How long does it take to walk the Frankfurt riverfront?

A leisurely walk along the riverfront bridges typically takes between 60 and 90 minutes. The distance is approximately 3.5 kilometers (2.2 miles) if you visit all the major bridges between the city center and the East End.

Is the Frankfurt sunset walk worth it?

Yes, it is absolutely worth it for the views alone. Watching the sun set behind the skyscrapers while the historic bridges light up offers a unique perspective of Frankfurt that you cannot get from inside the city streets.

Can I see the European Central Bank on this route?

Yes, the route takes you directly past the Weseler Werft, which offers one of the best ground-level views of the European Central Bank's twin-tower headquarters in the East End.

When is the best time to start the Frankfurt bridge walk?

The best time to start is approximately one hour before sunset. This allows you to experience the 'golden hour' for photography and see the city transition into its illuminated nighttime appearance.

Is the Frankfurt riverfront walk accessible for wheelchairs?

Yes, the riverfront paths and the bridges are fully accessible. Most bridges, including the Eiserner Steg and Holbeinsteg, are equipped with ramps or elevators to ensure step-free access.

Where can I find the love locks in Frankfurt?

The love locks are located on the Eiserner Steg (Iron Bridge). Thousands of colorful padlocks are attached to the bridge's railings, following a romantic tradition popular across many European cities.

Are there places to eat along the Frankfurt riverfront walking route?

Yes, the Mainkai and the nearby Sachsenhausen district (south of the river) are famous for traditional apple wine taverns. Additionally, several seasonal kiosks and cafes operate directly along the riverbanks.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

About This Tour

As the sun begins its descent behind the towering glass spires of 'Mainhattan,' Frankfurt transforms into a canvas of gold and violet. This neighborhood stroll along the River Main offers the most breathtaking photography opportunities in Germany's financial capital. This self-guided walk invites you to explore the riverfront, where historic masonry meets cutting-edge modern architecture, all connected by a series of iconic bridges that serve as the city's best viewing platforms. Starting at the historic Mainkai, you will trace the path of the river that has defined Frankfurt for centuries. The route takes you across the Eiserner Steg, the city's beloved iron footbridge, and continues toward the modern East End. Along the way, you will discover the contrast between the traditional Altstadt and the futuristic European Central Bank district. Each bridge on this walking route offers a unique vantage point, from the neo-Gothic arches of the 19th century to the sleek, minimalist suspension designs of the 21st. This photography focused journey is designed to capture the Frankfurt skyline at the 'golden hour.' You will wander through the Weseler Werft, an industrial site turned urban park, where vintage cranes stand as monuments to the city's maritime past. The experience concludes at the Holbeinsteg, a modern architectural marvel that connects the vibrant Museum Embankment to the city center. Whether you are looking for a romantic evening or a chance to sharpen your architectural photography skills, this self-guided walk provides the freedom to pause and capture the perfect shot as the city lights begin to flicker on. Discover at your own pace why Frankfurt’s riverfront is considered one of the most beautiful urban landscapes in Europe, all while learning the stories behind the bridges that link the city's diverse neighborhoods.

Highlights

Panoramic sunset views of the Frankfurt skyline from Flößerbrücke

The romantic 'Love Lock' tradition on the historic Eiserner Steg

Industrial heritage and modern art at the Weseler Werft park

Architectural photography of the European Central Bank building

The elegant suspension design of the modern Holbeinsteg bridge

Historic riverfront atmosphere along the Mainkai embankment

Tour Stops (6)

Mainkai

Start exploring with Zigway at the Mainkai, the historic heart of Frankfurt's riverfront. For centuries, this embankment was the city's primary trading hub, where ships from the Rhine would dock to offload salt, wine, and iron. Today, it has been transformed into a pedestrian-friendly promenade. As you look across the water, you'll see the Museumsufer, home to some of the world's finest cultural institutions. The Mainkai offers a perfect introduction to the city's dual nature: to one side, the rebuilt medieval charm of the Römerberg, and to the other, the shimmering reflections of the financial district in the water. This is a favorite spot for locals to enjoy a late afternoon stroll or a glass of the local 'Apfelwein' while watching the river traffic pass by.

Eiserner Steg

Step onto the Eiserner Steg, Frankfurt's most famous footbridge. Built in 1868, this neo-Gothic iron structure was a private initiative by citizens who were tired of the long detours to cross the river. Take a moment to look at the Greek inscription on the bridge's pediment, a quote from Homer's Odyssey which translates to 'Sailing over the wine-dark sea to men of strange speech.' Today, the bridge is famous for the thousands of 'love locks' attached to its railings by couples from around the world. As the sun begins to dip, the iron latticework creates intricate shadows, and the view toward the Cathedral (Dom) and the skyline provides a quintessential Frankfurt photo opportunity.

Ignatz-Bubis-Brücke

As you continue your neighborhood stroll toward the east, you reach the Ignatz-Bubis-Brücke. Named after a prominent leader of the Jewish community in Germany, this bridge offers a wider perspective of the city. From here, you can see the skyline stretching out in all its glory, with the Commerzbank Tower and the Messeturm dominating the horizon. This bridge is a favorite for photographers because it allows you to capture the traditional spire of the Frankfurt Cathedral framed against the modern skyscrapers. It represents the resilience of Frankfurt, a city that has constantly rebuilt and reinvented itself throughout history while honoring the individuals who helped shape its modern, inclusive identity.

Flößerbrücke

You are now standing on what many consider the best photography spot in the city. The Flößerbrücke is instantly recognizable by its distinctive green arch. The bridge is named after the 'Flößer' or rafters who once navigated timber rafts down the river. From this specific vantage point, the skyline appears perfectly centered, with the river Main leading the eye directly toward the cluster of skyscrapers. At sunset, the glass facades of the banks reflect the changing colors of the sky, creating a spectacular light show. It is the ideal place to pause and witness the transition from day to night as the city's office lights begin to glow, earning the city its 'Mainhattan' nickname.

Weseler Werft

Descend to the riverbank at Weseler Werft. This former industrial wharf has been reclaimed as a vibrant green space. Notice the two massive historic cranes that have been preserved as monuments to Frankfurt's industrial past; they serve as a striking foreground for photos of the nearby European Central Bank (ECB) headquarters. The ECB’s twin towers, joined by a glass atrium, represent the modern economic power of the Eurozone. The park here is a local favorite for picnics and outdoor events. Walking through this area, you can feel the city's energy shifting from the traditional center to the burgeoning East End, where old warehouses are now home to creative lofts and trendy restaurants.

Holbeinsteg

Your self-guided adventure concludes at the Holbeinsteg. Completed in 1990, this elegant suspension bridge is a masterpiece of modern engineering, appearing almost like a harp spanning the water. It connects the Städel Museum on the south bank to the city center on the north. The bridge is named after the Holbein family of painters, reflecting the artistic character of the Museumsufer district. As night falls, the bridge is beautifully illuminated, providing a final, graceful subject for your camera. From the center of the span, look back toward the skyline one last time to see the city lights shimmering on the river's surface, a perfect end to your sunset exploration of Frankfurt.

Frequently Asked Questions

The River Main bridge route is widely considered the best for photography. It offers unobstructed views of the 'Mainhattan' skyline, especially from the Flößerbrücke and Eiserner Steg, capturing both historic and modern landmarks.