Attending an exhibition at Messe Frankfurt often means long days on your feet, but if you can spare a few hours in the evening or between meetings, the city has plenty to offer. From historic squares to modern skyscrapers and riverside museums, Frankfurt blends old and new in a way few European cities do.

Here’s a practical guide to the best sights to see while you’re in town for a trade fair - all easy to reach from the Messe.

Römerberg & Frankfurt Old Town (Altstadt)

Römerberg is the historic heart of Frankfurt and the best place to experience the city’s traditional side. With its half-timbered houses and medieval-style square, it feels worlds away from the modern exhibition halls.

Why visit?

See the famous Römer Town Hall

Walk through reconstructed old-town streets

Enjoy great photo opportunities with skyline views

Relax in nearby cafés and squares

Getting there: About 15 minutes by U-Bahn or tram from Messe
Best time: Late afternoon or early evening

Tip: Combine this visit with dinner nearby or a walk along the river.

Main Tower & Frankfurt Skyline

Frankfurt is known as “Mainhattan” thanks to its impressive skyline - and the best place to see it is from the Main Tower observation deck.

Why visit?

360° panoramic views of the city

Views of the River Main, old town, and financial district

One of the few public skyscraper viewpoints in Germany

Ideal for sunset and evening visits

Getting there: 10-12 minutes by public transport from Messe
Visit time: About 45-60 minutes

Tip: Visit just before sunset to enjoy both daylight and nighttime views.

Museumsufer (Museum Embankment)

Along the River Main lies Frankfurt’s Museum Embankment, home to some of Germany’s most important museums, all within walking distance of each other.

Highlights include:

Städel Museum: Fine art from old masters to modern works

German Film Museum: For cinema enthusiasts

Museum of Communication: Interactive and engaging

Architecture Museum: Focused on urban design and planning

Why visit?

High-quality cultural experiences

Scenic riverside walks

Easy to combine with sightseeing

Getting there: Around 15 minutes from Messe
Best for: Visitors staying more than one day

Tip: Some museums have late opening hours on selected evenings.

Sachsenhausen & Apfelwein Taverns

For a more relaxed and social experience, head to Alt-Sachsenhausen, south of the river. This district is famous for its traditional taverns serving Apfelwein (apple wine) and regional dishes.

Why visit?

Experience local Frankfurt culture

Enjoy traditional food and drink

Great for group dinners and informal networking

Lively but welcoming atmosphere

What to try:

Grüne Soße (green sauce)

Schnitzel

Handkäse mit Musik

Local apple wine

Getting there: About 15-20 minutes from Messe
Best time: Evening

Tip: This area is ideal for relaxed business dinners after the fair.

How to Fit Sightseeing Into Your Exhibition Schedule

Even with a busy agenda, you can still explore Frankfurt with a little planning.

After the Fair (2-3 Hours)

Main Tower and dinner nearby

Römerberg walk and river stroll

Evening in Sachsenhausen

Half-Day Free

Museumsufer and Old Town

Skyline views and shopping on Zeil Street

Seasonal river cruises

Easy Transport

All major sights are reachable in 15 minutes or less from Messe by tram, U-Bahn, or taxi.