15-Day Comprehensive Frankfurt and Surroundings Itinerary for Culture, Cuisine, and Exploration

Day 1: City Introduction

Frankfurt, Germany on May 19, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Café Karin

Start your day with a hearty German breakfast including fresh bread, cheese, and coffee at the cozy Café Karin located near the city center.
EUR12, 1h

10:30am

Römerberg Square

Explore Frankfurt’s historic center with its beautiful medieval architecture and iconic town hall. A cultural heart of the city offering excellent photo opportunities.
Free, 1h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at Zum Storch am Dom

Traditional German cuisine is served in this charming restaurant near the cathedral. Try their famous Frankfurt green sauce or sausages.
EUR20, 1h

2:00pm

Frankfurt Cathedral (Kaiserdom)

Visit the Gothic-style cathedral where Holy Roman Emperors were crowned, offering rich history and architectural beauty, open until 6pm.
EUR5, 1h

3:30pm

Städel Museum

Admire an impressive collection of European art from medieval times to contemporary pieces in this renowned museum open until 6pm.
EUR16, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Apfelwein Wagner

Enjoy traditional Frankfurt dishes and the famous apple wine in this historical local tavern, open until 10pm.
EUR25, 1h30m
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Day 2: Museum and Skyline

Frankfurt, Germany on May 20, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Wacker’s Kaffee

Enjoy freshly roasted coffee and pastries at Wacker's Kaffee, known for its artisanal approach and cozy atmosphere.
EUR10, 1h

9:30am

Explore Museumsufer

Visit several museums along the riverbank including the German Film Museum and Museum of Communication for varied cultural experiences. Open 10am-6pm.
EUR12 for combination ticket, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Main Tower Restaurant & Lounge

Dine with panoramic views of Frankfurt’s skyline from Main Tower while enjoying modern European cuisine. Open until 10pm.
EUR30, 1h30m

3:00pm

Main Tower Observation Deck

Head to the observation deck for stunning 360-degree views of the city and surroundings. Open until 8pm.
EUR7, 1h

5:00pm

Walk along the River Main

Relax on a scenic walk or short boat cruise along the river, enjoying the city’s modern and historic contrasts.
EUR12 for boat, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Stadtwald Restaurant

Experience upscale German cuisine with seasonal dishes in a refined forest setting at Stadtwald, open until 11pm.
EUR40, 1h30m
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Day 3: Day Trip to Wiesbaden

Wiesbaden, Germany on May 21, 2025

8:00am

Train to Wiesbaden

Take a 40-minute train ride from Frankfurt Hauptbahnhof to Wiesbaden to explore this spa town with elegant architecture.
EUR9, 40m

9:00am

Breakfast at Café Maldaner

Renowned local café offering classic German breakfast pastries and coffee in a historic setting.
EUR12, 1h

10:30am

Kurhaus and Casino Wiesbaden

Visit the grand 19th-century spa house and taste the sophisticated ambiance of Germany’s famous casino, open until 7pm.
EUR0 entrance, 1h

12:00pm

Lunch at Ente Burmester

Enjoy Michelin-starred regional cuisine with seasonal ingredients in an elegant atmosphere.
EUR55, 1h30m

2:00pm

Explore Neroberg Hill and Funicular

Ride the historic Nerobergbahn funicular to enjoy panoramic views over Wiesbaden and walk the Neroberg forest trails.
EUR2.80, 2h

5:00pm

Return to Frankfurt

Relax and return to Frankfurt for dinner and rest.
EUR9, 40m

7:00pm

Dinner at Im Herzen Afrikas

Savor a unique African and Ethiopian dining experience in central Frankfurt for something different, open until 10pm.
EUR25, 1h30m
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Day 4: Heidelberg Exploration

Heidelberg, Germany on May 22, 2025

7:30am

Train to Heidelberg

Travel roughly 1 hour by train from Frankfurt to Heidelberg, famous for its romantic old town and castle.
EUR18, 1h

9:00am

Breakfast at Café Gundel

Classic bakery and café offering fresh pastries and coffee in Heidelberg’s old town.
EUR10, 1h

10:00am

Heidelberg Castle Tour

Tour the iconic Renaissance castle with its impressive views, gardens, and the world’s largest wine barrel. Open 10am-5pm.
EUR8, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Schnitzelbank

Enjoy traditional German cuisine including the best schnitzel dishes in a cozy historic tavern dating from the 1500s.
EUR20, 1h

2:00pm

Philosophers’ Walk

A scenic, gentle hiking trail offering stunning views of Heidelberg’s old town and the Neckar River.
Free, 2h

4:30pm

Return to Frankfurt

Train back to Frankfurt for evening activities.
EUR18, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Muku

Experience contemporary Japanese cuisine with fresh sushi and innovative dishes in Frankfurt’s vibrant Bahnhofsviertel neighborhood, open until 11pm.
EUR35, 1h30m
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Day 5: Frankfurt Parks & Shopping

Frankfurt, Germany on May 23, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Fifty Fifty

A popular breakfast spot offering creative eggs and smoothie bowls in central Frankfurt.
EUR14, 1h

10:15am

Palmengarten

Discover Frankfurt’s beautiful botanical gardens with exotic plants and greenhouses. Open daily 9am-6pm.
EUR7, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Kleinmarkthalle

Enjoy a variety of fresh local and international foods at this famous indoor market hall.
EUR15, 1h

2:00pm

Zeil Shopping Street

Explore Frankfurt’s main shopping street with large department stores and boutiques for souvenirs and fashion.
Free to browse, 2h

5:00pm

Coffee Break at Wacker's

Relax with coffee and cake at this renowned Frankfurt coffee roaster’s flagship café.
EUR8, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Villa Merton

Dine at this Michelin-starred restaurant serving creative and elegant seasonal cuisine in a modern setting, open until 11pm.
EUR60, 2h
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Day 6: Rhine Valley Cruise

Loreley / Rhine Valley, Germany on May 24, 2025

7:00am

Drive/train to Rhine Valley

Travel approximately 1.5 hours from Frankfurt to the Rhine Valley, the perfect gateway for river cruises and stunning landscapes.
EUR25, 1h30m

9:00am

Breakfast at a local bakery in St. Goarshausen

Enjoy a simple German breakfast with fresh breads and coffee in the scenic town before boarding your cruise.
EUR10, 1h

10:00am

Rhine River Cruise

Take a 3-4 hour boat cruise along the Rhine, passing famous castles and the Loreley rock. Cruise offers fairy-tale scenery and historic insights. Cruises generally operate 9am-5pm.
EUR30, 4h

2:00pm

Lunch at Gasthaus zur Burg

Enjoy traditional German fare with spectacular river views near the castle region in Oberwesel or nearby village.
EUR20, 1h

4:00pm

Return to Frankfurt

Travel back to Frankfurt to rest and freshen up for dinner.
EUR25, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Medici

Italian-inspired modern dining in Frankfurt’s Westend, known for excellent wine pairing and ambiance, open until 11pm.
EUR40, 1h30m
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Day 7: Shopping and Relaxing

Frankfurt, Germany on May 25, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Home

Enjoy a refreshing homemade breakfast or at your accommodation to start leisurely day.
Variable, 1h

10:00am

Visit Senckenberg Natural History Museum

Explore one of Germany’s largest natural history museums with extensive dinosaur exhibits and biodiversity showcases. Open 10am-6pm.
EUR8, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Schirn Café

Enjoy light meals and coffee inside the Schirn Art Gallery's café surrounded by contemporary art.
EUR15, 1h

2:00pm

Relaxing at Bethmannpark

Take a tranquil stroll or rest in this peaceful city park with lovely gardens and ponds.
Free, 1h30m

3:30pm

Shopping at MyZeil

Visit the iconic MyZeil shopping center for international brands and futuristic architecture.
Free to browse, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at The Ivory Club

Treat yourself to Indian haute cuisine in a stylish setting, emphasizing spices and flavor, open till 11pm.
EUR35, 1h30m
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Day 8: Day Trip to Mainz

Mainz, Germany on May 26, 2025

8:00am

Train to Mainz

Short 30-minute train ride from Frankfurt to Mainz, known for its Roman heritage and Gutenberg Museum.
EUR8, 30m

9:00am

Breakfast at Café Sugar Mama

Comfortable café with excellent coffee and pastries right downtown.
EUR10, 1h

10:00am

Gutenberg Museum

Discover the history of printing with original Gutenberg Bibles, a must-see for book and history lovers. Open 10am-6pm.
EUR7, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Weinhaus Bluhm

Historic wine tavern serving local specialties and an excellent wine list on the old town square.
EUR20, 1h

2:00pm

St. Stephan’s Church and Chagall Windows

Visit the 11th-century church famous for its spectacular stained glass windows designed by Marc Chagall.
Free, 1h

3:30pm

Leisure walk along the Rhine Promenade

Relax with scenic views of the river and Mainz’s colorful old town, perfect for a late afternoon stroll.
Free, 1h

5:00pm

Return to Frankfurt

Train back to your base city for dinner.
EUR8, 30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Zenzakan

Upscale pan-Asian cuisine in a stylish club atmosphere, offering sushi, dim sum, and cocktails until 11pm.
EUR45, 1h30m
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Day 9: Frankfurt Local Life

Frankfurt, Germany on May 27, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Brot & Salz

Enjoy organic, locally sourced bread and breakfast staples at this popular neighborhood bakery spot.
EUR12, 1h

10:30am

Visit Museum of Modern Art (MMK)

Experience contemporary and avant-garde art collections open 10am-6pm that highlight Frankfurt’s dynamic art scene.
EUR10, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at O'Reilly’s Irish Pub

Casual pub fare with international and German influences located in the lively city district.
EUR18, 1h

2:30pm

Explore Berger Strasse

Discover independent shops, cafes, and vintage stores on one of Frankfurt's trendiest streets.
Free to browse, 2h

5:00pm

Coffee and Cake at Café Sugar Mama

Return to enjoy afternoon coffee and a delicious homemade cake.
EUR8, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Lokal

Highly rated neighborhood restaurant focusing on traditional German recipes with modern twists, open until 10pm.
EUR30, 1h30m
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Day 10: Day Trip to Darmstadt

Darmstadt, Germany on May 28, 2025

8:30am

Train to Darmstadt

Short 30-minute train journey to the artistically rich city known for Jugendstil architecture and Mathildenhöhe.
EUR7, 30m

9:15am

Breakfast at Café Hinkelbein

A cozy café beloved for its wide selection of cakes as well as breakfast options.
EUR10, 1h

10:30am

Mathildenhöhe Artists’ Colony

Explore the Art Nouveau landmarks and the Wedding Tower, plus the museum showcasing Darmstadt’s unique contributions to early 20th-century art. Open 10am-5pm.
EUR6, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Restaurant Bolero

Offering Mediterranean-inspired dishes with fresh ingredients in an elegant atmosphere.
EUR25, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Herrngarten Park

Enjoy a relaxing walk or rest in Darmstadt’s largest park with lovely tree-lined paths and cafés near the park entrance.
Free, 1h

4:00pm

Return to Frankfurt

Train back to Frankfurt to prepare for dinner and evening leisure.
EUR7, 30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Moriki

Experience pan-Asian fusion cuisine with a focus on fresh seafood and sushi in an upscale setting, open until 11pm.
EUR50, 1h30m
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Day 11: Frankfurt Markets and Culture

Frankfurt, Germany on May 29, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Kaffeekommune

Specialty coffee shop offering great brews and light breakfast options.
EUR12, 1h

10:00am

Explore Kleinmarkthalle

Visit the vibrant market with a variety of local produce, cheeses, meats and international specialties.
Free to browse, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Baba Green

Enjoy healthy vegetarian and vegan dishes inspired by Middle Eastern flavors.
EUR15, 1h

2:00pm

Workshops at Dialog Museum

An interactive museum focusing on experiencing life without sight to foster empathy. Open 11am-5pm, advance booking recommended.
EUR20, 1h30m

4:00pm

Stroll in Palmengarten

Return for a relaxing walk or time in the glasshouses, a quiet green oasis in the city open until 6pm.
EUR7, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Lokalbahnhof

Classic German dishes in a lively Brasserie atmosphere with local beers, open until 11pm.
EUR25, 1h30m
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Day 12: Day Trip to Schloss Kronberg

Kronberg im Taunus, Germany on May 30, 2025

8:30am

Train to Kronberg

Take a short, scenic 30-minute train from Frankfurt to Kronberg im Taunus to visit the historic castle.
EUR10, 30m

9:30am

Breakfast at Café Kronberg

A quaint bakery and café offering traditional German breakfast fare and coffee.
EUR12, 1h

11:00am

Visit Schloss Kronberg

Explore the 19th-century castle known for its art exhibitions, pretty gardens, and impressive architecture. Guided tours available. Open 10am-5pm.
EUR8, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at Dorfkrug

Traditional German restaurant serving hearty regional dishes in a warm atmosphere.
EUR20, 1h

3:00pm

Walk the Taunus trails

Enjoy easy hiking paths around Kronberg with views of Frankfurt’s skyline from a distance.
Free, 2h

5:30pm

Return to Frankfurt

Head back to Frankfurt to relax and get ready for dinner.
EUR10, 30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Casa do Brasil

Savor Brazilian cuisine with vibrant flavors and live music in a friendly setting until 10:30pm.
EUR30, 1h30m
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Day 13: Frankfurt Arts & Theater

Frankfurt, Germany on May 31, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Metzgerei Schreiber

A butcher shop-cum-café with excellent breakfast sandwiches and fresh coffee.
EUR12, 1h

10:30am

Visit Schirn Kunsthalle

This prominent contemporary art gallery features rotating exhibitions from international artists. Open 10am-6pm.
EUR14, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Gasthaus Zum Eichkatzerl

Charmingly rustic Bavarian-style restaurant known for excellent regional specialties and cozy ambiance.
EUR22, 1h

3:00pm

Afternoon visit to English Theatre Frankfurt

Catch a matinee performance or guided tour behind the scenes of Europe’s largest English-language theatre. Check schedule for showtimes.
EUR25, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Max on One

Contemporary cuisine with international fusion flavors in a modern stylish setting, open until 11pm.
EUR40, 1h30m
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Day 14: More Frankfurt Highlights

Frankfurt, Germany on June 1, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at The Espresso Bar

Small and quality-focused coffee shop with excellent specialty brews and light breakfast options.
EUR10, 1h

10:00am

Senckenberg Gardens and Biological Museum

Explore greenhouses and gardens focused on biodiversity and conservation. Museum open 10am-6pm.
EUR7, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at The Holy Cross Brewing Society

Popular brewery taproom serving great craft beers and casual meals in an industrial-chic setting.
EUR18, 1h

2:00pm

Walk around Alte Oper and Opernplatz

Admire the historic opera house and relax in the central square surrounded by cafes and shops.
Free, 1h

3:30pm

Visit Museum Angewandte Kunst

Dedicated to applied arts and design, showcasing decorative art from medieval times to today. Open 10am-6pm.
EUR8, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Margarete

Contemporary German cuisine spotlighting local and seasonal ingredients in a stylish atmosphere.
EUR38, 1h30m
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Day 15: Departure Day Relax

Frankfurt, Germany on June 2, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at the hotel or nearby bakery

Enjoy a relaxing and convenient breakfast before your onward journey.
Variable, 1h

9:30am

Last-minute shopping or stroll

Visit any preferred shops or take a final leisurely walk around your favorite neighborhood in Frankfurt.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Check out and depart

Prepare for check-out and head to the airport or train station with plenty of time for your departure.
Variable
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