Frankfurt by itself is a sort of paradox. On one hand, avant-garde skyscrapers touch the clouds while traffic goes through and forth this hub of Germany. At the same time, these gigantic structures are standing side by side next to well-maintained and preserved buildings from the 19th century. The squares and museums in the downtown areas still attract millions of visitors each year, but the city itself does an even better job by being connected all around the world with its large financial centres and traffic hubs. Frankfurt is the place to visit if you still want to taste the German culture without forgoing modern society. Despite the hustle and bustle, Frankfurt will not leave you wanting when it comes to cultural activities.
There are numerous churches, cathedrals and old buildings scattered around Frankfurt. Among these, one of the more famous ones is the Saint Bartholomeus’ Cathedral. The cathedral is more of a Gothic building, and is Frankfurt’s main and largest church, playing an important role in the history of the city. Kings and emperors had been crowned here, and the cathedral itself holds a place in the hearts of the people. Another building worth seeing is Paulskirche or Saint Paul’s church. The place was famous more because it used to function as a meeting place where members of the German parliament sat and passed articles that have remained to this day.
Another tourist attraction is the Palmengarten, also known as the Palm Garden in English. It is one of the famous botanical gardens in Frankfurt because of the beauty and variety of its flora collection. While strolling through the gardens, an orchestra occasionally plays music in the pavilion, completing the ambient atmosphere within the building. The environment is such that it makes this botanical garden one of a kind in Germany. Even without that, the amount and diversity of botanical exhibits themselves are still sufficient enough to ensure the attraction of visitors.
Despite its original purpose not involving tourism, Frankfurt Hauptbahnhof, Frankfurt’s main train station is another site worth seeing if you are in the city. The sheer size and magnitude of the station will be enough to take one’s breath away. With 24 platforms and nearly 1500 trains departing every day, the terminal links Frankfurt to just about anywhere you wish to go in Europe. The architecture is awe-inspiring, and the design is a delicate mix that holds both modernity and culture. Most impressive, though, is still its size and majesty, a grandeur sense that can rival the skyscrapers of Frankfurt. Even if you’re just passing through Frankfurt by train, be sure to take the opportunity to check out one of the largest terminals in Europe if you ever have the time.
All in all, Frankfurt is probably not the best destination to go to when there are so many other choices, but you will not be disappointed even if you did go there. Even if it is just a stop on your tour of Europe, be sure to take a day or two to walk around the city and enjoy the sights.
