Destination Inspiration: Frankfurt, Germany

Why go?

Affectionately known as ‘Mainhattan’ due to its large number of skyscrapers, Frankfurt is world-renowned as Germany’s business and financial centre. However, outside the shell of steel lies a core of culture, charm and tradition.

Take a stroll through the medieval Altstadt (old town) and your nose will be filled with the sweet smell of Apfelwein wafting out from local taverns. If cider’s not your thing, hearty bratwurst and delicious local beers are Frankfurt specialties. Your first stop will probably be Römerberg Square – Frankfurt’s beautifully bustling market place. As the historic heart of the Altstadt, it’s the site of numerous coronations, and where trade fairs and Christmas markets are held every year. You’ll also find St. Nicholas Church and the half-timbered houses of the Ostzeile here.

A huge variety of museums and galleries can be found in the city, particularly along the banks of the River Main. The Städel Museum exhibits seven centuries worth of fine art, while the German Museum of Architecture features several large exhibitions, 600 models and 180,000 architectural plans and drawings.

When to go?

For warm weather, head here between late spring and early autumn, when temperatures average around 25 °C. The city is well known for its trade shows: the Frankfurt Motor Show is held every two years in mid-September, and the Book Fair (Buchmesse) is held annually in mid-October. If you’re in town while these are on, be sure to plan in advance.

Where to stay?

Jumeirah Frankfurt – Frankfurt am Main, Germany

Situated in the city centre, Jumeirah Frankfurt features soaring views over Frankfurt’s skyline and the Taunus hills. The 28th floor is home to more than 40,000 bees, providing the hotel with fresh honey for breakfast and spa treatments. If you’re after a shopping spree, the city’s main shopping street, The Zeil, can be reached in a few minutes on foot.

Rocco Forte Villa Kennedy – Frankfurt am Main, Germany

Once a family home, this historic villa was renamed in honour of President John F Kennedy’s visit in 1963. Inside, you’ll find a tranquil courtyard garden, where you can escape the busy city streets and enjoy alfresco dinner and drinks in the warmer months. A modern, four-level spa is housed within the building’s grand exterior and includes an indoor pool, sauna and fitness centre.

Sofitel Frankfurt Opera – Frankfurt am Main, Germany

The Sofitel Frankfurt Opera has an enviable location, nestled between Opernplatz and the Liesl-Christ-Anlage park. The hotel’s interior is a definition of elegant, with designer furnishings and artwork in every room. The high-end shopping street Goethestraße, or ‘luxury lane’ as it’s known locally, is only a three-minute walk away, and home to some of the world’s finest watch and jewellery brands.

Grandhotel Hessischer Hof – Hotel Frankfurt – Frankfurt am Main, Germany

The Grandhotel Hessischer Hof is the only privately run hotel in the city, owned by the princes of Hesse. Inside, you’ll experience service and decor fit for royalty, with antique furnishings, valuable paintings, and vintage wines from the hotel’s own vineyard served in the bar. Rooms feature triple-glazed windows, so you can enjoy the perks of being in the city centre without the noise.

Roomers – Frankfurt am Main, Germany

Roomers prides itself on a sleek and ultra-modern design throughout, as well as a great location between the train station and the Main river. Quirky furnishings range from Cavalli swan chairs to fur-covered chaise longues. For some of the best views in the city, head up to the Sky Lounge. Located opposite the sixth-floor spa and wellness centre, it’s a great place to take in the sights after a massage or workout.

Steigenberger Frankfurter Hof – Frankfurt am Main, Germany

Established in 1876, Steigenberger Frankfurter Hof exudes an old-fashioned charm. Located in the middle of Frankfurt’s financial district and historic city centre, it’s home to a summer terrace and the Michelin-starred Restaurant Français. After a day of exploring the city, enjoy a soothing massage in the spa or relax in the Turkish bath.