Frankfurt is a captivating city in central Germany with plenty to experience for every budget. Whether it’s historical landmarks, public squares or a beautiful park, there is something worthwhile to discover. The best part is that you don’t have to spend a lot of money, if any, on these popular points of interest.
So, whether you’re in the mood to check out museums, people watch or peruse food stands or flea markets, check out some of the best things to do in Frankfurt on a small budget.
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Frankfurt Card
Consider this your pass to sensational savings around the city
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The Frankfurt Card super-saver travel card is available for purchase as a 1- or 2-day pass and offers an affordable way to get around and explore. The card is available at tourist information centres throughout the city, including at Frankfurt Airport. Cardholders enjoy free and unlimited travel within Frankfurt’s city districts as well as special offers and discounts at participating establishments.
Locals and visitors alike will find that the Frankfurt Card offers convenience and savings on popular points of interest, from cultural organisations to tours, shopping and restaurants. While offers may change, previous promotions have included reduced-price admission and discounts at Historisches Museum Frankfurt, the Palmengarten and Main Tower Observation Platform, among others.
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Iron Footbridge
Take in the views from this historic site
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Iron Footbridge (Eiserner Steg) is a neo-Gothic-style pedestrian bridge connecting Old Frankfurt with the Sachsenhausen neighbourhood and is the only walking bridge in the area. This must-see attraction was initially built in 1868, although it has undergone reconstruction through the years, and it's free to visit.
More than 10,000 people cross the Iron Bridge daily to take photos and view the Frankfurt skyline. Another interesting aspect of this bridge is that it is also known as the Love Lock Bridge because it features thousands of padlocks with the names of couples who left the locks as a symbol of their love. While the bridge is open 24 hours, the best time to take photos is at sunset.
Locatie: Eiserner Steg, 60311 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
Telefoonnummer: +49 69 21238800
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Römerberg Platz
An iconic square in Old Town Frankfurt
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Römerberg Platz is a historic square in the Old Town (Altstadt) buzzing with activity and is a great place to go, especially if you’re on a budget. Located in front of the reconstructed Römer building, the seat of Frankfurt city administration, the public space offers people-watching and events throughout the year.
There are many reasons to explore Römerberg Platz, whether admiring architecture from the Middle Ages, attending an event or checking out markets, including the spectacular Frankfurt Christmas Market. You’ll want to head to notable highlights such as the Gerechtigkeitsbrunnen (Fountain of Justice), the Ostzeille, half-timbered houses from the 15th and 16th centuries, or one of the local restaurants for a bite.
Locatie: Germany
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Kleinmarkthalle
A marvellous market that stimulates the senses
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Kleinmarkthalle captures the attention of foodies with its enticing selection of offerings. Located near the Frankfurt shopping mile, Zeil, between Hasengasse and Liebfrauenberg, the market hall is open daily except for Sundays and entices with more than 60 vendors selling fresh fruits, vegetables, flowers, wine and organic products.
In the early 19th century, Kleinarkethalle was a meeting point for the trade of food, and it continues that tradition today. Although the original building was destroyed during World War II, the latest structure still embodies that culinary spirit. From baked goods to local dishes to international delicacies, you’ll find it here. Along with the different stalls, there is a restaurant on the terrace and a Schlemmergarten on Saturdays.
Locatie: Hasengasse 5-7, 60311 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
Openingstijden: Monday–Friday from 8 am to 6 pm, Saturday from 8 am to 4 pm (closed on Sundays)
Telefoonnummer: +49 69 21233696
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Free museum days
Spend your 'Satourday' visiting certain cultural organisations for free
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Free museum days allow you to explore leading museums and galleries in Frankfurt without worrying about admission. Organised by the Satourday Family Program, the initiative sees many top cultural organisations welcomings guests by offering free admission on the last Saturday of every month. Along with exhibitions, there is special programming, from tours to special events and other activities for all ages.
Whether you’re into history, art or another subject, you're likely to find a museum that appeals to you that offers free museum days. As for participating organisations in the Satourday program, they are diverse and include the Archäologisches Museum, Historisches Museum, Junges Museum, Tower MMK and Weltkulturen Museum, among others.
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Höchst
Stroll through one of the oldest neighbourhoods in Frankfurt
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Höchst is an interesting place rich in history and worth exploring. On the north bank of the Main river at the Nidda estuary 6.2 miles west of the city centre of Frankfurt, this charming area was actually a separate town until its annexation to Frankfurt in 1928. History reveals that in 1355, Emperor Charles IV granted the town permission to hold a weekly market. Today, strolling through the area makes for an enjoyable outing.
One of the notable spots to visit in Höscht is the Old Town. You'll find hundreds of half-timbered houses from the 1500s. Other highlights include the natural scenery of the river banks, where you'll see old defensive walls, and dining at one of the restaurants overlooking the Schlossplatz.
Locatie: Germany
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Frankfurt Cathedral
One of the city’s most famous sites with spectacular views from the top
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Frankfurt Cathedral is a beautiful Roman Catholic church that dates back to the 13th century. Located in the centre of Frankfurt am Main, the historic landmark is one of the area's most popular sites to visit. You can easily spot it from a distance, thanks to its soaring 66-metre-tall tower.
Inside Frankfurt Cathedral, you can see striking interiors and accents ranging from the 15th-century Mary’s Sleep Altar to an original painting by Antonius van Dyck. After exploring, climb 328 steps to the top of Cathedral Tower. From there, look out to the panoramic view featuring the skyline, Old Town and the Main river. The cathedral also presents concerts throughout the year, so be sure to catch one if possible.
Locatie: Domplatz 1, 60311 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
Openingstijden: Hours may vary
Telefoonnummer: +49 69 2970320
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Bethmann Park
Take a trip through this tranquil oasis featuring a Chinese garden
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Bethmann Park provides a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of Frankfurt. Set in the area of Bornheim, the gorgeous public park once served as the gardens of a prominent banking family. Today, it is known as a serene place shielded behind thick walls and surrounded by flowers and greenery.
Entry to Bethmann Park is free. Once here, you’ll want to head to the Chinese Garden, the main attraction, which features pagodas, ponds and other lovely touches. There are other places to enjoy, including a children’s play area and quiet paths and shady areas to breathe in the fresh air and contemplate.
Locatie: Friedberger Landstraße 8, 60316 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
Openingstijden: Monday–Friday from 7 am to 9 pm, Saturday–Sunday from 10 am to 9 pm
Telefoonnummer: +49 69 247455400
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Bauernmarkt Konstablerwache
Follow what the locals do and head to the city’s largest farmers' market
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Bauernmarkt Konstablerwache is the largest farmers' market in the city and offers much to see and experience, from colourful stalls to deliciously prepared meals, beautiful flowers and more. The market takes place every Thursday and Saturday at Konstablerwache, just a mile from the city centre, and is a great place for a fun, casual outing.
For over 30 years, Bauernmarkt Konstablerwache has been bringing together more than 50 regional purveyors of fresh food. From baked goods to cheese and wine, there are many wonderful finds at this popular spot for food enthusiasts.
Locatie: Konstablerwache, 60313 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
Openingstijden: Thursday from 10 am to 8 pm, Saturday from 8 am to 5 pm (closed Sunday–Wednesday, Friday)
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Schaumainkai
Visit a riverside thoroughfare known for its park and popular flea market
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Schaumainkai, a street that runs along the south side of the river Main, attracts a crowd looking for fabulous finds at the flea market. Set in the Sachsenhausen district, this outdoor space between the Eisernen Steg bridge and the Holbein Steg is where you'll find vendors selling everything from art to vintage clothing on the 2nd Saturday of every month.
If you need a boost while strolling Schumainkai, you’ll also find local vendors selling coffee, treats and other delicious items. After strolling around the market, you’ll find it easy to pop into one of the 9 museums nearby on the Museum Embankment.
Locatie: Germany
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