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Getting started

An easy walk through the old town and along the Main, with space to change your plans.

First time in Frankfurt? Start with a simple walk

Last checked: 24 September 2026. Check opening hours and local transport on the day you visit.

You don’t need a full sightseeing checklist on your first afternoon. Frankfurt is easier to enjoy when you choose one compact area, leave room for a break, and see how you feel after the flight. The old town and the Main river make a good starting point.

The easy route

  1. Begin at Römerberg. This historic square puts you close to Frankfurt’s Römer town hall and the reconstructed New Old Town. Walk the lanes at your own pace rather than rushing to collect landmarks.
  2. Head towards the Eiserner Steg. This pedestrian bridge crosses the Main and gives you a view back towards the city. If you only want a short outing, the riverfront is already a pleasant place to pause.
  3. Choose one more stop. On a dry day, follow the river and enjoy the contrast between older streets and Frankfurt’s skyline. If the weather turns, pick a museum along the Museumsufer instead; check the individual museum’s opening times and tickets first.
  4. Leave a little time for food. If you’re visiting when it is open, Kleinmarkthalle is an option for a casual snack and a look around. It is not a Sunday stop, so choose a café or another venue if you’re visiting then.

If you’d prefer a sit-down meal, see our Römer Pils Brunnen note on pork knuckle and schnitzel. The restaurant asks guests to reserve, so check availability before heading over.

The city’s tourism office highlights the New Old Town, Römer, Eiserner Steg and Museum Embankment among Frankfurt’s attractions. The small route above is our editorial suggestion for bringing a few of them together, not an official tour. Frankfurt’s top sights · Eiserner Steg · Kleinmarkthalle

If you’re tired or short on time

Make Römerberg and the river your only two stops. You can always come back tomorrow. With children or heavy luggage, drop your bags at your accommodation before setting out; station and hotel locations matter more than a “perfect” sightseeing order.

If it rains

Choose a single museum and an easy meal nearby. Museumsufer is an area with multiple museums, but each institution has its own hours, tickets and exhibitions. Check the official museum site for the one you choose. Frankfurt tourism highlights

Getting there

If you’re coming straight from FRA, our airport-to-city guide explains the S8/S9, the Regionalbahnhof and ticket options. From your hotel, enter Römerberg, Frankfurt am Main into your preferred route planner. Check the actual route rather than assuming you need to start at the main railway station.

A friendly reminder: Sunday and public-holiday opening patterns can be different. Save your outdoor walk for any day, but check shops, food venues and museums individually. Carry a little flexibility into the plan.