Centrally located in the heart of Germany, Frankfurt has a whole host of attractions, a sprinkling of theatres and galleries, as well as museums, an excellent transport network and an energetic nightlife scene.

For a city of its size, it really has a lot going for it, which is due in no short measure to its international airport, now one of the busiest in Europe. The expansion of the airport has helped the city to prosper both economically and physically.

Known in Germany as Frankfurt am Main, the city is steeped in a colourful history as it was founded in 1st century AD. Since then it has been one of the most important cities during the Roman Empire, later destroyed by French troops during the Napoleon wars and bombed during World War II. However Frankfurt has now established itself as a vibrant and exciting city destination, overflowing with things to do and see, and one of the best things about the city is that it is so compact that everything can be easily reached on foot.

The city is situated on the River Main which divides the city into north and south. You'll find the business district to the north and the charming Sachsenhausen area to the south with its delightful pubs, bars and restaurants.

Because of Frankfurts central location, there is a good chance that youll pass through here, either to change trains or catch a flight from its busy airport.

Skyscrapers housing major financial institutions dominate the scene in the central business district. The West end remains predominantly a residential and business district. The Marktplatz former Market Square, Romer City Hall, the Kaiserdom Emperor Cathedral, Paulskirche Church of St Paul and the Nikolaikirche Nicholas Church are among the attractions of the Altstadt Old Town.

The Bahnhofsviertel around the main railway station and Kaiserstrasse is the cities red light district, although the ubiquitous seediness has recently developed into a popular and lively entertainment scene. Thirteen museums make up the longest mile of museums within Europe, the Museumsufer Museum Embankment on the southern bank of the Main, reached on foot via Eiserner Steg. Most of Frankfurts museums are closed on Monday and open until 2000 hrs on Wednesday.

Visitors increasingly flock further south of the Main to Sachsenhausen, the oldest district in Frankfurt, to enjoy Appleton apple wine at traditional half timbered taverns. The best views of the city can be gained from the restaurant on the 52nd floor of the recently finished Main Tower. Students and artists contribute to the bohemian atmosphere of the Nordend around Eschenheimer Tor.