Planning a trip to Frankfurt is like preparing for a buffet: you want to sample a bit of everything. In just three days, you can dive deep into the city’s history, savor its culinary delights, and soak up some greenery—all while pretending to be a sophisticated traveler. Here’s how to make your three days in Frankfurt unforgettable.
Day one: History and art
Start your adventure bright and early. Grab a coffee and a pretzel from a local bakery. You’ll need the energy. Your first stop is the iconic Römer, the city hall that looks like it’s straight out of a fairy tale. It’s a short tram ride from the city center, taking about 10 minutes. Spend an hour wandering its charming courtyard and snapping pictures. You might even feel like royalty. Well, until you realize you’re not.
Next, head over to the Städel Museum, just a 15-minute walk from the Römer. This art museum houses an impressive collection, including works from the likes of Rembrandt and Monet. Allocate about two hours to explore. Don’t forget to check out the modern art section. You might find something that makes you question your entire existence—or at least your taste in art.
- Morning: 9:00 AM - Grab a coffee and pretzel.
- 10:00 AM - Visit Römer (1 hour).
- 11:00 AM - Walk to Städel Museum (15 min). Explore for 2 hours.
After your art immersion, it’s time for lunch. Head to Frankfurter Küche for traditional local dishes. Try the Handkäse mit Musik—a cheese that might just make you sing. After all, it’s all about the experience, right?
In the afternoon, take a leisurely stroll along the Main River. The scenic views are the perfect backdrop for some deep thoughts about life, or at least your next meal. Spend about an hour soaking it all in before heading to the Alte Oper, the old opera house. Its stunning architecture is worth a few photos.
- Afternoon: 1:00 PM - Lunch at Frankfurter Küche.
- 2:00 PM - Walk along the Main River (1 hour).
- 3:00 PM - Visit Alte Oper (30 min).
Wrap up your day with dinner at a local restaurant like Apfelwein Wagner. Savor some Apfelwein (apple wine) and traditional Frankfurt dishes. Make sure to save room for dessert. You’ll want to try the Frankfurter Kranz cake because who doesn’t love cake?
Day two: Culinary adventures
Get ready for a day that will delight your taste buds. Start your morning at Kleinmarkthalle, a bustling market that feels like a food lover’s paradise. Arrive by 9:00 AM and spend a couple of hours tasting local cheeses, sausages, and fresh bread. Chat with local vendors. They’ll appreciate your enthusiasm, even if your German is not up to par.
- Morning: 9:00 AM - Arrive at Kleinmarkthalle (2 hours).
- 11:00 AM - Sample local delicacies.
Feeling adventurous? After your market feast, head to Berger Strasse for a food tour. There are plenty of stops along the way to try various local eats. Spend about three hours here. You’ll want to taste some street food, grab a currywurst, and maybe even indulge in a little gelato. Calories don’t count on vacation, right?
For dinner, treat yourself at a traditional Apfelwein tavern. Zum Gemalten Haus is a perfect spot. Enjoy hearty German dishes paired with local apple wine while soaking in the atmosphere. Don’t be shy; join in on the local cheers.
- Afternoon: 1:00 PM - Food tour on Berger Strasse (3 hours).
- 4:00 PM - Snack break at a café.
- 7:00 PM - Dinner at Zum Gemalten Haus.
Day three: Green spaces and hidden gems
On your final day, it’s time to relax. Rent a bike and ride along the Main River. There’s a lovely path that stretches for miles. Spend your morning cycling through Grüneburgpark and Palmengarten, Frankfurt’s botanical garden. This should take about two hours. Remember to stop and smell the flowers. Or at least take a picture of them.
- Morning: 9:00 AM - Rent a bike.
- 10:00 AM - Ride through Grüneburgpark and Palmengarten (2 hours).
Next, take a break at a local café for a well-deserved coffee and pastry. After a bit of relaxation, wander through the charming streets of Sachsenhausen. This area is known for its half-timbered houses and cozy vibe. Spend a couple of hours exploring and maybe buying a souvenir or two. Who doesn’t love a good fridge magnet?
Cap off your three-day adventure with a lovely dinner at Apfelwein Dax. Enjoy the evening ambiance while reminiscing about your trip. You’ve explored history, indulged in delicious food, and soaked in nature. Not a bad way to spend three days, right?
- Afternoon: 12:00 PM - Coffee break at a café.
- 1:00 PM - Explore Sachsenhausen (2 hours).
- 4:00 PM - Souvenir shopping.
- 7:00 PM - Dinner at Apfelwein Dax.
So there you have it—a perfect three-day itinerary in Frankfurt that balances history, food, and relaxation. Pack your bags, grab your camera, and prepare for a whirlwind adventure. You might even find yourself planning a return trip before you leave. Go on, live your best life!
