Frankfurt might surprise you. It’s not just a banking hub with skyscrapers—it’s a city full of rich contrasts, lively neighborhoods, and fascinating stories. Some unique ways to experience Frankfurt include exploring its history through virtual reality, walking its historic streets, or tasting regional wines along the Rhine. For instance, the Virtual Reality Time Travel Experience offers a 45-minute journey back over 100 years that feels surprisingly real. Or, if you prefer a more personal touch, join a Private or Shared Walking Tour to see the Altstadt’s charming streets and learn about the city’s first German national assembly. These experiences showcase Frankfurt’s blend of old and new, making it a perfect city to explore with your curiosity and senses.
In this guide, we’ll highlight 14 top tours and experiences in Frankfurt, from cultural walks and historical immersions to wine tastings and lively pub crawls. Whether you’re after a quick overview or a deep dive into local culture, there’s something here to match your style and schedule.
1. Frankfurt: Virtual Reality Time Travel Experience Ticket
At number 1, the Frankfurt: Virtual Reality Time Travel Experience takes you on a 45-minute journey through Frankfurt as it was over a century ago. Using cutting-edge VR technology, you’re transported to look and feel as if you’re really there—walking through the bustling trading city of the early 1900s. The experience includes an exhibition, a guide, and a segment where you’re virtually living in history. It’s particularly engaging for families and history lovers who want an immersive, visual way to understand Frankfurt’s roots. The 15-minute VR part is as close to time travel as you can get without a flux capacitor. With a 4.5-star rating from over 700 reviews, this is a fun and educational choice for those wanting to experience Frankfurt’s past in a modern way.
Bottom Line: Perfect for families and history enthusiasts who enjoy tech and storytelling, this tour makes history accessible and engaging.
Number 2 on our list is the Private or Shared Walking Tour, which offers a flexible way to see Frankfurt’s highlights. With durations from 1.5 hours, you’ll stroll through the Altstadt, comparing traditional sights with the modern Neue Altstadt. You’ll learn about the city’s role in Germany’s early political history, including the site of the first German national assembly. The guide’s insights help bring to life Frankfurt’s blend of old stone and new glass. Guests praise the guide’s flexibility—“Despite a rainy evening, it was a lot of fun,” one review notes, highlighting how adaptable the experience can be. This tour suits those who prefer a personalized approach or want to explore at their own pace.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for travelers who enjoy intimate, educational walks with a local guide, especially if weather isn’t perfect.
3. Rhine Valley Wine Tasting Tour from Frankfurt and Mainz
Number 3 is the luxurious Rhine Valley Wine Tasting Tour, a full-day private trip designed for wine lovers. Departing from Frankfurt or Mainz, you’ll travel along the Rhine River to explore historic villages and visit three award-winning vineyards. The tour includes cellar tours, tastings of 10+ regional wines—including dry Riesling and Pinot—and a regional cheese plate for snacks. The guide, Carl, is praised for making the experience both fun and educational. Guests find the personalized service and behind-the-scenes access to cellars make this tour stand out. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a deep dive into Germany’s wine culture without the hassle of planning. At $452.82 per person, it’s an investment in a memorable day.
Bottom Line: Perfect for wine aficionados who want an intimate, expert-led journey through the Rhine’s vineyards.
4. Guided Axe Throwing Experience in Frankfurt Altstadt
For something completely different, try the Guided Axe Throwing Experience, which offers a fun hour of learning how to throw an axe safely. It’s a lively activity perfect for groups or adventurous travelers wanting a break from typical sightseeing. Under instructor guidance, you’ll practice your throws in a controlled environment, and even learn some tricks if you get the hang of it. Reviewers rave about the helpful staff and the thrill of learning a new skill—”We had so much fun, and it was much more exciting than I expected,” says one. Costing around $27.87 per person, it’s a reasonably priced way to add an active, memorable element to your trip.
Bottom Line: Great for groups or individuals seeking a safe, energetic activity that’s as entertaining as it is challenging.
5. Frankfurt Card: Experience Frankfurt at the Best Price
The Frankfurt Card provides unlimited public transit and discounts on museums, tours, and dining. It’s ideal for budget-conscious travelers who want to explore independently. Valid for 1 or 2 days, you can hop on trams, buses, and trains as often as you like, making it easy to see major sights without buying individual tickets. Reviewers mention it’s a smart way to save money—”We did not worry about tickets and used the transportation all over Frankfurt.” The card also offers discounts, making sightseeing more affordable. It’s best suited for those with a flexible schedule who plan to be on the move.
Bottom Line: An economical choice for travelers wanting hassle-free transportation and discounts without guided tours.
6. Frankfurt am Main: Night Pub Crawl Shots and Party
Number 6 is the energetic Night Pub Crawl, which takes you through four bars in Alt-Sachsenhausen, Frankfurt’s lively party district. Starting with a welcome shot, you’ll enjoy free drinks at each stop, with guided visits to secret venues for a total of 4 hours. Participants rave about the fun atmosphere—”Felicia made this experience 10/10,” says one reviewer. It’s perfect for night owls who want a social, lively evening with new friends and plenty of drinks. Expect great music, friendly guides, and a chance to see Frankfurt’s nightlife from a different perspective.
Bottom Line: A perfect choice for those wanting a lively, social night out with drinks and dance in a safe group setting.
7. Frankfurt Impressions Express
Number 7, Frankfurt Impressions Express, is a private 3-4 hour tour for travelers with limited time or long layovers. A personal driver takes you around the main sights, including Romer, St. Paul’s Church, the Goethe House, and the Main Tower. The vehicle provides comfort and flexibility, and you can choose to walk around or just enjoy the ride. Guests appreciate the tailored experience—“Serkan was an excellent guide, and we saw a lot without feeling rushed,” reports one. The tour offers a quick but rundown of Mainhattan’s highlights, making it suitable for first-time visitors.
Bottom Line: Ideal for busy travelers or those with a short window, wanting a personalized, hassle-free orientation.
8. Heidelberg Castle and City Day Tour from Frankfurt
Number 8, the Heidelberg Castle and City Day Tour, combines a castle visit with walking through Heidelberg’s quaint Old Town. It’s a 5.5-hour trip, including a drive on the scenic Neckar River. The castle’s ruins and large wine barrel are highlights, and the city’s Renaissance architecture captivates visitors. One reviewer says, “Michael was very knowledgeable and gave us time to explore on our own,” which shows how personalized it can be. This tour suits history and architecture buffs, especially those wanting a relaxed day out of Frankfurt.
Bottom Line: Perfect for culture lovers who want a scenic day exploring one of Germany’s most beautiful towns.
9. Frankfurt: Private Walking Tour with a Local
Number 9 offers a Private Walking Tour with a Local. This personalized experience lets you discover Frankfurt through a local’s eyes over 2-6 hours. You’ll visit secret spots, learn tips from locals, and customize the route based on your interests. It’s ideal for travelers who want to go beyond the typical sights and get authentic stories. “This tour was a highlight because I learned things I wouldn’t find in guidebooks,” one guest reports. It’s a flexible option for those who prefer tailored experiences.
Bottom Line: Best suited for curious travelers eager to uncover Frankfurt’s lesser-known stories and places.
10. Heidelberg Castle and Old Town Tour from Frankfurt
Number 10, the Heidelberg Castle and Old Town Tour, offers a half-day escape to Heidelberg. It combines a castle tour with a walk through the historic Old Town, seeing sights like the Karl Theodor Bridge and the Church of the Holy Spirit. The tour lasts about 5.5 hours and is perfect for those who want a manageable day trip. One review highlights the guide’s knowledge and the beautiful scenery. It’s ideal for travelers who want a balance of history, scenery, and relaxed exploration.
Bottom Line: Great for history enthusiasts and those seeking a scenic, cultural day trip.
11. Frankfurt Super Saver: Neuschwanstein Castle and Rothenburg Day Trip
Number 11 is the Super Saver Day Trip, combining two iconic sights in one long day. You’ll visit the fairy-tale Neuschwanstein Castle and Rothenburg ob der Tauber. The tour includes pre-booked tickets for Neuschwanstein, avoiding lines, and a walking tour of Rothenburg’s medieval streets. It’s a 14-hour adventure, packed with castles and cobblestones. Reviewers mention that the long drive is worth it for the stunning scenery and castles. Ideal for those who want a comprehensive day out, but be prepared for a long day.
Bottom Line: Perfect for dedicated sightseers comfortable with a full day of travel.
12. Frankfurt: Old Town Historical Walking Tour with Geo Epoche
Number 12, the Old Town Historical Walking Tour, is led by a local historian in German. It explores Frankfurt’s streets, focusing on the evolution of the city’s architecture and its medieval roots. Expect to see the Römberg, the Iron Footbridge, and remains of the imperial palace. Reviewers praise Nicole’s preparation and knowledge—“she has a lot of background knowledge and was really well prepared,” says one. It’s especially suitable for travelers interested in deep historical insights delivered by an expert.
Bottom Line: A great choice for history buffs and German speakers wanting a detailed, in-depth exploration.
13. Frankfurt: ‘The Hour of the Vampires’ Scary Tour
Number 13 brings some spooky fun with The Hour of the Vampires, a 75-minute theatrical walk at night. Professional actors combine storytelling, walking, and theatrical effects to recount vampire tales and black romance. It’s a lively, fun scare suited for those interested in Gothic stories or Halloween-style fun. Reviewers mention the entertainment value—“It was really good, and the actors made it very immersive,” says one. The tour is ideal for fans of spooky stories or those looking for a lighthearted, theatrical experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for fans of horror stories and theatrical storytelling with a dark twist.
14. Frankfurt: Walking tour between St. Paul’s Church, Main & Old Town flair in German
Finally, the Walking Tour between St. Paul’s Church, offers a 2-hour stroll through the heart of Frankfurt’s Old Town. Led in German, it focuses on lesser-known stories, including the Iron Footbridge and the medieval palace ruins. Reviewers note the guide’s passion—“Dimitri ist ein Stadtführer mit Herzblut”—making it a rich experience for those wanting local insights and authentic stories. It’s best suited for German-speaking travelers or those keen on more detailed, local history.
Bottom Line: A solid choice for culturally interested travelers who want to go beyond the surface.
How to Choose Your Frankfurt Tour
Choosing the right experience depends on your interests, time, and energy level. If you crave an immersive history without leaving the city, the VR Time Travel offers a unique perspective, while a private walking tour lets you personalize your exploration. For wine lovers, the Rhine Valley tour combines scenic views with tastings, and if you’re after lively nightlife, the pub crawl delivers fun drinks and social atmosphere.
Consider your budget, how much time you want to spend, and whether you prefer guided or independent exploration. Book popular tours early, especially summer weekends or holiday periods, to secure your spot.
Wrapping Up
From cultural walks and historic immersions to wine tasting and lively nightlife, Frankfurt’s tours cover a broad spectrum. For those who want a quick overview, the Frankfurt Impressions Express provides a handy snapshot. Travelers seeking a deeper dive can’t go wrong with the Heidelberg Castle and City Tour or the Rhine Valley wine experience. If you’re into spooky stories, the Vampires tour adds a fun, theatrical twist.
Whatever your interests, booking early ensures you won’t miss out on these popular experiences. With such a varied lineup, your trip to Frankfurt can be as lively, historic, or relaxed as you want—so pick the tours that excite you and start planning your adventure today.