Since I started working at Slovenia’s largest airport, I’ve been traveling to Frankfurt – Germany’s financial capital – several times a year on business. Business trips usually mean a packed schedule full of meetings and catching up with my wonderful German colleagues. This is why I never really had the chance to explore the city itself. On my last trip, however, I decided to extend my stay and dedicate a day to discovering Frankfurt’s highlights. And I must say – I was pleasantly surprised. The city is both modern and full of character, blending impressive skyscrapers with charming historic corners. Here are my top suggestions for how to spend 8 hours in Frankfurt.
Admire the Römerberg and Altstadt
If you know me, you know that I have a soft spot for cute, colorful houses – and Römerberg did not disappoint. This charming square is the historic heart of Frankfurt’s medieval Altstadt (old town), lined with beautiful half-timbered houses from the 15th and 16th centuries, carefully reconstructed after WWII. At its center stands the Justitia-Brunnen (Fountain of Justice), and nearby you’ll spot the Frankfurt sign – perfect for a photo stop. I can only imagine how magical this place must feel during the Christmas season. While you’re here, take time to wander the picturesque Markt and Hühnermarkt streets, step inside the impressive Kaiserdom St. Bartholomäus, and don’t miss Paulskirche (St. Paul’s Church).
Stroll along the Main River promenade
If you’re in Frankfurt just for a day, make sure to set aside time for the Main River promenade. It’s one of the best places to experience the city’s unique mix of history and modernity. Begin at the Eiserner Steg (Iron Footbridge), a pedestrian bridge famous for its love locks and sweeping views of the old town. From here, you’ll get a postcard-perfect shot of the Frankfurt skyline. A stroll is even more pleasant, if you have an ice cream in your hand. I was suggested to try PALLINA Gelato. I loved their lemon & basil flavor.
Eat lunch at Kleinmarkthalle
For a true taste of Frankfurt, don’t miss Kleinmarkthalle, the city’s bustling traditional indoor market. Inside, over 150 stalls sell everything from fresh pretzels, loose-leaf teas, cakes, and chocolates to fruit, vegetables, meats, and fish. It’s the perfect place to experience Frankfurt’s local food culture or pick up treats for a picnic. The market also features the upper floor overlooking the stalls. I treated myself to a freshly made Italian pasta carbonara and a glass of local red wine — the perfect break while soaking in the vibrant market atmosphere. For an after-lunch coffee I choose drei kaffeebar. They had an excellent coffee in a nice, modern setting.
See Frankfurt from above at the Main Tower
For one of the best Frankfurt views, head to the Main Tower. This 56-story skyscraper in the Innenstadt district stands 200 meters tall. Named after the River Main, the iconic tower features a panoramic observation deck where you can see the city from above. With the wind in your hair, you can take in views of the city’s impressive skyscrapers, the main train station, the winding river, and the surrounding hills. From this vantage point, it’s easy to appreciate Frankfurt’s unique mix of modern architecture and historic charm.
Explore Frankfurt’s famous shopping street Zeil
After enjoying the views from the Main Tower, take a stroll toward the Alter Oper Frankfurt and explore Zeil. One of the city’s most popular shopping districts is lined with a mix of international brands, local boutiques, and department stores. Zeil is the perfect place for fashion lovers, souvenir hunters, or anyone looking to experience Frankfurt’s vibrant city life.
Relax in the beautiful Palmengarten
Frankfurt’s largest botanical garden, the Palmengarten, covers 20 hectares and is home to around 13,000 plant species from all over the world. Established in 1871, it offers a peaceful escape with its meadows, ponds, and creatively designed gardens. My favourite spot was definitely the Tropicarium, a stunning glasshouse filled with palms, tropical plants, and vibrant flowers. Walking through it feels like stepping into a rainforest. Right in front of the Tropicarium is also an amazing pond featuring many varieties of water lilies. I also loved the Flower & Butterfly House, where butterflies flutter freely among the blooms – it instantly reminded me of the Schmetterlinghaus in Vienna. The garden is easily accessible with the metro from the city center.
Need more ideas of what to do in Frankfurt?
If I had more time, I would add a cruise on the River Main to my itinerary and visit the headquarters of the European Central Bank. I would also explore the Museum Embankment (Museumsufer), a collection of world-renowned museums lining the river, and spend time visiting a few of the must-see museums along the way.
Visited: May 2025
