Planning a trip to Frankfurt with kids? From captivating museums to lush parks, there’s something for every member of the family to enjoy. This guide unveils the best things to do, places to stay, and hidden gems for an unforgettable Germany family holidays in Frankfurt.
Why Visit Frankfurt With Kids?
Frankfurt, Germany’s financial hub, might not be the first city that springs to mind for a family vacation. But beneath its modern skyscrapers lies a city brimming with kid-friendly activities, world-class museums, and charming green spaces. Here’s why Frankfurt should be your next family adventure:
- Interactive Museums: From dinosaurs at the Senckenberg Museum to hands-on science experiments at Experiminta, Frankfurt’s museums spark curiosity and keep young minds engaged.
- Urban Adventures: Explore the Römerberg, Frankfurt’s historic town center, or take a scenic boat tour along the Main River. Kids will love exploring the city’s unique architecture and vibrant atmosphere.
- Green Oasis: Escape the city bustle in Frankfurt’s sprawling parks like the Grüneburgpark, offering playgrounds, pedal boats, and mini golf courses – perfect for a day of family fun.
- Central Location: Frankfurt boasts excellent transport connections, making day trips to charming towns like Rüdesheim (famous for Rhine River cruises) or Heidelberg (with its majestic castle) a breeze.
Things to Do in Frankfurt With Kids
- Experiminta ScienceCenter: Budding scientists will love this interactive museum filled with fascinating exhibits on everything from light and sound to the human body. Kids can conduct experiments, climb through a giant kaleidoscope, and learn through play.
- Senckenberg Museum: Explore the wonders of the natural world at this renowned museum. See dinosaur skeletons, marvel at giant insects, and learn about local wildlife. The museum also offers special children’s programs and workshops.
- Frankfurt Zoological Garden: This compact zoo is a great option for families with young children. See lions, monkeys, and a variety of other animals in well-maintained enclosures. The zoo also features a petting zoo and a playground for little ones to burn off energy.
- Main Tower Observation Deck: Take in breathtaking panoramic views of the city skyline from the Main Tower’s observation deck. Kids will love spotting landmarks and watching the bustling city life unfold below.
- Römerberg: Explore Frankfurt’s historic old town center. Marvel at the Römer, the city hall with its stunning gabled facade, and snap pictures with the iconic Römerberg Fountain. Enjoy a traditional German ice cream cone while soaking up the atmosphere.
Best Places to Visit in Frankfurt With Kids
- Opel Zoo: Nestled outside the city center, Opel Zoo is a sprawling park with over 1,500 animals from around the world. Kids will love exploring the various animal enclosures, riding the miniature train, and enjoying a scenic boat tour on the lake.
- Taunus Wunderland: This amusement park offers a variety of rides and attractions for all ages. From thrilling roller coasters to a scenic chairlift ride, there’s something for everyone. Kids will also enjoy the park’s playgrounds, shows, and miniature golf course.
- Goethe House & Museum: Learn about the life and works of Germany’s literary giant, Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, at his former residence. The museum offers interactive exhibits and special children’s tours that bring history to life.
- Schirn Kunsthalle Frankfurt: This modern art museum features a variety of temporary exhibitions that can be surprisingly engaging for kids. Explore the interactive installations, participate in workshops, and see art in a whole new light.
- The Städel Museum: While primarily focused on European art from the Middle Ages to the 20th century, The Städel Museum offers a family-friendly audio guide and scavenger hunts to keep young minds interested. The museum also organizes special children’s workshops.
Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Frankfurt With Kids
Choosing the right neighborhood can significantly impact your family vacation experience. Here are some of the best areas to stay in Frankfurt with kids:
- Westend: This upscale neighborhood offers a mix of family-friendly cafes, restaurants, and green spaces like Grüneburgpark. It’s well-connected to public transportation and boasts a variety of family-friendly hotels.
- Sachsenhausen: This charming old town district is known for its traditional Apfelwein taverns (apple wine pubs) and cobbled streets. While not brimming with playgrounds, it offers a unique atmosphere and a central location close to Römerberg and the Main River.
- Bornheim: This trendy neighborhood is a great choice for families who want to experience a more local vibe. It boasts a vibrant restaurant scene with plenty of kid-friendly options and several parks perfect for a picnic lunch.
- Gallusviertel: This up-and-coming area offers a mix of modern apartments and historical buildings. It’s close to the Frankfurt Zoological Garden and provides easy access to the city center via public transportation.
- Ostend: This family-friendly neighborhood is known for its green spaces like Osthafenpark and its proximity to the zoo. It offers a relaxed atmosphere and several family-oriented restaurants.
Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Frankfurt
Frankfurt offers a variety of hotels catering to families. Here are some top picks:
- Jumeirah Frankfurt: This luxurious hotel boasts spacious family rooms, a dedicated kids’ club, and an indoor swimming pool.
- Motel One Frankfurt City: This budget-friendly hotel chain offers clean and comfortable rooms with facilities like cribs and high chairs available upon request. Several Motel One locations are conveniently situated throughout the city.
- Maritim Hotel Frankfurt: This modern hotel features family rooms, a playground, and a swimming pool. Its location near the trade fairgrounds provides easy access to public transportation.
- Hotel NH Collection Frankfurt Messe: This stylish hotel offers spacious family rooms, a kids’ club, and a swimming pool. It’s located near the trade fairgrounds but well-connected to the city center.
- The Westin Grand Frankfurt: This upscale hotel pampers families with luxurious accommodations, a kids’ club, and an indoor swimming pool. It boasts a central location near the financial district.
Best Time to Visit Frankfurt With Kids
The best time to visit Frankfurt with kids depends on your preferences. Here’s a breakdown by season:
- Spring (March-May): Pleasant weather with blooming flowers makes exploring the city’s parks enjoyable. However, spring showers are a possibility, so pack accordingly.
- Summer (June-August): Warm weather is perfect for outdoor activities like boat tours and picnics in the park. However, Frankfurt can get crowded and hotel rates might be higher during peak season.
- Fall (September-November): Enjoy milder temperatures and fewer crowds. Fall festivals and events can be a fun way to experience the city with kids.
- Winter (December-February): Frankfurt transforms into a winter wonderland with Christmas markets offering festive treats and activities. However, the weather can be cold and rainy.
How Long to Stay in Frankfurt With Kids
A 3-4 day stay in Frankfurt allows enough time to explore the city’s highlights and enjoy some day trips. With older children, you could consider a week-long stay to delve deeper into the city’s cultural offerings and explore the surrounding region.
Frankfurt Family Itinerary: 4 Days of Fun
This itinerary provides a framework for a fun-filled family vacation in Frankfurt:
Day 1:
- Morning: Explore the Römerberg and learn about Frankfurt’s history.
- Afternoon: Climb the Main Tower for panoramic views and visit the Experiminta ScienceCenter.
- Evening: Enjoy a traditional German dinner and a relaxing stroll along the Main River.
Day 2:
- Morning: Visit the Senckenberg Museum and marvel at the dinosaur skeletons.
- Afternoon: Take a boat tour on the Main River and explore the Frankfurt Zoological Garden.
- Evening: Catch a family-friendly performance at the Frankfurt Playhouse or enjoy a movie night at a local cinema.
Day 3:
- Morning: Take a day trip to Rüdesheim for a scenic Rhine River cruise and explore the charming town.
- Afternoon: Enjoy a picnic lunch in Grüneburgpark and let the kids loose on the playground.
- Evening: Indulge in some ice cream at a local gelateria and browse the shops along Zeil, Frankfurt’s main shopping street.
Day 4:
- Morning: Visit the Schirn Kunsthalle Frankfurt or The Städel Museum for an interactive art experience.
- Afternoon: Explore the historic district of Sachsenhausen and try some traditional Apfelwein.
- Evening: End your Frankfurt adventure on a high note with a delicious dinner at a restaurant offering stunning city views.
Getting Around Frankfurt With Kids
Frankfurt boasts a well-developed public transportation system, making it easy to navigate the city with kids. Here are your options:
- U-Bahn (Underground): Frankfurt’s metro system is clean, efficient, and stroller-friendly. Most stations have elevators and escalators, making it easy to get around with little ones.
- Tram: Trams are a convenient way to explore the city center and surrounding neighborhoods. They run frequently and offer scenic journeys along the Main River.
- Buses: Buses are a good option for reaching specific destinations not easily accessible by U-Bahn or tram. However, they might be slower due to traffic congestion.
- Taxis: Taxis are readily available and can be a convenient option, especially with young children or a lot of luggage. However, they can be expensive for short trips.
Additional Tips for a Smooth Frankfurt Family Vacation:
- Purchase a Frankfurt Card: This city pass offers free public transportation, discounted entry to many attractions, and special offers at restaurants and shops. It can be a cost-effective option for families who plan on doing a lot of sightseeing.
- Pack Light: With efficient public transportation, there’s no need to overpack. Opt for comfortable shoes for walking and exploring the city.
- Embrace the Cafes: Frankfurt has a vibrant cafe culture. Take breaks throughout the day to relax and refuel with coffee, pastries, or light meals at cozy cafes.
- Learn a Few German Phrases: Learning basic phrases like “Hallo” (hello), “Danke” (thank you), and “Bitte” (please) goes a long way with locals and can enhance your family’s experience.
With its exciting blend of attractions, family-friendly activities, and charming atmosphere, Frankfurt promises an unforgettable vacation for families with children.
