Frankfurt, Germany, stands as a striking example of architectural diversity.
From historical landmarks to modern skyscrapers, this city has a rich blend of old-world charm and contemporary design.
Visitors will be enchanted by the unique structures and styles that make up Frankfurt’s cityscape.
What are the best architectural buildings to explore in Frankfurt?
This article will guide you through ten must-see buildings that capture the essence of the city’s architectural brilliance.
Each building tells a story of innovation, history, and artistic expression, making Frankfurt a fascinating destination for architecture enthusiasts.
1. Römer
The Römer, located in the heart of Frankfurt’s Altstadt, is a stunning example of medieval architecture.
It has been a central feature of the city for over 600 years.
Originally built in the 15th century, it has served as Frankfurt’s city hall throughout its history.
This historic building is located opposite the Old St. Nicholas Church.
The Römer consists of a complex of nine houses and several inner courtyards. These additions have made it even more impressive over the years.
Visitors can admire the 52 portraits of emperors in the imperial hall.
To learn more, you can visit Römer – Wikipedia.
2. Frankfurt Cathedral
Frankfurt Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of St. Bartholomew, is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks.
It stands out with its impressive Gothic architecture.
The cathedral is dedicated to St. Bartholomew and has played a vital role in German history. It was the site of the coronation of Holy Roman Emperors.
Visitors can admire the tall spire, which offers a panoramic view of Frankfurt.
Inside, the intricate stained glass windows and detailed carvings capture the eye.
Explore the crypt to see the ancient relics and learn about the cathedral’s long history.
Its grandeur and historical significance make it a must-see attraction.
Learn more about the Frankfurt Cathedral.
3. Goethe House
The Goethe House in Frankfurt is famous for being the birthplace of Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, one of Germany’s most significant writers.
Located in the Innenstadt district, this house offers a glimpse into 18th-century life.
The house is a museum now and showcases many artifacts from Goethe’s life.
Notably, visitors can see where Goethe wrote some of his earliest works, like “The Sorrows of Young Werther.”
Adjacent to the house is the Goethe Museum. This museum features a collection of paintings from Goethe’s era and helps illustrate the cultural context in which he lived and wrote.
For those interested in literature and history, visiting the Goethe House is a must.
More information can be found on the City of Frankfurt’s website.
4. Städel Museum
The Städel Museum in Frankfurt is one of Germany’s oldest and most significant museum foundations.
Established in 1815 by Johann Friedrich Städel, it offers a comprehensive collection spanning over 700 years of art.
Located along the Museumsufer on the River Main, the museum houses 3,100 paintings, 660 sculptures, and over 4,600 photographs.
It focuses on art from the Renaissance, the Baroque period, and early Modern art.
The latest addition to the museum is an underground extension designed by Schneider + Schumacher.
This innovative design creates a new space for contemporary art while preserving the museum’s garden above.
This expansion has been praised for its architectural creativity.
Visitors can explore an array of exhibitions, including special programs and digital offerings.
Upcoming exhibits feature women artists between Frankfurt and Paris around 1900.
The combination of historical and modern elements makes the Städel Museum a must-visit.
5. Main Tower
Main Tower is one of Frankfurt’s most iconic skyscrapers.
Located in the Innenstadt district, it stands at 200 meters (656 feet). The building features an antenna spire reaching 240 meters (787 feet).
Designed by Hamburg-based architects, Schweger und Partner, it was the first high-rise in Europe with a fully-glazed façade.
The tower has 56 floors and five underground levels.
Main Tower offers two public viewing platforms.
The views from these platforms provide a stunning panorama of Frankfurt’s skyline.
The Main River runs nearby, which is why the building got its name.
6. Palmengarten
Palmengarten is a renowned botanical garden in Frankfurt.
It spans 22 hectares and offers a diverse collection of rare plants and beautiful flowers. This garden is a 147-year-old attraction, making it both historic and picturesque.
Visitors can explore various themed gardens and greenhouses at Palmengarten.
Each section highlights different types of plants, creating a unique experience for plant enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.
Palmengarten is particularly famous for its lush tropical greenhouse. This area features exotic plants, providing a taste of the tropics in the middle of Frankfurt.
Guided tours are available for those who want a deeper understanding of the flora and history.
These tours offer detailed insights and enhance the visitor experience.
To learn more, check out the detailed reviews and information on the Palmengarten page.
7. Alte Oper
The Alte Oper, or Old Opera House, is one of Frankfurt’s most iconic buildings.
Located in the Innenstadt within the banking district, it serves as a concert hall and hosts various events throughout the year.
First opened in 1880, the original building was destroyed during World War II. It was rebuilt and reopened in 1981, showcasing both historical and modern elements.
The architecture combines classical and modern design. This mix creates a stunning visual experience for visitors.
Inside the Alte Oper, the main hall is known for its excellent acoustics.
It features concerts across different genres, including classical, jazz, and pop.
For more information, visit the Alte Oper.
8. Museum für Moderne Kunst
The Museum für Moderne Kunst (MMK) in Frankfurt is a renowned modern art museum.
Established in 1981 and opened to the public in 1991, it was designed by Viennese architect Hans Hollein.
Owing to its unique triangular design, the museum is often called the “piece of cake” by locals.
MMK features three separate venues: MMK 1, MMK 2, and MMK 3.
MMK 1, the original building, is located at Braubachstrasse. MMK 2 opened in 2014 inside a high-rise known as Taunus Turm. MMK 3, situated near the first location, began welcoming visitors in 2007.
The museum’s collection highlights contemporary art.
Since its opening, MMK has become a major institution for art lovers. It forms part of Frankfurt’s Museumsufer, a cluster of culturally significant museums along the riverbank.
For more detailed information, visit the museum’s website.
9. Eiserner Steg
Eiserner Steg, also known as the Iron Bridge, is a well-known pedestrian bridge in Frankfurt, Germany.
It spans the Main River, connecting the city center with Sachsenhausen.
Built in 1869, the bridge showcases neo-Gothic architecture. It was destroyed during World War II but was rebuilt afterward.
Today’s structure offers a mix of historic charm and modern stability.
The bridge is popular with locals and tourists.
It provides stunning views of Frankfurt’s skyline and riverfront.
Eiserner Steg is often bustling with foot traffic, making it a lively spot to visit.
For more information on Eiserner Steg, visit the City of Frankfurt am Main website.
10. Kleinmarkthalle
Kleinmarkthalle is a covered market located in Frankfurt, Germany.
It offers a variety of fresh products, from meats to fruits, to baked goods. This market has become a local institution, attracting both residents and tourists.
Visitors can enjoy a glass of wine while exploring the stalls.
The market is open from Monday to Saturday, providing ample opportunity to visit.
The vibrant atmosphere of Kleinmarkthalle makes it a must-see attraction.
Its central location in Frankfurt makes it easily accessible to anyone in the city.
Renowned for its diverse offerings, this market is one of Frankfurt’s key attractions.
Architectural Styles of Frankfurt
Frankfurt is a melting pot of architectural styles ranging from modern skyscrapers to baroque palaces. Each style reflects the city’s rich history and cultural evolution.
Modernist Architecture
Frankfurt embraces modernism with its skyline dominated by tall, sleek skyscrapers.
One notable example is Westendstrasse 1, which stands 682 feet tall with 53 floors.
Completed in 1993, it showcases the clean lines and functional design typical of modernist architecture.
The city’s financial district is filled with glass and steel structures.
These buildings are designed not just for aesthetic appeal but also for energy efficiency and sustainability.
Modernist architecture in Frankfurt represents the city’s forward-thinking attitude and economic prowess.
Baroque Influences
Baroque architecture is still visible in several historic buildings in Frankfurt.
The Holzhausen Palace, a former country residence, is a prime example.
Built in 1710, the palace features an octagonal floor plan and intricate ornamentation, embodying the grandiosity of the baroque style.
Similarly, the Cathedral of St. Bartholomew stands as a significant baroque structure.
The church’s large size and elaborate details are testaments to the period’s architectural extravagance.
These influences add a historic charm to the city’s landscape.
Post-War Reconstruction
Many of Frankfurt’s buildings had to be reconstructed after World War II. This period gave rise to a blend of old and new architectural styles.
The city’s careful reconstruction effort is evident in buildings like the Römer, an ancient complex that was meticulously rebuilt.
The post-war era also saw the introduction of mid-20th-century modernist buildings.
These structures prioritize functionality and simplicity, marking a shift from pre-war architectural styles.
Post-war reconstruction in Frankfurt highlights the city’s resilience and commitment to preserving its heritage while embracing modernity.
Historical Significance of Frankfurter Buildings
Frankfurt’s architecture reflects its rich history. This section explores how the city’s buildings have embodied various architectural styles over centuries, with particular focus on the medieval period and the industrial era.
Era of Industrialization
The era of industrialization brought significant changes to Frankfurt’s architecture.
Modern materials like steel and glass began to dominate structures, making buildings taller and more functional.
These changes were driven by the need for new commercial and residential spaces.
Notable examples include the Museum für Kommunikation and other industrial-era buildings along the Main River.
These structures showcased advanced engineering and design techniques.
They were created to serve the growing needs of commerce and communication.
Moreover, the rise of banks and financial institutions brought about iconic skyscrapers that still define Frankfurt’s skyline today.
These buildings not only emphasize utility but also incorporate unique architectural elements to stand out in a burgeoning metropolis.
Materials, design, and function merged to highlight new industrial advances.
Medieval Architecture
Frankfurt’s medieval architecture is best represented by the Römer, an iconic building in the historic center.
Constructed in the 15th century, it served as the city hall for over 600 years. With its stepped gables and intricate facade, the Römer is a prime example of gothic architecture.
Other significant medieval structures include the Imperial Cathedral and St. Paul’s Church. These buildings are crucial for understanding Frankfurt’s history and culture.
Their designs feature thick walls, small windows, and detailed carvings, reflecting the era’s architectural style.
The medieval influences extend to residential buildings in the Altstadt, where narrow streets and timber-framed houses showcase traditional construction techniques.
These buildings demonstrate the city’s long tradition of commerce, culture, and religion, remaining a testament to Frankfurt’s architectural heritage.