The GreenBelt encircles Frankfurt’s entire metropolitan area. Some 8,000 hectares in size, it is the green lung of the city and the centrepiece of the RhineMain Regional Park. Some 70 kilometres in length, the GreenBelt takes the actively minded on a natural loop of Frankfurt. It also connects to a further 500 kilometres of cycling and hiking paths heading off in all directions. Germany’s largest city forest, a municipal vineyard, the Lohrberg, an old aerodrome, various nature reserves, comical art and the mysterious GreenBelt creature – there’s much to discover along Frankfurt‘s vast GreenBelt. Renting a bicycle is is a great way of discovering the GreenBelt, with countless taverns and restaurants inviting day-trippers to enjoy a break from the action.

Frankfurt is home to more than 50 parks and gardens. Here, you’ll find natural parklands with ancient tree populations just around the corner from beautifully manicured pleasure grounds. The Palmengarten (Botanical Gardens), for example, impresses nature lovers with a comprehensive range of flora from all of the world’s climate zones, making it one of Frankfurt’s must-see destinations.

Farmers’ markets are held throughout Frankfurt almost every day of the week. At Konstablerwache, for example, some 60 market stalls run by fruiterers, vegetable farmers, winemakers, bakers, beekeepers, butchers and cheesemakers offer countless seasonal delicacies, all sourced from within the region. The biweekly market is known not only for its homegrown products, it’s also a popular meeting place where locals enjoy a meal, a drink and a chat.

The “Kleinmarkthalle” – Frankfurt’s famous indoor market hall – serves up a culinary rainbow of flavours six days a week. Here, one finds traditional Frankfurt specialities like Green Sauce, international delicacies, herbs, spices and authentic street-food from across the globe. The old hall is known to be one of the most popular locations in Frankfurt.

Frankfurt’s so-called “green ring” encircles the entire city centre, following the course of the old mediaeval fortifications. Those who decide take this route will not only find themselves consistently surrounded by nature, they will also come across numerous monuments and works of art. They’ll pass by the old opera house and the city’s banking district and discover typical ”watering holes”, finally coming to the banks of the River Main and the Gardens of Nice, which thanks to a unique microclimate fascinate visitors with true Mediterranean flair.