COMMERZBANK BUILDING
Unless you work for Commerzbank, you might find it hard to get past the security guards, but for historical value, a gawp at Norman Foster’s tower is crucial. This soaring skyscraper represents Frankfurt’s beating business heart, and is in stark contrast to the rest of the quaint and beautiful riverside city.
Kaiser Straße 30, Innenstadt.
VILLA KENNEDY HOTEL
With more than a little Disney about it, this timelessly elegant hotel has romantic spires around a heated courtyard where waiters serve Feuerzangenbowle (a wine-based tipple made by burning rum-soaked sugar). It all adds up to princess-like plushness.
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Kennedyallee 70, Sachsenhausen-Nord (00 49 069 7171 20; villakennedy.com).
R?MERBERG CENTRAL SQUARE MARKET
A huge Christmas tree sets the magical tone of the traditional annual market, which dates back to 1393. Amid rows of timbered houses, myriad stalls offer food, drink and gifts to the sound of church bells – if this doesn’t get you in the festive spirit, nothing will. November 25-December 22.
R?merberg, Paulsplatz and Mainkai (frankfurt-tourismus.de).
CAF? KARIN
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As the cold draws in, there’s nothing better than a steaming cup of coffee, a huge cake and an opportunity to people-watch. A bit of a Frankfurt institution, this city-centre oasis, directly opposite Goethe’s birthplace at 23 Großer Hirschgraben, has a relaxed, unfussy ambience that suits its shabby-chic decor.
Großer Hirschgraben 28 (00 49 069 2952 17; cafekarin.de).
MAINTOWER
For spectacular views of the skyline, nothing beats taking the high-speed lift up 200 metres to the viewing platform at the Maintower and snapping away with your camera. For the not so faint-hearted, there is a great restaurant and bar on the 53rd floor – perfect for sunset cocktails.
Neue Mainzer Straße 52, Innenstadt (00 49 069 3650 4771; maintower.de).
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APFELWEIN WAGNER
Germany is a nation fortified by fried pork (vegetarians don’t get much of a look-in on the dining scene here). So a trip is not complete without a visit to a heart-warming and artery-clogging traditional Apfelwein tavern. Dip a fat bratwurst into hot mustard at the much-loved Wagner and wash it down with locally brewed cider.
Schweizer Straße 71 (00 49 069 6125 65; apfelwein-wagner.com).