Frankfurt am Main – German Manhattan, where history is reflected in the glass of skyscrapers

Frankfurt has always been an important point on the map of Europe – it was here that emperors and kings were crowned, and the first democratic elections in Germany took place. During World War II, the city was almost completely destroyed and rebuilt in a completely different style. Years later, a decision was made to restore the city’s former character. Today, the buildings of the “New Old Town” faithfully reflect the appearance of Frankfurt from several hundred years ago, and some of them have retained their original fragments. Most of them are no more than five years old today.

German Manhattan

Frankfurt was nicknamed the German Manhattan mainly due to the tall skyscrapers in the city center. Of the 18 tallest skyscrapers in Germany, 17 are located in Frankfurt. The city is also the headquarters of the largest banks, including the European Central Bank, Deutsche Bank and Commerzbank, which gives it the character of a financial metropolis.

What’s worth seeing?

Römerberg Square

It is worth starting your tour of Frankfurt from Römerberg Square. It was here that in the Middle Ages, coronations of emperors, Christmas markets, as well as public courts and executions took place. The square has always been the heart of urban life and still remains the center of the most important events in the city. The western side of the square is dominated by the Römer town hall, whose size is impressive – it occupies three times the area of ​​the square itself. Its characteristic, stepped facade is a symbol of Frankfurt and constantly attracts the attention of tourists. Walking around the square, you can admire charming, colorful tenement houses – faithful replicas of contemporary buildings.

Church of St. Paul (Paulskirche)

Right next to Römerberg there is the Church of St. Paul (Paulskirche), a classicist building and a symbol of German democracy. It was here that the first democratic German parliament met in 1848. Paulskirche impresses with its architecture and reminds us of Frankfurt’s key role in the country’s history. Its location in the heart of the Old Town makes visiting it easy to combine with a visit to the square and a walk around the area.

Goethe House (Goethe-Haus)

A walk through the Old Town leads to the Goethe House (Goethe-Haus), the birthplace of Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, one of the most famous German writers. The 18th-century building has retained many original interior elements, including Goethe’s bookcase and study.

Sachsenhausen – museum district

The next point is the Museumsufer museum district in Sachsenhausen, one of the most important cultural complexes in Germany. There are over 1.5 km of museums along the southern bank of the Main, including the Städel with a rich collection of paintings, the Liebieghaus Skulpturensammlung presenting sculpture from antiquity to the 19th century, and the Historisches Museum Frankfurt, which allows you to walk through 800 years of the city’s history. A walk along the riverside promenade combines art with relaxation and admiring the panorama of Frankfurt.

Zeil – the main shopping street

A walk through the center leads to Zeil, one of the most popular shopping streets in Germany. On the promenade, international brands mix with elegant shopping centers such as MyZeil and Goethe Galerie. There are plenty of cozy cafés and places for a quick snack, e.g. in the nearby Kleinmarkthalle. Zeil is full of life all year round – in winter it turns into a colorful Christmas market, in summer you can come across street shows and performances.

Financial district and Börsenplatz

After the shopping bustle of Zeil, it is worth heading to the financial district, the heart of modern Frankfurt, where the characteristic skyscrapers rise. The largest banks are located here, including Deutsche Bank, Commerzbank and the European Central Bank. In the very center there is Börsenplatz with the historic stock exchange and the Euro Monument, symbolizing Frankfurt’s role in the European financial system.

Old Opera House (Alte Oper)

In the area, you cannot miss the Old Opera House (Alte Oper) – an impressive building from the 19th century, today serving as a concert hall and a venue for cultural events. A walk between the modern skyscrapers and the historic architecture of the opera house shows the contrast that has characterized Frankfurt for centuries.

Messe Frankfurt – trade fair district

In the heart of the business district is Messe Frankfurt, one of the largest trade fair districts in Europe. The complex attracts international fairs and exhibitions, and its modern architecture contrasts with the historic city center. The Messe is bustling with life all year round, showing how contemporary buildings fit into Frankfurt’s skyline.

Mainufer

After visiting the center, it is worth going to the Main and walking along the waterfront, i.e. Mainufer. It’s the perfect place to relax, admire the city skyline and take photos overlooking the bridges, modern skyscrapers and historic buildings on the other side of the river. Mainufer is also the site of numerous outdoor events and festivals.

Flavors of Frankfurt

It is worth trying local specialties. The most famous are Frankfurter Würstchen – thin sausages served with bread or potatoes, and Handkäse, i.e. cheese with onion and vinegar. Apfelwein is not to be missed, preferably in the traditional pubs of Sachsenhausen. Sweet tooth lovers should try Bethmännchen – almond cookies, especially popular during the holiday season. The city also offers plenty of restaurants with flavors from around the world and fusion places, so everyone will find something for themselves.

Where to stay?

Frankfurt offers a wide selection of accommodation. In the city center there are elegant luxury hotels such as Sofitel Frankfurt Opera and Steigenberger Frankfurter Hof. For a medium budget, Leonardo Royal Hotel in Sachsenhausen or Motel One Frankfurt-Römer will be good options. Fans of budget solutions can choose hotels near the main station.

Currency

The currency in Frankfurt is Euro (€). ATMs are common and payment cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants and shops. It’s a good idea to have cash with you in traditional pubs and markets.

How to get to Frankfurt?

Frankfurt has one of the largest airports in Europe – Frankfurt Airport (FRA), with over 300 destinations and hundreds of connections daily. Excellent rail and road connections allow you to reach the city center in 15-20 minutes.

The most convenient way to get to Frankfurt is by plane – LOT Polish Airlines flies to the city 20 times a week:

• From Warsaw to Frankfurt every day at 7:40 and 17:00 and at 20:15 every day except Saturdays.

• Return flights from Frankfurt depart daily at 10:30 and 19:50 and at 07:20, except Sundays.

This network of connections allows you to plan your trip flexibly, regardless of the length of your stay.

More information at: flight.com