There is a lot to see and do in Frankfurt Am Main so you would be forgiven for having a ‘to do‘ list on arrival, just like I did. In between all the activity though, it’s important to take in the ambiance of exactly where you are. Walking Frankfurt Am Main allows you to do just this. So, in between the sights and the must see attractions, pause to reflect on the city and appreciate the beauty that comes from just being here.
Römerberg
When walking Frankfurt Am Main, start in Römerberg, the central square. This is where the whole city seems to radiate from. It’s understandable too. The buildings are picturesque, its Fountain of Justice (see above) quaint and the cobblestones and cafes endearing.
Neue Altdtadt
From Römerberg, head up Markt towards the Neue Altstadt (New Old Town) in the direction of the Cathedral. Here there are more cafes and restaurants housed in skillfully restored pre war townhouses. In the square, take time to enjoy the excellent Strewwelpeter Museum and live your childhood nightmares. The brilliance of Heinrich Hoffmann extended way beyond moralistic storytelling for children. He was also a psychiatrist, a comedian and extremely politically active.
Bridges & Mainkai
The Main River is of course a main feature of the city and the many bridges help to show both river and city from its best angles. From the Cathedral, turn right and walk towards the river. Take a stroll up Mainkai and over the Alte Brücke (old bridge), then back along the pedestrian shoreline on the Sachsenhausen side to Eisener Steg. This walk can be enjoyed in either direction and the scenery is breathtaking from all angles.
Locks on Eisener Steg are popular and make an interestingly modern backdrop to this historic city.
Refreshments
Ready to swap the hearty, meaty and yeasty for something sweet? Despite Germany being the beer capital of the world, they also do a delicious torte (cake), strudel, marzipan and lebkuchen. Lebkuchen are a honey infused soft gingerbread biscuit usually associated with Christmas. I’ll take them any time of the year I can get my hands on them, especially the little chocolate covered hearts filled with apricot jam. In short, leave some time in your day for some German sweetness.
I found this little cafe with a storefront full of delicacies along Bundesstrasse in Sachsenhausen.
Goethe House
Make your way back to the Alt Stadt via Holbeinsteg pedestrian bridge (or one of the many other bridges that cross the Main) to Goethe House. The house also embodies the city’s history and embraces its modernity. Goethe House is the famous writer and poet’s birthplace and childhood home. It has been restored, renovated and fit out with a mix of period pieces and true memorabilia. Next door in the adjoining building is a modern take on all things amorous at the Romance Museum which is worth a look if you have time on your hands. But the house, the main event, is a must when walking Frankfurt Am Main. Even if it’s the only place that you actually enter. Once you’re able to draw yourself away, head roughly north along Grosse Eischenheimer Strasse to the tower that marks the edge of the medieval city.
Medieval Buildings
The Eisenheimer Turm (tower) is one of the best preserved medieval structures to be observed when walking Frankfurt Am Main. Located at the north of the old town, it dates to the 15th century and is one of around 60 towers that fortified medieval Frankfurt Am Main. Today, it is one of only three that remain.
Frankfurt Am Main has a rich medieval heritage which is apparent in the layout of the old town streets. Many of the most prominent buildings, including those in Römerberg, still reflect this in their architecture and layout, even if significant restorations may have been undertaken. From Eisenheimer Tower, head south again, this time taking Liebfrauenstrasse. At Paulsplatz, turn right and you should come across this lovely take on the Bridge of Sighs.
The Seufzerbrucke, an extension of the City Hall, is another beautiful architectural example. As it’s just off Römerberg, on Bethmannstrasse, be sure not to miss it.
The historic square of Liebfrauenberg is another jewel in the old town. Centered by a fountain and providing a key pedestrian crossroads as well as being flanked by the Church of Our Lady, this is a lovely spot to pause for a post walk beer or ice cream.
Good To Know
walking Frankfurt Am Main is the best way to become acquainted with the city and its old town charm. Although buzzing with tourists, take time to seek out each of the sights for their beauty and history alone. Enjoy the ambiance of the cobbled streets, whether bursting with summer blooms or streets slick with winter drizzle.
Would I Return?
Yes. New delights wait around every corner.
