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Frankfurt Am Main Travel Tips

Frankfurt Am Main Travel Tips

Frankfurt Am Main Hesse, Germany Travel Guide

Mobile Connectivity

Telekom, Vodafone, and O2 are the main providers. Prepaid SIM cards are widely available. Passport registration is necessary for all SIM activations.

Options

  • Prepaid SIM cards: Available at supermarkets, electronics stores.
  • ESIM: Increasingly available for compatible phones.
  • 4G/5G coverage: Strong throughout the city and surrounding areas.

Internet & Post

Wi-Fi is available in many public spaces. Germany's national postal service, Deutsche Post, uses yellow post boxes and offices.

Access & Services

  • Free Wi-Fi: Hotels, cafes, airport, train station.
  • Deutsche Post: Yellow post boxes, offices.
  • Stamps (Briefmarken): Buy at post offices, convenience stores.

Language & Translation

German (Deutsch) is the official language. English is common in tourist areas, hotels, and by younger generations.

Language Tools

  • Google Translate: For quick translations.
  • DeepL: Useful for words, phrases, or menus.
  • Learn basic German phrases: Rosetta Stone can assist.

Essential Phrases

Useful Greetings

  • Hello: Hallo (HAH-loh)
  • Thank you: Danke (DANK-uh)
  • Can you speak English?: Sprechen Sie Englisch? (SHPRECH-en zee ENG-lish?)

Business Schedules

Typical Hours

  • Shops: Mon-Fri 9/10 AM-6/8 IN the evening; Sat 9/10 AM-4/6 PM.
  • Sunday closures: Most shops are closed.
  • Restaurants: Lunch 12-2/3 PM; Dinner 6-10/11 PM.
  • Museums: 10 AM-5/6 PM, often closed Mondays.

Holidays & Banking

  • Public Holidays: Shops, banks, many businesses closed.
  • Banking Hours: Mon-Fri 9 AM-4/5 PM, often with lunch breaks.
  • ATMs (Geldautomat): Widely available 24/7.
  • Seasonal closures: Some businesses have reduced hours in low season.

Check Schedules

Always check individual business websites for specific hours, especially during public holidays or seasonal periods.

Travel Etiquette

Cultural norms exist inside Germany. Awareness of these practices promotes smooth interactions.

Greeting Customs

A handshake with 'Guten Tag' is common formally. Eye contact is expected during conversations.

Dining & Tipping

Wait until everyone is served.

Photography

Generally allowed in public spaces. Ask permission before photographing individuals. Respect posted signs.

General Etiquette

Being on time is highly valued. Germans communicate directly.

Practices

  • Punctuality: Be on time for appointments.
  • Directness: Communication is often straightforward.
  • Noise Restrictions (Ruhezeit): Observe from 10 PM to 6 AM and Sunday afternoons.

Sensitive Topics

Nazism and WWII are sensitive subjects. Public display of Nazi symbols is illegal.

Areas to Avoid

  • Nazism & WWII: Avoid jokes or trivialization.
  • Nazi Symbols: Public display is illegal.
  • Modest dress: For religious sites (shoulders/knees covered).

Gender & LGBTQ+

Progressive Society

  • Germany is generally progressive and accepting.
  • Frankfurt has an active LGBTQ+ community.
  • Same-sex marriage is legal.

Legal Protections

  • Discrimination based on gender is illegal.
  • Discrimination based on sexual orientation is illegal.
  • Inclusive policies are widespread.

Cultural Awareness

Learning essential German expressions creates connection.

Accessibility Information

Frankfurt strives for accessibility, though some older infrastructure might pose difficulties.

Mobility Support

Frankfurt's infrastructure is increasingly accessible. Newer public transport and stations offer ramps, elevators, and designated spaces.

Features

  • Accessible public transport and stations.
  • Frankfurt Airport: Largely accessible.
  • Major attractions, hotels, public buildings: Accessible entrances.

Assistance & Resources

The RMV website and app provide accessibility filters. Frankfurt Tourist Information offers specific details.

Information Sources

  • RMV website/app: Accessibility filters for routes.
  • Frankfurt Tourist Information: Specific attraction details.
  • Assistance dogs: Generally welcome in public spaces.

Visual & Hearing Impairments

Support Features

  • Public transport announcements include visual displays.
  • Assistance dogs are generally welcome.
  • Local disability organizations provide resources.

Resources

Information Sources

  • Frankfurt Tourist Information Center: Main resource for accessibility.
  • RMV customer service: Detailed accessible route information.
  • "Behindertenbeirat": Advisory Council for Disabilities.

Travel Considerations

Infrastructure

  • Newer public transport features ramps and elevators.
  • Some older infrastructure could be challenging.
  • Many major attractions have accessible entrances.

Planning Ahead

  • Check specific venue websites for current information.
  • Use RMV filters for accessible routes and stations.
  • Contact Frankfurt Tourist Information for details.

Portable WiFi

Device Options

  • Portable Wi-Fi devices offer reliable internet.
  • International roaming from your home provider.
  • Local SIM cards provide mobile data access.

Connectivity for Travelers

  • Stay connected on the go with Solis Wi-Fi.
  • Navigate with online maps and translation apps.
  • Keep in touch with family and friends.

Planning for Accessibility

Utilize available resources and check specific venues for the most current accessibility information. Frankfurt works towards an inclusive environment.