I knew I wanted to get to Germany to meet my friends in Munich for Oktoberfest , so it worked out perfectly for me to explore Frankfurt before taking off on my journey. I was also LUCKY because I have a friend from college who just so happened to live there with her Germany boyfriend and I got to stay with them for a few days! Thanks Hailey and Jannik! However, this city is still pretty awesome and has a ton to offer! Frankfurt is known as the financial hub of Europe and has one of the biggest airports in Europe hence my cheap flight.
This is mainly due to the fact that in WWII, Frankfurt was literally bombed flat and most older buildings are no longer there. So, if you find yourself going to Frankfurt or have a long layover there, I recommend taking the walking tour! This square is where coronations, Christmas markets, and many different fairs take place. While I was there they were all set up for a mini-Oktoberfest celebration and had different stands selling all types of different beers, mulled wines and pretzels!
Filled with crime, junkies, and prostitution, for years it was a scary place to hang out. Walking through this neighborhood was fascinating to me because of the grunge mixed with the modern hipster vibes. Prostitution is legal in Frankfurt and in all of Germany in fact.
I actually saw many men in suits taking a break from what looked like their jobs to go into brothels. Talk about a trip! This area also used to be the main spot for drug addicts still is , but Frankfurt has implemented drug use facilities where addicts can go get free drugs and clean needles in an effort to get them help and keep them off the street. Then we saw a facility with people lined up outside waiting to get a fix. Now, that was wild!
One of the best spots to view the city is from the Love Lock bridge a bridge covered in locks that has a wonderful view during the day and magical view at night of all of Frankfurt. Check out the large Kleinmarkthalle to find fresh flowers, fruit, coffee, fresh fish and just about anything you could ever want. You can grab a snack or actually stop here to grab lunch. Only a 5-minute walk from the Kleinmarkthalle is the center square of Frankfurt called Hauptwache.
