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Both modern and historic, Frankfurt, Germany is a fascinating place to visit. The rebuilt Romerberg sits just steps from the Main River. Soaring skyscrapers surround the quaint Frankfurt Old Town. Travelers can discover the best attractions on a fun Frankfurt Walking Tour!
Frankfurt Walking Tour
While we were Frankfurt sightseeing, we navigated our way around admiring the juxtaposition of old and new. The city is very walkable, which makes it easy to complete a Frankfurt Self Guided Walking Tour.
So, we created this step-by-step, easy-to-follow Self-Guided Frankfurt Walking Tour. Below, we share the details of our walk for free. Now fellow travelers can experience the best of Frankfurt like we did!
While our Frankfurt Walking Tour Self Guided Route features top sights, information and directions, we know some prefer sightseeing with a local tour guide. There are many Frankfurt tours that are led by guides – including paid and free tours (that are tip based).
Guided Free Tour Frankfurt, Germany
During our trip, we were also interested in finding a Frankfurt Free Walking Tour that was led by a local guide.
Eager to learn more, we sought out a Guided Free Walking Tour of Frankfurt that would help us get even better acquainted with the city. We discovered the Alternative Tour, a free Frankfurt tour that focuses on the edgier areas and the stories behind them.
Although the Alternative Frankfurt Free Tour was informative, it was not an all-encompassing Frankfurt city tour. Therefore, we designed a more comprehensive Self Guided, Free Walking Tour Frankfurt, Germany that includes top landmarks and attractions.
If you are looking for Frankfurt, Germany things to do, start your trip by using our Free Self-Guided Frankfurt Tour!
Self-Guided Free Walking Tour Frankfurt Details
Our Self Guided Walking Tour Frankfurt focuses on the sights in downtown. Visitors who have one day in Frankfurt can use our City Sightseeing Frankfurt Guide to quickly explore the area. The walk can be completed in as little as 3 hours.
However, we suggest allowing 5-7 hours (including stops, detours and lunch) to truly enjoy walking around Frankfurt. What makes this one of the best Free Walking Tours Frankfurt is that you can explore at your own pace and suit it to your interests!
Frankfurt Walking Map
At the end of the post, we have included a Frankfurt Walking Tour Map that includes all the stops. In order to get from sight-to-sight on our Self Guided Walking Tour of Frankfurt, we include directions from one sight to the next.
In order to use the maps, you will need an internet connection. You can inquire about adjusting your phone plan for international data, but we have found it more affordable to use a Pocket WiFi Device – like this one from GlocalMe.
Pin, Save or Bookmark our Frankfurt Walking Tour for your trip to Germany!
Self Guided Frankfurt Walking Tour Route
Lace up your shoes and get ready to start walking in Frankfurt! Start your sightseeing in Frankfurt at the train station.
#1 Frankfurt Hauptbahnhof
Like many tours in Frankfurt, Germany, ours begins at the Hauptbanhof. As one of the busiest train stations in Germany, it is traversed by 450,000 passengers a day. The station opened on August 18, 1888 and today services long-distance trains, local underground trains and tram lines.
Make sure to pause and take in the ornate east-facing façade. Above the main entrance, a large clock is flanked by figures that represent Day and Night. Look up to the roof to see a statue of Atlas holding the globe. He is assisted on either side by two statues, which signify Steam and Iron. Walking Directions
#2 Kaiserstrasse, Frankfurt
Kaiserstrasse is one of three Frankfurt streets that lead from the train station east into the city center. The street features several 18th century buildings, which are among the few structures that survived the World War II bombings.
Once a highly fashionable shopping street, after the war Kaiserstrasse became part of Frankfurt’s Red Light District. Although the area is undergoing revitalization, brothels and strip clubs can be found on Taunusstrasse, the parallel street to the north of Kaiserstrasse.
While strolling this street is one of the unique Frankfurt things to do, use caution and common sense – especially after dark. Walking Directions
#3 Old Frankfurt City Walls and Wallanlagen
The next stop on our City Tour Frankfurt Walk is the city’s best public park. The Wallanlagen encircles Frankfurt just as the ancient city walls once did. When the 14th century fortifications were dismantled in the early 1800s, the land was designated as a green space.
The open public space is one of the beautiful places in Frankfurt. The park features modern art, picturesque fountains, historic memorials, significant statues and room to just relax. Walking Directions
#4 Frankfurt Skyscrapers and Main Tower
Of the 20 tallest buildings in Germany, 18 of them are in Frankfurt. The Commerzbank Tower is currently the tallest, standing at 984 feet (including the antenna). It quite literally can’t be missed on Frankfurt walking tours. It actually ranked as the tallest building in all of Europe from 1997 until 2003.
Standing near Commerzbank Tower is the cylindrical, glass Main Tower. Although not nearly as tall as Commerzbank, Main Tower is one of the most popular Frankfurt tourist attractions for its open-air observation deck.
Going to the top is one of the fun things to do in Frankfurt, Germany. A 20% discount is offered to visitors with a Frankfurt Card (more on the tourist card at the end of the article).
Built in the late 1990s and opened in 2000, Main Tower stands at 656 feet (787 feet with the antenna) and ranks as the 4th tallest building in Frankfurt. Walking Directions To Next Stop
#5 Alte Oper (Old Opera House, Frankfurt)
Although neither an opera house nor old, the Old Opera House is claimed by many as the most beautiful building in the city and one of the top places to visit in Frankfurt.
Completed in 1981 to replace the 1880 building that was destroyed in WWII, the elegant theater hosts musical performances and events. The spacious plaza is a common meeting place for locals: events are often held on the square. Walking Directions
#6 Fressgass, ‘Grazing Street’ Frankfurt
Until the 1970s, Fressgass – which directly translates to ‘Grazing Street’ – was simply a nickname for Grosse Bockenheimer. Now, the street is one of the most visited by tourists and a regular stop on Frankfurt city tours.
The area’s popularity dates to the 1900s when Frankfurt’s West-end elite flocked to the posh dining establishments and food shops on the street. In addition to gourmet eateries and bistros, visitors will find numerous high-end stores – like Apple, Devialet and Telsa – on Fressgass. Walking Directions To Next Stop
#7 Borse (Frankfurt Stock Exchange)
With a history that dates to the 11th century, the Frankfurt Stock Exchange was officially established in 1585 and developed into one of the first stock exchanges in the world. Since 1879, the Frankfurt Stock Exchange has been housed on Borsenplatz, where Bull and Bear statues are prominently displayed.
Those who are interested in taking a tour can go to the Stock Exchange Visitors Center. Walking Directions To Next Stop
#8 Eschenheimer Tower
A Frankfurt landmark, Eschenheimer Tower was erected in the early 1400s as part of the city fortifications. At one time 60 towers stood in Frankfurt, but only three remain today.
The 154-foot tall Eschenheimer Tower is the oldest, original building in the city and a worthy historic sight on your Free Frankfurt Walking Tour. Now the tower houses one of the best Frankfurt Old Town restaurants, an upscale establishment called Eschenheimer Turm Cafe. Walking Directions
#9 Hauptwache Square
Continue your free walking tour in Frankfurt to Hauptwache Square. The centrally located public space is one of the most popular plazas – and a top place to visit in Frankfurt am Main. In the middle of the square is the historic Hauptwache building, which dates to 1730. It has been used as military headquarters, a police station and prison.
Since 1904, the building has housed a café…as it still does today. The beautiful Baroque building is now dwarfed by the surrounding buildings, but remains a focal point of the square. Walking Directions To Next Stop
#10 Galeria Kaufhof Rooftop View
Located on the north side of Hauptwache Square is the Galeria Kaufhop, which isn’t a usual stop on most Frankfurt guided tours. The modern mall offers a typical shopping experience…and a phenomenal rooftop view.
The 7th floor cafeteria-style restaurant has an open-air deck with views of the Frankfurt skyline. Taking the elevator to the viewpoint is one of the top free things to do in Frankfurt! Walking Directions
#11 Katharinenkirche (St. Catherine’s Church)
Katharinenkirche – the largest Protestant church in Frankfurt – sits on the south side of Hauptwache Square. Built in 1681, the structure had to be rebuilt after WWII – and a simple interior was constructed rather than the original opulent Baroque décor.
With a long history of church music, Katharinenkirche offers free organ concerts at 4:30 pm on Mondays and Thursdays. Perhaps providing a relaxing environment to take a break from Frankfurt sightseeing! Walking Directions To Next Stop
#12 Goethe House Frankfurt
Famous writer Johann Wolfgang von Goethe was born in Frankfurt in 1749. The house he grew up in – a prominent 18th century abode – has been transformed into a museum that features historic furnishings.
One of the most popular Frankfurt museums, it can be visited for a discount with the Frankfurt Card. It also easily fits in on your Free City Tour Frankfurt route! Walking Directions
#13 Zeil Street
Frankfurt’s famous shopping street, Zeil Street, is chock-a-block with international retail outlets and department stores. Not-to-be-missed is the MyZeil mall, which features a curved glass facade and Europe’s longest interior escalator.
The wide pedestrian Zeil Street, which is pleasantly lined with trees, is the best street in Frankfurt, Germany for shopping. While retail therapy is what attracts many to the area, it is also a lovely promenade for a simple afternoon stroll.
Top Tip: On Thursdays and Saturdays, head to the intersection of Zeil and Kurt-Schumacher for the Bauernmarkt farmer’s market. It’s great spot to relax with a glass of Frankfurt’s famous apfelwein. Walking Directions
#14 Frankfurt Food Market: Kleinmarkthalle
If you are not already hungry, you will be by the time you walk through Kleinmarkthalle – which is why we recommend stopping here for lunch! The art-deco market hall was built in the 1960s – but a market has taken place on the site for hundreds of years. It is a must-see when you tour Frankfurt, Germany on foot.
Vendors sell everything from fresh flowers to ready-to-eat meals to heavenly sweets. Both international and local fare is available at Kleinmarkthalle, including many Frankfurt specialties. It is one of the best places to visit in Frankfurt, Germany for a taste of the local cuisine.
What To Do and Eat at Kleinmarkthalle
Visitors should indulge in classic Frankfurt cuisine, like sausages. Frau Schreiber’s famous sausages will likely have a long line (it was 20 people deep during our visit!) – but they are the best in the city.
Other things to eat at the market are Handkase with Musik (Hand Cheese with Music), Rippchen mit Kraut (pork cutlet with sauerkraut) and Grune Sosse (a special Green Sauce served with boiled eggs and potatoes that is delicious!).
In fact, with so much classic fare at the market, visitors could create their own Frankfurt food tasting tour. Also, don’t miss the second floor and balcony wine bar! Walking Directions To Next Stop
#15 Paulskirche and Paulsplatz
Built as a Lutheran church at the turn of the 19th century, St. Paul’s Church holds a significant place in Germany’s history that makes it a must-see on Frankfurt tours.
In 1849, St. Paul’s Church was the meeting place for the Frankfurt National Assembly – the first freely elected parliament for Germany. It was inside that the first constitution was written, which included key elements of subsequent constitutions.
The church was nearly destroyed in World War II. When it was rebuilt, they designed it as a museum (free entry) and a place to host ceremonies.
The square that surrounds the church is Paulsplatz – and it’s the largest square in the Frankfurt Old Town. The south end extends to the Frankfurt City Hall (Romer). Walking Directions To Next Stop
#16 Romerberg, Frankfurt
As one of the top things to see in Frankfurt, Germany, spending time in Romerberg is a must during your sightseeing tour! The iconic gabled Romer sits prominently on the west side of the spacious square and has been the site of the Frankfurt City Hall since the 15th century.
Opposite the Romer is the Ostzeile, a row of fairytale half-timbered houses (which were completely restored in the 1980s). On the south side is Old St. Nicholas Church, which dates to the 15th century and only suffered minor damage during the war. The church carillon, which is comprised of 51 bells, rings at 9:05am, 12:05pm and 5:05pm.
The Fountain of Justice, which dates to the mid-1500s, stands in the center of Romerberg. The famous Frankfurt Christmas Market takes center stage in Romerberg – as well as other events throughout the year.
Top Tip: At Romerberg’s north entrance, there is a small German pub called Binding Schirn (look on the east side as you enter), which features friendly bartenders and local Frankfurt Binding beer on tap. If you need a break from your Sightseeing Tour Frankfurt, this is a good place to do it! Walking Directions
#17 Haus Wertheym, Frankfurt
Dating to the early 1400s, Haus Wertheym is the only half timbered house on Romerberg that was still intact after the bombing of World War II. As an original architectural gem in the city, it is one of the top Frankfurt places to visit.
The building has served as a public bathhouse, a customs house, guards’ quarters and, today, is a classic German restaurant. Walking Directions To Next Stop
#18 Eiserner Steg Bridge, Frankfurt
The Eiserner Steg pedestrian footbridge crosses the Main River, connecting the Frankfurt Old Town to the Sachsenhausen district to the south. The first bridge on the site was built in 1868, but the current bridge dates to the 1940s.
The bridge recently became a popular site for Love Locks, but has long been a favored spot for taking in the spectacular Frankfurt skyline views. Only walk half way across the bridge for views, then return for more sight seeing Frankfurt near Romerberg (we cross over to Sachsenhausen later in the tour). Walking Directions
#19 Saalgasse Street Architecture
Continue your Self Guide Tour Frankfurt to Saalgasse Street. Prior to World War II, Saalgasse Street was lined with historic houses, which were all sadly destroyed by fire during the 1944 bombings.
When the neighborhood was reconstructed in the 1980s, however, several postmodern architects were called on to recreate the street. Each architect was allowed to design one building on the street so that there are no two facades alike.
Saalgasse Street in the Frankfurt Old Town is a great example of how the city looks to the future. Walking Directions To Next Stop
#20 Frankfurt Cathedral
Although not truly a cathedral, the official name of the historic Frankfurt church is the Imperial Cathedral of St. Bartholomew – but it’s also called Kaiserdom, St. Bart’s or just The Cathedral.
Built as a collegiate church in the 14th century, the church served as the site of Holy Roman Empire coronations between 1562 and 1792; 10 kings were crowned in the church.
The unmissable bell tower is 310-feet-tall – and for a small fee visitors can climb more than 300 steps to the viewing platform for fabulous views of the city. We highly recommend taking a break from your self guided Frankfurt walking tour to climb to the top. Walking Directions To Next Stop
#21 Kaiserpfalz Franconofurd (Imperial Palace)
The next stop on our tour, Kaiserpfalz Franconofurd, is one of the free things to do in Frankfurt, Germany.
The free, outdoor exhibit is part of the Frankfurt Archaeological Museum. The excavated area of Kaiserpfalz Franconofurd reveals ancient structures that were only recently discovered.
Evidence of buildings, cellars, fortifications and public baths exist – and are complimented by informative plaques. The archaeological site – parts of which are thought to be more than 1,000 years old – provides visual insight to the deep history of Frankfurt. Walking Directions
#22 New Old Town
The district between the Cathedral and Romer – dubbed the New Old Town – has recently been overhauled. Efforts were made to utilize original building materials and recreate some historic sites, while also emphasizing modern architecture. It is one of the architecturally interesting places to see on your Frankfurt, Germany walking tour.
Within the New Old Town district there is living space, shops, restaurants, cafes and museums. Walk through the passageways to enclosed courtyards and follow the path of past kings on the Coronation Route from St. Bartholomew Cathedral to the Frankfurt Town Hall. Walking Directions To Next Stop
#23 Jewish Cemetery and Memorial
The Jewish Cemetery on Battonnstrasse has a historic past and gravestones that date to the year 1272. Unfortunately, much of the cemetery was destroyed by the Nazis, with only a cluster of headstones still standing in one corner.
The outer wall of the cemetery, however, has been transformed into a memorial, displaying 10,000 name plaques of Jews killed in the Holocaust.
Top Tip: If the gate is locked, ask for the key at the Jewish Museum next door (ID is required). Walking Directions To Next Stop
#24 Alte Brucke (Old Bridge) and Portikus Museum
The Alte Brucke, first mentioned in 1222, is the oldest crossing over the Frankfurt Main River. Since then, the bridge has been rebuilt an astounding 18 times.
The Portikus Museum sits on an island near the south end of the bridge, representing a historical watermill that was once part of the bridge. The one-room gallery is free to visit and features contemporary art. Use the bridge to cross from City Centre Frankfurt into Old Sachsenhausen. Walking Directions To Next Stop
#25 Old Sachsenhausen, Frankfurt
Narrow lanes, timber-frame houses, artistic water fountains and quaint courtyards are found throughout the historic Old Sachsenhausen district. The quaint district is a highlight of the Frankfurt walk.
Once a separate village, Sachsenhausen was encircled by the Frankfurt city walls in the late 1300s (the Kihhirtenturm Tower still stands on Rittergasse). The district was used as farmland that included apple orchards, thus the rise of Frankfurt’s famous apple wine.
The history of apple wine and taverns has taken on a modern twist – and now the lanes are filled with cliché party bars (there is even a Hooters). Hanging out in Sachsenhausen is one of the top things to do in Frankfurt at night.
Although particularly quiet during the day, it’s worth a wander through the district to imagine what this area of Frankfurt once looked like (just ignore all the neon bar signs).
Despite the historic district being overrun by garish touristy bars, one of the fun things to do in Frankfurt is to visit the apple wine taverns in Old Sachsenhausen.
While there are many taverns to choose from, unfortunately, our only recommendation is to avoid Gaststatte Atschel, where the staff were overtly rude and ruthlessly disrespectful to tourists. Walking Directions
#26 Museumsufer, Frankfurt
Visiting museums is one of the top Frankfurt activities – and some of the best museums in Frankfurt are clustered together in an area called Museumsufer.
Ten of Frankfurt’s most prominent museums are found on the south bank of the River Main between Alte Brucke and Friedensbrucke, while a few more are found along the north bank. The museum embankment is a nice place for a walk, even if you don’t intend on visiting any museums.
Two of the most popular museums on the south bank are the Stadel Museum and the Deutsches Filmmuseum. Most museums offer significant discounts on entry with the Frankfurt Card. Walking Directions To Next Stop
#27 Frankfurt River Walk
Tree-lined paths and riverside parks are found on both banks of the Main River – and are a perfect place to end your free walking tour of Frankfurt. Relax on a bench, stroll in the shade or take in the city views.
Frankfurt, Germany Map
Use this Google Map for an online version of our Frankfurt city map with attractions below.
More Frankfurt Walking Tour Options
Our Self Guided Walking Tour in Frankfurt is an excellent way to get acquainted with the city. That said, there are fabulous walking tours of Frankfurt that are also led by knowledgeable local guides.
Guided Walking Tours Frankfurt
Join fellow travelers on a group Frankfurt walking tour. The walk is led by a local guide who shares insider information and fun facts about the city that might otherwise be missed. Book it!
Private Frankfurt Tourist Guide Tour
Rather than discovering the city with a group, take one of the Frankfurt private tours of the city that is led by a professional Frankfurt tourist guide. Get the details!
Frankfurt Free Tours
Travelers interested in joining a Free Guided Frankfurt Walking Tour can easily find one that suits their style. Just keep in mind that the guide expects – and hopefully deserves – to be tipped.
More Frankfurt Sightseeing Ideas
Our free walking tour of Frankfurt is a fantastic way to see the city…but it does include a lot of walking! Although our preferred method of discovering the city is on our own two feet, we have a few tips on other ways to explore Frankfurt.
Hop On Hop Off Frankfurt Bus
The Frankfurt sightseeing bus is a great option for getting around the city without wearing out the tread on your shoes. Visitors interested in a Frankfurt bus tour can book tickets on the Hop On Hop Off Bus Frankfurt. Get the details!
Applewine Express Tourist Train
The Ebbelwei Express is a historic tram that chugs through the city past numerous city sights. In addition, guests are treated to an on-board glass of apple wine, pretzels and music. Find out more!
Frankfurt River Cruise
A popular way to see the city is from the River Main. There are several boats that take passengers on river cruises up and down the Main River. Book Your Cruise!
Frankfurt Airport Tour
Travelers with a layover in the Frankfurt Airport (and those who are just really interested in aviation) can join a Frankfurt Airport Tour. The tour offers a behind-the-scene look at one of the busiest airports in Europe.
Frankfurt Christmas
One of the top things to do in Frankfurt in December is visit the Christmas Markets. In fact, the Frankfurt Christmas Market is the reason we decided to visit the city…and it was fabulous!
More Frankfurt, Germany Things To Do
Although our self-guided Frankfurt walking tour includes the top things to do in Frankfurt, Germany there are a few more sights you can add to your list.
Palm Gardens
The exquisite Frankfurt Botanical Garden is a fantastic city park to visit during your trip. In addition to the vast array of plant species featured throughout the grounds and in the glasshouses, the Palm Garden also hosts a Butterfly House, ponds and cafes. A small fee is required to enter.
Berger Strasse
A main thoroughfare that extends from the northeast side of the Old Town near Bethmannpark, Berger Strass is a well-known shopping street lined with boutique cafes and shops.
IG Farben Haus
Now the main building of Frankfurt University, but previously a large chemical company, the massive building is an architectural gem. The nearby Gruneburgpark is also worth seeing when visiting the campus.
Schillermarkt
A Friday-only street market, Schillermarkt features vendors selling fresh product, bratwursts and regional culinary treats near the Frankfurt Stock Exchange.
Frankfurt Day Trips
Looking for the best places to visit near Frankfurt? Check out these top-rated Frankfurt Day Tours on Viator.
Heidelberg Half-Day Trip from Frankfurt
Travel by luxury bus from Frankfurt to Heidelberg and tour the medieval town with a knowledgeable guide. Reserve now!
Black Forest and Strasbourg Day Trip from Frankfurt
Visit the thermal baths in Baden-Baden then cross the border into France to explore the UNESCO-listed Strasbourg. Book it!
Rothenburg Day Trip with Heidelberg
Discover the walled village, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, a preserved medieval town full of cobblestone lanes. This full day trip also includes a stop in Heidleburg. Find out more!
Wine and Rhine Valley Full-Day Tour
Embark on a full-day tour of the villages along the Rhine Valley and a Rhine River Cruise. Travel through the UNESCO World Heritage Rhine Valley – from Rudesheim to Sankt Goarshausen. Cruise the river on a steamboat and end your day with a wine tasting. Book this trip!
Planning a Trip to Germany
We have highlighted the top things to see and do in our Frankfurt Walking Tour – as well as other nearby attractions. However, we have a few more tips for travelers – like how to get there and where to stay.
Travelers visiting from overseas should start with our guide to Planning a Europe Vacation. Those creating a Germany Itinerary can use our guides to some of the best German cities beyond Frankfurt.
- 3 Days in Berlin
- Munich Self Guided Walking Tour
- What To Do in Dusseldorf
- Things To See in Freiburg
- 3-Day Dresden Itinerary
As you make your plans and reservations for visiting Frankfurt, organization is key. We recommend using our Trip Planning Printables to keep track of the details!
How To Get to Frankfurt
The Frankfurt am Main Airport (FRA) is a major European gateway with flights from around the world. In addition to being the main hub for Lufthansa Airlines, all major US carriers fly to FRA as well.
Direct flights from the US to Frankfurt are offered from numerous cities including Denver, NYC, San Francisco, DC, Boston, Chicago, Philadelphia, Seattle and San Diego.
Use our tips to find the best fares on airline tickets – then hop on Skyscanner to find tickets for your trip.
What To Pack for Your Trip to Germany
We have a few final tips on what you will need to pack for your Frankfurt trip. Now grab your FREE Packing Checklist and let’s go to Europe!
Walking Shoes
Frankfurt is a walkable city…but only if you have the right travel shoes! I like to wear versatile sneakers and Kris prefers these shoes by Merrell.
Travel Camera
Rather than relying on your phone to capture the sights, upgrade to an actual camera for high quality photos.
We travel with a Canon Rebel (which takes amazing photos and is fantastic for beginners) along with an 18-135mm lens. It’s a fabulous budget camera for budding photographers.
Day Bag
Whether you decide to travel with a backpack or a suitcase, you’ll want to have a great day bag to keep all your everyday travel essentials organized and secure.
Frankfurt Guidebook & Map
It’s easy to get turned around in any new place…even Frankfurt! Make sure to have a Germany Guidebook before arriving.
European Trip Insurance
Delayed flights, lost luggage and illness while abroad can all happen unexpectedly. If you haven’t already obtained coverage for your trip to Germany, consider traveling protected with World Nomads.
Start planning your trip to Germany! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want more travel advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
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