Frankfurt is often a pleasant surprise for families visiting Germany. Often seen more as a financial city with little to do, Frankfurt is a wonderful place to experience with many green, open spaces, riverside attractions and walks, and relaxing neighborhoods with fantastic cafes and restaurants.
There’s much to do here to entertain kids of all ages, too, and it’s a comfortable city that doesn’t feel as stressful as other larger cities in Germany. It’s a neat, clean, well-organized place that will be a major hit for parents and children.
Regardless of whether you’re making a one-day stopover en route to another German city, or perhaps visiting family and friends in Frankfurt, you’ll find that it’s far from a boring financial metropolis.
As well, there are flights to Frankfurt from almost all over the States at pretty reasonable prices, so you’ll have no excuse to avoid booking something during the year.
Begin by exploring the Old Town
Like many major European cities, there still exists older sections that were built hundreds of years ago and are still thriving. Frankfurt’s Old Town, or Altstadt, is striking, compact, and full of wonders.
The Römerberg Square is the best point to start and looks like something out of an old story, with its colored timbered houses, street performers, and cafes selling local delicacies and tasty coffees or hot chocolates.
Parents won’t have to worry about traffic and kids will love to explore the streets, while teenagers will see it as the perfect Instagram opportunity!
Although it’s a climb, Frankfurt Cathedral provides stunning views of the city and its long river. On a clear, sunny day, you’d be surprised how far you can gaze across this historical German spot.
If stairs aren’t your thing, then simply checking out the cathedral itself is a joy, as it’s an architectural beauty and one of the best in Germany. Not far away is the Iron Footbridge that crosses the main river and lets your family get a sense of the place.
While you’re there, you can’t ignore a boat cruise on the river, as it’s arguably the best way to see the city in all its splendor. It’s relaxing and let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a boat cruise in the sunshine? The parents can rest their feet while the kids point and shout about everything on the way.
It’s also simply a fine idea to take a stroll or cycle along the river path, as there are many benches, kiosks, and green areas for picnics. You’ll likely pass several ice cream stands along the way, so be prepared for kids begging for a treat!
Zoos and Botanical Gardens
In terms of bigger city highlights on offer in Frankfurt, Palmengarten is an idyllic family area. A giant Botanical Garden, this spot is full of tropical greenhouses with butterflies fluttering about, exotic plants and flowers in all colors, and well-maintained lawns and areas that are perfect for picnics or hide-and-seek with the kids.
Frankfurt Zoo is very close to the city center and easily accessible by tram or train. It’s one of the easier zoos to see in Germany because it’s not enormous and overwhelming like other zoos.
Instead, it has good enclosures for the animals, playground areas, plenty of food stalls, and a quality gift shop as well (you might come away with a few stuffed animals).
Must-have food and drink in Frankfurt
No one will go hungry when visiting a modern and multicultural place like Frankfurt. The usual burgers, pizzas, and pastas are all found here, but bakeries are definitely a major hit.
Pretzels, bread rolls, pastries, sandwiches, and even local dishes like schnitzel with fries, Frankfurter sausages, and potato salad are all delicious and special here.
Hot and cold apple juice has become a local delicacy in Frankfurt, and even apfelwein (apple wine) is a perfect option for the adults. It’s a great way to try something different and enjoy new things that is hard to find back home.
Sachsenhausen is one of the better areas of the city for foodies, and many restaurants will happily cater for bigger families inside or even on outdoor terraces. Plus, English is well-spoken here and you’ll never have to worry about being misunderstood!
If you’re visiting over the winter months, it is certainly cold, but the best Christmas market can be found at the previously mentioned Römerberg Square. There are carousels, toy stalls, roasted chestnuts, and sweet German treats that the kids will love.
Mulled wine is great here, but hot apple cider (everything also available in non-alcoholic options) is fantastic to sip while you listen to the festive music, watch the lights flickering, and simply enjoy the warm and welcoming atmosphere.
As you can tell, Frankfurt offers great options for families visiting from overseas. It’s easy to get around, safe at night and at busy markets, and has enough sights to keep everyone happy for a short vacation.
