Victoria Lupascu 
Guten tag! Ready to join me for a virtual adventure around Germany’s financial capital? Then hop on this guide on where to stay in Frankfurt!
Read this post, and you’ll find the 6 most amazing areas to stay in for tourists! For each neighborhood, I included different hotel options, from luxury to mid-range and budget! And to make things even easier, I’ve sorted them all by price.
I carefully explored all the accommodation options in the area and only picked the best of the best, so you can rest assured that you will only get the top-rated options for all (suited for all pockets).
In short, Altstadt (Old Town) is the best area to stay in Frankfurt, as it has all the main attractions and incredible hotels! But if you’re looking for something different, just scroll down a bit, and I’m sure you’ll find your favorite!
Frankfurt is a sought-after holiday spot, so I highly recommend booking your hotels here in advance to secure your spot!
If you are in a hurry
This list will help you browse quickly through all the hotels in Zentrum-Altstadt if you need to choose where to stay in Frankfurt super quickly:
Contents
- If you are in a hurry
- 1. Zentrum-Altstadt (Old Town/City Center) – for first-timers
- 2. Bahnhofsviertel – where to stay near the train station
- 3. Bornheim & Ostend – for those on a budget
- 4. Westend – best place for families
- 5. Sachsenhausen – where to stay for the local vibe
- 6. Gallusviertel & Gutleutviertel – for the urban atmosphere
- BONUS 1: Best hotels near Flughafen Frankfurt Airport
- BONUS 2: Where to stay in Frankfurt for business
- FAQs about where to stay in Frankfurt
Watch my video, it will give you a visual explanation of all the areas:
Here’s a map of all the areas that I’m going to talk about in this post on where to stay in Frankfurt. Most of them are located in the Innenstadt business district of the city.
- Zentrum – Altstadt: for first-timers
- Bahnhofsviertel: for nightlife
- BORNHEIM & OSTEND: for budget
- Westend: for families
- Sachsenhausen: for a local vibe
- GALLUSVIERTEL & GUTLEUTVIERTEL : for an urban vibe
1. Zentrum-Altstadt (Old Town/City Center) – for first-timers
What better place to start your holiday than Zentrum-Altstadt (Center-Old City) which is part of the larger Innenstadt area, which encompasses most of central Frankfurt.
This is the beating heart of Frankfurt and the place where you’ll find the most beautiful medieval buildings, the town square, and a romantic atmosphere that reigns over!
Although the city was highly affected during World War II, they managed to reconstruct and revive the city, ensuring to recapture its medieval identity. A lot of the buildings, especially in Dom-Römer Quarter (also known as New Frankfurt Old Town), have actually been rebuilt.
The Old City is super-walkable, meaning most of the top tourist attractions are within walking distance so you won’t waste any time on transport!
So, get ready to dive deep into the city’s culture and past at the Historic Museum Frankfurt and to admire gorgeous Renaissance art at the Frankfurt Cathedral.
These are just some of the attractions, but you should definitely explore the beautiful Römerberg Square with its lined timber houses, St. Paul’s Church and the Alte Nikolaikirche Gothic church (Old Nikolai Church).
Since Altstadt Frankfurt is set right on the banks of the Main River, you’ll get some gorgeous waterfront views while here from its gorgeous bridges, Alte Brücke (which is super old) and the Iron Footbridge, which is newer and a favorite place of couples for romantic dates!
Altstadt is also the place where they hold the Christmas Market (and some other festivals throughout the year), so if you’re coming during that time, then you’re in for a treat!
Keep in mind that this area has limited space and high prices, so be sure to book your accommodation as soon as possible.
NOTE: If you’re planning to bring a car in Frankfurt, keep in mind that parking in Zentrum-Altstadt is difficult and traffic could be a problem. Frankfurt also has a low-emission zone, so you’ll need to display an emissions sticker to enter.
This is one of the best hotels in town with the most amazing romantic decor, perfect for those on a honeymoon! Enjoy your afternoon tea in the restaurant that has a vintage design, or have a glass of apple wine on the terrace while admiring the city views. It gets even better when you head to the spa for a relaxing day!
Other options in Altstadt (Old town/City center)
Enjoy your stay in Frankfurt Germany, in the modern rooms of this hotel that a central location and a bar
Here’s a super cheap room in an apartment that has a shared bathroom and a washer
A friendly place to stay located just a walk away from the center that has a cozy room and free wifi
Things to do in Altstadt (Old town/ City center)
- Shop for souvenirs in the traditional street market of Römer Platz
- See an impressive art exhibition at Schirn Kunsthalle Frankfurt
- Admire the architecture of St Paul’s Church and Frankfurt Cathedral
- Have fun at the Museum for Comic Art
- Catch a sunrise from the Iron Footbridge
- Visit the Historic Museum Frankfurt
- Have a coffee and see some modern art at Frankfurter Kunstverein
- Learn new things at the Museum für Moderne Kunst
2. Bahnhofsviertel – where to stay near the train station
Want to stay in an area that has great transport links not only with the other neighborhoods in the city but also with other countries? Then, Bahnhofsviertel is for you!
Named after Frankfurt’s main train station (Frankfurt Hauptbahnhof or HBF in German) set right near the neighborhood, this place is perfect for those of you who want to enjoy the city’s nightlife and also travel to some nearby countries like Belgium or Luxembourg.
And if you don’t want to venture as far as that, know that the area offers easy access to public transportation systems like the U-Bahn and S-Bahn!
This area is a cultural melting pot with its streets lined up with kiosks, döner restaurants and cheap shops! If you’d like to try different types of cuisines, this is surely the best spot as there is a wide range of restaurants!
Set in the West part of the city, just within walking distance of the city center, Bahnhofsviertel was once known as Frankfurt’s Red Light District but since then the area has undergone lots of changes and was transformed into one of the coolest neighborhoods in Germany!
However it has kept a part of the city’s Red Light District so you’ll still find lots of bars, taverns and casinos, especially on Elbestraße Street (map) and Moselstraße Street (map).
Please note that if you’re a family on vacation or someone looking for a classy, upscale party scene, you might want to reconsider staying in this area. Bahnhofsviertel has (legal) brothels, which might not suit everyone’s taste, and it can sometimes be a bit noisy.
If you’re looking for some fun places to start the night, then head over Roomers Bar (map) for some cocktails and then go on a pub crawl from there.
There aren’t so many museums, green spaces or attractions here, but since the area is set on the banks of River Main, you’ll find lots of places where you can enjoy the stunning views!
Now let’s check out the hotels here! Luckily this area is known for having lots of affordable accommodations:
You’ll love coming back from a night of partying in town and resting in the modern rooms of this luxury hotel in central Frankfurt! Definitely one of the best places to stay with views of Innenstadt and its skyscrapers! Drink your hangover cure of choice on the terrace, or if you ask me, I would spend a full day at the spa to relax!
Other accommodation options in Bahnhofsviertel
Frankfurt’s top eco-friendly hotel that offers spacious rooms, an organic breakfast, a bar, and amazing city views
This great hotel in central Frankfurt has bright rooms with a private bathrooms and also a terrace
A small but cozy place within walking distance of the attractions that has a small kitchen
Things to do in Bahnhofsviertel
- Party the night away in the city’s Red Light District
- Eat a delicious meal at Kabuki restaurant (map)
- Check out the office buildings in Bankenviertel (the banking quarter)
- Have a drink at Roomers Bar (map) and enjoy the nightlife in Frankfurt
- Hop on a train from Frankfurt’s Hauptbahnhof station
- Head to the top of Main Tower and enjoy the view of Galileo and Silver Tower skyscrapers
3. Bornheim & Ostend – for those on a budget
Located a 15 min trip away from the city center by public transport, Bornheim & Ostend is a charming area filled with half-timbered buildings that house apple-wine taverns and delicious German restaurants!
Apple-wine is Frankfurt’s traditional drink and there are lots of places in the city which serve this 250-years old drink so definitely give it a try!
This area is pretty tranquil and also has a wider range of budget hotels than the other neighborhoods in the center, making it perfect for families or those who are visiting Frankfurt on a budget.
Bornheim & Ostend is also home to the Frankfurt Zoo, founded back in the 1800s! A place that the kids will definitely want to see! And if you’re looking for more entertaining attractions, check out Frankfurt Eissporthalle, an ice skating rink where you can place ice hockey and Ost Park or Günthersburgpark which are the perfect spots for a family day out!
While here, hop on Berger Straße, the area’s main street where you’ll find lots of cafes, restaurants and shops! Café Wacker Berger Straße (map) is a great spot to enjoy your morning coffee!
Or if you’d prefer something more authentic, head over to the city’s largest farmer’s market (map) which takes place every Thursday and Saturday since 1989!
For those who still want to spend some time in the city center to visit the historic landmarks, know that from Berger Straße, you can take the metro or the tram and easily reach the Old Town.
This hotel offers comfortable rooms where you can relax after a day out and private parking! Head down to the restaurant after a long day spent in the city and eat a delicious dinner or grab a drink from the on-site bar.
Other accommodation options in Bornheim & Ostend
Enjoy a free breakfast at this hotel that offers family rooms, laundry facilities and parking spaces
One of the best Frankfurt hotels for budget that has stylish rooms with a Tv and free Wi-Fi
Perfect for a family, this place comes with a large kitchen, a private balcony and a flat-screen Tv
Things to do in Bornheim
- Go shopping at the Farmers Market (map)
- Spend a whole day at Ost Park
- Check out the European Central Bank
- Explore the Nordend-West area
- Have fun at Dippemess Jahrmarkt Frankfurt amusement park (map)
- Eat delicious German dishes at Chairs
- Take the kids to the Frankfurt Zoological Garden
- Check the shops and cafes on Berger Strasse
4. Westend – best place for families
Traveling with the whole family to Frankfurt? Then I think you should check out this section!
This upscale neighborhood is a 30 min walk away from the city center and it’s packed with leafy parks, gardens and gorgeous townhouses that will make you want to move up here!
I think this area is great for families as you’ll be far enough from all the noise of the Frankfurt city center, but still within walking distance from all the main attractions in downtown Frankfurt. Plus, it’s super safe.
Although the prices may be a bit higher here, you’ll find some really cool gems here, from apartments to boutique hotels! And don’t worry, I made sure to add some budget options too!
There are many parks in Westend where you can enjoy a nice walk with the family or maybe organize a picnic and make a whole day out of it. You should definitely visit the Palm Botanical Gardens (PalmenGarten Frankfurt) and also take the kids to the Senckenberg Natural History Museum!
If you want to admire some gorgeous architecture, go visit the Alte Oper, the city’s old opera house (maybe you can catch a show there)!
Right near the border of this area you’ll find the Messe Frankfurt (convention center), which is the largest trade fair in the world (wow)! Almost 4 million people visited Messe Frankfurt last year! That’s a lot! If you don’t want to visit the city during any of those events (and they hold many throughout the year), to avoid the crowds, I recommend checking the dates on their website!
That’s why I strong advise, if you’re coming for the fair, to look for hotels in this area, and book your hotel in advance for the event, as the prices get higher when there’s something on at Messe Frankfurt! I made a whole bonus for business travelers who are visiting solely for this, so check it out below!
With the most amazing views of Innenstadt, this hotel comes with all you need for your trip including a sauna and a fitness center! Make sure to grab a bite in the morning before you head out to see all the museums and attractions, the breakfast here is the best!
Other accommodation options in Westend
Enjoy your stay in Frankfurt Am Main in the comfy rooms of this hotel and spend a relaxing morning in the garden
The best budget hotel in the area that has rooms with a small kitchen and laundry facilities
Such a cool room located in one of the best luxury hotels that has a balcony, a shared backyard, and a gym
Things to do in Westend
- Teach the kids new things at the PalmenGarten Frankfurt
- Check out the Messe Frankfurt convention center
- Have some family fun at the Natural History Museum
- Catch a show at the Opera House
- Enjoy a family picnic in the Rothschildpark
- Check out the shops on Große Bockenheimer Straße
- Remain in awe of the grandeur of the Deutsche Bank Twin Towers
- See Frankfurt’s best gold pieces at Goldkammer Museum
5. Sachsenhausen – where to stay for the local vibe
Located on the south side of the Main river, this district has a combination of old and new buildings. It will make you feel as if you’re time-traveling all the time (even when you’re just crossing the street).
This area is known for its unique pubs where the local people will be happy to serve you traditional apple wine (apfelwein) and German food, which is so yummy (especially if you’re a meat-lover)!
NOTE: Although they have the same name, this area should not be confused with Sachsenhausen, the concentration camp in Oranienburg, Germany.
Just like Bahnhofsviertel (the area in section #2 of the post), this neighborhood is also pretty entertaining and great for those who want to enjoy Frankfurt’s nightlife! Hopper’s Cocktailbar (map) is a fab spot to start the night!
If you want to take long promenades as the sun sets, there’s a cycling and walking path along Frankfurt’s Main River in the district that’s perfect for an afternoon stroll. The sights are spectacular here!
I hope you’re not too drunk from the apple wine and up for some museum visits along Museumsufer (Museum Embankment). Liebieghaus, Städel Museum and the German Film Museum are just some of the amazing museums that you’ll find on the banks of River Main!
NOTE: If you’re planning to visit many museums while visiting this city, I’d recommend getting the Museumsufer Ticket which offers access to 39 museums!
You’re going to love the bright rooms of this hotel! The city views are incredible and the suites have so much space! At the accommodation you’ll also find a spa center where you can relax after or before your day out, a restaurant and an indoor swimming pool.
Other accommodation options in Sachsenhausen
Enjoy the city views of this mid-range hotel that offers breakfast and is located near most of the tourist attractions
Rent some bikes and explore the city from this hotel that has comfortable rooms and a terrace
A clean modern apartment that offers a Frankfurt skyline view and a location near the river and nice bars
Things to do in Sachsenhausen
- Visit all the medieval taverns and drink apple wine
- Learn new things at the Museum of Applied Art
- Find out more things about the cinema at the German Film Museum
- Eat a traditional German meal at Kanonesteppel
- Explore the shopping along Schweizer Strasse street
- Visit the Städel Museum in Sachsenhausen
6. Gallusviertel & Gutleutviertel – for the urban atmosphere
Do you love the city rush and exploring busy streets filled with modern office buildings and plenty of local charm?
Then you’re going to love this place! I’ve combined these 2 areas since they’re set right next to each other and have literally the same vibe! Plus both offer some really affordable hotels!
Gallusviertel (also known as Gallus) is a former industrial area known for its Tower 185 skyscraper (map) which has a restaurant at the top. The neighborhood is filled with converted warehouses and factories which were turned into music venues and theaters.
If you want to catch a live show, check out The Bed (map), a live music venue that hosts lots of events!
Right between Gallusviertel and Gutleutviertel you’ll find Frankfurt’s main train station as well, perfect for those of you who want to take some day trips!
Gutleutviertel is set on the banks of River Main and it shares the same urban vibe! The streets are lined up with modern office buildings and some restaurants or bars too.
Wake-up to a stunning view of the city in the rooms of this hotel that has ceiling-to-floor windows and a quirky design! The accommodation offers 2 restaurants, a bar and a fitness center as well.
Other accommodation options in Gallusviertel & Gutleutviertel
Simple, but well-equipped! This place has family rooms and a terrace
An affordable hotel that offers a free breakfast and private parking
This apartment comes with a lot of space, a kitchen and a courtyard view
| 👑 Luxury price: | €200 |
| 💵 Mid-range hotel: | €130 |
| 🛏️ Budget: | €70 |
| 📍 Best area: | Old Town |
| 🛎️ Best luxury hotel: | Steigenberger Frankfurter Hof |
| 🧳Best mid-range hotel: | Motel One |
| 👛 Best budget hotel: | The Niu Charly |
BONUS 1: Best hotels near Flughafen Frankfurt Airport
Whether you have a layover or an early flight, it is definitely better to stay in a hotel near the Frankfurt Airport, which is set in the Frankfurt am Main Süd area, so that you can be near it and also get a good night’s sleep!
Since the city’s airport is huge and it’s one of Germany’s main international airports, I figured I should do a bonus with some of the best hotels near it! That way, you’ll be all covered, and all you have to do is just pick your place!
Here are my top picks for hotels right near Flughafen Frankfurt Airport:
- Luxury: Hilton Frankfurt Airport – set in indoor walking distance to Terminal 1 at Frankfurt airport, this hotel offers high-class services, including a modernized gym, a business center, and rooms with a tub where you can relax in between your flights. Start your morning with breakfast in your room or downstairs!
- Mid-range: Steigenberger Airport Hotel – here’s another great place, located less than a mile away from the airport, that offers a free shuttle bus for all guests! While here, you can relax in the sauna, go for a swim in the pool, work out in the gym, and grab a bite at one of the 3 restaurants on-site.
- Budget: Hampton By Hilton – the perfect affordable place just 0.6 miles (1 km) away from the airport! Guests will have access to an airport shuttle while staying here, and you’ll also get a complimentary breakfast. The accommodation also has a gym, a bar, and coffee makers in each of the comfortable rooms!
BONUS 2: Where to stay in Frankfurt for business
Known as the financial capital of Germany and the home of one of the biggest trade fairs in the world (Messe Frankfurt), this city is a hot spot for business travelers!
Annually, Frankfurt hosts around 60,000 conferences, so yeah, it can get busy, busy, busy! That’s why I recommend booking these hotels in advance, especially if you know the dates of your event early!
Since many of you will be visiting this city solely for that reason, I thought I’d include a bonus with some of the best hotels in Frankfurt for business travelers. These places are either set right near the Messe Frankfurt location or they have facilities that you may nee, like a business center, so let’s check them out:
- Luxury: Capri by Fraser – set just a 3 min walk away from Messe Frankfurt (you can be there in a minute without wasting time on public transport) this hotel offers comfortable rooms where you can relax after a day spent at the events, a business center as well as fax and photocopying facilities.
- Mid-range: LyvInn Hotel Frankfurt Messe – enjoy a yummy (complimentary breakfast) before your event or business meeting at this hotel that’s a 10-minute walk away from Messe Frankfurt. The accommodation comes with a 24-hour front desk, a restaurant, and soundproof rooms so you can get a good night’s sleep before your big day!
- Budget: Citadines City Centre – the perfect place for those attending a conference at Messe Frankfurt (which is only a short walk away- less than 10 mins)! The accommodation also boasts a business center with fax and photocopying facilities, a sun terrace where you can enjoy your breakfast, and comfortable rooms.
FAQs about where to stay in Frankfurt
🌆 Which area is the best to stay in Frankfurt?
Zentrum-Altstadt is the best area to stay in Frankfurt, as it has beautiful architecture, iconic attractions, and great hotels! My favorite is Steigenberger Frankfurter Hof hotel.
🚶♀️ Is it safe to walk in Frankfurt?
Yes, it is safe to walk in Frankfurt as the city’s law enforcement is reliable! But I would avoid walking alone in places like Bahnhofsviertel’s main station and Taunusstraße where there are legal adult clubs.
🎄 Where to stay in Frankfurt for the Christmas Markets?
The Christmas Market takes place in the Römerberg square, in the Zentrum-Altstadt neighborhood, which is one of the best areas to stay even if you’re coming just for 1 night or 2 days!
🏨 Best hotels in the Old Town of Frankfurt?
Motel One Frankfurt-Römer or Steigenberger Frankfurter Hof are the coolest hotels here, which will offer you a unique experience!
💯 What are the best hotels in Frankfurt?
Scandic Museumsufer and Roomers are all located in the best areas to stay in Frankfurt Am Main and they all have the most amazing conditions and cool designs!
🤔 What is considered a city center in Frankfurt?
The Innenstadt (inner city) is considered the city center of Frankfurt.
🔝 What are the safest areas of Frankfurt?
The Old Town, Westend and Sachsenhausen are considered to be some of the safest areas in Frankfurt.
⛔ Which are the most dangerous areas in Frankfurt?
Although nowadays Frankfurt is a much safer city than before, I’d recommend avoiding the Taunusstraße and Niddastraße late at night, as these places are frequented by people looking to get into trouble.
Conclusion
Yay, you’ve made it to the end of this Frankfurt neighborhood guide! Congrats!
I really hope that this post on where to stay in Frankfurt helped you decide which areas are the best ones for you and which hotel to pick!
Just remember that this German city is super popular and the best hotels always go first! So make sure to secure your spot early.
- Steigenberger Frankfurter Hof – one of the most unique hotels that has a vintage decor and a spa center
- Motel One Frankfurt-Römer – a lovely hotel in Frankfurt that offers a bar
I wish you an amazing trip to the business capital of Germany, take pictures of all the Innenstadt skyscrapers, and get drunk on apple wine! You will be so happy that you chose to come here!
Do leave a comment if you have any questions about Frankfurt’s areas or suggestions for our readers!
Auf Wiedersehen,
Victoria
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