Discover the culture and diversity of this historic yet modern metropolis. From baroque architecture to 16th century gabled houses, lively plazas and impressive skyscrapers, Frankfurt embraces its past while looking to the future.
Soak up the city
The Römerberg public space is a taste of traditional Germany. One end of this picture-perfect square is a line of historic gabled houses, with the iconic copper Justice Fountain standing in front of them.
In summer, the square fills with al fresco seating so you can relax with a coffee in the sunshine or tuck into hearty German fare. In winter, little wooden huts dappled in fairy lights line the square. If you’re here in winter, shop for trinkets and ornate gifts at the Frankfurt Christmas Market.
In behind the square, the cathedral of St Bartholomew’s spire juts out against the sleek skyscrapers. Explore the quiet interior of this magnificent building and ascend the tower for a magnificent view over the city’s skyline where the medieval buildings of the Römerberg stand against glass skyscrapers.
Get your culture fix at Museum Embankment on the banks of the River Main. The city’s various museums span centuries of German history and culture, including the Städel, an art museum with one of the most important collections in Germany. There’s also a film museum, Jewish heritage museum and even a childhood museum.
Heidelberg and the Rhine Valley
Visit Heidelberg, Germany’s oldest university town on a day trip from Frankfurt. Explore the baroque Old Town and the ruined hilltop Heidelberg Castle, the latter featuring a huge courtyard and magnificent terrace.
The wine cellars hold the world’s largest wine barrel, dubbed the Heidelberg Tun, while the town itself mixes both baroque and Renaissance architecture with modern buildings.
Take your rental car from Frankfurt along the romantic UNESCO-listed Rhine Valley, driving past sweeping vineyards, medieval towns and mountain top castles.
Stop to explore historic Rudesheim and walk down Drosselgasse, a 15th century lane in the Old Town, or visit the Benedictine Abbey of Saint Hildegard located among the vineyards above the town to get a flavour for old Germany.
Explore mountains and rivers
Enjoy a relaxing soak in the thermal springs in the Taunus, a mountain range north of the city centre – the main spa town of Bad Homburg is an easy drive from Frankfurt.
Once here, you can enjoy indoor and outdoor thermal pools, a cooler bathing lake, a cold plunge pool and whirlpools.
A relaxing stroll around Kurpark, a sizeable park close to the heart of the city with a number of mineral water fountains and monuments, is also highly recommended.
Start your journey in the bustling metropolis of Frankfurt, but leave time to explore the Rhine Valley and historic cities of the wider Hesse region. It’s all possible with car rental from Hertz.
