Frankfurt is a city that blends modern skyscrapers with centuries-old traditions, making it an exciting destination for travelers. In November, the city takes on a unique charm, with crisp air, fewer crowds, and cozy indoor experiences. Here are five must-visit spots to explore during this time, along with a restaurant recommendation to warm up after your adventures.
Travelling in Germany? You should visit these 5 top cities.
Stroll Through the Old Town (Altstadt)
Frankfurt’s Old Town is a historic treasure, featuring beautifully reconstructed half-timbered buildings in the Römerberg square. In November, the area feels particularly serene, perfect for appreciating its architecture and iconic landmarks, such as the Römer, the historic city hall. If you’re lucky, you might catch early holiday decorations adding to the charm. Christmas markets start from November 25th this year as I know. The old town has a lot of beautiful buildings, so I sketched the most impressive in my opinion.
Enjoy free public transportation and discounts at museums, tours, restaurants, and other attractions with Frankfurt Card.
Marvel at the Frankfurt Cathedral (Kaiserdom)
The Frankfurt Cathedral (Kaiserdom St. Bartholomäus) is a striking Gothic masterpiece that holds significant historical and cultural importance. Standing tall in the heart of Frankfurt, the cathedral is renowned for its distinctive red sandstone façade and intricate architectural details. The cathedral played a pivotal role in history as the coronation site for Holy Roman Emperors during the 16th century. Also you can climb the tower’s 328 steps and enjoy panoramic views of the city’s skyline if the weather is clear.
Learn more about Frankfurt on a guided walking tour.
Dive into Art at the Städel Museum
The Museum is one of Frankfurt’s cultural jewels, boasting an impressive art collection that spans over 700 years of European art history. Located along the scenic Museumsufer (Museum Embankment), this museum offers a diverse array of works, from old masters like Rembrandt and Vermeer to modern icons like Picasso and Monet. The museum’s contemporary underground extension is itself a piece of art, with its eye-catching, light-filled design. Visiting in November is especially rewarding, as the cozy indoor atmosphere provides a perfect escape from the chill, allowing you to dip yourself in the beauty and stories behind the artworks. I try not to miss sketching while I visit museums, so I sketched the sculpture in Stadel Museum.
Explore the main attractions of Frankfurt with Hop-on Hop-off Day Skyline or Express City Tour.
Discover Sculptures at Liebieghaus Skulpturen
The Liebieghaus Skulpturen is a fascinating museum focused on sculpture, offering a chance to explore art from ancient times to the 19th century. Its collection includes works from ancient Egypt, Greece, Rome, and the Renaissance, making it a journey through history. Housed in a beautiful villa by the river, the museum has a cozy and peaceful atmosphere, perfect for a quiet visit. The surrounding garden, with sculptures placed among the trees, adds to its charm. Whether you love art or just want a calm and inspiring experience, the Liebieghaus is well worth a visit. Sketching in a sculpture museum is a lot of fun, I always learn something new and improve myself.
Enjoy a day trip from Frankfurt to the romantic medieval city of Heidelberg. Discover sights like Germany’s oldest university, the River Neckar, and the world-famous Heidelberg Castle.
Explore the Natural History Museum
This museum is the one you should visit in Frankfurt if you are curious about the natural world. It’s one of the largest natural history museums in Germany, showcasing an incredible collection of fossils, dinosaur skeletons, and exhibits on biodiversity. Highlights include life-sized dinosaur displays and detailed dioramas that bring prehistoric creatures and habitats to life. The museum also explores fascinating topics like evolution and climate change in engaging, interactive ways. Its family-friendly atmosphere makes it a great spot for visitors of all ages, especially on a chilly November day when indoor exploration is ideal. I chose to sketch a dinosaur skeleton with markers. I started with light colors and then added the dark colors for shadows.
Visit the UNESCO world heritage site of the Rhine Valley on a day trip from Frankfurt.
Learn About Communication
The Museum of Communication is an amazing destination for anyone interested in how humans have connected throughout history. The museum explores the evolution of communication, from ancient methods like messenger services to modern digital technology. Interactive exhibits and hands-on displays make it an engaging experience for visitors of all ages. Highlights include historical artifacts like vintage telegraphs and early telephones, as well as exhibits on the impact of the internet and social media. This was my first try to sketch a carriage. Not so bad for the first time.
Where to Eat: Atschel
After a day of exploring, warm up at Atschel, a cozy traditional restaurant in Sachsenhausen. This spot is renowned for hearty German dishes like green sauce with boiled eggs, schnitzel, and apple wine. The friendly atmosphere makes it an excellent place to relax and reflect on your day. I liked the Schnitzel “Vienna style” with potatoes and salad. The portion was huge, could be easy shared for 2 people.
Frankfurt in November offers a delightful mix of history, art, and cozy indoor attractions that make it perfect for exploring in cooler weather. Whether you’re love art, history, or just enjoy local cuisine, the city will give you memorable experiences. So grab your coat, and enjoy the vibrant culture and rich heritage of Frankfurt this November!
