Frankfurt is a city where history and modernity collide in a fascinating way. Its skyline of gleaming skyscrapers stands shoulder to shoulder with medieval buildings, revealing a city that has grown while still honoring its past. Walking tours are a prime way to explore Frankfurt’s streets, whether you’re interested in uncovering hidden stories, soaking in the architecture, or indulging in local cuisine. We especially like tours that blend historical insights with personal touches—like the private or shared walking tour, which offers a flexible way to see the city’s highlights and learn about its evolution.
What makes Frankfurt stand out for walking tours? It’s the diversity of neighborhoods, from the bustling shopping streets of Zeil to the charming, cobbled lanes of the Altstadt. Plus, the city’s role as Europe’s financial hub adds a modern twist. Whether you prefer a guided stroll with rich storytelling or a customized experience with a local, there’s a walk that will suit your style.
Quick overview
This list brings together the top 10 walking tours in Frankfurt, each offering a different flavor of the city. From historic tours in the Old Town to private explorations with local guides, and even unique experiences like VR tours or culinary walks—there’s something for every traveler. All tours are designed to give you a real sense of Frankfurt beyond the typical tourist spots, so you can choose what best fits your interests and schedule. Now, let’s explore each one in detail.
Rated 4.8/5 from 156 reviews, this tour offers a classic introduction to Frankfurt’s most notable sights and stories. It lasts about 1.5 hours, making it a quick but comprehensive way to get your bearings. You’ll explore the Altstadt (Old Town), where the historic buildings and narrow alleys tell tales of centuries past, and compare them with the Neue Altstadt, a modern reconstruction designed to blend old charm with new architecture.
This tour’s flexibility is a big plus. It can be booked as a private experience for a more personalized touch or as a shared group for a social vibe. Guides are typically very knowledgeable and can adapt the route to your interests. One review praises the guide’s flexibility and insights, even on a rainy evening, which shows how committed they are to making the experience memorable.
The highlight is learning about the location of the first German national assembly, adding a layer of political history to your walk. It’s perfect for those who want a quick yet insightful overview of Frankfurt’s historical core.
Bottom Line: An excellent, flexible option if you’re short on time but want a meaningful introduction to the city’s history and sights.
2. Frankfurt: Private Walking Tour with a Local
Rated 4.7/5 from 81 reviews, this tour caters to travelers who want to see Frankfurt through the eyes of someone who lives there. For $57 per person, you get a fully personalized experience that can last between 2 and 6 hours—more than enough time to dig deep into the city’s secret corners and local stories.
What sets this apart is the ability to customize the tour. You choose your meeting point, start time, and interests, ensuring a tailored experience. The guide acts less like a lecturer and more like a friend sharing their favorite spots, hidden cafes, and lesser-known historical twists. It’s perfect if you’re curious about Frankfurt’s hidden gems or want tips on where locals go to eat and relax.
Guests rave about the passion of the guides and the authentic connection they foster. One reviewer notes, “Skip the typical tour, discover Frankfurt with a passionate local, and uncover the city’s best-kept secrets.” This makes it especially appealing for travelers who prefer a more intimate, flexible approach.
Bottom Line: A personalized, flexible tour that’s ideal for those who want to explore Frankfurt beyond the usual sights and hear local stories firsthand.
3. Frankfurt: Old Town Historical Walking Tour with Geo Epoche
Rated 4.7/5 from 43 reviews, this 2-hour tour dives into Frankfurt’s history with the help of a local historian. It’s conducted in German, but English tours are available upon request. This walk takes you through the winding, narrow streets of the Old Town, offering a cinematic sense of stepping back into a different era.
What makes this tour special is its focus on Frankfurt’s rise as Europe’s financial hub. As you stroll, learn about how the city evolved from medieval times into a powerhouse of commerce. The guide shares fascinating stories about the city’s medieval imperial palace remains and how the First German National Assembly took place here. The tour combines detailed historical insights with vivid storytelling, making history come alive.
One guest mentioned that the guide was well-prepared and knowledgeable, helping to dispel any doubts about the depth of the experience. It’s a good choice if you enjoy history told by an expert who can give you context and color.
Bottom Line: A historically rich walk led by an expert, perfect for history buffs or those interested in Frankfurt’s political origins.
4. Frankfurt: Walking tour between St. Paul’s Church, Main & Old Town flair in German
Rated 5/5 from 7 reviews, this tour is designed for those who want a deep dive into Frankfurt’s heritage—and it’s conducted entirely in German. Lasting about 2 hours, it focuses on iconic sights like Römerberg, the historic town hall, and hidden alleyways.
What makes this walk stand out is its appeal to Frankfurters and history enthusiasts alike. It explores the Iron Footbridge and the museum embankment, revealing stories behind these landmarks, often unknown to casual visitors. The guide’s passion is evident, with reviews praising Dimitri’s heartfelt connection to the city.
If you’re interested in seeing the “New Old Town” and its charming atmosphere, this tour provides a lively, engaging experience. It’s especially suited for travelers who want to understand Frankfurt’s urban soul and appreciate local pride.
Bottom Line: A spirited tour that combines historic sites with an authentic local perspective, best for German speakers or those eager to learn more about Frankfurt’s enduring character.
5. Amazing walking Frankfurt with a local guide
Rated 4.5/5 from 28 reviews, this private 3-hour tour offers a comprehensive look at Frankfurt’s highlights. The itinerary includes Römerberg, the Hauptwache, the Old Opera House, and the European Bank district—a well-rounded mix of history, architecture, and modern finance.
The value lies in its personalized approach, with hotel pickup and drop-off included, making it perfect if you’re short on time or arriving by cruise. The guide provides stories about the metropolitan scale of Frankfurt, blending old and new. One reviewer noted that the guide, Oleg, was knowledgeable, friendly, and thorough, making sure no key site was missed.
The tour suits travelers who want a half-day overview with a personal touch, especially if they’re interested in Frankfurt’s financial district and historic squares. Be aware it’s a longer, more detailed experience, so it’s best for those with some walking stamina.
Bottom Line: This private tour offers a highly personalized, enriching introduction, ideal for first-time visitors wanting a broad yet detailed view.
6. Frankfurt: 2-hour Best Intro Walking Tour with a Local
Rated 5/5 from 2 reviews, this quick, intimate tour gives you a crash course in Frankfurt’s highlights. For about 2 hours, your guide introduces you to top sights, ideas, and local tips, making it perfect for layovers or first visits.
What makes this tour stand out is the small group size—a maximum of 8 travelers—and the focus on local insights. The guide, Jihad, is praised for making stories lively and providing a great overview of the city’s past and present. The tour includes tasting a typical local product, giving a taste of Frankfurt’s culinary culture.
This tour is best suited for travelers seeking a short but meaningful introduction without the time commitment of longer walks. It provides practical tips and a warm personal touch.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for a brief yet insightful orientation, especially if you want local recommendations and a taste of Frankfurt.
7. Frankfurt: Walking Tour – discover the city with VR glasses
Rated 4.1/5 from 14 reviews, this innovative 45-minute experience combines walking with virtual reality. It starts at TimeRide and takes you through key sites like Paulsplatz, St. Paul’s Church, and the Roemerberg, but with a twist—you’ll see historical scenes come alive through VR headsets.
What makes this tour unique is the comparison of past and present that it offers. You’ll walk the same streets but see how they looked hundreds of years ago, making history feel tangible. The guide provides interesting facts, and the VR component adds an interactive element that appeals to tech-savvy travelers.
Though shorter, this experience is highly engaging and perfect if you’re interested in technology-enhanced history. It’s especially suitable for families or those eager for a futuristic twist on sightseeing.
Bottom Line: A compact but innovative way to understand Frankfurt’s history and architecture through cutting-edge technology.
8. Culinary Frankfurt Walking Tour
Rated 4.2/5, this 2-hour culinary adventure explores Frankfurt’s local food scene. Starting at Kleinmarkthalle, it includes stops at Paulaner am Dom and ConditCouture, where you sample regional dishes and learn their stories.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on food as a window into culture. You’ll taste local specialties and hear about their history from knowledgeable guides. It’s an engaging way to connect with Frankfurt’s lively atmosphere and gain insights into the city’s culinary traditions.
The tour is best suited for food lovers and anyone curious about regional flavors. It offers good value for those wanting a delicious, educational experience that combines taste with stories.
Bottom Line: A tasty, culturally rich tour ideal for foodies eager to discover Frankfurt’s local flavors.
9. Frankfurt: Private Walking Tour With Local Guide
Rated 4/5, this 1.5-hour private tour focuses on key sights like Römerberg, the Frankfurt Cathedral, and Goethe’s House. It’s a shorter, more focused experience for travelers wanting an intimate, in-depth glance at Frankfurt’s top landmarks.
The guide shares stories about the city’s past and the notable figures associated with it, such as the literary giant Goethe. It’s ideal for those who prefer a personalized approach and want to avoid crowded group tours. It’s also flexible, allowing you to customize the route slightly if desired.
Guests appreciate the guide’s friendly demeanor and ability to make history accessible. The tour is good for those with limited time but wanting a meaningful introduction to Frankfurt’s cultural highlights.
Bottom Line: A concise, private experience perfect for travelers who prefer a personal touch and a focus on Frankfurt’s main sights.
10. Frankfurt: Christmas Old Town Walking Tour (2 hours in German)
While the guide’s reviews aren’t listed, this festive tour offers a charming exploration of Frankfurt’s Christmas traditions and sights. It visits St. Paul’s Church, Römer, and the New Old Town, ending with a tasty roasted almond treat.
This tour is ideal for holiday visitors wanting to combine history with seasonal cheer. It immerses you in the Christmas atmosphere, with stories about the city’s holiday customs and traditions. It’s conducted in German, making it best for German speakers or those eager to practice.
If you want a seasonal twist on your walking experience, this tour offers a warm, festive way to see Frankfurt’s holiday decorations and historic sites in one go.
Bottom Line: A delightful holiday experience, perfect for those wanting to celebrate Frankfurt’s Christmas charm and learn about local traditions.
How to Choose the Perfect Walking Tour
When choosing among Frankfurt’s many walking tours, consider your interests and schedule. If you’re pressed for time but want a broad overview, the 2-hour intro tour offers a quick yet thorough introduction. For a more personalized experience, the private tour with a local is ideal—perfect if you want to tailor your visit or explore niche interests.
History buffs may prefer the Old Town tour with Geo Epoche, which offers detailed insights into Frankfurt’s rise as a financial hub. Food lovers should consider the culinary walking tour, while families or tech enthusiasts might enjoy the VR city discovery.
Finally, if you’re visiting during the holiday season, the Christmas Old Town tour adds a festive, cultural layer to your sightseeing.
Remember to book early—these tours fill up, especially during peak seasons or special events.
In summary, Frankfurt offers a diverse range of walking tours suited to nearly every interest. If you want a quick overview, the best intro tour fits the bill. History enthusiasts will appreciate Geo Epoche’s Old Town walk, while those craving a personal connection should opt for the private local tour. For a fun, high-tech twist, the VR experience adds a different flavor, and culinary fans will love tasting Frankfurt’s regional dishes.
No matter your travel style, Frankfurt’s walking tours open a window into a city that’s both historic and thoroughly modern—so lace up your shoes, and start exploring.