Frankfurt City Hall (Romer)

The Basics

Walking tours of Frankfurt’s Old Town typically start at the Römerberg, where the 15th-century City Hall is the star attraction. After admiring its distinctive façade and Venice-inspired Bridge of Sighs, head inside for a guided tour, including the lavish Kaisersaal (Emperor Hall), once used for coronation banquets and adorned with 19th-century portraits of the 52 Kings and Emperors of the German Holy Roman Empire. Leave yourself time to explore the rest of the square too, where the multi-colored timber-fronted buildings, the red-brick tower of the St Nicholas Church, and the looming spire of Frankfurt Cathedral afford plenty of photo opportunities.

Things to Know Before You Go

• The Romer is one of Frankfurt’s most photographed landmarks and a must for first-time visitors to the city.
• Visiting Frankfurt City Hall is only possible as part of a guided tour; advance bookings are recommended.
• Frankfurt’s main Tourist Information Office is located at the Romer.
• Frankfurt City Hall is wheelchair accessible by advance booking; exterior views from Romerberg Square are easily accessible.

How to Get There

Frankfurt City Hall is on the Römerberg square at the heart of Frankfurt’s Old Town. It’s easy to reach on foot from many of the central attractions and the closest U-Bahn station is Dom/Römer (Lines U4/U5).

When to Get There

The Romerberg is always buzzing with activity and if you’re hoping to snap a crowd-free photo of the Romer, your only chance is at sunrise. An atmospheric time to visit is during the festive season, when the City Hall provides a backdrop for one of Germany’s largest Christmas markets.

Architectural Landmarks of Frankfurt

Along with the Romer, Frankfurt’s most notable historic buildings include Frankfurt Cathedral, St Paul’s Church, and the Goethe House; all within walking distance of the Romer. To the north, the Hauptwache is known for its Baroque guard-house (now a café) as well as the futuristic glass-fronted MyZeil Shopping Mall. Other architectural landmarks include the Old Opera House (Alte Oper), the Main Tower and Commerzbank skyscrapers, and the Messe Torhaus (Gatehouse).

What is the history behind Frankfurt City Hall?

Frankfurt City Hall (also known as the Romer) has been in service as the city’s administrative center for over 600 years. Its origins as a city hall date back to 1405, when the wealthy Romer family of merchants sold their house to the city council who consequently converted it.

Can visitors tour the inside of Frankfurt City Hall?

Yes, visitors can tour the inside of Frankfurt City Hall. The building is open to the public, but it's best to plan ahead and book a guided tour in advance. These tours typically explore the building’s grand halls, such as the Kaisersaal (Emperor Hall), and the external Bridge of Sighs.

What are some must-see features of Frankfurt City Hall?

One of the must-see areas of Frankfurt City Hall is the Kaisersaal (Emperors’ Hall), which once served as the seat of the city’s town council. It then evolved in the 1600s to become a place to celebrate coronations with lavish banquets. People come to this hall to see portraits of kings and emperors.

What architectural style is Frankfurt City Hall known for?

Frankfurt City Hall is known for having a mix of architectural styles, as it has been continuously extended and restored over the years. It’s renowned for its beautiful neo-Gothic facade, featuring a prominent balcony that’s often used as a public stage during state visits and events throughout the year.

How do I get to Frankfurt City Hall using public transportation?

To reach Frankfurt City Hall via public transportation, the closest U-Bahn station is Dom/Römer, which you can get to using lines U4 or U5. Alternatively, you can get the U-Bahn or S-Bahn to Frankfurt (Main) Hauptwache station, and from there, it’s around a 7-minute walk across the center of the city.

Are there any special events or exhibitions held at Frankfurt City Hall?

Yes, Frankfurt City Hall hosts a diverse array of special events and exhibitions year-round. These encompass theater performances, guided tours, seasonal festivities, and cultural exhibitions. It's recommended to consult the event calendar in advance or contact the tourism board to make sure you don’t miss any events during your visit.