If you're moving to Frankfurt, you can look forward to a temperate oceanic climate that is characterised by distinct weather patterns. 

Temperatures are never too extreme, but the winter months can often be stormy with snowfalls. Summers are sunny and warm but are usually sprinkled with rainy days and high humidity. 

The average temperature in mid-winter (January) is 34°F (1°C), and in mid-summer (July) the average temperature is 66°F (19°C). Although summer is lovely in Frankfurt, you should be aware that it is also the most popular time, and it can get busy, crowded and expensive. The weather in Frankfurt during spring can also bring pleasant conditions, lots of sunshine, and fewer crowds.

Relocating to the multicultural and commercial hub of Frankfurt comes with both opportunities and challenges. Expats and visitors flock to the city from all over and, while some only stay a short while, many others make Frankfurt their permanent home. 

As with any stay abroad, those considering relocating to Frankfurt should think about the advantages and disadvantages of life in the city. Below, we list some pros and cons of moving to Frankfurt. 

Working in Frankfurt

+ PRO: Employment opportunities in industrial and financial sectors

It is no secret that Frankfurt is an economic hub and one of Europe’s key banking and financial powerhouses. The city is home to the Frankfurt Stock Exchange, the European Central Bank and hundreds of other financial institutions, so you should have no trouble finding work and business opportunities if you have skills in these sectors.

+ PRO: Good work-life balance

Frankfurt residents embrace a work-hard-play-hard approach. As a key economic centre, professionals in the city are hardworking, with efficiency and punctuality being the order of the day. To balance this, employees are afforded lots of time off work and generous leave allowances for holidays and leisure time.

- CON: Language barriers

When seeking work in Frankfurt, it helps to speak German. Although Frankfurt is a cosmopolitan city where various languages are widely spoken, being able to speak German will be helpful in your business dealings and when you're going about your daily life. Despite potential language barriers, learning German doesn’t need to be a 'con'–it can be a fun and interesting experience.

Cost of living in Frankfurt

+ PRO: Flea markets and secondhand stores offer cheap deals

Whether you're on a tight budget or you're looking for vintage ware, Frankfurt’s flea markets and secondhand shops are a great place to start. You can score great bargains on clothing as well as tables and chairs or antique items to furnish your new home.

- CON: One of Germany's most expensive cities

The cost of living in Frankfurt is high, especially in terms of rent. While salaries are adjusted to accommodate this, income tax is high, too. Expats may be lured with what seems like a generous salary, but a large proportion of it will go to tax, so budgeting is critical.

+ PRO: Affordable and efficient services

Despite the many expenses you may face, Frankfurt offers extensive top-notch services, including affordable transport, schooling and high-quality healthcare. This is largely thanks to the high taxes, so many find it worth it.

Lifestyle and culture in Frankfurt

+ PRO: Vibrant nightlife and entertainment scene

There’s always a fun night out in Frankfurt, with myriad options, including cocktail lounges, local bars, nightclubs, and venues with live music. Areas in the north of the city, such as Fressgasse, Zeil, and Römerberg, offer the best nightlife atmosphere.

+ PRO: Lots to see and do

This riverside city may be a financial hub, but Frankfurt's lifestyle is known for offering a multitude of cultural events, artistic sights, restored medieval buildings, and a certain Gothic charm. The Römerberg area and the Frankfurt Cathedral are top attractions, and new arrivals can familiarise themselves with their new home by taking a walking tour of the Old Town or a cruise along the river.

- CON: Making friends may be difficult

Many expats report that it can be hard to make friends with Germans and that, particularly in the workplace, Germans don't often talk about their lives outside the job. This may not always be the case, though. If you share common interests with someone, it can be easy to make friends and socialise. Frankfurt is a truly global, cosmopolitan city, so it’s possible to meet people from all over the world.

Transport and driving in Frankfurt

+ PRO: Well-connected city for travel

Frankfurt is centrally located and well connected to other German cities and European countries. Its train network, busy international airport, and Autobahn system make travelling for business or leisure a breeze. Visiting surrounding towns to enjoy the countryside is just as easy.

+ PRO: Pedestrian-friendly city

Frankfurt’s main attractions are in the city centre, which is a hive of activity and where many expats may find themselves working. These areas are easy to reach and get around on foot or by bicycle.

- CON: Parking is expensive

While parking is available in downtown Frankfurt, it is pricey. Most residents prefer to get around using public transport and do not see the need for a car, but it does provide greater freedom and in some cases may be necessary. If you are planning on driving, then you may encounter some expensive parking fees.

Accommodation in Frankfurt

+ PRO: Wide range of housing options

Frankfurt offers a wide variety of properties, from big and small apartments in central areas to larger houses in surrounding suburbs and everything in between.

- CON: High demand and high rental costs

Frankfurt is a relatively small city, and the demand for housing is greater than the supply. This has driven rent up and made it difficult to secure a home. Home insurance is also a must and is an added cost. Upon finding your perfect accommodation in Frankfurt, you must act quickly to submit a lease application. 

- CON: Most accommodation options are unfurnished

Most apartments and houses have minimal furnishings, and you will either need to ship or buy furniture. For tenants who prefer to put their own stamp on a place, this could be a 'pro'. That said, an expat’s stay is often short, so many prefer to find a fully furnished home.

Education and schools in Frankfurt

+ PRO: Excellent standard of schools

Both public and private schools in Frankfurt offer a high standard of facilities, well-trained teachers, and aim to provide children with a well-rounded education. Public schools are better for expat children to integrate into German society quicker, while a bilingual or international school may offer the comfort of their home language and a familiar curriculum.

- CON: International school fees are exorbitant

While public schools are a viable option, many expat families choose international schools for the aforementioned reasons. Parents who go this route should consider the often hefty tuition fees at these institutions. 

+ PRO: Great universities in Frankfurt

Some of Germany’s best universities are located in Frankfurt, such as Goethe University Frankfurt and Frankfurt School of Finance & Management. 

Healthcare in Frankfurt

+ PRO: Exceptional healthcare facilities and qualified practitioners

Frankfurt boasts a wide range of excellent healthcare facilities, with a fair few specialist hospitals. It's also fairly easy to find English-speaking doctors and healthcare practitioners, so expats needn't worry about managing their health while living in the city. 

- CON: Proof of health insurance is mandatory to secure a visa

Although some expats may prefer to arrange their health insurance while already in the country, this is not possible in Germany as you must provide proof of health insurance before you are granted a visa. Expats who are high-earners or are self-employed can pick between public or private health insurance.

Frankfurt has been a popular expat destination for decades. Its major drawcard is its thriving economy and the opportunities it provides for ambitious professionals. 

Working in Frankfurt is certainly not for the faint of heart. New arrivals are expected to work hard and efficiently to prove their worth. Their hard work is usually rewarded with great salaries and the excellent standard of living that Frankfurt is known for. 

Job market in Frankfurt

Frankfurt is the financial, commercial and industrial capital of Germany and, along with Paris and London, one of the major banking and financial centres of Europe. The city is home to more than 400 banks and financial institutions, as well as the Frankfurt Stock Exchange – the largest in Germany.

Major names in finance with large operations in Frankfurt include Deutsche Bank, JPMorgan Chase, Goldman Sachs, Credit Suisse, UBS, KPMG, PwC, and Deloitte. The city is also home to two important central banks, namely the European Central Bank and the German Federal Bank.

The aviation industry is another prominent employer in Frankfurt. Frankfurt International Airport is one of the world's busiest airports and the single largest place of work in Germany, employing more than 70,000 people. Other major employers in the aviation industry include Lufthansa, Condor and Fraport. 

Frankfurt is also home to Germany's highest concentration of lawyers. As a result, most of the world's large international law firms maintain offices in the city, including Allen & Overy, Baker McKenzie, Clifford Chance, Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer, Linklaters and Norton Rose Fulbright. 

Useful links

• German Federal Employment Agency

Finding a job in Frankfurt

Such a high-profile work environment means expats should prepare for a competitive, professional, fast-paced experience. Most expats work in the financial, banking and business industries, and most often for international employers that are building their presence in Germany. Many are relocated by companies they have worked for previously or are headhunted, so relevant experience and good qualifications are vital when applying for positions in the city. 

If you're trying to find work in Frankfurt, you can start by using online sources for some useful insights into the types of jobs available in the city. Those looking for work in niche industries will benefit from networking and building relationships with those already in their field in Frankfurt. 

Speaking German is not a prerequisite for many jobs in Frankfurt, but some knowledge of the local language will certainly be beneficial if you're hoping to pursue a successful career in the city. It will improve business interactions and smooth out social dealings. Ideally, German lessons should be taken before arrival in Frankfurt.

Expats from non-EU countries and some newer EU-member states must have a work visa to commence employment in Frankfurt. This can be applied for at the German consulate in your home country. EU nationals have the advantage of not requiring a work permit in Frankfurt.

Useful links

• English Jobs Germany
• Stepstone 
• Xing

Work culture in Frankfurt

The work culture in Germany's commercial hub is somewhat conservative. If you want to be successful and make a good impression in the local workplace, you will need to understand and incorporate elements of German business culture into your practices. 

Business culture in Germany is generally formal, and efficiency in the workplace is paramount. Time is money, so being punctual is important. Once the meeting begins, Germans get straight down to business and there's little room for small talk.

Punctuality and appearance are critical, so you should dress well and arrive at meetings fully prepared and on time. It's best to avoid humour, especially at first, as it can be misconstrued. You should also expect to be asked detailed questions and have facts and figures on hand to back up what is being presented.

Germans are typically private and maintain a strict separation between work and home life, so it may take some time to forge more personal relationships with colleagues.

The best places to live in Frankfurt

Frankfurt is a vibrant, cosmopolitan city that attracts expats from all over Europe and the world. One of the biggest decisions facing new arrivals is where to live.

Choosing which neighbourhood to live in is determined by numerous factors, including the price of accommodation, facilities available, and proximity to workplace, good schools and transport links. Luckily, there are areas and suburbs in Frankfurt to suit every expat's accommodation and lifestyle needs.

Young and trendy areas of Frankfurt

Bornheim

Bornheim provides a lively atmosphere for young professionals thanks to the selection of pubs, bars, and restaurants in the area. With an active nightlife scene, most of the best entertainment spots are located along Bornheim’s main street, Berger Strasse, which is also home to some of Frankfurt’s best cider houses. Bornheim is well served by public transport and is on several bus routes and two underground train lines.

The majority of accommodation in Bornheim comes in the form of apartment units in modern complexes. This is a popular area to live in because of its vibrant entertainment scene and proximity to the city centre, so accommodation costs are naturally quite high.

Sachsenhausen

Sachsenhausen is a highly sought-after area, especially for those interested in the arts. This well-populated part of Frankfurt offers loads of activities to keep the residents entertained, including great flea markets and some of Germany’s best museums.

Located on the south side of the river, Alt-Sachsenhausen is famous for its cobbled streets. Schweizer Strasse is also located in Sachsenhausen for those are into Frankfurt's café culture. Apartments are relatively affordable, and many properties have great views of the River Main. 

Family-friendly suburbs of Frankfurt

Kronberg

Kronberg is an ideal place to raise children. Its properties are spacious, and there are lots of open spaces and leafy green parks nearby. Kronberg is also home to some good international schools.

Public transport links that connect Kronberg to other parts of Frankfurt are fairly good. The neighbourhood is located on two S-Bahn lines, and the average commute time into Frankfurt’s city centre is approximately 20 to 30 minutes. 

Property can be quite pricey here, so we recommend ensuring your budget can comfortably cover all your living expenses.

Nordend

Nordend is a relatively peaceful part of Frankfurt, which is particularly popular with young couples and families, as there are a fair few good schools in the area. Nordend residents have a strong sense of community and regularly organise small-scale neighbourhood events.

Nordend is centrally located and well served by local buses. Being so close to Bornheim allows residents of the area easy access to some of the city’s best restaurants and bars. The area is also well loved by those who enjoy upscale wine and cocktail bars. Property prices are more reasonable here than in Kronberg.

City living in Frankfurt

Niederrad

Westend

Westend is another area with a strong expat community. Grüneburgpark and the Palm Gardens are located in the area and provide residents with a great place to relax. This is a beautiful part of the city to live in, with stylish and architecturally stunning historic buildings lining the streets.

The neighbourhood is home to some of Frankfurt’s top legal and financial firms, and it is particularly popular among those employed in these industries who don't wish to travel far for work.

The area is an upmarket part of Frankfurt, and accommodation costs are some of the highest in the city. Westend has an abundance of luxury living options, and most apartments are located in converted historical buildings.

Healthcare in Frankfurt is excellent, with both public and private hospitals meeting international standards. If you have specific health problems, you'll be glad to find that there are a handful of specialist hospitals in the city.

All the leading hospitals that are accessible to expats in Frankfurt accept major health insurance policies. Private hospitals in Frankfurt offer state-of-the-art medical technology, first-class facilities and access to top doctors and specialists. English is commonly spoken in Frankfurt's hospitals, and waiting lists are short.  

Pharmacies, or apotheken, are easy to find in Frankfurt and are usually located on main shopping streets or inside malls. They tend to be closed in the evenings, on Saturday afternoons, on Sundays, and on holidays. Some even close early on Wednesdays. While there are laws in Germany that prevent the growth of pharmacy chains, there are a number of reputable pharmacies in the city.

Below is a list of the most prominent hospitals in Frankfurt. You can expect to receive a good standard of treatment at these facilities.

Hospitals in Frankfurt

Hospital Zum Heiligen Geist (Hospital of the Holy Spirit)

Website: www.hospital-zum-heiligen-geist.de
Address: Lange Straße 4-6

The Nordwest Hospital

Website: www.krankenhaus-nordwest.de
Address: Steinbacher Hohl 2-26

Klinikum der Goethe-Universität (University Medical Centre Frankfurt)

Website: www.unimedizin-ffm.de
Address: Theodor-Stern-Kai 7

St Elisabethen Hospital Frankfurt

Website: www.elisabethen-krankenhaus-frankfurt.de
Address: Ginnheimer Straße 3

The standard of education and schools in Frankfurt is on par with the rest of Germany. German public and private schools in the city offer an excellent level of teaching, and Frankfurt is home to a number of Germany’s top universities. 

While the German school system is highly regarded globally, most expats opt to send their children to international schools in Frankfurt. These schools offer expat students the opportunity to continue studying the curriculum from their home country. Continuing studies in their native tongue plays a significant role in allowing children a smoother transition into expat life in Frankfurt.

Schools in Frankfurt usually break for holidays in April, July/August and October, with an additional break in December for Christmas.

Public schools in Frankfurt

If you have children young enough to pick up the language quickly or you plan to stay in Frankfurt on a long-term basis, you should consider standard German public schools. There are no tuition fees attached to these institutions, but there may be registration fees or minimal extras that will need to be financed.

You may initially find the system complicated, but it is ultimately based on achievement and is tailored to the abilities of each student.

Children attend kindergarten at the age of three and start grundschule (primary school) at age six. From this age, students learn a standard set curriculum.

After this point, they attend one of three types of secondary schools: hauptschule, realschule or gymnasium. From this point on, German education is thus not divided by age, but rather according to what direction a student chooses to take their education.

A child's academic ability usually determines which school they attend, but the final decision also often rests with the parents. Bear in mind, though, regardless of which school a child attends, all students are required to complete at least nine years of education. 

Hauptschule, while offering the same subjects as realschule and gymnasium, teaches children at a slower pace and includes vocational courses. During Grade 10, students study at a vocational training school and then attend berufsschule, where they receive further education and apprenticeship training up until Grade 12. 

Realschule, on the other hand, is attended up to and including Grade 10, after which students go straight to berufsschule. Depending on their academic progress, realschule students can go to a gymnasium upon graduation.

Gymnasium is generally accepted as the type of school for top students. Subjects included here are mathematics and natural science, as well as classic and modern language studies. It covers Grades 5 through 13 and successful scholars receive an Abitur.

Useful links

• State School Offices in Hesse – Finding a school in Frankfurt

Bilingual schools in Frankfurt

Public bilingual schools are a good alternative and worth considering, especially if there is no provision for the payment of school fees within an expat’s employment package.

There are nominal fees attached to bilingual schools in Frankfurt, and they're a great option for those planning to spend a good few years in Frankfurt and who are keen to have their children integrate with the local German population.

In these state-sponsored schools, there are usually two streams of curricula based on a child's mother tongue and German. In Frankfurt, there are currently bilingual schools that teach in German and either French, English, Greek, or Japanese.

Bilingual schools are a popular option for Germans who want their children to experience a broader education. For this reason, spaces fill up quickly. If you are preparing for a move to Frankfurt, you should make arrangements as far in advance as possible.

International schools in Frankfurt

There are just a handful of international schools in Frankfurt. There isn't as much choice in Frankfurt as you would find in the German capital of Berlin.

Most of the international schools in Frankfurt are English-speaking and follow the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum. Some also follow the American, British, or Japanese curricula, among others.

You should note that tuition fees at international schools are expensive in Frankfurt. If you're moving to the city as part of an international transfer, you should be sure to negotiate an education allowance as part of your contract. 

Read more

• International Schools in Frankfurt

Special-needs education in Frankfurt

Children in Germany, regardless of disability, have the right to early childhood education, and primary, secondary and tertiary schooling. Children with disabilities are supported as far as possible in mainstream schools, and there has been a push for more inclusive educational practices in vocational schools and general education.

The journey to receiving special educational needs support begins with either the school or parents contacting the local education authority (schulamt) to coordinate and authorise the diagnostic process. The child will then be assessed by a special-needs teacher or an educational psychologist in a school setting.

The results are reviewed by a multidisciplinary team of teachers, psychologists, parents, and other specialists to develop and implement an Individual Education Plan (IEP). The IEP will often detail plans to ensure the child can remain in mainstream school, but there are also special schools (Förderschulen) available for children who cannot be accommodated in mainstream schools. 

Useful links

• State School Offices Hesse – Learning in Inclusive Classrooms

Tutors in Frankfurt

Education is highly valued in Germany, and many parents use tutors to help improve their children's academic performance. Tutors might assist in specific subjects such as maths or science. Expat parents typically hire a tutor to improve their child's German language proficiency. Tutors are also used to prepare for important exams or university entrance exams.

Newcomers to Germany might also find that their child may benefit from having a guiding hand in navigating a new school system, or just to build some confidence.

Useful links

• Elite Tutor
• Lernzentrum Kopfsache

Unlike in larger German cities, Frankfurt has a relatively small selection of international schools. For this reason, international schools in Frankfurt often have waiting lists, so it's always a good idea to start applications early to secure a spot. 

See below for a list of the top international schools in Frankfurt.

International schools in Frankfurt

European School, Frankfurt am Main

This prestigious school is one of 13 across Europe that the European Union oversees. It offers four different streams: German, English, French, and Italian. In preschool, there is also the option of a Spanish stream. Students at the European School, Frankfurt am Main become multilingual and multicultural global citizens. Read more

Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: European
Ages: 4 to 18

Frankfurt International School

More than 1,800 children of over 60 nationalities make up Frankfurt International School's diverse student population. As an International Baccalaureate founding school, Frankfurt International School is well qualified to offer this prestigious academic programme. Read more

Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: International Baccalaureate
Ages: 3 to 18

Japanische Internationale Schule Frankfurt has decades of history of providing an excellent Japanese education in a German context. A short train ride away from central Frankfurt, the school is centrally located and easily accessible. The school aims to develop academic excellence and global-mindedness in its students. Read more

Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: Japanese
Ages: 6 to 14

Lycée Francais Victor Hugo

With more than 1,000 students, Lycée Francais Victor Hugo is a prominent school known for its high standard of education. Students have a choice of two streams: French or bilingual (French and German). The school offers six languages, allowing children to develop multilingualism. Read more

Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: French and German
Ages: 3 to 18

Metropolitan School Frankfurt

Students at this well-respected school earn the Cambridge IGCSE in Grade 10 and graduate with the International Baccalaureate Diploma in Grade 12. Extracurricular options are plentiful and include everything from saxophone and mask making to fitness club and dance aerobics. Read more

Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: British (Cambridge IGCSE) and International Baccalaureate
Ages: 3 to 18

Frankfurt is the largest city in the German state of Hesse and is proud to be one of the largest financial centres in Europe. Famous for its breathtaking skyline along the River Main, Frankfurt is one of the most international cities in Germany and attracts many expats in search of high salaries and career advancement.

The lifestyle in Frankfurt is charming and brimming with history and culture, complete with sought-after shopping outlets, impressive museums, interesting historic sites and world-class opera theatres to enjoy.

The city offers working professionals an attractive work-life balance – employees can expect to receive 30 days of annual leave every year. This allows you to not only discover nearby towns and cities, but also gives you the chance to travel to neighbouring countries, given that Frankfurt has excellent rail connections and one of the busiest airports in Europe.

Shopping in Frankfurt

Frankfurt’s main shopping street is the Zeil pedestrian zone. Here, shoppers will find their regular high-street stores such as H&M, Zara and Promod, as well as department stores such as MyZeil, Galeria, Karstadt and Parfümerie Douglas. 

The Apfelwein district in Sachsenhausen is the place to find traditional German buys, while Goethe Strasse sells top-end designer goods and is packed with jewellery stores. Schweizer Strasse has beautiful boutiques and independent stores aimed at a trendier clientèle. 

Foodies will enjoy a visit to the Kleinmarkthalle weekly farmer's market, where they can find fresh produce and various delicacies. 

Eating out in Frankfurt

Dining out in Frankfurt is a pleasure, and you will be spoilt for choice when it comes to the selection of restaurants. The restaurant scene reflects Frankfurt’s multicultural nature. Like many cities in the world, eating out can be expensive, so it is essential to know where to look if budget is a concern.

The Fressgasse pedestrian street is the place for traditional German food, while the Westend and Nordend boast a great range of stylish and upmarket restaurants. If you're looking for more of a café or pub atmosphere, Berger Strasse in Bornheim is brimming with options.

Nightlife in Frankfurt

Despite the city's financial reputation, Frankfurt's nightlife is not dominated by swanky hotel bars and upmarket establishments. 

Indeed, the city's nightlife scene is incredibly diverse, boasting every kind of entertainment imaginable, from casinos, bars, and cocktail lounges to live music venues and dance clubs. Jazz clubs are particularly popular in Frankfurt, with regular performances taking place all over the city.

Much of Frankfurt's nightlife is centred in the north of the city in Fressgasse, Zeil and Römerberg, while Sachsenhausen is a good place to find Latin, Irish, and local joints.

Sports and outdoor activities in Frankfurt

Frankfurt is among Germany’s greenest urban cities and, as such, it offers a wide variety of outdoor pursuits for residents to get involved in. The city is bicycle-friendly, with plenty of urban bike paths and mountain trails. There is also no charge for taking bicycles on board public transport.

Frankfurt has more than 50 parks and green spaces, most of which are suitable for walkers and runners. Some parks in the city even have designated areas for roller skating, ping-pong, football, and basketball. 

If you enjoy water-based activities, you will be pleased to know that Frankfurt is home to several water parks, large indoor swimming pools, and open-air pools, all of which are extremely popular during the summer months.

Family and kids in Frankfurt

Expats moving to Frankfurt with a family may discover that the city is not necessarily Germany's most child-friendly locale. Nonetheless, there is still plenty to see and do with the little ones.

Eissporthalle Frankfurt is an ideal attraction for kids. In winter, there are two ice-skating rinks that are used for inline skating in summer, so it's a fun outing for the whole family.

Parents can take their children to explore the Frankfurt Zoo or devote a day to the Children’s Museum, where kids can learn about geology, biology, and architecture in an interactive and fun way.

For those who are a bit older, the Senckenberg Museum of Natural History is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a wonderfully fascinating place to visit.

On warmer days, pack a picnic and head to the Palmengarten to enjoy the wide open spaces. You can also take a trip to the Rebstock Bath to take advantage of the slides and pools – the little ones will certainly be cooled off and tired out.

See and do in Frankfurt

Once you arrive in Frankfurt, you'll soon discover that the city boasts a multitude of exciting attractions and activities for just about every taste and budget. Below are some of the most popular. 

Eschenheimer Turm

Dating back to the 15th century, the Eschenheimer Turm is one of the few remaining medieval portions of the wall that was built to encircle Frankfurt. Expats new to the city should climb to the top of the 154-foot high (47m) Gothic tower to admire the spectacular views of the city. The tower is also home to a café serving delectable goodies. 

Fountain of Justice (Gerechtigkeitsbrunnen)

Built in 1541 in Frankfurt’s central square of Romerberg, the Fountain of Justice has changed a lot over the last few centuries. The original sandstone statues were moved to the Museum of Local History. Still, the historical site is worth a visit for anyone new to Frankfurt.

Botanical Garden (Botanischer Garten Frankfurt am Main) 

Spend a day strolling through the beautiful Botanical Garden in Frankfurt and enjoy the journey through its different sections of flora and fauna. This is a great spot to enjoy a picnic while relaxing in the sun during the summer. A perfect outing for the whole family.

German Film Museum (Deutsches Filmmuseum)

For film buffs, this museum constantly screens old films from its collection. If you're eager to learn about the country’s movie history, you should head to the Deutsches Filmmuseum to look at the exhibits, models, and images.

Städel Gallery

This is Frankfurt’s most important gallery and contains some exquisite European works of art. The institution features everything from 19th and 20th-century German painters, to French impressionists such as Renoir and Monet. The most impressive piece in the museum is Jan van Eyck's Madonna (1433).

Frankfurt Zoo

Nearly destroyed in World War II, with only 20 animals surviving, this ethical sanctuary has added more than 3,200 furry and feathered friends. Today the zoo features the popular Big Cat Jungle and the Exotarium, a collection of exotic and aquatic animals, as well as some super realistic replicas of many of the creatures' natural habitats.

Meeting people and making friends in Frankfurt

When you're new to a city, making friends and building a local community will likely be one of your priorities. While meeting new people and making friends with Germans can initially be challenging, there are several ways you can meet people in Frankfurt. 

Among the best ways is to join a local club or social group. Frankfurt is a cosmopolitan city, with ambitious and highly qualified people who are always looking to expand their networks. There are various professional and art groups in the city that you can join. 

It's also easy to find running or sports clubs if you're a fitness enthusiast. This is also a great way to meet locals, which can be challenging in a new city. 

Useful links

• Frankfurt Expats
• Professional Women's Network (PWN) Frankfurt
• Ginnheimer Lauftreff

The public transport system in Frankfurt is efficient and inexpensive, and you may not need a car if you live and work in the city. With a good city map or Google Maps, you will find that getting around Frankfurt is quite easy. 

The city's bus, train, and tram services are always reliable, and there are various ticketing options, depending on how often you use public transport.

If you enjoy a good walk, it is certainly possible to get around the city centre on foot, while cycling is another popular mode of commuting. 

Public transport in Frankfurt

Trains

Frankfurt’s Central Station is possibly the most important transport hub in Germany. More than 1,000 trains connect Frankfurt with other cities in Germany, as well as with international destinations. All the S-Bahn services stop at the Central Station. Trains are usually highly punctual.

The S-Bahn connects Frankfurt with the densely populated Rhein-Main region. When the S-Bahn leaves the city, it travels above ground, covering the main areas in Frankfurt (such as Konstablerwache, Hauptwache and Frankfurt Central Station), and also provides access to the trade fairs and airport. 

The S-Bahn trains also travel to nearby cities, including Wiesbaden, Bad Homburg, Mainz, Darmstadt, Kronberg, Friedburg. The U-Bahn serves Frankfurt and the larger suburbs of Bad Homburg and Oberursel in the north. 

Trams

Frankfurt also has an extremely efficient tram service. The trams travel overground and often run on tracks laid down the middle of roads. Trams serve even more stops than the trains do in Frankfurt.

You may have to walk onto the road to get on or off a tram at times. While it is perfectly safe to do so, be very careful to check that cars have stopped before crossing. 

Drivers must stop behind the line and give priority to tram passengers. That said, there may still be reckless drivers on the road who don't always obey this law.

Buses

Several buses serve Frankfurt. Each stop has a name, which is announced and displayed onscreen before the stop. Buses in Frankfurt cover a greater area and serve more distant suburbs that are not covered comprehensively by Frankfurt's train network. There is a night bus service, which starts and ends at Konstablerwache.

Useful links

• Rhein-Main Transport Association (RMV)
• Verkehrsgesellschaft Frankfurt (VGF)

Taxis in Frankfurt

Taxis are readily available in Frankfurt and can be hailed off the street, ordered on the phone, or caught at a taxi rank.

Frankfurt taxis can be expensive but are a viable option when travelling short distances within the city centre. Travelling by taxi is more cost-effective if you share one with people who are travelling to the same place. 

Ride-hailing services such as Uber and Free Now are also convenient for expats who may not be proficient in German. These services allow you to avoid language barriers, as you simply need to download an app, link your credit card, and start riding.

Useful links

• Uber
• Free Now
• Main Taxi Frankfurt

Driving in Frankfurt

While most people living in Frankfurt opt to use public transport to commute in and out of the city each day, driving has its own benefits. You'll have increased independence and ease of access, which other modes of transport cannot replicate. Having a car is especially useful for expats with children, as well as those who wish to explore the outskirts of Frankfurt and its surrounds more freely.

The standard of road infrastructure and signage in Frankfurt is excellent, so you will find that driving in the city is a pleasant experience. Local motorists are generally patient and courteous. 

The major downside of driving in Frankfurt is the lack of parking in the city, which is not only hard to find but expensive. Rush hour traffic can also be a problem for commuters.

Read Transport and Driving in Germany to learn more about obtaining driving licences in the country. 

Cycling in Frankfurt

Frankfurt is a fairly safe city for those who wish to cycle. Many parts of the city have dedicated cycle lanes, and the city's local government has plans to expand the cycling network across Frankfurt. 

Many cycle paths are coloured or have separation pillars installed to make cycling even safer in Frankfurt. Although wearing a helmet while cycling in Frankfurt is not compulsory, we recommend it at all times. 

In a bid to encourage cycling, the City of Frankfurt has been promoting and subsidising the use and purchase of cargo bicycles, enabling residents to use their bicycles as their primary mode of transport. You needn't worry if you don't have your own set of wheels, as there are many bike-sharing schemes and rental shops across Frankfurt. 

Useful links

• The City of Frankfurt Cycling Portal
• Nextbike
• Call a Bike