Frankfurt Cathedral
A Gothic masterpiece and former Imperial Cathedral, offering stunning city views from its tower.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Frankfurt Cathedral
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A Gothic masterpiece and former Imperial Cathedral, offering stunning city views from its tower.
"Beautiful cathedral, really enjoyed the experience. 10/10 if in Frankfurt this is a great place to go."
🎯 Climb the Tower!
Be prepared for 324 narrow, steep steps for amazing city views. Worth the effort! :athletic_shoe:
🎟️ Tower Ticket Price
Expect a reasonable fee (around €5) for tower access. Check current prices upon arrival. :euro:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Cathedral Tower Climb
Tower
Ascend 324 steps for stunning panoramic views of Frankfurt's skyline. A true medieval stairmaster experience!

Gothic Architecture
Interior and Exterior
Admire the impressive Gothic style, a masterpiece rebuilt after WWII, showcasing intricate stone details.

Imperial History
Cathedral
Explore the 'Kaiserdom,' the site of German king coronations for over 200 years.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Climb the Tower for Views
Understand its Imperial Past
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Climb the Tower!
Be prepared for 324 narrow, steep steps for amazing city views. Worth the effort!
:athletic_shoe:🎟️ Tower Ticket Price
Expect a reasonable fee (around €5) for tower access. Check current prices upon arrival.
:euro:🚶♂️ Explore Nearby
The cathedral is near Römerberg, offering historical buildings and dining.
:world_map:⛪ Free Entry Inside
Wander the main cathedral interior for free; fees apply for museum and tower.
:ticket:Please advice 3 or 4 days to visit Frankfurt
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Climb the Tower!
Be prepared for 324 narrow, steep steps for amazing city views. Worth the effort!
:athletic_shoe:🎟️ Tower Ticket Price
Expect a reasonable fee (around €5) for tower access. Check current prices upon arrival.
:euro:🚶♂️ Explore Nearby
The cathedral is near Römerberg, offering historical buildings and dining.
:world_map:⛪ Free Entry Inside
Wander the main cathedral interior for free; fees apply for museum and tower.
:ticket:What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Frankfurt Cathedral for its impressive Gothic architecture and historical significance as an Imperial Cathedral. The free entry to the main interior is a major plus, and the tower climb offers stunning panoramic city views for a reasonable fee. Some note that while beautiful, it may not reach the grandeur of other major European cathedrals.
"recently visited Frankfurt’s main square and it was an unforgettable experience. The beautiful historic buildings create such a charming atmosphere, taking you back in time with their unique architecture. What truly amazed me was the sound of the church bells – so powerful and mesmerizing that it filled the whole square with a magical feeling. I even recorded a video to capture the moment, but being there in person was beyond compare. A must-visit spot in Frankfurt, full of history, beauty, and soul."
Zulia
"Beautiful cathedral. Really enjoyed the experience. I went to the top of the tower, the staircase is really narrow steep and long so be prepared for a bit of a hike but once you are at the top it's a full 360° view of the city. The price was quite reasonable I believe it was €5 per person but I could be mistaken. 10/10 if in Frankfurt this is a great place to go. There's also lots of historical buildings in the vicinity including places to eat or grab coffee. Great place to spend an afternoon."
Oliver Strobel
"I'm not really into cathedrals or churches, but this one was really beautiful. The Gothic style really matched my style. Really nice work with rebuilding it after World War II. Even with many people you didn't have to wait to go inside. Definitely recommend that one."
Ola Kamzelska
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Frankfurt Cathedral (Dom St. Bartholomäus) is centrally located in the Altstadt (Old Town). You can easily reach it by public transport, with several tram and bus lines stopping nearby. It's also a pleasant walk from the Römerberg square and the main train station (Hauptbahnhof), approximately a 15-20 minute walk.
Yes, absolutely! Several public transport options serve the area around Frankfurt Cathedral. Look for stops like 'Dom/Römer' for trams and buses. It's a well-connected hub within the city center.
Parking in the immediate vicinity of the cathedral can be challenging due to its central location. It's recommended to use public transport or park in a nearby multi-story car park, such as the Dom/Römer parking garage, and walk the short distance.
Yes, it's a straightforward walk of about 15-20 minutes from Frankfurt Hauptbahnhof (main train station) to the cathedral. Follow signs towards the city center and Römerberg.
For iconic photos, approach from the Römerberg square, which offers a classic view of the cathedral's tower against the backdrop of historic buildings. The area around Domplatz also provides great vantage points.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the main interior of Frankfurt Cathedral is generally free. However, there is a fee to climb the tower for panoramic city views and to visit any museum exhibits within the cathedral complex.
The cost to climb the tower is typically around €5 per person, though prices can vary. It's a small price for the incredible 360-degree views you get of Frankfurt.
Opening hours can vary seasonally and for special events. Generally, the cathedral is open daily, with tower access often available during daylight hours. It's best to check the official website or local listings for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
For general entry to the cathedral interior, advance booking is usually not required. However, for specific tours or if you plan to visit during peak times or special events, it might be advisable to check for booking options. Tower access is typically on a first-come, first-served basis.
Yes, there is a museum within the cathedral complex that details its history and significance. There is a separate admission fee for the museum, in addition to the tower climb fee.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
A typical visit to the interior of Frankfurt Cathedral can take about 30-60 minutes. If you plan to climb the tower and visit the museum, allow an additional 1-2 hours for a more comprehensive experience.
The climb involves 324 narrow and steep steps. While it's a good workout, many visitors find it manageable. Be prepared for a bit of a hike, and take your time if needed.
Frankfurt Cathedral, known as the 'Kaiserdom,' holds immense historical significance as the site where Holy Roman Emperors were elected and crowned for over 200 years. It's a symbol of imperial power and German history.
Guided tours are often available, providing deeper insights into the cathedral's history, architecture, and significance. Check with the cathedral's visitor center or official website for tour schedules and booking information.
For the best photographic opportunities and potentially fewer crowds, consider climbing the tower in the late afternoon for golden hour light, or in the morning shortly after opening. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends.
📸 📸 Photography
The Römerberg square offers a classic view, especially with the surrounding medieval buildings. The area around Domplatz provides excellent angles of the tower. For unique perspectives, consider the view from the Main Tower or other high vantage points in the city.
Photography is generally permitted inside the cathedral for personal use, but it's always respectful to be mindful of other visitors and any posted restrictions. Flash photography might be discouraged to protect the interior.
Absolutely! The 360-degree panoramic views from the top of the tower are spectacular and offer incredible photo opportunities of Frankfurt's skyline, the Main River, and the surrounding cityscape.
Sunrise and sunset offer beautiful lighting conditions for exterior shots. Midday can be harsh, but the tower climb provides great views regardless of the time. Consider the 'golden hour' for dramatic shots.
Drone usage is heavily regulated in urban areas, especially near historical landmarks and residential zones. It's highly likely that drone photography is prohibited or requires special permits. Always check local regulations before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Parents should be aware of the narrow and steep stairs on the tower climb, so it might not be suitable for very young children or those with mobility issues. However, the historical significance of the 'Kaiserdom' and its role in coronations can be a fascinating story to share with children, bringing history to life.
🚶 Budget Travelers
For a small fee (around €5), you can climb the tower for spectacular city views, which is a fantastic value compared to other city attractions. This makes it a highly recommended spot for those looking to experience Frankfurt's history and sights without breaking the bank.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The tower climb is a must for panoramic cityscapes. Capturing the juxtaposition of the historic cathedral against Frankfurt's modern skyline from above is a unique photographic challenge. Consider visiting during the 'golden hour' for dramatic lighting on the exterior and the city views from the tower.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Imperial Legacy of Frankfurt Cathedral
Despite suffering significant damage during World War II bombings, the cathedral was meticulously rebuilt, preserving its historical essence. The reconstruction efforts ensured that this vital piece of German heritage could continue to stand as a testament to its past. Today, visitors can explore its interiors and climb its tower, connecting with centuries of history.
Visiting Frankfurt Cathedral offers a tangible link to this imperial past. The sheer scale of the building and its historical function as an election and coronation site are awe-inspiring. It's not just a religious building but a monument to a significant era in European history, making it a must-see for history enthusiasts.
Conquering the Cathedral Tower: A Traveler's Perspective
From the top, you can see the modern skyline of Frankfurt juxtaposed with the historic Altstadt, the Main River, and beyond. It provides a fantastic perspective for understanding the city's layout and its blend of old and new architecture. The relatively low cost for this experience makes it a highly recommended activity for most visitors.
Travelers emphasize that while the climb is challenging, it's not insurmountable and the views are absolutely worth it. It's a great way to get a sense of the city's scale and appreciate its beauty from a unique vantage point. Remember to wear comfortable shoes and take your time if needed.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit