First-time visitors should base themselves in the Altstadt (Old Town) around the Römer, within walking distance of the river and main sights. For nightlife and apple-wine taverns, choose Sachsenhausen; families and quieter stays suit leafy Westend or Nordend; budget travellers and late arrivals get the best transport links in the Bahnhofsviertel near the main station.
The areas, by traveller
Altstadt (Old Town)
Centred on the reconstructed Römer square and close to the Main river, this compact core puts museums, churches and pedestrian streets within easy walking distance.
Explore Altstadt (Old Town) →Sachsenhausen
Across the river from the centre, this district is known for its apple-wine (Ebbelwei) taverns and the Museumsufer stretch of museums along the south bank.
Explore Sachsenhausen →Bahnhofsviertel
Surrounding the main railway station (Hauptbahnhof), it's the most connected area for trains and airport links; increasingly gentrified but still gritty in parts at night.
Explore Bahnhofsviertel →Westend
A leafy residential district with grand villas, near the Palmengarten botanical gardens and university, offering calm within a short ride of the centre.
Explore Westend →Nordend
A relaxed, residential neighbourhood with cafés, parks and local shops, well linked by U-Bahn and popular with those wanting a lived-in feel.
Explore Nordend →Bornheim
East of the centre, this village-like quarter centres on the lively Berger Straße, full of bars, markets and eateries frequented by residents.
Explore Bornheim →
Practical basics
- Getting in
- Frankfurt (FRA) airport is linked to the city centre and Hauptbahnhof by frequent commuter (S-Bahn) trains in roughly 15 minutes.
- Getting around
- An integrated U-Bahn, S-Bahn, tram and bus network covers the city, and the compact centre is easily walkable.
- Best time to visit
- Late spring through early autumn brings mild weather and outdoor dining, while December adds the popular Christmas market around the Römer.
Frequently asked
Where should first-time visitors stay in Frankfurt?
The Altstadt around the Römer is ideal, keeping the main sights, river and museums within walking distance.
Is the Bahnhofsviertel a safe area to stay?
It's the most convenient area for transport and has gentrified considerably, though some streets near the station can feel rough at night; choose your block with care.
Which area is best for nightlife?
Sachsenhausen is the classic choice for apple-wine taverns and bars, while Bornheim's Berger Straße offers a livelier local scene.
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