Business Meets Culture: Trips To Frankfurt Offer The Best Of Both Worlds

Frankfurt am Main often gets underestimated as merely Germany’s financial powerhouse, but in amongst the gleaming skyscrapers you’ll discover a city brimming with contrasts.

Affectionately nicknamed “Mainhattan” (pronounced in German as mine-hatten after the River Main) and “Bankfurt”, this city is also home to medieval squares nestled in the shadows of the modern pillars of steel and glass, as well as centuries-old taverns serving traditional Apfelwein (a sour-tasting cider). Juxtaposing yet seamless, Frankfurt blends characteristic business prowess with rich heritage and cultural splendour, offering travellers an unexpectedly diverse urban experience.

Römerberg: Where Medieval Charm Lives On

The heart of Frankfurt old town, Römerberg Square, transports visitors back through centuries of history. This picturesque plaza is surrounded by ornate churches and museums, and it’s dominated by the beautiful Römer building which is one of the unmissable sights to see in Frankfurt. Carefully restored in 1975, this landmark boasts distinctive stepped gables, and to this day it houses some of the former city-state’s administrative offices. The surrounding half-timbered houses, which have undergone meticulous restoration since World War II, create a storybook atmosphere that feels worlds away from the nearby financial district.

Wandering through these effortlessly photogenic cobblestone streets, you’ll discover hidden courtyards, traditional restaurants and the imposing Frankfurt Cathedral, which is the largest religious building in the city. Fun fact: despite its name, this building has never actually been an official cathedral! Always a lively part of the city, this neighbourhood is especially buzzing during the Frankfurt Christmas market, when wooden stalls fill the square with twinkling lights, the comforting aromas of Glühwein (German-style mulled wine) and handcrafted gifts.

World-Class Museums Along the Museumsufer

Frankfurt’s commitment to culture shines brightest along the Museumsufer, a cluster of museums and art galleries that line both banks of the River Main. This remarkable concentration of cultural institutions covers everything from ancient sculptures to contemporary art, making it perfect for any Frankfurt vacation itinerary. There’s even an annual cultural festival—Museumsuferfest—dedicated to this cluster of museums which attracts locals and regional visitors at the end of August each year.

The Städel Museum houses one of Germany’s most important art collections, spanning 700 years of European masterpieces. Meanwhile, the German Film Museum offers engaging exhibits that bring cinematic history to life – you can even arrange your own film edits using the interactive stations. Just next door you’ll be met with the splendid German Architecture Museum, which explores ancient huts all the way through to the city’s modern skyscrapers.

For those interested in Frankfurt history, the Historical Museum Frankfurt provides insights into the city’s social and anthropological evolution from Roman settlement to modern metropolis. And if it’s ancient history you’re after, you won’t want to miss the Frankfurt Archaeological Museum, which is sited in a former monastery and boasts exhibits exploring the city’s vast history since the Neolithic period. Keeping on the theme of history, a short walk along the river embankment lies the Frankfurt Jewish Museum, which delves into more than 800 years of Jewish life in the city. Each of these institutions offers its own perspective on human creativity and achievement in this richly historical location.

Skyline Views and Urban Adventures

For the best perspective on Frankfurt’s unique character, head up to the Main Tower observation deck. From nearly 200 metres in the air, the Frankfurt skyline will spread out before you in all its glory: a forest of glass and steel punctuated by church spires and, of course, the building’s namesake river running through the middle. On clear days, you can even see beyond the city’s architecture into the nearby Taunus mountains – a perfect spot for anyone keen on hiking and getting stuck into nature.

Back at ground level, the long list of fun things to do in Frankfurt extends far beyond the traditional tourist sights. For example, the TimeRide virtual reality experience honours the city’s innovative ambition and takes you on an immersive historical journey. There’s also plenty of river cruises that offer unmatched panoramic views of the city from an alternative perspective.

Markets & Local Flavours: Your Unique Frankfurt Culture Trip

Frankfurt’s weekly markets provide authentic, colourful glimpses into local life. The Kleinmarkthalle, a covered market hall, buzzes with vendors promoting everything from regional cheeses and spiced sausages to a vast offering of international specialties. During June, the Bornheim farmers’ market adds extra vibrancy to this charming neighbourhood, offering fresh seasonal produce and artisanal goods.

With over 100 per year taking place, the city’s festival calendar keeps energy high all year round. Summer brings the renowned Apfelwein Festival around Roßmarkt in the city centre, while the Frankfurt beer festival gardens come alive during the annual Oktoberfest celebrations (keep in mind: despite the name, the celebrations actually start in mid-September).

From traditional folk festivals like the Wäldchestag, to the striking Rose Festival held in the city’s largest botanical garden, events in Frankfurt range from neighbourhood celebrations to major cultural festivities, ensuring there’s always something fun for you to visit if you’re visiting the city on business. As you can probably now tell, the Frankfurt German market tradition extends well beyond the well-known Christmas markets!

Jazz, Literature and Living History

The legendary Jazzkeller, one of Europe’s oldest jazz clubs, has been hosting jam sessions in Frankfurt since 1952. This atmospheric basement venue continues to attract both international stars and rising talent, maintaining Frankfurt’s reputation as a jazz hotspot. Weekly improv jam sessions create unique performances that capture the spontaneous spirit of the genre. Perfect for evening entertainment if you’re meeting friends or business associates!

Are you a literary enthusiast? Make sure you check out the Goethe House Museum in Frankfurt’s Innenstadt district. Birthplace of Germany’s most celebrated writer, this museum features carefully preserved rooms where Johann Wolfgang von Goethe spent his childhood years. Visitors here are offered intimate insights into eighteenth-century life and the environment that shaped one of the most influential figures in European literature. The adjoining museum contextualises his work within Frankfurt’s broader cultural heritage, and a second museum next door explores the wider Romanticism movement from Goethe’s lifetime.

Modern Comforts in a Historic City

Whether you’re in Frankfurt for a business meeting, a conference, or a longer Bleisure trip, you’ll appreciate accommodation where you can rest and recuperate in surroundings that are relaxing yet inspiring. In between your various engagements and exploring Frankfurt’s cultural treasures, having your base at the bold b’mine Frankfurt Airport hotel means you’ll have a curated stay with access to modern,  innovative amenities.

This spot is conveniently connected for getting to and from the airport, and the city centre is only a 20-minute taxi away. This makes it the perfect choice for both business and leisure travellers who appreciate authentic, inviting accommodation.

Seasonal Highlights and Year-Round Appeal

Each season brings its own character to Frankfurt. Spring sees the city burst into bloom, with breathtaking cherry blossoms lining the river and outdoor café terraces reopening for the peak season. Summer extends the daylight hours for evening strolls and atmospheric open-air dining. Autumn paints the parks in golden hues, while winter transforms the city with festive markets and cosy evenings in welcoming local taverns.

Look beyond Frankfurt’s business district reputation, and you’ll see a city of two interconnecting, complimentary halves. Where centuries-old beer taverns thrive alongside Michelin-starred restaurants. Where baroque churches stand in the shadows of modern skyscrapers. And where cutting-edge museums stand proudly alongside convention centres and business hotels.

Explore the best of business and culture on your trip to Frankfurt and create a rich tapestry of memories. Discover the WorldHotels collection of independent hotels today.