Frankfurt isn’t always love at first sight. At least, it wasn’t for me.
But after making it my home base for over two weeks—and returning twice more—I saw a different city emerge. One layered with contrasts: medieval charm beside modern glass towers, quiet river paths beside the busy financial sector.
2 days in Frankfurt is enough to see both sides.
You can wander its Old Town squares, linger by the Main River, explore world-class museums, and still find time to do a little shopping. It’s a city that rewards a slower pace and an open mind. If you give Frankfurt two days, it gives you its essence.
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Day 1 in Frankfurt: Exploring the Old Town and the Main River
I recommend that your first day in Frankfurt always begin in the Altstadt. The Old Town is the reason to visit Frankfurt —half-timbered houses on Römerberg Square to the sound of church bells from the cathedral, and the reconstructed medieval buildings that lie in between. I like to wander slowly here, camera in hand, before the streets fill with people.
From there, I cross the Eiserner Steg, the iron footbridge linking old Frankfurt to the riverbank. The view of the skyline—historic spires against modern towers—never gets old. Along the Main River, cafés spill onto the promenade where you can watch the constant stream of people and boats drift by.
I recommend you refer to my full one-day Frankfurt itinerary for detailed stops and timing.
Day 2 of 2 Days in Frankfurt: Local Cafés, Art, and Green Spaces
I recommend that your second day in Frankfurt be a mix of going deeper and more slowly. These are all experiences I tried and enjoyed.
Morning
I have three options to start your day with a cafe and a nearby activity.
Start in Sachsenhausen, a neighbourhood that feels both historic and refined. Café im Liebieghaus is tucked within the sculpture museum’s garden, shaded by trees and filled with locals who linger over their cappuccinos. From here, it’s a short stroll to the Städel Museum, one of Europe’s leading art museums. Inside, you’ll find works by Vermeer, Monet, and Kirchner. It’s worth visiting not only for the collection but for the quiet it offers—a true refuge along the Main.
Another option is Café Karin in the Innenstadt district, near Goetheplatz. It’s charming, relaxed, and perfect before visiting the Deutsches Romantik-Museum (DRM) or Goethe House next door. The museum captures the beauty of the Romantic period—letters, poetry, and art that remind you how deeply emotion shaped German culture.
Or head to Liebesbrot, a bright café in Westend, known for its delicious baked goods. From there, I recommend you wander into Palmengarten, Frankfurt’s botanical garden, before continuing through Westend’s elegant residential streets. It’s one of the city’s most elegant neighbourhoods, lined with classic villas and quiet parks.
Afternoon
I have three options on where you can stop for lunch, followed by a nearby activity in three different areas of the city.
One of my favourites is Apfelweinwirtschaft Atschel in Sachsenhausen, a cozy traditional German tavern serving Frankfurt’s famous apple wine and hearty regional dishes. It’s the kind of place where conversations linger and time slows down. From there, it’s an easy walk to Museumsufer, the city’s Museum Embankment along the Main River. Lined with more than a dozen museums, it’s home to the Städel, German Film Museum, and Museum of Applied Arts. The river views are lovely, and the variety of art—classical to contemporary—makes it worth spending an afternoon here.
If you prefer something lighter, Mehlwassersalz in the Innenstadt is known for baking the best bread in Frankfurt, so expect great-tasting elevated sandwiches in a bright, modern setting. After lunch, wander to the Museum MMK fur Modern Kunst, a modern art museum, or explore a few independent art galleries nearby. Or take a walk along Saalgasse Strasse, where the postmodern architecture from numbers 14–18 adds a surprising splash of colour and geometry to the cityscape—a reminder of Frankfurt’s creativity after World War II. This is a must for architecture lovers.
For something livelier, head to Kleinmarkthalle, Frankfurt’s indoor market, for lunch among locals—standing at the counter with a glass of wine or plate of antipasti. Then make your way to the Zeil area, Frankfurt’s main shopping boulevard. It’s a mix of international brands from designer to mainstream fashion and a sleek mall, but tucked among them are side streets with small boutiques and cafés. It’s the city’s most lively hub—modern and busy.
Travel Tip: I recommend mixing neighbourhoods as you plan your day. Choose a café in one area and a lunch spot in another—it’s the best excuse to walk between them. You’ll see more of Frankfurt’s everyday life, and maybe stumble upon a place not listed anywhere. That’s the essence of slow travel.
Evening
End your last day with an exceptional dinner at any of these recommended restaurants where I dined.
One classic choice is Apfelwein Wagner in Sachsenhausen, a beloved apple wine tavern and a perfect excuse to visit this charming riverside neighbourhood if you haven’t already. The wooden tables, hearty dishes, and joyful laughter of locals give it an old-world warmth. Be sure to try the Apfelwein or cider here—it’s Frankfurt’s signature drink, and no visit feels complete without it.
For something more polished, Restaurant Lohninger in Sachsenhausen is famous for its Austrian heritage, both in style and cuisine. It’s just a short walk from the Main River.
If you’re a vegetarian like me, dine at Seven Swans in the Innenstadt for its fine dining vegan menu, thoughtfully presented in an intimate riverside townhouse. It’s a Michelin star, and this makes it one of Frankfurt’s most unique experiences.
Or head north to Mon Amie Maxi in Westend, a stylish brasserie with a soft, Parisian touch. The art deco details and refined dishes feel indulgent yet relaxed—a lovely way to end the day.
Whichever you choose, finish your evening with a view. The NFT Skybar offers skyline cocktails, while the Main Tower provides an open-air lookout from the highest point in the city.
Final Thoughts
Rest assured, spending a couple of days in Frankfurt is enough to see the city’s main attractions, plus get a real sense of its soul.
It’s a city that’s compact, well-organized, and easy to navigate. The trams, U-Bahn, and S-Bahn connect everything seamlessly, but I often find the best way to explore is on foot—Frankfurt rewards the unhurried traveller.
If you’d like to take day trips to places like Heidelberg, Mainz, or Wiesbaden, plan for a few extra days. The city makes an ideal base for exploring this part of Germany by train.
Planning a short stay or a weeklong itinerary? I can help you design a trip that blends the must-sees with meaningful moments throughout Germany. Learn more about my trip planning services.
