At the crossroads of Europe, Frankfurt is a city of contrasts. 

In Frankfurt, the city’s medieval history is in direct opposition to contemporary design. In a single day, you can meander through a world-class museum before dining at a centuries-old apple wine tavern. Long regarded as the country’s financial capital, Frankfurt reveals itself to be more than a business hub; it offers plenty to dig into for those who choose to stay a little longer. 

The story of this dynamic city stretches back centuries. The poet, politician, and scientist Johann Wolfgang von Goethe was born here; Germany’s first democratically elected parliament gathered in Frankfurt’s Paulskirche (St. Paul’s Church) in 1848; and generations of merchants transformed the city into one of the continent’s busiest trading centers. Today, those international influences are unmistakable. Interestingly, more than a third of Frankfurt’s residents come from outside Germany, and the city is home to more than 180 nationalities, creating a vibrant cultural landscape reflected in every aspect of the city.  

Contemporary architecture, public art, and ambitious cultural institutions sit comfortably alongside restored timber-framed buildings and historic landmarks.

This creative energy has earned Frankfurt the title of World Design Capital 2026, celebrating a city where innovation extends to many aspects of local life. Contemporary architecture, public art, and ambitious cultural institutions sit comfortably alongside restored timber-framed buildings and historic landmarks, putting Frankfurt at an exciting intersection within Europe. Many of Frankfurt’s most noteworthy pleasures are best discovered on foot. The Museumsufer, stretching along the banks of the River Main, is one of the continent’s premier museum districts, home to extraordinary collections of art, architecture, film, and design. A short walk away, the bustling Kleinmarkthalle has served as the city’s culinary heart since the nineteenth century, where more than sixty vendors offer everything from regional specialties to international delicacies, including Ilse Schreiber’s legendary Worscht mit Weck—sausage cased in bread  (an elevated hot dog, if you will) that’s immensely popular with locals and visitors from around the world alike.  

Across the river, the charming neighborhood of Sachsenhausen invites you to settle into a traditional apple wine tavern before discovering the broader dining scene, reflective of Frankfurt’s cosmopolitan character. Beyond the city limits, the vineyard-covered hills of the Rheingau and the spa towns of the Taunus lie less than an hour away, offering access to some of Germany’s most celebrated Riesling estates, historic villages, and scenic countryside. 

The Florentin by Althoff Collection is primely positioned as an elegant urban retreat tucked within Sachsenhausen. Housed in a beautifully restored historic villa, the hotel offers a peaceful counterpoint to Frankfurt’s energy while placing you within easy reach of Frankfurt’s exciting offerings. Whether spending your stay discovering the city’s cultural treasures or using Frankfurt as a gateway to the surrounding wine country, The Florentin offers an ideal base for experiencing one of Europe’s most compelling—and often too quickly passed through—destinations. 

Where to Stay

The Florentin is housed in a beautifully restored historic villa, removing it from the pace of the financial district while remaining just a short drive from the city’s most vibrant hubs of activity. Elegant without ever feeling ostentatious, it captures a side of Frankfurt that many travelers never expect: calm, residential, and refined, and is the perfect landing pad for digging deeper into this multi-layered city. Originally built as a grand private residence, the landmarked mansion has been reimagined as a contemporary urban retreat, reopening as the Florentin in December 2025. At its center sits The Garden Courtyard, a secluded oasis filled with greenery that anchors the property and sets the mood for your stay—mornings here begin slowly and are sundrenched.  

Original architectural details have been carefully preserved, while warm, minimalist interiors create a sophisticated and inviting atmosphere.

Throughout the hotel, original architectural details have been carefully preserved, while warm, minimalist interiors create a sophisticated and inviting atmosphere. As part of the distinguished Althoff Collection, owned by Thomas H. Althoff and his wife, Elke Diefenbach-Althoff, service here is intuitive, creating an effortless feeling of being welcomed into a private home. With fifteen hotels in four countries, the family has created an exemplary portfolio that has earned the Florentin membership in The Leading Hotels of the World. 

The property’s 147 rooms and suites carry on that residential charm. Soft natural palettes, deeper textures of velvet, wood, and stone, and plentiful natural light create calming spaces designed for rest after a day spent exploring the city. The Florentin’s standout accommodations are its nine individually designed Signature Suites, each inspired by a notable figure whose legacy impacted Germany.  We love The Jazz Musician suite, inspired by the genre’s history in the country and by standout musicians like jazz bassist Günter Lenz. Precisely curated collections of artwork, books, furnishings, and decorative pieces give every suite its own distinct personality.  

The Florentin Bar has quickly established itself as a favorite for both locals and visitors.

Dining at The Florentin feels like a world of its own. At the dune, Executive Chef Niclas Nußbaumer brings classical technique together with contemporary creativity, allowing exceptional seasonal ingredients to take center stage with a refined, thoughtfully composed menu. For an easygoing experience, The Garden serves Mediterranean-inspired cuisine alongside Hesse regional favorites in a bright, welcoming setting, while The Florentin Bar has quickly established itself as a favorite for both locals and visitors. Low lighting, masterfully prepared cocktails, an exceptional wine and spirits list, and elevated bar bites make it an ideal place to begin—or end—an evening in Frankfurt. 

When it’s time to unwind, The Spa delivers a peaceful counterpoint to the city’s energy. Five treatment rooms, a light-filled forty-five-foot indoor pool, saunas, and a tranquil spa garden invite guests to slow down, while treatments featuring Dr. Barbara Sturm products combine science-backed skincare with restorative wellness rituals. We love Dr. Strum’s sixty-minute Lymphatic Sculpt and Tone Massage, paired with time in the Finnish sauna for a complete reset.   

Tips for Visiting Frankfurt

Order the local drink. Before you leave Frankfurt, learn two words: Ebbelwoi and Bembel. The city’s signature Apfelwein (apple wine), Ebbelwoi, is traditionally served in a blue-and-gray stoneware jug known as a Bembel and poured into distinctive ribbed glasses. Drink it as the locals do—straight (Stöffche) or mixed with sparkling water (Sauergespritzter)—and don’t be surprised when one glass turns into two. 

Make time for the river. Some of Frankfurt’s most memorable moments happen along the River Main. Stroll the promenades on both banks, cross the city’s many bridges, and linger around the Museumsufer as the sun starts to set. At golden hour, the skyline reflects across the water, cyclists drift by, and the city settles into a slower rhythm. It’s one of the simplest—and most memorable—ways to experience Frankfurt. 

Stay a little longer. While many travelers know Frankfurt as an access point to Germany and the rest of Europe due to its being Lufthansa’s primary hub, it’s equally rewarding as a base for exploring beyond the city. Thanks to excellent rail connections and one of Europe’s busiest airports, the vineyards of the Rheingau, the castles of the Rhine Valley—part of a UNESCO World Heritage site—and the spa towns of the Taunus are all within easy reach. With a few extra days, you’ll discover that some of the region’s greatest treasures are found just beyond the skyline. 

Where to Eat

There are a few things you can’t leave Frankfurt without trying: the Ebbelwoi, Schnitzel (breaded, pan-fried pork), and Grie Soß (green sauce). But once you try these German staples, there are many more layers of the city’s culinary scene to begin sampling. With the inside intel from The Florentin, we’ve curated your gastronomic journey.  

• Apfelwein Wagner: One of Frankfurt’s most traditional apple wine taverns, Apfelwein Wagner is where locals gather around hearty plates and generous pours of Ebbelwoi, served in classic ribbed glasses. Expect schnitzel, Grie Soß, and a lively, authentic German vibe.  
• Emma Metzler: Set inside the Museum Angewandte Kunst, Emma Metzler is a modern neo-bistro that feels effortlessly in step with the city’s creative energy. Seasonal ingredients are staples on the menu, with dishes shaped by global influences and served in a bright, relaxed space with one of Frankfurt’s most sought-after terraces. Stop by for a full meal or grab some soft serve in the warmer months and enjoy the opportunity to purchase artisanal goods that make for thoughtful souvenirs.  
• Cresco: A thrilling fusion of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean flavors, Cresco is designed for sharing. “Cresco” means “to grow,” and the restaurant takes this seriously in both its atmosphere and the fresh ingredients used for each meal. You’ll find no shortage of colorful plates, bold spices, and an easygoing ambiance, making it ideal for a relaxed dinner with friends. 
• Zenzakan: Atmospheric and slightly theatrical, Zenzakan pairs dramatic interiors—golden Buddhas, low lighting, and a lounge-like setting—with a menu of sushi, curries, and contemporary Asian dishes. It’s as much about the mood as the food, though you certainly won’t be disappointed if you order the wagyu yakisoba bolognese.  
• Gerbermühle: Positioned directly on the banks of the River Main, Gerbermühle blends historic allure with contemporary dining. The menu focuses on regional ingredients with international influences, best enjoyed on the terrace in the warmer months, when the river becomes part of the dining experience. 
• Frankfurter Botschaft: Overlooking the River Main, Frankfurter Botschaft offers refined German cuisine in a polished waterfront setting. In summer, the adjacent beach bar adds a relaxed, almost French Riviera-like energy to the experience. 
• the dune: At the heart of The Florentin, the dune showcases Executive Chef Niclas Nußbaumer’s precise, ingredient-led cooking. After earning two Michelin stars less than a year after opening, it’ is considered one of Germany’s most exciting restaurants and delivers a truly exceptional dining experience in a sophisticated dining room adorned with cozy wood interiors.  
• Villa Merton: Housed in an elegant villa dating back to the 1920s, this one-Michelin-starred restaurant delivers modern German cuisine with a strong focus on sourcing regional ingredients. The historic setting and meticulously designed tasting menus make it one of Frankfurt’s most impressive fine dining addresses. 
• Lafleur: Two-Michelin-starred Lafleur sits at the pinnacle of Frankfurt’s dining scene. Helmed by Chef Andreas Krolik and Sommelier Alexandra Himmel, the restaurant’s Mediterranean-influenced tasting menus, precise execution, and serene dining room make it an unmissable culinary destination for foodies.  

Shopping in Frankfurt

As one of Europe’s economic powerhouses, Frankfurt isn’t just home to top financial institutions. It’s also a magnet for designer storefronts, independent boutiques, vintage stores, and shopping centers that are architectural marvels in their own right. This is the kind of shopping city that suggests it might be smartest to leave half your suitcase empty—you’ll need space to bring back all of your found treasures.  

• Goethestraße: Frankfurt’s most polished luxury boulevard, Goethestraße is home to many of the world’s leading fashion and jewelry maisons, including Chanel, Hermès, Cartier, and Bulgari. It’s refreshingly unhurried and is the city’s answer to being considered one of Europe’s esteemed shopping avenues. 
• Kleinmarkthalle: A Frankfurt institution since the nineteenth century, Kleinmarkthalle is far more than a market—it’ is part of the city’s daily rhythm. Beneath one roof, over sixty vendors gather to offer regional cheeses, fresh produce, cured meats, and international specialties. It’s the type of place where a quick stop inevitably turns into a longer wander. 
• Vintage & Second Hand Shops: Frankfurt’s vintage landscape is quietly confident, defined by a growing network of boutiques that span archival fashion, rare denim, and mid-century design. At its most refined, Style Definery stands out as a destination for authenticated pre-loved pieces from houses such as Chanel, Hermès, Valentino, and Louis Vuitton. For more off-the-beaten-path options, there’s Ola Vintage—and locals love the giant thrift market, which runs every Saturday between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. 
• Oeder Weg: A favorite among Frankfurt’s creative set, Oeder Weg in the Nordend district delivers a more local, design-driven shopping experience. Independent boutiques, concept stores, and lifestyle addresses line the street, ensuring you’ll come home with something truly unique.  
• Römerberg & the Old Town: Set against one of Germany’s picturesque medieval squares, Römerberg offers a different side of the traditional retail experience. Artisan workshops, independent retailers, and specialty stores sit within historic surroundings that feel straight out of a Disney animated movie. Among the highlights is the Steiff flagship, home to the iconic German brand known for its handcrafted teddy bears and collectible editions dating back to 1880. 
• Berger Straße: Stretching through the Bornheim neighborhood, Berger Straße is Frankfurt’s longest shopping street, capturing a more lived-in version of the city. Bookshops, delis, cafés, and independent retailers line the street, creating a relaxed, neighborhood rhythm. This is the perfect spot to wander, enjoy an afternoon cup of tea, and immerse yourself in the local vibe.  
• MyZeil: One of Frankfurt’s most architecturally striking retail destinations, MyZeil is instantly recognizable for its dramatic spiral glass façade designed by Massimiliano Fuksas. Inside, more than eighty shops, a rooftop terrace, and a lively food hall make it a natural stop for both retail therapy and people-watching along the Zeil, the street known as the “Fifth Avenue of Germany.”  
• Galleria Kaufhof: A longstanding Frankfurt institution, Galleria Kaufhof offers a comprehensive department store experience across multiple levels, spanning fashion, beauty, homeware, and a well-stocked gourmet food hall. Centrally located and reliably extensive, it remains one of the city’s most practical shopping destinations. 

Digging Deeper in Frankfurt

Between meals and shopping sessions, make time for Frankfurt’s rich cultural offerings. From historic buildings dating back to the Holy Roman Empire to sleek modern art museums featuring work by future-thinkfers, there’s endless inspiration to be found in the streets of Frankfurt. And when you’re ready for a bit of time outside of the bustling center, there are wineries, storybook villages, and perfectly preserved monasteries less than an hour’s drive from The Florentin to consider.  

• Bike Frankfurt: One of the most rewarding ways to experience Frankfurt is by bicycle, and as guests of The Florentin, you can explore the city on two wheels at your own pace, complimentary. Designated cycling paths connect the main neighborhoods, making it easy to move between cultural landmarks and quieter corners of the city. Whether following the river at golden hour or looping through the Old Town in the morning, cycling unveils a more intimate, lived-in version of Frankfurt. Plus, who doesn’t love a little built-in exercise? 
• Frankfurt Old Town, Römerberg & Paulskirche: At the heart of Frankfurt’s historic core, Römerberg remains one of Germany’s most atmospheric medieval squares, framed by reconstructed half-timbered façades and the Römer, the city’s town hall since the fifteenth century. A short walk away is St. Paul’s Church, where Germany’s first democratically elected parliament convened in 1848, representing one of the most significant chapters in the nation’s political history. Together with the over-300-foot St. Bartholomew Cathedral (considered Frankfurt’s “first skyscraper”), the surrounding Old Town streets, and the nearby riverfront, you can take in significant—and unmistakably picturesque—historic sights.  
• Frankfurt’s Museums: The Museumsufer is one of Europe’s most concentrated cultural corridors; world-class institutions line the banks of the River Main. And you can’t call a trip to Frankfurt complete until you visit at least one of the world-class institutions that call the city its home. The Städel Museum traces seven centuries of art history, from Renaissance masters such as Botticelli and Rembrandt to Monet, Picasso, and leading contemporary voices. Nearby, the Liebieghaus houses one of Europe’s most important sculpture collections, with more than 3,000 artifacts spanning ancient Egypt to Neoclassicism, while the Schirn Kunsthalle and the Museum für Moderne Kunst focus on ambitious rotating exhibitions in modern and contemporary art. It’s a district that easily fills a day. 
• Lohrberg: Tucked into the city’s northeast, Lohrberg offers one of Frankfurt’s most surprising pleasures: a working vineyard within city limits set on a hill rising more than 600 feet above the city. Gentle walking paths flow through the vines before opening onto sweeping views of the skyline below. It’s a rare moment when urban life and winemaking tradition meet, best experienced with a glass of locally produced wine and time to take in the view. 
• The Financial District: Frankfurt’s financial district is defined by contrast—sleek towers rising above centuries of financial history. The Frankfurt Stock Exchange, founded in 1585, remains one of the world’s most important trading hubs, and your SmartFlyer travel advisor can schedule private guided tours for those interested in its evolution. Nearby, the Money Museum of the Deutsche Bundesbank offers an engaging look at money through the ages, from ancient coinage to digital currencies, delivering context for the city’s global economic influence. It’s a unique look at one of the world’s thriving financial centers for those interested in the subject. 
• Sachsenhausen Riverfront: On the southern bank of the River Main, Sachsenhausen captures a more intimate side of Frankfurt. Independent galleries, boutiques, and design-led shops sit alongside traditional apple wine taverns. This is a neighborhood best experienced without a fixed plan—wandering from shop to shop, pausing for a long lunch, an afternoon gallery visit—it’s best explored spontaneously. Just don’t forget your Bembel of Ebbelwoi.  
• Klassikstadt: Housed in a striking Art Nouveau factory on the city’s east side, Klassikstadt is a destination for car enthusiasts. Home to more than 170 classic vehicles, from pre-war icons to twentieth-century sports cars, it functions as part museum, part workshop, and part community space. With rotating events, specialist ateliers, and an on-site restaurant, it offers an unexpectedly immersive look at automotive culture in Frankfurt. Your SmartFlyer travel advisor can arrange a private tour of the facility.  
• Day Trip to the Rheingau: Less than an hour’s drive from the city, the Rheingau unfolds as one of Germany’s most elegant wine regions. Your SmartFlyer travel advisor can arrange for a driver and guide to wind you through the rolling vineyards that descend toward the Rhine, dotted with historic estates and postcard-worthy villages such as Rüdesheim and Eltville. Known above all for its Riesling, the region’s wine-making tradition stretches back more than a thousand years, with harvest season bringing a particularly vivid sense of place. A visit to the Kloster Eberbach winery and its nearly perfectly preserved monastery can add bucolic depth to this cityscape. 

Getting to Frankfurt

One of Europe’s most well-connected cities, Frankfurt is served by one of the continent’s largest international airports, with frequent nonstop flights across the Star Alliance network and beyond. High-speed rail connections also link the city seamlessly to destinations including Paris, Amsterdam, Zurich, and Brussels, placing much of Western Europe within easy reach.

Your SmartFlyer travel advisor will curate the most efficient routing, along with lounge access and onward transfers, so you arrive refreshed and ready to step directly into the city’s rhythm—beginning your stay with a quiet arrival at The Florentin. 

READY TO BOOK YOUR FRANKFURT JOURNEY? CONTACT YOUR SMARTFLYER TRAVEL ADVISOR TODAY.