Between the glittering headquarters of the European Central Bank and its Medieval old town, Frankfurt's many personalities reveal themselves. Stunning parks, plenty of student hangouts as well as a happening nightlife scene prove that Frankfurt's strengths extend far beyond its commercial prominence.
Frankfurt is the hometown of Goethe and one of the centres of the Holy Roman Empire. Though heavily bombed during the Second World War, a fascinating history is discernable amidst the glitz and clamour of this financial powerhouse. Beautiful botanical gardens and a variety of exciting museums make Germany's biggest city a priority destination on any traveller's wish list.
It is easy to arrange flights and hotels in Frankfurt, which is exceptionally well connected. Direct flights from Dublin to Frankfurt run regularly, as do flights from Cork to Frankfurt. The currency is the Euro. Besides a brief flight duration of two hours, there is a time difference of just one hour between Germany and the UK (GMT+1). All this, and the fact that Germans speak excellent English, means that weekends in Frankfurt could not be more effortless to organise and enjoy.
There is no bad time to visit Frankfurt, where there are innumerable indoor attractions to visit even in the depths of winter. Christmas illuminates the city with even more lights than usual and the city hosts a number of Christmas markets. The most beautiful takes place in the Romerberg, the central square of the old city, which is flanked by half timbered buildings. Another popular time to visit the city is during Oktoberfest. Though the main celebrations take place in Munich, there are still plenty of beer halls and pop up events to experience on the doorstep.
Package holidays in Frankfurt are effortlessly navigated via riverboat cruises. Primus Linie runs hour long cruises past all of the top attractions, while 'After Work Shipping' party and dinner cruises are the most atmospheric way to see the city's sparkling lights. Another highlight is the Main Tower, which is responsible for the city's 'Mainhattan' nickname. In under a minute, you are whisked 200 metres in the air to enjoy impressive views from a luxurious cocktail bar and restaurant.
A trip to Europe's economic powerhouse wouldn't be complete without visiting its Stock Exchange. There you can see the neoclassical old borse, which dates from 1843. Its symbolic sculptural decorations represent the five continents. A sculpture of a bull and bear lock forces in the square outside.
Towering over the cityscape among its many skyscrapers is Frankfurt's Gothic cathedral. With a history stretching back to the 13th century, the red sandstone edifice has seen the election and crowning of multiple Holy Roman Emperors. Rebuilt after the 1944 bombings, the Kaiserdom also houses a fascinating museum.
Amongst the city's other popular atrractions, visitors should be sure to see the following:
Local lore says that Apfelwein gained popularity several hundred years ago in Frankfurt during a shortage of wine. This lip smacking variation on cider makes a great accompaniment to traditonal dishes. Try Goethe's favourite Gruene Sosse, (a mixture of herbs), which is often served with boiled eggs. For a light snack there's Tartarrenbrot, an open sandwich with raw beef and pickles.
There is much heartier fare on offer too, including the classic mashed potatoes and pig knuckle. For the best Apfelwein around, visit Apfelweinwirtschaft Adolf Wagner. Frankfurt's central indoor food market, Kleinmarkthalle offers a wide variety of international foods and there are several informal restaurants where you can grab a light lunch.
There is so much to do this world class city that the souvenir shopping opportunities are endless. Romerberg's Christmas market is an excellent place to find stocking fillers come the festive season. The rest of the year, target the the Zeil promenade, which caters to your high end shopping needs, including Frankfurt's famed leather goods. Berger Strasse is packed with vintage and independent shops. Don't leave without some Apfelwein.