Frankfurt

Some History First

Frankfurt is known as the financial capital of Germany and from the highway (autobahn) it looks very modern. However, there are some ancient things to see while visiting.

This city also played a significant role in history. It suffered greatly from the bombings during World War II but was lovingly restored in the 1980s. The River Main runs through the city and boat tours offer remarkable views from the water.

Weather / Best Time to Visit

Spring runs from March to May and is a slightly unstable time to visit. This season can bring snow, heat, wind, or temperatures up to 70 degrees.

Summer, June to August, is very warm with temperatures reaching into the 90s. However, afternoon thunderstorms are frequently seen and can help in bringing the temperatures down. This is also a high season for tourism so keep that in mind.

Fall that goes from September to November is generally pleasant with cooler temperatures. October can see more rain and November can get colder.

Winter sees daytime temperatures average around freezing during the day and below freezing at night. Snowfall is frequent but not does accumulate in large quantities.

The best time to visit Frankfurt is September or April when the weather is warm but not sweltering and the nights are cooler. Also, flights and hotels are generally cheaper during this time.

Restaurant Recommendations

Gaststätte Atschel

Address: Wallstraße 7, 60594 Frankfurt am Main

This is a really neat, old-school establishment serving traditional German cuisine in wood-paneled rooms. The restaurant was originally an apple wine bar from the 1800s. The walls are decorated with all things apple. Make sure you try the Apfelwein, apple wine, while you are there.

Café Maingold

Address: Zeil 1, 60313 Frankfurt am Main

A charming little café that is tucked away in a quiet neighborhood near the bustling Zeil shopping area. The inside is an eclectically decorated dining area with reclaimed furniture and gilded floral wallpaper. The café serves delicious homemade salads, pasta, and fresh fish.

Fun Facts

Frankfurt means ford of the Franks. The name was given to the city by Charlemagne, the King of the Franks. No, not the hot dog.

However, the town is the home of the hot dog, Frankfurter. These tasty meat logs were distributed to people during special events like imperial coronations.

Fourteen of the fifteen skyscrapers in Germany are in Frankfurt

Frankfurt was home to Johannes Gutenberg, the inventor of the printing press. There is a memorial dedicated to him in the Rossmarkt square.

The Brothers Grimm, the fairytale writers, lived in Hanau only 15 miles away from Frankfurt. They wrote tales such as Cinderella, Rapunzel, Snow White and Sleeping Beauty. If you have never read the original versions of these stories, not the Disney version, then you might want to check it out. Be forewarned… these stories are very dark.

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