Why go to Frankfurt?
This city is one of Germany's largest, and there's no shortage of historic sights, shops and museums to explore
Jaywalking is illegal here, and police are quick to enforce the law, so be aware of where and when you cross
Frankfurt is a modern, cosmopolitan city with a rich history and plenty of diversions to pass the time
Frankfurt Cruise Port Facilities?
The quay is next to the Nizza, a narrow park that lines the Main River. There's a walking path along the river; due to the microclimate, you'll find some surprising Mediterranean plants, including palm, fig and lemon trees. Just west of Untermainbrucke bridge is the popular MainNizza restaurant, which serves an international menu and offers terrace-side tables with a nice view over the river.
Also west of Untermainbrucke bridge, on the first street parallel to the river, is the Jewish Museum (Judisches Museum). The block behind that is home to several performing arts venues, including the opera house (Oper Frankfurt). Beyond that, around Friedensstrasse street, you'll find a number of restaurants.
The tourism office and city hall are in Romerberg Square in the city's Old Town (Altstadt), about a 10-minute walk from the dock. You might want to take a slight detour on the way to catch the views from Eisener Steg, a pedestrian bridge across the river.
Good to Know?
Public restrooms (those not located inside a business establishment) usually charge you to use them; cost is typically 50 euro-cents. In many cases they only take coins, but will usually return change.
Jaywalking is against the law here, so resist the temptation -- the police take it seriously.
Frankfurt is generally very safe, but as in any big city, be aware of your surroundings and stay alert for pickpockets or scams.
Getting Around?
On Foot: Many of the city's attractions are within easy walking distance and the terrain is relatively flat.
By Public Transportation: Frankfurt has an integrated public transportation system that includes buses, trams, regional trains (S-Bahn) and subway lines (U-Bahn). It operates on a zone system; regular tickets are good for one hour, including transfers. All-day tickets are also available. You can buy them from machines (push the Tageskarte button) in subway stations, at tram stops or from bus drivers. It's worth buying a day pass if you're planning to take at least three trips on public transportation. Another option is the one- or two-day Frankfurt Card, which gives you unlimited travel on public transportation in the city and airport zone, plus a slew of discounts on museums, attractions, performances and tours. You can buy the Frankfurt Card at tourism offices, including at the main train station and Romerberg Square.
By Taxi: You'll find taxis at designated stands, or you can hail them -- the light is on when they're available.
Getting to the Dock: It's about a 20-minute taxi ride from Frankfurt Airport to the docking area. You can also take the S-Bahn or a bus from the airport into the city's main train station (Hauptbahnhof) and take a cab the additional half-mile to the river.
Currency & Best Way to Get Money?
Germany's currency is the euro. For current currency conversion figures, visit www.oanda.com or www.xe.com. A Euronet ATM (geldautomat) and a currency exchange can both be found in Romerberg Square, a major tourist destination in Frankfurt's Old Town. Other ATMs are available at banks around the city. Credit cards are generally accepted, but there may be a minimum purchase to use one so it's best to ask in advance. If you are given a choice of charging your card in euros or your home currency, always choose euros; otherwise, you may be socked with a fee and a poor exchange rate.