Heidelberg: Just over an hour’s drive from Frankfurt is Heidelberg, a university town that is full of charm and has a fine literary heritage. Goethe, Mark Twain and artist William Turner all were inspired by this town, and now Heidelberg attracts close to 12 million visitors a year. They come to enjoy the bookshops, the enchanting ruin of Heidelberg Castle and the Baroque architecture.
Rudesheim: Located just an hour west of Frankfurt in the Rhine Valley is Rudesheim — a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This historic town is a popular tourist destination, and the Niederwald Monument, the Drosselgasse alleyway and a cruise along the Rhine are not to be missed. Rudesheim is famous for its superior Rieslings. Tastings are available, but remember not to drink and drive.
Hanau: The birth place of the Brothers Grimm, the historic town of Hanau is a 30-minute drive from Frankfurt’s city centre. An enjoyable day out, this town boasts a monument of its most famous citizens, Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm — as well as a museum dedicated to goldsmiths. You can marvel at the Baroque architecture of Schloss Philippsruhe. Visit between May and July to enjoy the Fairy Tale Festival.