Search

Is Frankfurt Safe to Visit? Things to Know

Frankfurt, also known as Frankfurt am Main, is the largest city in the state of Hesse, Germany. With its beautiful, old, half-timbered houses and a modern, impressive skyline, the city is famous for its rich history, culture, and modern innovation. Frankfurt is reinventing itself and has become a must-visit tourist destination. Located just 500 km from most major European cities, Frankfurt is home to one of the country’s busiest train stations, biggest airports, and biggest Autobahn interchange. It is a fantastic starting point for exploring the entire region. But, is Frankfurt safe to visit?

Frankfurt

Frankfurt am Main Ratskeller

Frankfurt am Main Ratskeller

 So, if you’re planning a trip to Frankfurt, the question might come to your mind, “Is Frankfurt safe to visit?” While the city features a range of attractions for travelers, safety is undoubtedly a top concern. To help you make an informed decision and ensure a secure and enjoyable visit, we’ve created this detailed guide to staying safe in Frankfurt.
So, without any further ado, let’s get started! 

Is it Frankfurt or Frankfurt am Main?

You might have come across both names. Most people called it Frankfurt. Officially, it’s Frankfurt am Main, which means Frankfurt on the Main river. “Main” is the name of the river that runs through the city. This distinction is necessary because there is another Frankfurt in Germany, known as Frankfurt an der Oder, which is on the Oder River in the eastern part of the country.

Frankfurt am Main is much bigger compared to Frankfurt an der Oder, so if you say Frankfurt, people will understand you’re referring to Frankfurt am Main.

Is Frankfurt a Safe Place to Visit in 2023?

Römerberg, Frankfurt, Germany. This is a photo of picturesque houses in the old town

If you’re considering a trip to Frankfurt, it’s good to know that Frankfurt is generally a safe city for tourists, but like any large city, it does attract some criminals. Pickpockets can be an issue in the Frankfurt am Main area. According to the Crime Index for the first half of 2023, Frankfurt has a crime index of 45.2, indicating a moderate level of recorded crimes.

On the other hand, the safety index for Frankfurt is at 54.8, indicating a relatively safe environment for locals and tourists. Remember that these figures only provide a general overview of the city’s safety and should be considered with other factors when planning your visit.

However, it’s important to note that these statistics include “crimes” that aren’t necessarily violent, such as minor offenses at the airport, such as suitcase theft. These incidents are recorded as “crimes” even though they may not align with our usual perception of serious criminal activity. The overall crime level for Frankfurt is relatively low to medium.

Travel restrictions might change over time, so it’s best to check with your government before planning a trip to the German state of Hesse. We’ve compiled some valuable safety tips for Frankfurt to ensure you have a memorable and worry-free vacation. Still, we recommend reading other safety guides before your trip, as they may provide additional information.

Is Frankfurt a Safe Place to Live?

Frankfurt is a safe city for expats. In terms of personal security, it’s ranked 3rd worldwide, and in The Economist’s 2022 Global City Ranking, it was named the 7th most liveable city globally.

In The Economist’s 2023 rankings, German cities didn’t perform as well as before. Frankfurt, which was once ranked 7th, has now slipped to 17th place, sharing the spot with Berlin. Hamburg also dropped from 16th to 22nd, Munich from 18th to 21st, and Düsseldorf from 22nd to 29th. 

Concerns about home break-ins and theft are minimal in Frankfurt. Physical attacks are uncommon, and you can comfortably walk through the city during the day and at night with a sense of safety.

Is Frankfurt Public Transportation Safe?

Frankfurt Hauptbahnhof, Frankfurt, Germany

Frankfurt is a bustling business hub that attracts visitors worldwide, and its public transportation system is a safe and convenient way to explore the city. Here, you’ll also find various taxi services available.

Frankfurt has two main train types: the underground U-Bahn and the aboveground S-Bahn. Both services are known for their efficiency and safety. Despite this, you must stay vigilant, especially late at night. If you’re traveling alone, consider riding in a train car with other people to avoid being alone. 

Is Frankfurt Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Many people visit Frankfurt alone, particularly for business, and it’s generally a safe city for solo travelers. Germany ranks 25th on the Bounce Women Travel Safety Index, so solo female travelers can feel safe here, too. Frankfurt is a great place to experience solo traveling, but always stay alert, especially when walking alone at night.    

Safest Areas to Visit in Frankfurt

Frankfurt, Germany
Frankfurt is a safe city overall, but if you’re an expat looking for a beautiful neighborhood to explore, there are some popular options.Here are some of the safest and most popular neighborhoods:

Innenstadt

Located in the heart of Frankfurt, Innenstadt is the downtown area that provides easy access to the entire city. It is well-known for its safety and is a hub for international restaurants, trendy bars and some of the best hotels in Frankfurt.

Westend

 If you want to be close to the downtown and enjoy a bit of nature, Westend is a perfect place. Located only 2.4 km from downtown Frankfurt, it provides a balance between green spaces and city life.

Sachsenhausen

Sachsenhausen is located only 2 km from the city center and is known for its lively nightlife, so you won’t be bored.

Bornheim

Located in the city center, Bornheim comes alive in the evening, making it a bustling spot after 5 p.m.

Ostend

Ostend is a peaceful and family-friendly suburb home to the Schwedlersee. You’ll also find attractive architectural designs from many eras here.

Bockenheim

This laid-back neighborhood is recognized for its trendy hangouts. While Frankfurt can be expensive, Bockenheim is a more affordable option when compared to other districts.

Areas to Be Cautious About in Frankfurt

Is Frankfurt in Germany safe?
Is Frankfurt a dangerous place? Not entirely, but these areas certainly have a reputation!

Bahnhofsviertel

This Frankfurt district is well-known for its nightlife, but it is also known as the red-light district of Frankfurt. It’s associated with activities like drug dealing and prostitution.

If these things make you uncomfortable, this is a location to avoid. It is, however, central and boasts a multicultural community with cultural experiences such as the English Theatre Frankfurt.

Gallus

This area is adjacent to major transportation hubs such as the airport and the central train station. Due to heavy traffic and population density, which attracts drug traffickers, it is not ideal for individuals seeking peace.

Plus point, it features many amenities and a robust police presence.

Gutleutviertel

This area, located south of the city center, is known for its nightlife, with noise and crowded streets at night. It has little green spaces but plenty of cultural attractions.

Because of its central location, living expenses may be slightly higher.

Top 5 Things to Do in Frankfurt

Is Frankfurt in Germany safe? This is the Old town
Here are some of the best things to do in Frankfurt, Germany!

Visit Old Town (Altstadt)

Start your Frankfurt adventure in the Old Town, where you’ll find famous sights like Römerberg, the central square surrounded by beautifully preserved medieval houses. The square also hosts the annual Christmas Market and the Fountain of Justice.

Explore Frankfurt's City Hall ( Rathaus)

The Römer is one of the city’s most notable medieval buildings. It has served as Frankfurt’s town hall since the 15th century. It’s a must-see due to its distinctive three-gabled roof and amalgamation of nine houses.

Visit the Städel-Museum

One of the top cultural attractions in Frankfurt, the Stadel Museum is home to an impressive art collection with a strong focus on German and Renaissance art.

Here, you’ll find over 600 sculptures, 4,000 photographs, 3,000 paintings, and 10,000 drawings by notable artists such as Bacon, Ernst Ludwig Kirchner, Monet, and Picasso. The cost of admission is 16 EUR.

Visit Museumsufer

Museumsufer, located along both sides of the River Main, is a collection of 12 museums. Museumsufer translates as the Museum Embankment. Most of these museums are on the left bank (the river’s south side). These museums are dedicated to art, film, architecture, ethnography, and communication.

The Museumsufer concept is relatively new, originating in the 1980s and 1990s. As part of this evolution, some museums were housed in historic aristocratic houses, while others had striking new buildings designed by renowned architects like Richard Meier and O.M. Ungers. 

Frankfurter Dom (Frankfurt Cathedral)

The stunning reddish sandstone cathedral is one of Frankfurt’s main attractions, dating back to the 14th century. It was historically used to crown the Holy Roman Emperors. You can climb the 95-meter (311-foot) Gothic tower via 328 steps for 3 EUR. The cathedral is free to enter.

Common Crimes and Scams Targeting Tourists in Frankfurt and Safety Tips

While some areas of Frankfurt are safe, the city’s crime statistics can make it appear less safe. The following are some common issues that tourists should be aware of:

Pickpocketing

Pickpockets operate in Frankfurt, like they do in many other cities, usually targeting crowded areas such as public transport or popular tourist attractions. Keep a close eye on your stuff, especially at busy tourist spots or major train stations, to protect yourself.

Keep your wallet and smartphone deep inside your bag, and consider using a money belt for quick access to your money. Be cautious, as some burglars may try to steal items from your pants pocket.

Scams

 Although scams are not widespread in Frankfurt, they still exist. Watch out for fake police officers who show unusual behavior, such as asking to see your money. Be careful of taxi drivers who might try to overcharge tourists who are unfamiliar with the city. These safety tips can help you have a pleasant and safe trip to Frankfurt.

Emergency Contact Numbers in Frankfurt

If you ever find yourself in an unsafe situation, you must know who to contact for help. We suggest keeping a list of these emergency numbers on your phone or in your wallet while visiting Frankfurt.

  • German Red Cross: 069 719 1910
  • General Emergencies: 112
  • Samaritans English-Language Support Line: 0800 181 0721
  • Police Guidance and Information: 069 7550

FAQ

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.

Do I need a Visa to Visit Frankfurt?

If you’re from a country where the European Community has waived visa requirements, you don’t need a visa to visit Frankfurt for up to 90 days in a 180-day timeframe. However, you must have a valid passport.

What currency is used in Frankfurt?

Like the rest of Germany, Frankfurt uses the Euro as its official currency, divided into 100 cents.

When is the best time to visit Frankfurt?

The ideal time to visit Frankfurt is from June to October when the weather is comfortable. Summers are pleasant, while winter can be cold and windy.

Is Frankfurt a safe city for tourists?

Frankfurt is generally considered safe for tourists. However, like any major city, it’s essential to stay cautious, especially in crowded areas and at night. Keep an eye on your belongings to avoid petty crimes like pickpocketing.

What are must-visit attractions in Frankfurt?

Frankfurt has a range of attractions, including the Romer, the Palmengarten Botanical Garden, St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral, and the Stadel Museum. The city’s skyline is also a popular sight.

Is Travel Insurance necessary for visiting Frankfurt?

Travel insurance is highly recommended when visiting Frankfurt or any foreign destination. It may help protect you in the case of unexpected events such as trip cancellations, medical emergencies, or lost luggage.

Is Frankfurt safe: Final thoughts

So, is Frankfurt a safe place to visit? The answer is definitely “ja” (yes, in German). While every city has quirks and concerns, Frankfurt is a safe destination to explore and enjoy your journey. The crime rate is low to moderate, and you can wander the streets anytime, day or night, with the assurance that the city is safe.

I hope this guide has inspired you to plan your next trip to Frankfurt. Remember, a pinch of caution and a dash of common sense will make your visit even more enjoyable.

Don’t forget to share your experiences in the comment section below or drop me a message through my contact page

Also, don’t forget to check out my resources page with my favorite booking platforms and tips to start planning your trip. Additionally, have a look at my favorite travel gear if you want to pack more consciously!

Gute Reise! (Have a good trip!)

ENJOY!

Disclaimer: This post may include affiliate links. If you click on them, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Fancy more Germany travel advice?

Share:

post a comment

travelers and dreamers

Hi! I am Annelies and this is Travelers & Dreamers, a blog about conscious travel which means traveling in a more mindful way, with a positive impact on the world and yourself!

On this website, I cover different topics like slow travel, plant-based food guides, responsible travel, sustainable packing, eco-travel, and more!

Latest Posts

NEWSLETTER

Do you want to receive my latest finds on conscious and sustainable travel directly to your inbox? Subscribe here!