Frankfurt

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Arts and Culture

An overview of Frankfurt’s museums, galleries, theaters, and cultural events that showcase its rich history and contemporary art scene.

Sections

1. Cultural Institutions in Frankfurt

Museums

Frankfurt is home to the famous "Museumsufer" (Museum Embankment), a cluster of world-class museums located along the River Main. Here are some highlights:

  1. Städel Museum (Städel Kunstinstitut und Städtische Galerie)

    • Focus: European art from the Middle Ages to contemporary works.
    • Address: Schaumainkai 63, 60596 Frankfurt.
    • Opening Hours:
      • Tuesday, Wednesday, Saturday, Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM.
      • Thursday, Friday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM.
      • Closed on Mondays.
    • Ticket Costs:
      • Adults: €16.
      • Reduced: €14 (students, seniors, etc.).
      • Free for children under 12.
    • Booking: Tickets can be purchased online via their website or at the entrance.
    • Local Tip: Visit on the last Saturday of August during the "Museumsuferfest" for extended hours and special events.

  2. German Film Museum (Deutsches Filmmuseum)

    • Focus: History and art of filmmaking, with interactive exhibits and screenings.
    • Address: Schaumainkai 41, 60596 Frankfurt.
    • Opening Hours:
      • Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM.
      • Thursday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM.
      • Closed on Mondays.
    • Ticket Costs:
      • Adults: €9.
      • Reduced: €7.
      • Free for children under 6.
    • Booking: Tickets available online or at the museum.
    • Local Tip: Check their schedule for special film screenings in their in-house cinema.

  3. Senckenberg Natural History Museum (Senckenberg Naturmuseum)

    • Focus: Natural history, including dinosaur skeletons and biodiversity exhibits.
    • Address: Senckenberganlage 25, 60325 Frankfurt.
    • Opening Hours:
      • Monday to Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
      • Saturday, Sunday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM.
    • Ticket Costs:
      • Adults: €12.
      • Reduced: €6.
      • Family tickets available for €29.
    • Booking: Tickets can be purchased online or at the entrance.
    • Local Tip: Arrive early on weekends to avoid crowds, especially in the dinosaur exhibit.

Theaters and Performing Arts

  1. Alte Oper (Old Opera House)

    • Focus: Classical music concerts, opera, and contemporary performances.
    • Address: Opernplatz 1, 60313 Frankfurt.
    • Ticket Costs: Prices vary depending on the performance, ranging from €20 to €150.
    • Booking: Tickets can be purchased online via their website or at the box office.
    • Local Tip: Check for discounted tickets for students and last-minute deals.

  2. English Theatre Frankfurt

    • Focus: English-language plays, musicals, and comedies.
    • Address: Gallusanlage 7, 60329 Frankfurt.
    • Ticket Costs: €20–€50 depending on the show and seating.
    • Booking: Tickets available online or at the theater.
    • Local Tip: Arrive early to enjoy a drink at the theater’s bar before the show.

  3. Schauspiel Frankfurt

    • Focus: German-language plays, contemporary theater, and experimental performances.
    • Address: Willy-Brandt-Platz, 60311 Frankfurt.
    • Ticket Costs: €15–€60 depending on the performance.
    • Booking: Tickets can be purchased online or at the box office.
    • Local Tip: Non-German speakers can inquire about performances with English subtitles.

Art Galleries

  1. Frankfurter Kunstverein

    • Focus: Contemporary art exhibitions and installations.
    • Address: Steinernes Haus am Römerberg, Markt 44, 60311 Frankfurt.
    • Ticket Costs: €6 for adults, €4 for reduced tickets.
    • Local Tip: Check their website for free admission days or special events.

  2. Portikus

    • Focus: Cutting-edge contemporary art in a unique riverside location.
    • Address: Alte Brücke 2, 60594 Frankfurt.
    • Ticket Costs: Free admission.
    • Local Tip: Combine your visit with a walk along the River Main.

2. Major Events and Festivals

  1. Museumsuferfest (Museum Embankment Festival)

    • When: Last weekend of August.
    • What: A celebration of art, culture, and food along the River Main, featuring live music, performances, and extended museum hours.
    • Cost: Free entry; some museums may charge a small fee for special exhibitions.
    • Local Tip: Arrive early to secure a good spot for the evening fireworks.

  2. Frankfurt Book Fair (Frankfurter Buchmesse)

    • When: October.
    • What: The world’s largest book fair, attracting publishers, authors, and literary enthusiasts.
    • Cost: Day tickets start at €25 for adults.
    • Local Tip: Public days (usually the last two days) are the best time for visitors to explore and buy books.

  3. Christmas Market (Weihnachtsmarkt)

    • When: Late November to December 23.
    • What: One of Germany’s oldest and most beautiful Christmas markets, held in the Römerberg square.
    • Cost: Free entry; food and gifts are individually priced.
    • Local Tip: Try the local specialty, "Bethmännchen" (marzipan cookies), and a cup of mulled wine.

3. Unique Cultural Practices and Traditions

  1. Apfelwein (Apple Wine) Culture

    • Frankfurt is famous for its "Apfelwein" (apple wine), a tart cider-like drink. Visit a traditional "Apfelweinwirtschaft" (apple wine tavern) in the Sachsenhausen district to experience this local tradition. Popular spots include "Zum Gemalten Haus" and "Atschel."
    • Local Tip: Pair your Apfelwein with "Handkäse mit Musik" (a regional cheese dish).

  2. Grüne Soße (Green Sauce)

    • A beloved local dish made with seven fresh herbs, often served with boiled eggs and potatoes. Look for it in traditional restaurants.

  3. Frankfurt Dialect

    • While most locals speak standard German, you may hear the Frankfurt dialect ("Frankfurterisch") in casual settings. Don’t hesitate to ask locals about unique phrases—they’ll appreciate your interest!

4. Practical Tips for Visitors

  • Public Transport: Frankfurt’s public transport system (RMV) is efficient and well-connected. Purchase a "Frankfurt Card" for unlimited travel and discounts on museum tickets.
  • Language: While German is the primary language, English is widely spoken in cultural institutions and tourist areas.
  • Booking Tickets: Many museums and theaters offer online booking, which is recommended to avoid queues.
  • Payment: Credit cards are accepted at most cultural institutions, but it’s good to carry some cash for smaller vendors or festivals.
  • Photography: Check the rules for photography in museums and galleries; some may restrict flash or photography altogether.

Frankfurt’s arts and culture scene is diverse and accessible, offering something for everyone. Whether you’re exploring its historic museums, enjoying a theater performance, or indulging in local traditions, you’re sure to have a memorable experience.