
How to Plan a Budget Trip in Frankfurt, Germany
1. Frankfurt Tourist Card
Save money on public transport and attractions with this card. It offers free entry to over 20 museums.
- Unlimited Transport: Includes unlimited use of local trams, buses, and underground trains.
- Attractions Discounts: Offers discounted or free admission to popular attractions like the St. Paul's Church and Palmengarten.
- Time Validity: Valid for 1, 2, 3, or 4 consecutive days, depending on your choice.
2. Hostels and Budget Hotels
Affordable accommodation options in central locations, perfect for budget travelers.
- Location: Many hostels and budget hotels are located near the city center, making it easy to reach attractions.
- Amenities: Often come with shared kitchens and common areas for socializing with fellow travelers.
- Price Range: Prices vary but can be found from as low as €10 per night.
3. Free Walking Tours
Discover Frankfurt's history and landmarks while saving money with free walking tours.
- Expert Guides: Licensed guides share fascinating stories about the city's past and present.
- Flexible Schedule: Tours are often available daily, with multiple departure times throughout the day.
- Donation-Based: No fixed fee; tips for guides are greatly appreciated but optional.
4. Street Food and Market Stalls
Experience Frankfurt's vibrant food culture without breaking the bank.
- Variety: Find a wide selection of international cuisines, from German sausages to Middle Eastern kebabs.
- Convenience: Market stalls and street food vendors are common in central areas like the Römerberg and Zeil.
- Affordability: Prices for street food can be as low as €2-3, making it an affordable dining option.
5. Public Transport System (Rhine-Main-Verkehrsverbund)
Get around Frankfurt efficiently and economically using the integrated public transport system.
- Wide Coverage: Covers not only Frankfurt but also nearby cities in the Rhine-Main region.
- Convenient Connections: Easy transfers between trams, buses, and underground trains.
- Affordable Prices: Single tickets are reasonably priced, with day passes offering even better value for multi-journey travelers.
6. Museumsuferfest
Annual riverbank festival featuring free admission to numerous museums on one weekend.
- Free Museum Access: Visit various museums along the Main River without paying an entrance fee.
- Cultural Activities: Enjoy live music, food stalls, and cultural performances throughout the event.
- Popular Event: Attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors each year, making it a unique experience.
7. Cheap Eats: Apfelwein (Apple Wine) Keller
Indulge in traditional German food at affordable prices in apple wine taverns.
- Authentic Experience: Enjoy traditional dishes like sauerbraten and pork knuckle in a cozy, historic setting.
- Modest Prices: Prices are generally lower than restaurants, with main courses starting from €8-10.
- Apple Wine Tasting: Sample various types of apple wine and learn about their unique flavors.
8. Bike Rental
Explore Frankfurt at your own pace by renting a bike for the day.
- Convenient Locations: Bike rental shops are found in central areas like the Main riverbank.
- Affordable Prices: Rental fees start from €5-10 per hour, with day passes available for longer stays.
- City Tour Routes: Ask rental shops for suggested routes to explore popular landmarks and neighborhoods.
9. Free City Guides (Frankfurt Tourismus und Veranstaltung GmbH)
Get a personalized, free walking tour with an official city guide.
- Expert Knowledge: Guides are trained professionals who share in-depth knowledge about Frankfurt.
- Flexible Scheduling: Tours can be scheduled according to your preference, subject to guide availability.
- Customized Experience: Guides tailor the tour based on your interests and time constraints.
10. Free Entry Days (Museums and Attractions)
Take advantage of free entry days at various museums and attractions in Frankfurt.
- Popular Museums: Includes major museums like the Städel Museum, Museumsufer, and Goethe House.
- Free Admission: Enjoy free admission on specific days throughout the year.
- Additional Discounts: Some museums offer further discounts for students, seniors, and groups.
11. Couchsurfing and Airbnb
Experience local life by staying with a host in Frankfurt through platforms like Couchsurfing or Airbnb.
- Affordable Accommodation: Prices can be significantly lower than hotels, especially for shared accommodations.
- Insider Tips: Hosts often provide tips on the best local spots and attractions to visit.
- Authentic Experience: Immerse yourself in Frankfurt's culture by living with a local host.
12. Budget Supermarkets (Aldi and Lidl)
Stock up on groceries at budget supermarkets like Aldi and Lidl for affordable meals.
- Affordable Prices: Prices are generally lower than other supermarkets due to their no-frills approach.
- Wide Selection: Offer a variety of fresh produce, canned goods, and ready-to-eat meals.
- Convenient Locations: Stores are easily accessible in central Frankfurt.
13. Free Outdoor Activities (Palmengarten and Bauernmarkt)
Enjoy Frankfurt's beautiful outdoor spaces and local markets without spending a fortune.
- Natural Beauty: Palmengarten offers lush gardens filled with tropical plants and trees.
- Cultural Experience: Bauernmarkt showcases local produce, handicrafts, and regional specialties.
- Free Admission: Palmengarten and Bauernmarkt have no admission fee for visitors.
14. Discount Travel Passes (City-Ticket)
Save money on public transport by purchasing a discount travel pass, valid for groups or families.
- Group Discount: Ideal for traveling in groups of up to five people.
- Validity: Available as a day pass or weekend pass, depending on your travel plans.
- Cost Savings: Can save you up to 40% compared to single tickets.
15. Frankfurt Card (Frankfurt Airport)
Save on airport shopping and services with the Frankfurt Card, available at the airport.
- Airport Discounts: Includes discounts on dining, retail, and other airport services.
- Free Wi-Fi Access: Complimentary internet access at the airport.
- Luggage Storage: Discounted luggage storage for longer layovers.