Frankfurt, Germany is the place for medieval and natural history, art museums and walks through gardens and along the river.
Any trip to Frankfurt should start with the old city center, for the Altstadt as it is known even beyond Germany's own borders, will remind you of the rich past of the European continent as a whole. It is a memorable contrast to the modernity of Frankfurt, as you land at the granite and glass airport and make your way downtown in rather futuristic manner.
Much of the priceless and ancient architecture is actually of recent origin, having been restored after the bombings of World War II. Nevertheless, a walk through the area does convey how people of the land must have lived through the ages. Do make notes, whether in your mind, paper or digital form, of the similarities with the scenes of other nations that seem to come together as one union. It takes time to soak in the special atmosphere, so if you are short of time, just zip through the Dom St. Bartholomaus, a restored tower that was originally built more than 500 years ago and in whose precincts Roman Emperors displayed great pomp and regal splendor for generations.
Your second Frankfurt stop can continue a journey in conservation and take you much further back in time than any Altstadt ever can. The city's zoo is part of an European initiative for endangered species and you can enjoy quality time with a wondrous collection of reptiles, birds, big cats and fish with your entire family. Do set aside plenty of time if there are children and adult nature lovers with you, for it can be rather difficult to part company with a most splendid display of the wealth of our world.
Frankfurt boasts a film museum that will delight everyone from a casual and occasional viewer to the most avid film lover and even a professional from the field. The museum has a comprehensive walk through the major steps in the history of the cinema and vintage classics run throughout the day. The museum makes it to the top 10 with ease and distinction.
You should need some calories by now, so step 4 could be a typical Frankfurt meal of local apple wine and sausages with mustard. There is a range of ethnic cuisine from all over the world, but it is worth putting local fare on your agenda.
The best thing to do in the early afternoon after a midday meal would be to stroll through the shopping district, spend some time leisurely at a sidewalk café and take a stroll down the river. This seemingly mindless pastime is actually one of the important things to do in any city including Frankfurt, for it gives you a feeling for the ambience of the place and the nature of its people.
Steps 6 and 7 should see you in a museum. Do not miss the one for Applied Art for it is unlike what you may get to see elsewhere. It gives a breathtaking exposition of how art influences modern life and has a most informative library as well. The Stadel is an art museum with an extensive collection going back over 500 years. Masterpieces of Rembrandt, Cezanne, Van Gogh and Picasso are all well represented here.
You will need some fresh air after feasting your eyes on a most incredible wealth of art and the eighth thing to do could be to visit the Palmengarten. Acres of beautiful garden await you as could an evening concert or an exhibition. You will feel entirely relaxed in the verdant surroundings of this paradise.
Rush to the Schirn Kunsthalle and catch a glimpse of the current exhibition that good fortune brings to you. This unique institution in a most imposing structure offers an array of reviews and discussions on many aspects of culture. Try and schedule your visit to coincide with a program of your particular choice, but do not miss the venue even if you chance upon Frankfurt at a time not of your choosing, for there is always something worthwhile in which you can take most memorable part.
We have been rather staid all day, so let the 10th top thing be to let our hair down. Some liberal if not boisterous nightlife will top off a Frankfurt visit in befitting manner. Start with a heart meal and choose from the city's incredible range of places to eat. The Altes Zollhouse has traditional German fare with outdoor seating in summer. The setting goes well with the food and makes for an unusual and pleasant meal. It fortifies you for the long evening ahead with lots of beer, dancing, fun and friends.
