Frankfurt might be Germany’s financial hub, but it’s also a city packed with charm, history, and surprises around every corner. Its mix of ancient buildings like the Römer and St. Paul’s Church sit alongside sleek modern skyscrapers. What makes Frankfurt especially appealing for city tours is the city’s walkability and the diversity of experiences—whether you want a quick introduction, a deep dive into history, or even some fun with virtual reality. We especially enjoy tours that combine storytelling with authentic sights, like the Frankfurt: Discover the heart of Frankfurt – a city tour in German—not just for the sights but for the hidden alleyways and courtyards you wouldn’t find on your own.
If you’re short on time, the 2-hour walking tour in German offers a lively overview of Frankfurt’s main landmarks, but if you prefer a more immersive experience, the skip-the-line Städel Museum visit with a guided city walk gives you art and history in one go. For those with more time, day trips to Heidelberg or even Munich are available, adding a broader perspective on the region. Whatever your interests, Frankfurt’s variety of tours make it easy to tailor your visit.
1. Frankfurt: Discover the heart of Frankfurt – a city tour in German
At number 1, this 2-hour walking tour shows you the city’s most important sights like St. Paul’s Church, the Römer, and the New Old Town. Led in German, it’s perfect for travelers who want an authentic local perspective. The guide takes you through hidden paths and courtyards, offering insights into Frankfurt’s past, including the Kaisersaal if available. The tour begins at Paulskirche and includes stops at Eiserner Steg and the Historical Museum. The reviews are stellar, with an average rating of 5/5 from 80 reviews, highlighting the tour’s engaging storytelling and intimate atmosphere. The price is very reasonable at $21 per person, making it one of the best budget-friendly options for a concise yet rundown of Frankfurt.
Bottom Line: If you’re comfortable with German and want a lively, small-group experience that covers both major landmarks and hidden corners, this tour is a fantastic choice.
2. From Frankfurt: Heidelberg, Castle and Old City Guided Tour
Number 2 on our list is a full-day escape to the romantic city of Heidelberg. For around $146, the Heidelberg, Castle and Old City Guided Tour offers a rich itinerary including Germany’s oldest university, the River Neckar, and the famous Heidelberg Castle. The tour features a comfortable van ride along the scenic Neckar River, with ample time to explore the castle’s ruins and giant wine barrel. Guests praise the guide’s knowledge and humor, calling this one of their best tours ever. The highlight is the walk through Heidelberg’s medieval streets, including sights like the Old Bridge and Karlstor.
This tour is ideal for history lovers and those wanting a full-day culture. It balances sightseeing, storytelling, and relaxed exploration, making it a well-rounded experience at a fair price.
Bottom Line: If you want a comprehensive, scenic tour that combines history, architecture, and a charming old town, this day trip from Frankfurt is unbeatable.
3. Heidelberg Castle and City Day Tour from Frankfurt
Number 3 is a 5.5-hour tour focusing on Heidelberg’s impressive castle and medieval town. Priced at about $145, it stands out for its detailed exploration of Heidelberg Castle, which includes ruins, courtyards, and the enormous wine barrel. The tour begins with a visit to this historic fortress, offering panoramic views of the city and Neckar River. Afterward, the guide takes you through Heidelberg’s old town, visiting key sights like the Old Bridge and Heiliggeistkirche. Guests appreciate the informative commentary and the chance to explore at their own pace.
This tour is perfect for travelers who want a more relaxed yet enriching experience that combines historic ruins with scenic strolling. The admission fee to the castle is included, adding value.
Bottom Line: If you’re into castles and medieval architecture, this tour offers a perfect mix of history and picturesque scenery.
4. Discover the Heart of Frankfurt – City Tour in German
Number 4 on our list is a 2-hour tour that explores Frankfurt’s key sights like St. Paul’s Church, the Römer, the Iron Footbridge, and the New Old Town. Led by Dimitri, a passionate local guide, this tour also includes hidden paths off the usual tourist track. The focus is on blending well-known landmarks with undiscovered corners, making the experience both educational and fun. The review score of 5/5 from 13 reviews reflects high satisfaction for its personal touch and detailed stories.
The tour price is just under $22 per person, making it a great budget option. It’s particularly suited for those who speak German or want a more local, intimate experience.
Bottom Line: For a quick, lively introduction to Frankfurt in German, this tour combines iconic sights with lesser-known treasures for a well-rounded experience.
5. Frankfurt: Discover the heart of Frankfurt – a city tour in Russian
Number 5 is a 2-hour walking tour in Russian, focusing on Frankfurt’s main sights like St. Paul’s Church, the Römer, and the fascinating Kaisersaal. Starting at Paulskirche, the tour takes you through hidden alleyways and courtyards, offering a deep dive into the city’s history in your native language. The guide shares stories about Frankfurt’s medieval past and the Iron Footbridge, ending at the Fountain of Justice.
The tour is priced at $22 per person, and reviews mention how the guide’s enthusiasm and knowledge make the experience memorable. It’s ideal for Russian-speaking travelers seeking an authentic city overview with a local touch.
Bottom Line: If you prefer a tour in Russian that packs in major sights and local stories, this is a solid, engaging option.
6. Frankfurt: Private Transfer to/from Airport and City
Number 6 offers a premium, hassle-free experience with a private transfer service. For $77.95, your group up to 3 can enjoy door-to-door service between Frankfurt airport and your hotel. The service includes flight monitoring and free cancellation up to 24 hours before pickup, ensuring peace of mind. Many reviews mention the punctuality and professionalism of the drivers, making this a reliable choice for stress-free arrivals and departures.
This service is best suited for travelers prioritizing comfort and convenience, especially after a long flight or before an early departure.
Bottom Line: For a smooth transition to or from the airport, this private transfer offers excellent value and peace of mind.
7. Transfer Frankfurt City Center to Frankfurt am Main Airport (FRA)
Number 7 is a cost-effective private transfer priced at $43.96 per person. It guarantees a safe, comfortable ride from your hotel to Frankfurt airport, with guaranteed on-time pickups. The trip takes approximately 20 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic. Guests note that the driver is professional and helpful, making this a good choice if you want to avoid the stress of hailing a cab or navigating public transport.
This option is perfect for budget-conscious travelers who want a private, reliable ride without surprises.
Bottom Line: If you value convenience and peace of mind for your airport transfer, this service is a dependable choice.
8. Frankfurt: Walking Tour – discover the city with VR glasses
Number 8 blends history and technology in a 45-minute VR-enhanced walking tour. Starting at TimeRide, you’ll experience virtual reality scenes of Frankfurt’s past alongside the real sights. Walk through Paulskirche and Roemerberg, then compare historical images with today’s cityscape. This innovative approach offers a unique perspective on how Frankfurt has evolved, making it particularly appealing for tech-savvy travelers or families wanting something different.
Guests praise the interactive experience and the opportunity to see the city in a new way. The tour is short but packed with fascinating stories and visuals.
Bottom Line: For a memorable, tech-infused exploration suitable for all ages, this VR tour offers something truly different.
9. Munich City Tour and Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site Day Trip from Frankfurt
Number 9 extends beyond Frankfurt for a long but meaningful day. For approximately $689, this 14-hour guided trip takes you from Frankfurt to Munich’s top sights and the Dachau Memorial. Highlights include Marienplatz, the Hofbräuhaus, and the concentration camp where you’ll learn about its dark history. The guide’s professionalism and deep knowledge shine, helping you understand the significance of each site.
This tour is best suited for history enthusiasts willing to spend a full day traveling. Guests mention how moving and educational their experience was, making it worth the price for a comprehensive look at Bavarian culture and WWII history.
Bottom Line: For a full immersion into Bavarian culture and history, this day trip combines sightseeing with an emotional journey.
$689.37 per person
10. Frankfurt: Geolino City Rallye for Kids Mainufer
Number 10 is a 2-hour family-friendly activity designed for kids and their parents. Priced at $37, the Geolino City Rallye encourages kids to solve knowledge questions and discover curious facts along the Main River. The tour is a lively treasure hunt that makes learning about history and culture fun and interactive, finishing with a Magazin for each child.
Reviews highlight how well-organized and engaging this activity is, with kids having a memorable time while parents enjoy a relaxed walk. It’s perfect for families with young children looking for a fun, educational outing.
Bottom Line: If you’re traveling with children and want an activity that combines learning with fun, this rally is a winning choice.
$37 per person
11. Frankfurt: Horror Theater and City Tour The Hell’s Demon
Number 11 is a 75-minute tour combining horror theater with a city walk. It explores Frankfurt’s darker stories, walking through the old town and crossing the Iron Pedestrian Bridge. The theatrical element adds a spooky twist to the usual sightseeing, making it a good pick for thrill-seekers and fans of macabre tales.
The reviews show high satisfaction, with a 4.3/5 rating. The interactive storytelling makes history feel alive but keep in mind it’s not suitable for very young children.
Bottom Line: For something unconventional and thrilling, this horror-themed tour offers a fun, spooky way to discover Frankfurt’s lesser-known stories.
$16 per person
12. Frankfurt: Horror theater with city tour “Nosferatu’s Resurrection”
Number 12 offers another horror-themed experience—this time focused on vampires. The 75-minute play in Niddapark invites you into the world of Nosferatu and vampire hunters, blending live acting with city exploration. Expect to learn intriguing facts about Frankfurt’s dark legends while getting a thrill from the performance.
Ratings are not specified, but the concept is highly original, making it ideal for those interested in horror and theater.
Bottom Line: If you’re into supernatural stories and theatrical surprises, this experience provides a fun, chilling adventure.
$22 per person
13. Frankfurt: Skip-the-line Städel Museum with Guided City Tour
Closing with a highlight, this skip-the-line visit to the Städel Museum combines art with sightseeing. For around $241, you get priority access to masterpieces spanning 700 years, plus a private guided walk through Frankfurt’s Old Town. The guide’s knowledge and passion turn art appreciation into a storytelling experience that’s both engaging and educational.
Guests praise the quality of the art collection and how the tour maximizes time without the hassle of queues. It’s perfect for art lovers and anyone wanting a deeper cultural experience.
Bottom Line: If you want to combine art, culture, and history into one seamless experience, this tour offers excellent value and a memorable visit.
$241 per person
How to Choose the Right Tour for You
When selecting a city tour in Frankfurt, consider your interests, budget, time, and whether you prefer guided storytelling, active adventures, or private transfers. For example, if you’re keen on art and want a skip-the-line experience, the Städel Museum tour is ideal. For family fun, the Geolino rally offers a playful way for kids to learn about the city. History buffs who want an in-depth look at Heidelberg should consider the castle tours, while those interested in unique experiences may enjoy the VR tour or horror-themed walks.
Practical tips include booking popular tours like the Heidelberg day trips well in advance, especially during peak seasons. For shorter visits, the German-language city tour and walks in English or Russian provide quick yet enriching introductions. Always check the availability and starting times to tailor your day perfectly.
Final Thoughts
Frankfurt offers a versatile array of tours that cater to different interests and schedules. If you want an authentic city walk rich in stories, the German-language tour is hard to beat. For a cultural and scenic escape, Heidelberg day trips deliver history and charm in spades. Family travelers will find the kids’ rally and VR experiences engaging, while those seeking art and culture should prioritize the Städel Museum tour.
No matter which tour you choose, booking early is recommended—especially for popular day trips and exclusive experiences. With this variety of options, your trip to Frankfurt will be full of memorable moments, deep insights, and maybe even a few surprises.