During World War II, Frankfurt was almost totally destroyed by bombs and explosions. Since then, it has completely reinvented itself - and now it’s a thriving, cosmopolitan destination with a whole range of attractions including art galleries, leafy parks and upmarket shopping areas.
Many of the city’s lost buildings have also been painstakingly and sensitively rebuilt, replacing destruction with a daring approach to the past.
Galleries and Goethe
Frankfurt is home to over 40 museums, which are dotted along the meandering Main river. Perhaps one of the most famous, the 200-year-old Städel museum, has a beautiful array of art to its name. You’ll see timeless pieces by Rubens, Rembrant, van Eyck, Monet, Picasso and more.
On the other side of the river, the Museum of Natural History boasts Europe's only complete Diplodocus skeleton - plus an abundance of plants, animals and family-friendly dioramas.
Famously, Frankfurt is the birthplace of Germany's most esteemed writer - Johann Wolfgang von Goethe. His home was destroyed during the war, but has since been restored so you can gain an insight into his family life and see where he composed his masterpieces.
A triumph of restoration
Severe wartime damage means that much of the old town is actually rather new. Despite only being refurbished in the 1980s it still has an old-world charm. On your travels, you’ll see traditional half-timbered houses and the Rathaus city hall building, which dates back to 1405.
The Römerberg square - translated as ‘Roman Mountain’ - is the historic heart of old town Frankfurt, proudly retaining its 18th century appearance and hosting part of the Frankfurt Christmas Market every year.
The Black Forest and Baden-Baden
Frankfurt Airport is also an excellent base for exploring Germany. The pine-clad Taunus mountains provide incredible views of the nearby city, while the spa town of Wiesbaden offers a rare glimpse into the past, having retained most of its pre-war beauty.
The city of Hanau is just 20 miles east of the airport, offering an easy and enjoyable day trip. The not-so-new New Town Hall - built in 1733 - stands proudly in the old Marktplatz and a colorful calendar of fairytale festivals celebrate the city as the birthplace of the Brothers Grimm.
If you’re looking to relax in style, drive south along the Rhine river for an hour and a half to the spa town of Baden-Baden – a destination popular with spa-goers since Roman times. This historic town is the gateway to the Black Forest, a densely wooded area famous for its wolves, bears and idyllic, isolated villages.
Car rental at Frankfurt Rhein-Main Airport opens the door to an enchanting world of dark woods, snow-capped mountains and picture-book German towns. Whether you’re spending time in Frankfurt or exploring the nearby sights, getting behind the wheel is the most convenient way to explore this remarkable part of Europe.
