Often overshadowed by its reputation as Germany’s financial powerhouse, Frankfurt is far more than a skyline of steel and glass. Beyond the European Central Bank and the Commerzbank Tower lies a city rich in history, culture, and unexpected charm. From the pastel façades of Römerberg Square to the birthplace of literary legend Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, Frankfurt invites curious travellers to look beyond the boardrooms and discover its more whimsical side.
In this guide, we uncover the city’s lesser-known treasures—quirky museums, hidden gardens, and architectural surprises—that reveal a vibrant, multifaceted destination waiting to be explored.
Visit Frankfurt’s Pinkelbaum AKA The Peeing Tree
Tucked away in Frankfurt’s city forest near the tranquil Jacobiweiher lake, the Pinkelbaum offers a whimsical twist on nature and public art. While California boasts imposing sequoias and Kyoto enchants with its bamboo groves, Frankfurt surprises with this cheeky installation—part of the city’s Komische Kunst (Comic Art) initiative, which blends humour with creativity in outdoor spaces.
Created by renowned cartoonist F.K. Waechter, the Pinkelbaum—literally “pee tree”—is a playful response to centuries of human behaviour. A plaque beside it reads: “For 300 years I was pissed at, starting today, I piss back.” True to its word, the tree sprays unsuspecting visitors with a jet of water when approached too closely, pausing only during winter months to prevent frost damage.
This quirky landmark is part of a broader series of humorous sculptures along Frankfurt’s GrünGürtel trail, and it’s a favourite among hikers, families, and art lovers alike. For those seeking green spaces with a sense of humour, the Pinkelbaum is a must-see.
The Wishing Wells of Frankfurt
With an estimated 3,000 EUR tossed into Rome’s Trevi Fountain daily, your wish might just get lost in the crowd. So why not pocket those pennies and seek out one of Frankfurt’s quirky fountains instead?
Scattered across the city are elegant baroque-style wishing wells, each with its charm and story. Swap the standard walking tour for a more whimsical route: begin at the Marshall-Brunnen, located beside the historic Alte Oper, then wander past Goethe’s House and St Paul’s Church en route to the Stoltze-Brunnen and Liebfrauenberg-Brunnen. These fountains not only offer a splash of character but also a refreshing way to explore Frankfurt’s cultural heart.
Why visit Eiserner Steg?
Far more than a simple crossing, the Eiserner Steg is a beloved symbol of romance in Frankfurt. Adorned with thousands of colourful love locks—each one a testament to a unique story—it’s where star-crossed lovers come to seal their devotion and toss the key into the river below.
Take a stroll across this wrought-iron footbridge, soaking in the kaleidoscope of padlocks and the striking ‘Mainhattan’ skyline, where modern towers rise above a ribbon of museums lining the tranquil River Main. With over 10,000 pedestrians crossing daily, the bridge links the bustling city centre to Sachsenhausen, home to Frankfurt’s famed Museumsufer (Museum Embankment), making it an ideal gateway to the city’s cultural heart.
Much like Prague’s Charles Bridge, with its baroque statues and panoramic views of the Vltava, or Paris’s Pont des Arts, once famed for its love lock tradition and views of the Seine, the Eiserner Steg blends architectural charm with emotional resonance. It’s not just a bridge—it’s a place where stories linger, and the city’s soul quietly unfolds beneath your feet.
Luftbrückendenkmal AKA The Candy Bombers
The Berlin Blockade is one of the most notorious episodes of the Cold War, as still attested by the impactful graffiti on the remains of the Berlin Wall. When Soviet forces severed all trade routes to West Berlin, the city teetered on the brink of crisis, its supplies dwindling by the day.
In response, the Allied Forces launched a monumental airlift operation, dropping essential provisions—milk, cereal, fuel—from the skies to sustain the population trapped behind the blockade. Amidst this extraordinary effort, one group captured hearts and headlines.
Led by Gail Halvorsen, the so-called “candy bombers” attached sweets and chocolate to miniature parachutes, delivering not just nourishment but delight to the children of West Berlin. Their whimsical gesture became a symbol of hope and humanity in a time of tension.
Today, this uplifting tale is commemorated at the Luftbrückendenkmal memorial, located at the now-defunct Rhein-Main Airbase near Frankfurt, a poignant tribute to compassion in the face of adversity.
Led by Gail Halvorsen, the ‘candy bombers’ tied assortments of confectionery to tiny parachutes and spread joy to the children of West Berlin.
This sweet story is immortalised at the Luftbrückendenkmal memorial at the abandoned Rhein-Main Airbase in Frankfurt.
Try Handkäse mit musik AKA Handcheese with Music
If a city proudly displays a tree that “pees” on passers-by, you can safely assume it’s not taking itself too seriously—and Frankfurt wears that badge with pride. This playful spirit even spills over into its cuisine, most notably with the local delicacy Handkäse mit Musik.
Translated as “hand cheese with music”, this pungent little number is not for the faint of nose. Served with a generous helping of raw onion marinade, it’s said to produce a symphony of digestive sounds—hence the “music”. Whether that’s just folklore is up for debate, but either way, it’s a dish that leaves an impression.
You can sample this aromatic oddity at Kanonesteppel on Textorstraße, where locals tuck in with gusto and a side of buttered rye bread. Just don’t expect a quiet evening afterwards.
The Dialog Museum in Frankfurt
While Frankfurt is home to a wide array of museums—from fine art and film to comedy—the Dialogue Museum in Roßmarkt stands out as one of the city’s most extraordinary attractions. What makes it truly unique? There’s absolutely nothing to see.
This immersive museum plunges visitors into complete darkness, offering a powerful simulation of life without sight. Guided by blind or visually impaired hosts, you’ll navigate a series of pitch-black rooms that recreate everyday scenarios, such as strolling through a park, visiting a café, or crossing a busy street. The experience flips the script: Sighted guests become reliant on other senses, while their guides lead with confidence and expertise.
Far more than a novelty, the Dialogue Museum fosters empathy and awareness, making it a must-visit for travellers seeking meaningful and thought-provoking experiences in Frankfurt. You can learn more or book your visit on the official Dialogue Museum website.
To uncover more interesting places and shopping venues in Frankfurt, check out our other travel guides!