Römerberg
In 1240, this low hill – the heart of the old city – was the site of the city’s first trade fair. The Römerberg is bordered by the popular half-timbered houses (Fachwerkhäuser) reconstructed after total destruction in 1945, and the former court chapel – the Nikolaikirche (Church of St Nicholas). The main attraction, however, is the red sandstone Römer – Frankfurt’s city hall since 1405. The coronation of German emperors was celebrated by banquets in the Kaisersaal (Emperor’s Hall) on the upper floors. Portraits of 52 emperors, from Charlemagne to Franz II, now hang from the walls.

Sankt Bartholomäusdom (Cathedral of St Bartholomew)
Between 1562 and 1792, German emperors were crowned in the Cathedral of St Bartholomew, hence its other name – the Kaiserdom (Emperor Cathedral). This Gothic cathedral has a red sandstone façade and is one of Frankfurt’s most recognisable landmarks. The present structure was rebuilt after World War II but contains a number of original carvings. A museum full of ancient archaeological findings is joined to the cathedral. There are also great views of the city from the tower.

Städelsche Kunstinstitute und Städtische Galerie (Stadel Art Institute and Municipal Gallery)
An exemplary and comprehensive collection of European painting from the 14th- to the 20th-centuries is housed in this museum – commonly known as just Städel – on the Museumsufer (Museum Embankment). German masters such as Cranach, Holbein and Beckmann are displayed alongside the likes of Botticelli, Rembrandt and Rubens. Sculptures of the 19th and 20th century can be viewed in the Gallery and the Sculpture Garden.

Museum für Moderne Kunst (Museum of Modern Art)
Designed by Hans Hollein, the outside of the Musueum of Modern Art alone would count as one of the city’s major attractions. It is therefore a bonus that this museum is filled with a superb collection of post-war art, predominantly by German and American artists.

Frankfurt Zoo
Frankfurt’s zoo is one of the most attractive in Europe, and is very popular. Wildlife can be watched on ten hectares (30 acres) of land. The obvious highlight is the Grzimek Haus, where artificial darkness is created in order to observe nocturnal animals going about their business.

Palmengarten (Palm Garden)
The Palm Garden is a wonderland of tropical plants and exotic birds. Hidden away from the bustle of the centre, the attractions of this botanical garden include glasshouses, 300 different palms and a boating lake. There are occasional concerts staged here in summer.

Goethe-Museum and Goethe-Haus
Completely destroyed by Allied bombers in 1944, the house where Goethe (1749-1832) was born and brought up was rebuilt after the war and restored to its former 18th-century glory. Visitors can see the family music room, library, living room and Goethe’s own puppet show and study. Next door, the Goethe-Museum displays German paintings and sculpture from the late Baroque period up to early Romanticism. There are daily guided tours of the house at 1030 and 1400. Tours of the museum can also be arranged.