The European Central Bank – I like the reflection of the historic building in the windows
Copyright JC Politi Photography
We arrived in Frankfurt by train from Berlin bright and early. We thought this would just be a quick stop on our way to the airport.
We were exhausted from all of our adventures, so we thought we would finally step foot on a tour bus for the first time this trip. We realized that we had not been in a car during the entire journey! How refreshing!
We took the train from our hotel near the airport, to the main train station, with the idea of hopping on a tourist bus. But when we got to the tourist information center, the woman informed us that Frankfurt is small enough to walk.
So, we set out on foot to explore the city. And we loved it!
We were too tired to go into any actual museums or anything, so we spent the day like locals.
We ate bratwurst from a stand outside the train station, walked through the city taking in the mix of old and new, ate pastries by the river, and finished the day in a residential neighborhood with one of the most authentic meals we had the entire trip.
The Bratwurst stand outside the train station where we had lunch
Copyright JC Politi Photography
We did not consult a guide book for the first time in weeks, and just enjoyed exploring the city without plans or agenda. It was decadent.
What struck me most about Frankfurt was the contrast of history and progress. Castles stand side by side on the same street with sky scrapers.
An Occupy Frankfurt demonstration outside the Central European Bank illustrated the ongoing debate about the European Union and Germany’s role in the Union.
It was delightful to experience the city without feeling like tourists. My favorite part had to be simply sitting outside in a residential area we discovered and watching the world go by. I hope we get to return and do more of that.
I feel so fortunate to have been able to take this trip. It was an extraordinary opportunity to visit places with such rich history. The museums and cafes and food and lifestyle were simply seductive. I must go back.
But for now, I will have to survive by looking back at some of my favorite photos. Here are my favorites from Frankfurt.
Castles next to skyscrapers – A great reminder that we don’t have to tear down the old to make way for the new
Copyright JC Politi Photography
The Occupy Frankfurt demonstration
Copyright JC Politi Photography
A cafe outside the Opera House
Copyright JC Politi Photography
One of the signs from the Occupy Frankfurt demonstration. I don’t know what it says, but I figure that anything with Millionaire and Democratic on the same sign is probably something I would be interested in
Copyright JC Politi Photography
The view across the river
Copyright JC Politi Photography
The Beer Garden where we had our last meal in Europe. It was a charming neighborhood restaurant where everyone knew each other. Such a perfect ending!
Copyright JC Politi Photography
Flowers from a neighborhood shop
Copyright JC Politi Photography
What do you think? Have you ever been on a trip and just decided to skip all of the tourist attractions and live like a local? When and where? What was that like? If not, does that sound like something that appeals to you or do you feel like if you are going to go somewhere, you have to see the most famous destinations in that location?
I would love to hear your thoughts. Thank you for reading.
