learn more about the most important sights and their stories.
Further information and services
With the Frankfurt Card, you can not only use local public transport, but also receive discounts at many attractions. Tourist information and city maps are available at various points in the city and offer additional orientation aids.
Additional Resources
Frankfurt has excellent public transport connections, so you can easily get to your starting point. All the sights mentioned are also within easy walking distance.
These keypoints provide a comprehensive overview of the options for exploring Frankfurt in a short space of time. This guide is a valuable resource especially for independent travelers who prefer a self-guided audio tour.
Immerse yourself in the history and culture of Frankfurt and enjoy an unforgettable time in this fascinating city.
