Frankfurt - city life, culture and apple wine in the heart of Germany

Writer: Helena Bergström

Skyscrapers, half-timbered houses, world-class museums and one of Germany's most vibrant cultural life. Frankfurt am Main may be best known as a financial centre, but many believe the city's real charm lies in its contrasts. Perhaps that's why Frankfurt markets itself as ”a little different”...

Frankfurt - on our list

We have travelled a lot in Germany, not least with our motorhome, and we dare say we have been a bit ”everywhere” - from Hamburg in the north, Dresden in the east, Neuschwanstein in the south, Trier in the southwest and Bremen in the northwest. We've also followed the ”Crossroads” through the country, visiting countless castles, fortresses and charming small towns. And yes, we have visited the state of Hessen, where Frankfurt Am Main is located.

But Frankfurt Am Main - no, we haven't been there yet. The reason we're writing about Frankfurt right now is because the city has teamed up with us as a partner for an event we're organising in March. So we've been doing our homework, and we've also been given access to use Frankfurt's image bank. And we have to say that Frankfurt seems to be a city that surprises. Maybe ... a little different?

A skyline that feels like a city - in the centre of Europe

Frankfurt is located in the centre of Germany, at the heart of Europe. The city's skyline is unique in Germany, and it's not hard to see why it's sometimes nicknamed ”Mainhattan”. The skyscrapers give the city an almost North American feel, which is particularly evident when viewed from a rooftop bar at sunset or from the bridges over the River Main.

But turn your back on the financial district and you'll find a completely different city. Within walking distance are parks, old town centres and local markets. Frankfurt is also relatively compact, making it easy to explore on foot - perfect for those who want to combine culture, food and city life without spending the whole journey on public transport.

From new old town to creative neighbourhoods

The reconstructed Old Town has become one of the city's most talked about areas. It combines historically inspired architecture with cafés, small shops and restaurants. It's a great place to spend some time with a coffee or a glass of wine and just watch the people go by.

Frankfurt prides itself on its open-minded attitude, and around 180 different nationalities feel at home in this cosmopolitan city. Frankfurt is made up of 43 neighbourhoods, and there are certainly several that are worth a detour. Some are trendy and creative, while others can be described as more small-scale and local. Several neighbourhoods have traditional weekly markets where residents gather for food, drink and conversation.

A typical local phenomenon are the small kiosks called water hut. They function almost as social meeting places where people buy a drink and stop for a chat.

Culture along the river - a museum paradise

One of Frankfurt's strongest cultural cards is the so-called museum beach, Museum shore. Here, museums are clustered along the river, and together they form one of Europe's most concentrated cultural areas.

From art and architecture to design, film and history, it's all here. Late summer also sees the big Museumsufer festival - a festival of the people, where museums open their doors and the riverbanks are filled with music, food and events.

Summer city with music, rooftops and festivals

Frankfurt really does seem to be a city that blossoms in summer. Cultural life moves to parks, gardens and roof terraces.

The Jazz Montez concert series attracts jazz lovers, while larger riverside pub events offer classical music and big band concerts with ensembles such as the Frankfurt Radio Symphony and Frankfurt Radio Big Band.

Apple wine, food and traditions

Frankfurt also has a strong local food culture. Perhaps most famous is the apple wine (cider), a regional speciality served in traditional taverns in the city. The drink is drier than cider and is often drunk in rustic venues where long tables and conviviality are part of the experience.

The apple wine is accompanied by classic dishes from the Hesse region - rustic home cooking often based on meat, potatoes, herbs and local produce. Those who like to explore regional food traditions will probably feel at home here.

At the same time, of course, there is a wide range of international restaurants, which usually comes with the role of international financial centre.

A city for walking and cycling

For travellers who like to get active, Frankfurt also seems to offer great opportunities. The river banks are green and popular for walks, picnics and bike rides. In addition, there are several trails leading out into the FrankfurtRhineMain region for those who want to combine city with nature.

Events that put the city on the map

Frankfurt also has a clear focus on major international events. Upcoming highlights include:

• 6 June 2026: Rooftop Day
• 28 - 30 Aug 2026: Museum Embankment Festival (every year)
• 23 Nov - 22 Dec 2026: Christmas market (every year)
• 2028: EuroGames
• 2029: UEFA Women's Euro 2029

A city that surprises

Perhaps what makes Frankfurt interesting is the mix of all this: financial centre and local culture, skyscrapers and half-timbered houses, international influences and strong regional identity.

The city seems to be big enough for a weekend, but at the same time rich enough to fill several days. And because the distances are short, you can get a lot of experience without stress.

For those of us who have travelled extensively in Germany, this feels like a city that could pleasantly surprise you on the spot - and perhaps for that very reason attract you to visit.

Want to know more about Frankfurt Am Main?

Want to know more about Frankfurt Am Main? You can find more information at Visit Frankfurt website! Or maybe you have tips or experiences to share? Please write in a comment!

This post is produced in co-operation with Visit Frankfurt and German-Swedish Chamber of Commerce