WanderlustSix hidden gems in Frankfurt
Discover the city’s lesser-known attractions, from the Goethe House and Old Sachsenhausen to the Ebbelwei-Express
You’ve climbed Frankfurt’s Main Tower and explored the enchanting Römerberg. What now? Germany’s financial capital has a wealth of hidden delights, so take time to explore its quirky side with our pick of the more unusual things to do in Frankfurt.
Legendary writer, poet and statesman Johann Wolfgang von Goethe was born in Frankfurt and his former home is now a museum, lovingly restored to its former glory. Located in Innenstadt, in the centre of town, the imposing building has four storeys of book libraries, elegant antiques and classic paintings.
You can’t miss this traditional tram with its colourful muralled exterior as it rumbles through Frankfurt’s streets. One of the best ways to sightsee in Frankfurt, the Ebbelwei-Express takes its name from the city’s iconic Apfelwein drink. You’ll have the option to try this, and a local pretzel, as you ride in comfort through Altstadt and Sachsenhausen.
Frankfurt has an incredible choice of museums, and one of its most unusual, the DialogMuseum, presents an extraordinary sensory experience. Here, you’re guided through different life scenarios, such as visiting a bar or walking through a park in complete darkness, to experience what it is like to be blind.
Frankfurt was once surrounded by a giant wall with nine towers. Today, only one tower remains, the Eschenheimer Turm. Sitting high above the former north wall, the dramatic, 10-storey structure with its pointed turrets is an architectural reminder of Frankfurt’s medieval fortifications. As well as being Frankfurt’s oldest building, Eschenheimer Turm also doubles up as a restaurant serving international dishes and excellent drinks.
From cinema’s infancy in the 1800s, to 21st-century special effects, get to know your celluloid history at the German Film Museum. Expect a fully-immersive experience at this institution dedicated to movie magic. You’ll get to know film’s technological processes; interact with exhibits; and kick back in front of the silver screen in the in-house cinema. For information on English-language screenings and the ongoing exhibits, visit dff.film.
On the south bank of the River Main, this historic quarter is a time capsule of old Frankfurt. A labyrinth of cobbled streets, timbered houses and alleyways, Old Sachsenhausen makes a charming, leafy destination to spend an afternoon. Seek out traditional delicacies like handkäs cheese or Frankfurt’s famous grüne sosse (green sauce) served with boiled potatoes.