As one of Europe’s largest and busiest airports, Frankfurt Airport is more than just a gateway – it’s also a golden opportunity to spend an extra day exploring. With Condé Nast Traveller naming Frankfurt as one of the “Best Places to Go in Europe in 2026” (it will also be the World Design Capital in 2026) it’s the perfect time to turn your layover into a mini city-break.
Often dubbed “Mainhattan” (a nod to its location on the River Main and its skyscraper-filled skyline), Frankfurt blends modern architecture, historic charm and foodie culture in a compact footprint. So why not add an extra day after landing or before your next flight?
Getting into the City from the Airport
- From the airport’s Regionalbahnhof (S-Bahn station) hop on the S8 or S9 trains – they’ll get you into central Frankfurt in about 11-15 minutes.
- Alternatively, a taxi or rideshare from terminal to city centre will cost around €35-40 depending on traffic.
- Pro tip: If staying longer, the Deutschlandticket (€59/month for regional travel in Germany) might be worthwhile.
- Choose stations like Hauptwache or Konstablerwache for optimal access to the main shopping zone (Zeil) and historic Altstadt.
Historic City Centre & Skyline Contrast
Neue Altstadt (New Old Town): The area of the historic centre was largely destroyed in WWII, and Frankfurt made a conscious decision to rebuild the heart of the city. Today it appears like something from the 1500s – yet in reality it’s been reconstructed over recent years. The striking contrast between half-timber houses and the modern skyline is always fascinating.
Skyline Views: Frankfurt has quite a few ways to see the skyline — the most accessible is the Main Tower (with a public observation deck for just a few euros). For dinner with a view, consider Franziska (in the south-side high rise) or the NFT Skybar for drinks and skyline vistas.
Culture & Museums
- Art lovers: Don’t miss the Städel Museum — one of Germany’s top art museums.
- Natural history enthusiasts: The Senckenberg Museum of Natural History boasts dinosaur skeletons and immersive exhibits.
- For greenery: The Palmengarten is a peaceful botanical garden and ideal for a relaxed break from the city buzz.
- Bonus point: Frankfurt’s selection of cultural events is set to explode in 2026 as it becomes the World Design Capital.
Food & Drink (Coffee, Lunch, Dinner)
Coffee & Breakfast Spots
- Bunca Coffee
- drei kaffeebar
- Hoppenworth & Ploch
Lunch & Casual Bites
- Dining Raum
- Chinaski
- Sunny Side Up
Dinner & Evening
- naiv
- Babam
- Buffalo Steakhaus
Tip on local flavour: Get a taste of the region by trying Apfelwein (Frankfurt’s apple-wine) in the Sachsenhausen quarter – it’s a local tradition.
Make sure to check out our Frankfurt food guide for more food spots.
Neighborhoods & Local Vibe
Bahnhofsviertel: Known for its vibrant mix of restaurants and bars, it’s one of the city’s busiest food-zones. While two main streets (Nidda & Taunusstraße) have a rougher reputation, much of the area is absolutely worth exploring — quality street food, international eateries and a lively evening vibe.
Nordend & Sachsenhausen: If you have more time, step off the beaten path into Nordend for charming cafés, or head to Sachsenhausen for traditional Hessen cuisine (Grüne Soße & Apfelwein) and taverns.
Shopping & Premium Style
- Goethestraße: Frankfurt’s luxury shopping mile — ideal if you’re after designer labels or a stylish café stop.
- Zeil & Konstablerwache/Hauptwache: These central stations give you quick access into the shopping heart of the city.
Practical Layover Tips & Timing
How much time do you need?
- For a quick look: Even 2–3 hours allow you to leave the airport, explore Altstadt and return.
- If staying overnight: Pick a central hotel near Hauptwache or Römerberg so you’re ideally located for the next morning’s flight.
Tickets & Transport
- Buy your day ticket via the DB App or RMV App (there are ticket machines at the stations as well)
- Free WiFi, showers and lounges are available at the airport for waiting-time usage.
Timing Advice
- Arriving midday? Head straight for Altstadt, grab lunch and coffee, then enjoy skyline views at dusk.
- Arriving evening? Try dinner with a view + a walk along the Main river.
- Sunday? Note many shops are closed, especially outside the main tourist zones.
Verdict
If you’re flying through Frankfurt, don’t just wait for your connection. With its compact city centre, dramatic contrast of old and new, food culture and sky-high viewpoint options, the city makes for a surprisingly memorable stopover. Whether you’re here for a few hours or a full extra day, you can escape the airport and turn your layover into a genuine urban mini-escape.