 Country: Germany Capital: Berlin Language: German Currency: Euro |
Frankfurt is one of the most economically important cities in Germany, as well as in Europe. Many banks, government organizations and financial institutions have their headquarters here, making it Germany’s financial capital. Aside from that, it is a multicultural city with 25% of the population being non-German.
Around 12 million people visit Frankfurt each year and take in the many museums, galleries, shopping areas and taverns. Try taking the colourful Ebbelwei-Express tram that goes through the Old Town and district of Sachsenhaus, where there are museums aplenty. The area around the Hauptbanhof is filled with hotels and business, and the city’s red light district is in close proximity.
The historical centre is the Roemerberg square, which contains Nikolaikirche, or St. Nicholas’ Church, and the Roemer, which has been the city hall since the 15th century. For panoramic views over the city go to the top of Sankt Bartholomausdom, the Church of St. Bartholomew.
The Museum fuer Moderne Kunst (Museum of Modern Art), Staedelsche Kunstitute und Staedelsche Galerie (Staedel Art Institute and Municipal Gallery) are worthy for art lovers. The Goethe Haus is the former home of the most famous German poet, which has been restored since its destruction during the Second World War.
The Zoologischer Garten is one of Europe’s most attractive zoos. The tropical plants and exotic birds on display are likely to keep younger family members enthralled for hours. Shoppers should head to Zeil, a pedestrianised shopping district, which is also Germany’s busiest.
Finally no trip to Frankfurt would be complete without sampling a bottle of Apfelwein, literally meaning ‘apple wine’.