Top 5 tips to enjoy Frankfurt like a local

Germany’s fifth largest city may not be as world-renowned as its compatriots of Munich and Berlin, but don’t let that fool you. Here are my tips on how to maximize your time there.

1. Know your neighborhood

Is there any better way to get to know your base surroundings than by taking a stroll in and around where you’re staying? Our advice to anyone visiting our hotel is to get a contrasting view of the district by wandering around both Bergerstrasse and Sachsenhausen. The latter, especially in the area of Brückenviertel, gives you an immediate sense of the historical element of Frankfurt with small, privately owned shops and cafés lining the streets. Bergerstrasse on the other hand gives you a much trendier view of the modern city, full of bars and restaurants where the locals hang out, have fun and create the inviting atmosphere.

2. Frankfurt as the stars come out

No matter how busy your day has been, the evenings in Frankfurt cannot be ignored. High on our hit list are the musical offerings with Alte Oper topping the lot. Its name translates as ‘Old Opera’ and this was the original city opera house before being destroyed by the bombing of the Second World War, after which it was completely rebuilt then reopened in the 1980s. Constantly changing concerts, performances and musicals make the Alte Oper particularly exciting and it’s within walking distance from the hotel.

3. Bird’s eye view of Frankfurt

Although tourists often visit, locals love the Main Tower too. An observation platform 200 meters above the ground lets you see where you’ve been, where you’re going or just gives you that feeling of serenity as you gaze out from near the billowing clouds. The flowing mountain range of Taunus that hugs the horizon 30-miles away can be seen clearly, weather permitting, and for those looking to take the experience further there is a highly recommended, if rather pricey, restaurant. It’s an ideal location for a romantic dinner or a business meal to impress.

4. Market stalls and luxury brands

In less than five minutes from leaving the hotel you’ll be confronted with a plethora of shops on the long street that is simply known as Zeil. National and internationally known windows can be found here for most of your purchasing needs or for just a chance to see what’s on offer. If more luxury is desired, work your way down the main railway line that runs parallel to Zeil to the Goethestrasse, home to the likes of Chanel and Gucci. At the other end of the financial scale, Frankfurt really knows how to do local markets and every Thursday and Saturday the Konstablerwache offers up some regional delicacies, while the Schillermarkt at the beautiful Eschenheimer Turm adds a tasty apple wine option to go along with a traditional shopping experience.

5. Chinese tranquility in downtown Frankfurt

The Bethmannpark, just five minutes from our doors, is over 200 years old and is a firm favorite with the residents and commuters to the city. Take some time to enjoy the peace and quiet away from the hectic everyday life and the bustle of the active city. The special highlight held within the grounds of the park is the Chinese Garden, known as the "Garden of Heavenly Peace", and here you’ll be treated to plants and other displays imported directly from China.

We hope that this gives you a taste of things to do and see while you visit our city and, of course, when you stay with us our Guest Relations team will be more than happy to give you some further suggestions to help you see life here as a local.

Author: Marta Leal

Guest Relations Manager at Avani Frankfurt City

My name is Marta Leal and I am a Sevillian living in Frankfurt. I work as a Guest Relations Manager at the best techno place in Frankfurt, the Avani Frankfurt City Hotel.

I started working for different companies in London, and I ended up working in one of the most expensive streets in the world, Park Lane as Guest Relations Manager.

A year ago, I undertook what I now consider to be the best choice of my life, moving to Frankfurt.

I love my job because I combine my passion for helping others with leadership and teamwork. At the end of the day, I am proud to see what an efficient team we have at the hotel, how much we help guests, and how happy and satisfied they leave after they visit this great financial city.