Frankfurt am Main International Airport (FRA) is one of Europe’s busiest transit hubs, connecting millions of travelers worldwide. Located just 12 km (7.5 miles) from Frankfurt’s city center, the airport provides easy access to cultural landmarks, world-class shopping, and scenic riverfront views. Whether you have a short layover or a full day to explore, there are plenty of exciting things to do near FRA.
Make sure to check out Stasher’s Frankfurt locations so you can enjoy your visit without being burdened by your luggage!
Getting Around from Frankfurt Airport (FRA)
Transportation options from FRA:
- Train: The S-Bahn (S8 & S9 lines) take about 10-15 minutes to reach Frankfurt Central Station (Hauptbahnhof). Tickets cost €5.60 (single trip).
- Taxi/Ride-sharing: A taxi to the city center costs around €35-45 and takes 15-20 minutes. Uber is also available.
- Bus: Several bus lines connect FRA to Frankfurt and nearby towns, but trains are usually faster.
- Car Rental: Available at the airport, ideal for exploring the wider Rhine-Main region.
1. Visit Römerberg – Frankfurt’s Historic Old Town
📍 Distance from FRA: 15 km (~15-20 min by train)
🕒 Opening hours: Always open (outdoor area)
💰 Cost: Free
Römerberg is the historic heart of Frankfurt, known for its medieval-style half-timbered houses and charming cobblestone streets. This picturesque square is home to the Römer, Frankfurt’s historic town hall, dating back over 600 years. Stroll around, take in the architecture, and visit nearby attractions like St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral.
🚆 How to get there? Take the S8 or S9 S-Bahn from the airport to Hauptwache or Frankfurt Hauptbahnhof, then walk 10 minutes to Römerberg.
2. Explore the Städel Museum – A Must for Art Lovers
📍 Distance from FRA: 13 km (~15 min by train)
🕒 Opening hours: Tues-Sun: 10 AM – 6 PM, Wed & Thurs until 9 PM, Closed Mondays
💰 Cost: €16 adults, discounts available for students & seniors
The Städel Museum is one of Germany’s most prestigious art galleries, featuring works by Rembrandt, Vermeer, Monet, Picasso, and contemporary artists. If you’re on a short layover, a quick tour through its highlights can be a rewarding experience.
🚆 How to get there? Take the S8 or S9 to Hauptbahnhof, then walk 15 minutes or take a tram.
3. Walk Along the Main River & Eiserner Steg (Iron Bridge)
📍 Distance from FRA: 14 km (~15 min by train)
🕒 Opening hours: Always open
💰 Cost: Free
For a relaxing and scenic experience, take a walk along the Main River promenade, which offers beautiful city skyline views. Don’t miss the Eiserner Steg, a historic pedestrian bridge covered in love locks, offering great photo opportunities.
🚆 How to get there? Take the S8 or S9 to Hauptwache, then walk 5 minutes towards the river.
4. Enjoy Local Flavors at Kleinmarkthalle (Market Hall)
📍 Distance from FRA: 14 km (~15 min by train)
🕒 Opening hours: Mon-Fri: 8 AM – 6 PM, Sat: 8 AM – 4 PM, Closed Sundays
💰 Cost: Free entry (food costs vary)
A paradise for food lovers, Kleinmarkthalle is an indoor market with over 60 stalls selling fresh produce, local delicacies, and international specialties. Try a traditional Frankfurter Würstchen (sausage), Handkäs mit Musik (cheese dish), or Apfelwein (apple wine).
🚆 How to get there? Take the S8 or S9 to Hauptwache, then walk 5 minutes.
5. Palmengarten – Frankfurt’s Botanical Oasis
📍 Distance from FRA: 16 km (~20 min by train)
🕒 Opening hours: Daily 9 AM – 6 PM
💰 Cost: €7 adults, €2 children
If you need a peaceful escape, visit Palmengarten, one of Germany’s largest botanical gardens. Wander through lush greenhouses, exotic plants, and seasonal flower displays. Perfect for nature lovers and families.
🚆 How to get there? Take the U4 from Hauptbahnhof to Bockenheimer Warte, then walk 5 minutes.
6. Discover the Skyline at Main Tower
📍 Distance from FRA: 13 km (~15 min by train)
🕒 Opening hours: Sun-Thu: 10 AM – 7 PM, Fri & Sat: 10 AM – 9 PM
💰 Cost: €9 adults, discounts for children and seniors
For panoramic views of Frankfurt, head to Main Tower, one of the city’s tallest skyscrapers. From the observation deck (200 meters high), you can see the Frankfurt skyline, Main River, and even as far as the Taunus Mountains.
🚆 How to get there? Take the S-Bahn to Hauptwache, then walk 10 minutes.
7. Visit the Senckenberg Natural History Museum
📍 Distance from FRA: 14 km (~15 min by train)
🕒 Opening hours: Mon-Fri: 9 AM – 5 PM, Sat & Sun: 9 AM – 6 PM
💰 Cost: €12 adults, discounts available
A great stop for science lovers and families, the Senckenberg Museum features huge dinosaur skeletons, fascinating fossils, and exhibits on Earth’s history.
🚆 How to get there? Take the U4 from Hauptbahnhof to Bockenheimer Warte, then walk 5 minutes.
Bonus Suggestion – Relax at a Traditional German Beer Garden
📍 Distance from FRA: Varies (~15-20 min by train)
🕒 Opening hours: Typically noon to midnight (varies by location)
💰 Cost: Varies by order
Experience Frankfurt’s beer culture at a traditional beer garden. Popular spots like Apfelwein Wagner or Paulaner am Dom serve refreshing Apfelwein (apple cider) and hearty German dishes.
🚆 How to get there? Most are within a short S-Bahn or tram ride from the city center.
Bonus Tips for Layovers at FRA
- Short layover? Stay within The Squaire at FRA for shopping, dining, or a quick nap at the airport hotels.
- 2-4 hours? Take the S-Bahn to Römerberg for a quick stroll through the Old Town.
- 6+ hours? Enjoy Main Tower, a museum, and a beer garden before heading back to the airport.
Frankfurt offers a mix of history, modern skyscrapers, nature, and great food, all within easy reach of FRA Airport. Whether you’re on a quick layover or have a full day, these 8 activities ensure a memorable visit!
Hi! I’m James, the marketing manager at Stasher. I’m passionate about slow travel, immersing myself in new cultures and building unique memories in different places. On our blog, I share insights and stories to inspire and help you avoid pitfalls. Most importantly, I hope to make sure that you have the most rewarding travels!
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