Frankfurt, the business and financial hub of Germany, is also its most international city. When compared to popular German cities like Munich, Hamburg and Berlin, it is small in size. The city is quite dynamic. Most Frankfurters can be seen speaking English while simultaneously doing international business. With an array of business institutions and modern towers, Frankfurt looks impressive and enticing.
But besides being a globalized financial centre, Frankfurt has a different facet too. The city is a renowned cultural hub as well. The quintessential visitors are offered many art galleries, museums and classical architecture. Before you actually get a feel of this scenic global city Frankfurt, here are some of its important districts to explore. These include Bockenheim, Westend, Nordend, Bornheim, Sachsenhausen, Bahnhofsviertel, Innenstadt and Altstadt. Visiting these areas in Frankfurt will help you acquaint with the city more and prepare well for your forthcoming business trip.
Bockenheim
Bockenheim is home to both the rich and the poor. On its one side you will find foreign consulate dwellings, mansions and impressive estates situated on the outskirts of the Palmengarten. Visit the other side of Bockenheim where you will find the dull looking campus of the University of Frankfurt. The only remaining medieval watchtower is located in the middle of the district.
Westend
The Westend area is the preferred choice for business persons. The affluent Frankfurters mostly reside here. It is also home to the spacious green ground Grünebergpark on which Frankfurters love jogging and sunbathing. The Palmengarten is yet another attraction here. This botanical garden attracts the people with its wonderful and diverse range of plant species.
Nordend
The Nordend in north of the centre was formerly abode of the liberal community in the 1970s. It was the place where many freethinking minds became a part of the famous Green Party. It is now presently home to many young professionals while keeping the eclectic and creative character of the area intact. Stroll between the Oederweg and Friedberger Landstrasse where you will discover many cafes, bars and restaurants adding to the appeal of the Nordend. The Holzhausenpark, which is also home to the Holzhausen Castle, is a regular venue for exhibitions and concerts.
Bornheim
Bornheim, also nicknamed as Lustige Dorf or The Funny Village, is situated in northeast of the centre. It is Frankfurt’s densely populated area. Just follow the central pedestrian and shopping zone Bergerstrasse to explore this area. You can also visit the U-Bahn station Bornheim Mitte to explore Bornheim. The area has plenty of cinemas, bars, ice cream parlors, cafes, and restaurants with relaxed terraces. You can also indulge in some great shopping at Bergerstrasse, where you will find many clothes and shoe shops. The twice weekly Bornheim Farmer's Market is also held at the square am Uhrtürmchen or the clock tower from where you can buy fresh vegetables and fruits. Many local craftsmen and bakers can also be seen setting up their shops here.
Sachsenhausen
The neighborhood Sachsenhausen, situated south of the river, is a fascinating mix of the new and old just like several other parts of Frankfurt. This charming area attracts young locals and tourists in large numbers. The Schweizerstraße is the main street in this area. It is home to many restaurants, trendy cafes, flower shops, bookshops, bakeries and delis, and boutiques. The Alt Sachsenhausen, a pedestrianized cobbled street, has several bars which are immensely popular with the tourists and locals. If you go on the other side of the river along the Schaumainkai area, you will come across a number of museums. This area also hosts a large flea market, which is held once a week on Saturday mornings. The park along the water in Schaumainkai attracts the locals particularly in the evening to get a scenic view of the sun setting behind the skyscrapers.
Bahnhofsviertel
The Bahnhofsviertel is the famous red-light district in the city. It was an infamous area, but much has changed over the years. You will find some of the beautiful buildings and best ethnic restaurants. The tourists while walking to the city center are advised to avoid going to the north of Kaiserstraße, which is still known for the infamous red-light activities.
Altstadt
The Romer square in the Old City or Altstadt is the backbone of Frankfurt dating back to hundreds of years. The Romer is well-preserved and so is the Rathaus or Town Hall. They are undoubtedly quite impressive. The Paulskirche or Paul’s Church, founded in 1848 and the birthplace of German Constitution, is a major attraction here.
A visit to these major areas of Frankfurt will give you an insight into the city and keep you updated prior to your visit to this magnificent German city.