I’ll admit it, before visiting Frankfurt I mostly thought of banks, suits, and people rushing off to meetings.
That’s probably a bit unfair.
Yes, it’s a major financial hub, and the skyline definitely feels different from most German cities, but it didn’t take long for me to realise there’s a lot more going on. I spent far more time exploring apple wine taverns, restaurants, and neighbourhoods around the city than I did staring up at office towers.
One thing I would say is that Frankfurt can catch people out when it comes to accommodation. Prices can jump around quite a bit, especially during trade fairs and major events, so picking the right area can make a surprisingly big difference to both your budget and your trip.
The good news is there are plenty of solid options. Whether you’re here for a quick city break, a longer stay, or just passing through, there’s an area that’ll suit you.
Let’s find the right one.
The Broke Backpacker is supported by you. Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more.
Zentrum-Altstadt
Zentrum Altstadt is the best place to stay if it’s your first time in Frankfurt, as you’re right in the heart of the main sights around Römerberg. Everything is within easy walking distance, so you can explore the city without overthinking transport.
Bahnhofsviertel
Bahnhofsviertel is the spot if you’re on a budget, with a good mix of affordable hotels and easy access to everything via Frankfurt Central Station. It’s lively, central and practical, making it a great base if you’re trying to keep costs down without sacrificing location.
Sachsenhausen
Sachsenhausen is the place to go for nightlife, with a great mix of bars, pubs and traditional taverns, especially around Alt-Sachsenhausen. It’s lively without feeling overwhelming, making it an easy spot for a good night out.
Gutleutviertel
Gutleutviertel has a more modern, up and coming feel, with riverside views along the River Main and a growing mix of places to eat and drink. It’s a great choice if you want something a bit cooler and less touristy, while still being close to the centre.
Bornheim
Bornheim is a great choice if you’re travelling with kids, thanks to its relaxed, residential feel and easy pace. With spots like Frankfurt Zoo and Berger Straße nearby, everything you need is close at hand without the chaos of the city centre.
A Guide to Frankfurt’s Best Neighbourhoods
Frankfurt is a bit of a city of contrasts. One minute you’re walking past medieval buildings, the next you’re staring up at glass skyscrapers. It’s a place that somehow balances old and new, suits and students, tradition and modern city life. And that’s what makes it interesting.
Whether you’re into history, food, nightlife, or just wandering and soaking things up, Frankfurt has plenty going on. It’s also a great place to get a feel for German traditions, from cosy apple wine taverns to local neighbourhood spots that feel a world away from the shiny financial district.
The city is split into loads of districts, but don’t overthink it. For most travellers, a handful of neighbourhoods cover everything you’ll need, depending on your vibe and the time of year you visit.
Zentrum Altstadt is the obvious starting point. It’s the historic heart of Frankfurt, packed with cobbled streets, timber-framed buildings and those classic postcard views. I found it the easiest base for having everything within walking distance. Just west, Bahnhofsviertel brings a completely different energy. It’s a little rough around the edges, but that’s part of the appeal, and easily one of the best spots for food and nightlife.
Further along, Gutleutviertel feels quieter and more local, a nice break from the busier areas. Across the Main River, Sachsenhausen is where Frankfurt leans into its traditions, with apple wine taverns and a lively, slightly bohemian feel. Then there’s Bornheim, more residential, with leafy streets, independent shops and a relaxed, neighbourhood vibe.
Now let’s get into the details, because choosing the right area is just as important as picking the right accommodation, especially if you want to experience Frankfurt properly, apple wine in hand.
1. Zentrum-Altstadt – Where to Stay for Your First Time
If you’re visiting Germany for the first time, Zentrum Altstadt is one of the best places to stay in Frankfurt. Right in the centre of the city, it’s where you’ll find many of Frankfurt’s rebuilt medieval buildings, historic landmarks and the main square.
It’s a very compact area, so everything is within easy walking distance. I found it one of the easiest places to explore without relying too much on transport, you can step outside and be straight into the main sights like Römerberg, Frankfurt Cathedral and the River Main.
It’s also a really practical base if you’re backpacking around Germany. You can cover most of the main sights on foot, and with major transport links nearby, it’s easy to arrive, leave, and get around without much hassle.
- Best For: First-time visitors, sightseeing, short stays.
- The Vibe: Historic, central, tourist-friendly.
- Proximity to Airport: Around 20 minutes by train or taxi.
- Transport Level: Excellent, major transport links nearby.
- Budget: Mid to high.
- Crowds: Busy, especially during peak seasons and weekends.
Top Things to Do in Zentrum-Altstadt
- Admire the architecture of St. Paul’s Church, one of the most important symbols of German democracy.
- Dive into the city’s past at the Frankfurt Historical Museum; it’s surprisingly engaging and gives good context to everything you’ll see around you.
- Climb or simply take in the scale of Frankfurt Cathedral, a striking red sandstone cathedral that dominates the skyline.
- Stop by the Fountain of Justice in Römerberg, it’s one of those small details that’s easy to miss but worth a look.
- Visit the Schirn Kunsthalle for modern and contemporary art right in the centre.
- Pop into Old St. Nicholas Church, a small but charming church tucked into the square.
- Experience Frankfurt on a 90-minute open-top bus tour, an easy way to get your bearings and take in the city’s main sights.
- And spend some time in Römerberg, it’s touristy, but those colourful half-timbered houses are exactly what you came for.
- Visit Frankfurt’s Christmas Market in Römerberg, one of the most atmospheric in Germany. Expect traditional wooden stalls, festive lights and plenty of local food and mulled wine.
Best Hotel: Premier Inn Frankfurt
Right in the heart of the city, this is one of my top picks for staying in Zentrum Altstadt. You’ve got easy access to the main sights as well as some of Frankfurt’s best shopping, which makes it a really convenient base.
Rooms are comfortable and well equipped, with tea and coffee facilities and everything you need for a short stay. The buffet breakfast is also worth mentioning, a solid way to start the day before heading out.
Best Apartment: Homaris Apartments
A great option if you want more space than a typical hotel, with modern, recently renovated apartments and handy kitchenettes. It’s in a central location, within walking distance of Frankfurt Cathedral, Eiserner Steg and Goethe House. Comfortable, well-equipped and ideal if you want a central base with a bit more flexibility.
Best Airbnb: Schönes Apartment
A well-furnished apartment in a quiet but central part of Sachsenhausen, ideal if you want a more local feel. It includes a small kitchen, private bathroom and a comfortable living and sleeping space.
You’re well connected by public transport, with the River Main and a park just around the corner.
2. Bahnhofsviertel – Best Place to Stay on a Budget
Just west of the city centre, Bahnhofsviertel is one of the most interesting areas in Frankfurt. It sits around the main train station and has a bit of a reputation thanks to its red light district past.
That said, it’s changed a lot. It still feels a little rough around the edges in places, but that’s part of what gives it character. I actually found it one of the most lively parts of the city, with great food, busy bars and a really mixed, energetic vibe. Like most of Germany really, it’s generally safe; you just need the usual city centre awareness, especially around the station at night.
It’s also one of the better areas if you’re trying to keep costs down. You’ll find a mix of accommodation here, including more affordable hotels and some budget-friendly options.
- Best For: Budget travellers, foodies, short stays.
- The Vibe: Lively, edgy, diverse.
- Proximity to Airport: Around 15 minutes by train or taxi.
- Transport Level: Excellent, right by the main station.
- Budget: Low to mid-range.
- Crowds: Busy, especially in the evenings.
Top Things to Do in Bahnhofsviertel
- Catch a show at the English Theatre, the largest English-speaking theatre in continental Europe.
- See Frankfurt from the water with a private cruise along the River Main. It’s a relaxed way to take in the skyline, with a small group setting and a captain included, making it feel a bit more personal than the standard river tours.
- Head over to Zeil and Goethestraße for shopping, both are an easy walk or short tram ride away.
- Visit nearby museums like the Städel Museum and Museum für Moderne Kunst.
- Take a break in Palmengarten, a peaceful escape from the busy streets.
- Experience Frankfurt’s history on an interactivewalking tour starting at Paulsplatz, bringing key moments of the city’s past to life as you move through sites like Römerberg and Goethe House. With immersive elements like VR, it’s a more engaging way to explore everything from medieval Frankfurt through to the modern city.
- Or spend an evening at Oper Frankfurt if you’re after something a bit more cultural.
Best Hotel: LUME Boutique Hotel
A great option if you want something a bit more premium without going over the top on price. It’s a stylish boutique hotel within walking distance of the English Theatre and Goethe House.
Rooms are modern and well equipped, with nice extras like a complimentary minibar and coffee machine, plus there’s a restaurant, bar and fitness centre on site. The main station is also nearby, which makes getting around really easy.
Best Hostel: Five Elements Hostel Frankfurt
This is my pick for the best hostel in Bahnhofsviertel. It’s in a great central spot, within easy reach of the main sights and surrounded by plenty of bars, restaurants and places to eat.
It’s simple but has everything you need, including free WiFi, lockers, bed linen and towels, making it a solid, budget-friendly option.
Best Airbnb: Hotel Lumière – double room
A solid, budget-friendly hotel within a short walk of Frankfurt Central Station and the Messe. Rooms are simple but stylish, with air conditioning, free WiFi and modern bathrooms.
It’s a convenient base if you want easy transport links, and the breakfast is a nice bonus to start the day.
3. Sachsenhausen – Best Area to Stay for Nightlife
Sachsenhausen sits just across the River Main from Zentrum Altstadt and has a completely different feel. Parts of it, especially Alt Sachsenhausen, are known for their narrow streets, traditional buildings and old school charm.
This is where Frankfurt really leans into its traditions. Think cosy taverns, apple wine (Ebbelwoi) and that slightly bohemian, lived-in vibe. I found it one of the nicest areas to spend an evening, it’s got a really easy, social feel to it.
It’s also one of the best spots in the city for nightlife. There’s a great mix of bars, pubs and restaurants, from traditional places to more modern spots, so it works whether you want a relaxed drink or a proper night out.
- Best For: Nightlife, local atmosphere, food.
- The Vibe: Lively, traditional, slightly bohemian.
- Proximity to Airport: Around 20 minutes by train or taxi.
- Transport Level: Good, well-connected by tram and S-Bahn.
- Budget: Mid-range.
- Crowds: Busy in the evenings, especially at weekends.
Top Things to Do in Sachsenhausen
- Browse the stalls at the Schaumainkai Flea Market, a great spot for vintage finds and a bit of local atmosphere.
- Experience Frankfurt’s nightlife on a guided pub crawl through Alt-Sachsenhausen. You’ll visit a few different bars, usually with drinks or shots included, before ending the night in a club. It’s a fun, social way to explore the area if you’re travelling with friends or looking to meet people.
- Discover Frankfurt after dark on a private evening tour, a great alternative if you’re not after a big night out. You’ll see the city’s landmarks lit up, walk across the Eiserner Steg and finish with a relaxed drink in Alt-Sachsenhausen.
- Take a cruise along the River Main and see Frankfurt from a different angle, passing historic neighbourhoods, museums and riverside spots as you go.
- Go for a stroll along Museumsufer, where you’ll find some of the city’s best museums set along the river.
- Visit the Städel Museum, one of Germany’s most important galleries, with everything from old masters to modern works.
- Wander down Schweizer Straße for independent shops, cafés and a more local feel.
- Or take a day trip to Heidelberg, one of Germany’s most picturesque medieval towns, just over an hour away.
Best Budget Hotel: Jugendherberge Frankfurt – Haus der Jugend
A solid budget option in Sachsenhausen, with a great location close to the main sights, shops and places to eat. Rooms are bright and simple, with all the essentials you’ll need.
There’s also free WiFi, a shared garden and a buffet breakfast, making it a comfortable, no-fuss base for exploring the city.
Best Mid-Range Hotel: Living Hotel Frankfurt by Derag
A great mid-range option with a central location in Sachsenhausen, surrounded by shops, bars and restaurants. Rooms are comfortable and well equipped, with spacious bathrooms and practical extras like a fridge and hairdryer.
There’s also a terrace and an on-site bar, which is a nice touch after a day out exploring.
Best Hotel: Hotel Cult Frankfurt City
This hotel is a fantastic option for your time in Frankfurt. It is within walking distance of the city centre and is close to shops, restaurants and vibrant nightlife. This hotel offers comfortable rooms, a rooftop terrace and free wifi throughout. There’s also an in-house restaurant and a cosy lounge bar.
Best Airbnb: Private Master Suite
A quiet and comfortable guest suite within walking distance of Sachsenhausen. It’s a great option if you want somewhere peaceful while still being near main bars, restaurants and nightlife.
The room is well equipped with essentials like a microwave, espresso machine and fridge, making it a simple but practical base for a short stay.
4. Gutleutviertel – Coolest Place to Stay
Gutleutviertel sits just west of the city centre along the River Main and has had a real glow-up in recent years. Once a more industrial part of the city, it’s now one of Frankfurt’s more up-and-coming neighbourhoods, with a modern, slightly creative feel.
If you want something that feels a bit less obvious than the main tourist areas, this is a great pick. I found it quieter but still interesting, with a growing mix of places to eat, drink and hang out, and a more local, lived-in atmosphere.
You’re not right in the middle of the main sights, but everything is still within easy walking distance or a short tram ride, so you get the best of both, somewhere a bit cooler and more relaxed, without feeling cut off from the city.
Best For: Trendy stays, food, a more local feel.
The Vibe: Modern, up and coming, slightly creative.
Proximity to Airport: Around 15–20 minutes by train or taxi.
Transport Level: Good, with tram and S-Bahn links nearby.
Budget: Mid-range.
Crowds: Quieter, more low-key than central areas.
Top Things to Do in Gutleutviertel
- See the colourful murals at Freiluftgalerie 1, one of the more creative corners of the neighbourhood.
- Snap a photo of the Westhafen Tower, a striking waterfront skyscraper locals nicknamed “Das Gerippte” because it resembles a traditional apple wine glass.
- Join a guided highlights tour through Frankfurt’s mix of new architecture and explore its winding laneways, where reconstructed buildings bring the city’s history back to life. It’s an easy way to experience both the past and present of Frankfurt in one place.
- Take a walk around the redeveloped Westhafen waterfront, one of the best places to see Frankfurt’s modern side.
- Take a day trip to the Rhine Valley and explore one of Germany’s most scenic regions. Expect vineyards, castles and plenty of opportunities to try local Riesling along the way.
- Relax in Sommerhoffpark, a quieter green space tucked away along the river.
- Or just spend time exploring the local food scene; this is one of the best parts of Frankfurt for finding more modern, international places to eat.
Best Budget Hotel: Hotel Europa Life
A comfortable option in Gutleutviertel, ideal if you want a quieter base while still being close to the centre. You’re within easy reach of restaurants and shops, with more nightlife options just a short walk or tram ride away.
Rooms are well equipped with private bathrooms, minibars and satellite TV, making it a simple, reliable place to stay.
Best Hostel: A&O Frankfurt Galluswarte
A great budget-friendly option with a mix of hotel rooms and hostel-style dorms, ideal if you want flexibility. It’s just over 1 km from Frankfurt Central Station, with tram and S-Bahn links right outside.
Rooms are simple but comfortable, and there’s a rooftop SkyBar, which is a nice bonus for views over the skyline. A breakfast buffet is available for a small extra cost if you want an easy start to the day.
Best Airbnb: Light-flooded artist loft
A good option if you want something more local and don’t mind sharing with a host. You’ll have a spacious bedroom, access to a fully equipped kitchen, a modern bathroom and a large living area.
It’s a comfortable, homely base and works well if you’re planning to explore the nearby food scene and riverside area.
5. Bornheim – Best Neighbourhood for Families
Bornheim sits to the east of the city centre and has a much more relaxed, lived-in feel compared to Frankfurt’s busier areas. It’s more relaxed than the central areas, with leafy streets, local cafés and a pace that works really well if you’re travelling with kids.
I found this one of the easiest areas to base yourself as a family. You’ve got space, a safe, neighbourhood vibe, and attractions like Frankfurt Zoo nearby, which is always a win for keeping everyone entertained.
Berger Straße runs right through the area, lined with bakeries, shops and casual places to eat, so you’re never far from somewhere easy. And when you do want to head into the centre, it’s a quick and straightforward trip on public transport, which makes things a lot simpler.
Best For: Families, longer stays, a quieter base.
The Vibe: Relaxed, residential, local.
Proximity to Airport: Around 20–25 minutes by train or taxi.
Transport Level: Good, with U-Bahn and tram connections into the centre.
Budget: Mid-range.
Crowds: Low to moderate, much quieter than central areas.
Top Things to Do in Bornheim
- Browse the shops, cafés and bakeries that line Berger Straße, one of the liveliest streets in the neighbourhood.
- Let your kids explore Frankfurt in a fun and engaging way on a family-friendly tour that combines the Old Town with a cruise along the River Main. It’s a great way to mix sightseeing with something a bit more interactive for younger travellers.
- See the Uhrtürmchen Bornheim, a small but well-known local landmark right in the heart of Bornheim.
- Visit the weekly market on Berger Straße, held on Wednesdays and Saturdays, for fresh produce, flowers and local treats.
- Explore the interactive exhibits at EXPERIMINTA ScienceCenter, where kids can get hands-on with physics, maths, technology and engineering. It’s a fun, educational stop that works really well for a family day out.
- Spend some time in Günthersburgpark, a great green space with playgrounds, walking paths and plenty of room for kids to run around.
- Or catch an ice hockey game or go skating at Eissporthalle Frankfurt, especially fun if you’re visiting with family.
Best Hotel: Arena an der Friedberger Warte
A charming three-star hotel set between Nordend and Bornheim, offering a comfortable and convenient base. Rooms are simple and modern, with private bathrooms and all the essentials for a short stay.
There’s also an in-house bar, plus extras like free WiFi, a coffee bar and luggage storage, making it an easy, no fuss option.
Best Hostel: a&o Frankfurt Osten
A great budget-friendly option, especially for families or groups, with a mix of private rooms and dorms. It’s modern, well-equipped and has extras like a games area, coworking space and even a kids’ play area.
Located near Hanauer Landstraße, you’re in a more creative part of the city, with good transport links into the centre. You’re also close to Hafenpark Frankfurt and Frankfurt Zoo, which is ideal if you’re travelling with kids.
Best Airbnb: Entire rental unit
A cosy attic apartment right in the heart of Bornheim, just moments from Berger Straße. Despite the central location, it’s quiet and peaceful, with bright, light-filled rooms.
There’s a spacious living and dining area with a small kitchen, a comfortable bedroom and space for families, including a sofa bed and the option of a child’s room, making it a flexible and relaxed place to stay.
FAQs About Finding a Place to Stay in Frankfurt
Here’s what people usually ask about the areas of Frankfurt and where to stay.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Frankfurt
Unfortunately, things can go wrong when you least expect it. This is why good travel insurance is essential before you head on your trip to Frankfurt.
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Which Neighbourhood Will You Choose?
If it’s your first time in Frankfurt, Zentrum Altstadt is the easiest choice. You’re right in the middle of the main sights, with everything within walking distance and the best atmosphere, especially around Römerberg.
If you’re travelling on a budget or want somewhere a bit more lively, Bahnhofsviertel is a great option. It’s central, well-connected and packed with food and nightlife, while Sachsenhausen offers a slightly more traditional feel, with apple wine taverns and a great evening atmosphere across the River Main.
For something quieter, Gutleutviertel and Bornheim both offer a more local experience. Gutleutviertel feels modern and up and coming, while Bornheim is relaxed and residential, making it a great pick for families or anyone wanting a slower pace.
Have I missed anything important? Do you have a recommendation? Let me know in the comments below!
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around Germany.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Frankfurt.
- Or… maybe you want to check out some Airbnbs in Frankfurt instead.
- Next up you’re gonna need to know all the best places to visit in Frankfurt to plan your trip.
- Save yourself hassle and money and get an international sim card for Europe.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
- Our in-depth Europe backpacking guide will help you plan the rest of your adventure.
