What Should You Pack for Frankfurt?
Frankfurt’s weather can vary depending on the season, so it’s best to be prepared! In spring and fall, light layers like sweaters and jackets are great for cool mornings and evenings. Summer can get warm, so breathable clothing like short-sleeve shirts and dresses will keep you comfortable. In winter, you’ll want a heavier coat, scarves, and gloves to stay warm while exploring the city’s outdoor attractions. A rain jacket or umbrella is always a good idea for those unexpected showers!
Make sure you’re prepared for: Visiting the Römer, exploring the Palmengarten, strolling along the River Main, shopping in Zeil, and taking a day trip to Heidelberg.
Dress Code
Frankfurt has a stylish yet practical vibe, with most people opting for comfortable but polished clothing. During the day, casual attire like jeans, sweaters, and comfortable shoes work well for sightseeing and strolling along the River Main. For dining out or attending cultural events like the opera, bring a dress or smart-casual outfit. If you’re planning to visit during business events, a more professional look might be needed. Frankfurt’s fashion leans toward chic and minimalist style, so pack accordingly.
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Spring
45 – 65°F
(7 – 18°C
)
Summer
60 – 80°F
(16 – 27°C
)
Fall
45 – 65°F
(7 – 18°C
)
Winter
30 – 45°F
(-1 – 7°C
)
Spring: Mild and rainy, with cool mornings and warmer afternoons
Summer: Warm, with occasional rain and clear skies
Fall: Cool & crisp, some rain
Winter: Cold, with overcast skies and occasional snowfall
Spring
2.5 inches of rain
Summer
3.2 inches of rain
Fall
2.8 inches of rain
Winter
2.1 inches of rain (with light snowfall)
Tops & Layers
1. Short Sleeve Shirts: Great for warmer days spent exploring Frankfurt’s landmarks—I loved having these on sunny afternoons!
2. Long Sleeve Shirts: Ideal for cooler mornings and layering.
3. Sweaters: Perfect for those chilly mornings and evenings—I really liked mine while walking along the River Main!
4. Tank Tops: Useful during the warmer summer months, great for strolling around the city.
5. Casual Jacket: Perfect for light layering, especially in spring and fall.
Bottoms & Dresses
1. Pants: Comfortable for city walking and perfect for both casual and slightly dressy outings—I really liked them for day trips to Heidelberg!
2. Leggings: Great for casual days or layering in colder months.
3. Shorts: Perfect for summer days spent walking through the city parks.
4. Dresses: Ideal for dining out or attending cultural events—great with a light jacket for cooler evenings.
5. Skirt: A stylish option for sightseeing and casual dining.
6. Jumpsuit: A chic and comfortable choice for day or evening wear.
Shoes & Accessories
1. Shoes: Comfortable shoes are essential for walking around Frankfurt—I loved having these for exploring Zeil and the museums!
2. Flats: A stylish yet practical option for evenings out or museum visits.
3. Sandals: Perfect for warm summer days spent outdoors in the parks.
4. Hat: Great for sun protection while exploring outdoor attractions.
5. Sunglasses: Ideal for bright days spent walking through the city.
6. Swimsuit: Bring one if you’re planning to visit any indoor pools or wellness centers.
7. Pajamas: Comfortable for relaxing after long days of sightseeing.
Luggage & Packs
1. Carry-On: Perfect for a short city break, keeping essentials handy.
2. Daypack: Ideal for carrying snacks, water, and a camera while exploring the city.
3. Purse: A stylish purse is great for keeping your personal items secure while shopping or dining out.
4. Tote Bag: Useful for carrying extra layers or souvenirs from Frankfurt’s shops.
Travel Essentials
- Reusable Water Bottle: A must-have for travel days and while exploring for the day.
- Packing Cubes: Helpful for staying organized rather than ending up with a heap of clothes in your luggage.
- Luggage Tags: Even if you’re not checking luggage, still good to have in case you misplace your bags.
- Luggage Locks: Can be handy even if you’re not checking luggage, making your backpack more pickpocket-proof.
- Sleep Mask: An eye mask is a game changer for helping you get quality sleep each night.
- White Noise Machine: Same as above. White noise machines have helped me get more consistent sleep.
- Ear Plugs: Much better than the generic foam ones that never stay in my ears.
- Jewelry Case: Especially nice for organizing necklaces and not getting them all tangled.
- Dry Bag: An item to bring if you plan to do a lot of water activities or boat trips.
- Water Shoes: Same as above. Great to bring if you plan to do water activities or boat trips.
- Travel Umbrella: Only if you’re going somewhere where it’s going to be wet and rainy (but not too windy).
- Deck of Cards / Fox in the Forest: I love playing card games while traveling. It’s a fun way to pass the time.
- Portable Charger: It’s surprising how often you don’t have an outlet when you need one, and your phone is essential for everything from directions to your mobile boarding pass.
- Universal Travel Adapter: This universal adapter works in 200+ countries. Great for airports too.
- E-sim: I’ve used Airalo in four different countries now, and it’s the best solution for using data abroad.
- Phone: Currently travel with an iPhone 13 Pro, which also works as my camera for most trips.
- Tablet: I use my iPad mainly for watching shows and movies and checking emails while traveling.
- Headphone Splitter: I use this one with my iPad Air so I can watch shows with my husband on long flights.
- GoPro: A great camera for underwater photography or adventure activities.
- Memory Card for GoPro: This is the one I use for my GoPro, high-quality and reliable.
- Waterproof Phone Case: Even with my GoPro, I end up using this all the time since phone quality photos are so good now.
- Kindle: I love traveling with my Kindle and being able to read multiple books on a trip without the extra weight.
- Noise-Canceling Headphones: These wraparound ones are a must for long plane rides if I want to get any sleep. I also bring Airpods for local bus trips or on-the-go travel when I want to carry something smaller.
- Air Tags: Great if you’re checking luggage in case it gets lost or stolen.
- Chargers: Don’t forget all the chargers you’ll need for the electronics listed above.
- Toiletry Bag: Great for going through security, and they make it easier to find what I want to use.
- Reusable Containers for Toiletries: I use reusable containers so I don’t need to buy expensive travel-sized products.
- Electric Toothbrush: I’ve tried those tiny travel toothbrushes, and they just don’t work for me.
- Toothpaste: These are the perfect travel size that lasts about a month or so for two people.
- Floss: Any floss will do.
- Natural Deodorant: I finally discovered a good natural deodorant. Plus, it’s small, so it’s perfect for travel.
- Shampoo: I get the large size and then just put it in my mini travel containers.
- Conditioner: Same as above. I don’t worry about bringing body wash since I’m okay using whatever’s provided.
- Panty Liners: For when you want some extra protection. Also great for sweaty travel days to keep you more dry.
- Tampons: I like that these are made without plastic, and they’re easy to put into small purses and travel with.
- Tide to Go Pen: Surprisingly handy for getting out those random stains or spills.
- Travel Laundry Detergent: These are useful because you can use them for hand washing or as washer detergent.
- Travel Clothesline: Handy when you need to wash your clothes but realize most of the world doesn’t use dryers.
- Hairbrush: I don’t use a travel-size version because it’s not worth it for me. I’d rather have a full-size brush.
- Hair Ties: Any brand works, but I also make sure to have plenty on hand in my bags.
- After Sun Lotion: Great to have if you’re traveling during the hotter months and expect to get a lot of sun.
- Face Sunscreen: I’ve tried many sunscreen brands, and this is the best face sunscreen I’ve found.
- Body Sunscreen: Reef-safe, easy to spread, and smells good.
- Face Cleanser: I usually get a regular-size bottle and then put it into my refillable travel containers.
- Moisturizer: I’ve tried many fancy moisturizers, and I’ve realized that the simplest ones often work best for me.
- Overnight Face Mask: I use this in daily life as well, but during travel it’s especially good because it’s so hydrating.
- Lip Balm: I’ve been a Burts Bees stan for over a decade, and I don’t think I’ll change anytime soon.
- Makeup: The three essentials I always bring are lip gloss/lipstick, my Clinique CC Cream + makeup brush, and mascara. Everything else is added on depending on the vibes of the trip.
- Travel Razor: I love this size and how easy it is to change the razor heads once a week.
- Razor Replacements: I usually bring enough to replace the razor head once per week while traveling.
- Hydrating Face Sheets: I pack a couple of these to use after long plane rides, great for hydrating your face.
- Travel Mirror: This is a luxury item, but it’s surprising how often I use it when there’s only one bathroom.
- Dry Bar Blow Dryer Brush: Another luxury item. It’s bulky to bring (and I don’t always bring it), but it’s a versatile tool for looking more put together in non-humid destinations.
- Heat Protectant Spray: For the Dry Bar Brush.
- Bug Spray: The most effective spray I’ve found that doesn’t use DEET.
- Tylenol: The best remedy when a headache strikes.
- Motion Sickness Pills: You never know when you might get motion sickness, especially if you’re prone to it like me.
- Tums: Handy for dealing with indigestion or heartburn when eating foods different than you’re used to.
- Pepto Bismol: Another thing to help soothe an upset stomach.
- Other Travel Medications: Make sure to research what else you might need to bring for the destination.
- Electrolyte Powder: Great for staying hydrated, especially after a day in the sun or a long flight.
- Band-Aids: Useful for minor cuts and blisters.
- Anti-Septic Wipes: Keeps wounds clean and prevents infection.
- Unisom SleepMelts: Obviously optional, but these are the only way I’m able to sleep on planes.
- Melatonin: Helps with sleep, especially if you’re adjusting to a new time zone.
- Hand Sanitizer: Essential for keeping your hands clean when soap and water aren’t available.
- Passport
- Travel Visas (if needed)
- Travel Documents, Tickets, Boarding Passes & Booking Confirmations
- Driver’s License / International Driving Permit (if needed)
- Photocopy of Passport (hidden in your pack)
- Emergency Cash – I usually bring US $200 and hide it in 1-2 packs/purses I have with me on travel days in case of an emergency. I make sure it’s separate from my wallet.
- Credit / Debit Cards
- Travel Insurance – Nice to have in case of any medical or travel emergencies.
What to Know Before You Pack
- Layers: Frankfurt’s weather can change throughout the day, so it’s good to have options.
- Comfortable shoes: The city is very walkable, and good shoes are essential for exploring!
- Rain gear: A light rain jacket or umbrella is a must, as rain showers can be frequent.
- Stylish but practical: Frankfurt is fashionable, but you’ll want to pack clothing that’s both stylish and comfortable for day and night outings.
Frankfurt Travel FAQs
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT FRANKFURT?
September is the best month to visit Frankfurt. September’s also great because the weather is mild and pleasant, with sunny days and cooler evenings. The city is less crowded than in the peak summer months, making it ideal for exploring its landmarks and cultural attractions. The Rheingau Wine Festival in September is a fun way to experience the local culture.
WHAT FESTIVALS & EVENTS ARE THERE IN FRANKFURT?
Rheingau Wine Festival (September): A large tourist attraction featuring local wines and food, ideal for couples and groups.
Frankfurt Book Fair (October): The world’s largest book fair, great for solo travelers, couples, and families with a love for literature.
Christmas Market (December): A festive and cozy market in the old town, perfect for families and groups.
WHERE SHOULD I GO IN FRANKFURT?
Frankfurt is known for its mix of modern skyscrapers and historical sites. One of my favorite places to visit is the Römer, the medieval town hall located in the charming old town square. For a more modern experience, walk along the River Main and take in the stunning skyline. Don’t miss Palmengarten, a beautiful botanical garden, or the Zeil shopping district for a mix of high-end and local shops. A day trip to Heidelberg is perfect for history and castle lovers.
HOW MANY DAYS DO I NEED TO VISIT FRANKFURT?
3-4 days is ideal for exploring Frankfurt’s main attractions, cultural spots, and nearby day trips. A weekend is enough to cover the city highlights.
Suggested Itineraries:
2 Days: On day one, visit the Römer, explore the old town, and walk along the River Main. Spend day two at Palmengarten and enjoy shopping and dining in the Zeil district.
5 Days: Copy the 2-day itinerary and add: On day three, take a day trip to Heidelberg. Spend day four visiting museums like the Städel Museum and Goethe House. On day five, explore Sachsenhausen’s cider taverns and visit the Eurotower.
1 Week: Copy the 5-day itinerary and add: Spend day six relaxing in the Grüneburgpark and visiting the Senckenberg Natural History Museum. On day seven, take a boat ride along the River Main and visit the modern art museum (MMK).
10 Days: Copy the 1-week itinerary and add: On day eight, visit the nearby city of Wiesbaden for its hot springs and beautiful architecture. Spend day nine exploring the Rheingau wine region, and on day ten, visit Frankfurt’s Zoo and enjoy a leisurely day in one of its many parks.
2 Weeks: Copy the 10-day itinerary and add: On day eleven, take a trip to the Taunus Mountains for hiking and nature. Spend day twelve exploring the Black Forest region. Use the final days to relax, enjoy local cafes, and visit more cultural attractions.
WHAT SHOULD I PACK FOR 2 DAYS, 5 DAYS, 1 WEEK, 10 DAYS, AND 2 WEEKS IN FRANKFURT?
2 Days
- 2 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 1 Long Sleeve Shirt
- 1 Pair of Pants
- 1 Dress
- 2 Pairs of Socks
- 2 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Shoes
- 1 Casual Jacket
- 1 Daypack
5 Days
- 4 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Dresses
- 2 Pairs of Pants
- 5 Pairs of Socks
- 5 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Shoes
- 1 Casual Jacket
- 1 Daypack
1 Week
- 5 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Dresses
- 2 Pairs of Pants
- 6 Pairs of Socks
- 6 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Shoes
- 1 Casual Jacket
- 1 Daypack
10 Days
- 6 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Dresses
- 3 Pairs of Pants
- 7 Pairs of Socks
- 7 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Shoes
- 1 Casual Jacket
- 1 Daypack
2 Weeks
- 7 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 4 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 4 Dresses
- 4 Pairs of Pants
- 9 Pairs of Socks
- 9 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Shoes
- 1 Casual Jacket
- 1 Daypack
WHAT SHOULD I NOT PACK FOR FRANKFURT?
High heels: Frankfurt’s cobblestone streets and long walking distances make high heels impractical.
Heavy coats: Unless visiting in winter, layers are better than bulky outerwear.
WHAT SHOULD I BUDGET FOR A TRIP TO FRANKFURT ?
Airfare: $500-$1,200 depending on your starting location and season. Flights are generally more expensive in summer and during major events like the Frankfurt Book Fair.
Accommodation: $100-$300 per night depending on location and amenities.
Transportation: $20-$50 for public transport, with day passes available for the U-Bahn and trams.
Meals: $30-$70 per day depending on whether you dine at cafes or more upscale restaurants.
Activities: $20-$40 per day depending on entry fees to museums and attractions.
IS THERE A TIPPING CULTURE IN FRANKFURT? WHAT IS APPROPRIATE TO TIP?
Yes, tipping is customary in Germany. It’s standard to tip 5-10% in restaurants, and rounding up taxi fares is appreciated. Hotel staff typically receive $1-2 per bag or night of service.
WHAT ARE SOME LOCAL TIPS I SHOULD KNOW ABOUT FRANKFURT BEFORE I VISIT?
- Use public transportation: Frankfurt has a reliable public transport system, so it’s easy to get around.
- Bring cash: Many small shops and cafes prefer cash, so having euros on hand is useful.
- Try local food: Don’t miss Frankfurt’s specialties like apple wine and green sauce, which you can find in traditional taverns.
- Explore early: Popular spots like Römer and the Main Tower can get crowded, so visiting early ensures a quieter experience.