Is Frankfurt safe to visit? A comprehensive safety guide

Frankfurt is home to the busiest airport in all of Germany as it is the country's business and financial center as well as the headquarters of the German Stock Exchange and the European Central Bank. Aside from business trips, people who come here on vacation often spend time in the many museums by the River Main. Frankfurt is also home to some great landmarks like the Gothic-styled cathedral Dom and the Eiserner Steg. If you have an interest in architecture you might be impressed by the buildings in this city, since it has some of the highest skyscrapers in all of Europe.

On average, over 3.5 million people visit Frankfurt each year, and the Frankfurt am Main area is home to just under 800,000 citizens making it Germany's most populous city. The town sees the highest number of visitors during the summer and fall, mostly between the months of June and October. If you want to visit the city when it is quieter, avoid these months. For example, the winter is also a splendid time to visit since the Christmas markets are set up, providing a sensational activity.

The next time you vacation here, plan to use Bounce luggage storage in Frankfurt. Each storage location is vetted to ensure high standards of quality are reached, and you can drop off any size bag as well. From Römerberg to Museumsufer, travel light and see as much as you can.

Is Frankfurt safe to visit right now?

If you want to join the other millions of people traveling to Frankfurt you'll be glad to hear that Germany is ranked 17th on the 2021 Global Peace Index, meaning that it is generally a very safe country. Currently, in 2023, there is a travel advisory, and foreigners entering Germany are reminded to be cautious. Be careful when you're in busy places with crowds and keep an eye out for anyone looking suspicious. Travel restrictions are set to change with time, so take a look at what your own government suggests before booking your vacation to the German state of Hesse.

On top of that, each city has its own set of petty crimes that can sometimes cause trouble for tourists. In the Frankfurt am Main area you'll have to be aware of pickpockets and muggers. Below we list useful Frankfurt safety tips to help you stay at ease while having a marvelous time, but we also recommend reading other safety guides before visiting. Every article will have something useful to offer.

Top petty crimes and scams in Frankfurt affecting tourists

Although some areas in Frankfurt are perfectly safe, it is considered to be one of the most dangerous cities in Germany according to its crime statistics. While violent crime is not a common occurrence, here are a few things to be aware of.

Pickpocketing

Pickpockets can be found in basically all of the top tourist destinations, and they are in Frankfurt as well. Just like in other cities, petty theft often occurs on public transport or busy tourist attractions where there are lots of people. Because of this, we recommend you be extra aware of your surroundings and your belongings if you're spending time in the main train station or if you're sightseeing at a particularly popular spot.

Expensive valuables should be stowed with Bounce so you can visit popular places like Naturmuseum Senckenberg and the busy Frankfurt's Kleinmarkthalle without worrying about your things. The items you need to bring with you, like your wallet or smartphone, are safest deep inside your bag. If you need easy access to your funds, consider using a money belt. Be aware that some thieves can snatch things directly from your pants pocket.

Muggings

Although violent crime really isn't very common at all in the city center, muggings can happen in the more dangerous neighborhoods. Luckily they are relatively easy to avoid if you stick to the inner city and practice common sense. Don't wander around late at night by yourself, and it is a good idea to not wear expensive clothing or jewelry since that could make you more of a target.

If you ever feel as though you're being followed, walk into one of the nearest restaurants or shops so that you'll be around people and call for help from there. Remember that if you're ever a victim of a mugging, you should give the thief what they want since your safety is more important, and you can contact the police for help afterward.

Scams

Scammers aren't particularly common in Frankfurt but they do exist, and if you enjoy traveling a lot you might encounter them in other cities too. It is wise to familiarize yourself with their tactics so you can spot a scammer before they strike. Particularly in Frankfurt, be aware of fake police officers who can be identified by strange behavior, like asking to check your money. You should also be wary of taxi drivers who may try to overcharge visitors unfamiliar with the city.

Is Frankfurt safe to visit alone

Lots of people travel to Frankfurt on their own for business and it is a safe city for solo travelers. You won't be at risk of any major crimes, although it is a big city and it can be easy to get lost if you don't know where you're going. You'll just need to make sure that you don't wander into any sketchy areas, and be especially cautious after dark.

Since Germany is in 25th place on the Bounce Women Travel Safety Index, females exploring this city on their own are safe as well. But, women who are walking around in any city by themselves will need to be a bit more careful than men. Try to avoid taking long walks at night if you can, especially if you're spending time in the red light district or other similar areas. You should stick to a main street with lots of people in sight as much as possible.

Safest neighborhoods in Frankfurt

Certain areas around Frankfurt can be more dangerous than others, and if you're paying for luxury hotels you definitely want it to be in a safe area. Below are reputable places to keep in mind.

Innenstadt

Innenstadt is the downtown of Frankfurt and, since it is located in the heart of the city, it has access to almost anywhere. It is pretty safe, too, and a fabulous locale for international restaurants and trendy bars.

Ostend

This quiet and secure neighborhood is perfect for families, with the Frankfurt Zoo as well as the Schwedlersee found here. Admire interesting buildings with architecture from different eras.

Bockenheim

With plenty of chic hangout spots, this laid-back neighborhood is a great place to visit. Frankfurt is an expensive city, but this area is a bit more affordable compared to other districts.

Now that you know about the safer parts of Frankfurt you should get familiar with the less desirable places. We recommend being careful on the streets around Hauptbahnof, Konstablerwache, Hauptwache and Westend. These areas tend to have more petty crime, like pick pocketing, so keep that in mind if you do go there.

Is Frankfurt public transportation safe?

As a main hub for business, Frankfurt am Main sees lots of people from around the world. Both locals and visitors will want to see Old town and more, and the public transport system does a good job of getting you from one place to another. There are also a fair amount of taxi drivers, but beware of overcharging like we said earlier.

In Frankfurt, there are two types of trains; the aboveground railway, or S-Bahn, and the underground subway, or U-Bahn. Both are relatively efficient and said to be safe as well, but we do urge you to be careful late in the evening. If you're by yourself, ride in a car that has other people so that you aren't alone. Be aware that the central station sometimes has a significant amount of homeless people and occasionally drug users, but if you give them distance they shouldn't bother you.

Emergency numbers in Frankfurt

If you're ever in a situation where you don't feel safe there are resources to contact for help. We recommend keeping a list of these emergency numbers in your wallet or on your phone during your trip, as well as a note with your embassy number.

• Emergencies: 112
• German Red Cross: 069 719 1910
• Samaritans English-Language Support Line: 0800 181 0721
• Police Advice and Information: 069 7550

Visiting Frankfurt safely

When it comes to exploring a new place, your safety should matter the most. Although Frankfurt does have its issues, just like other European cities, it can absolutely be a destination to be enjoyed without worry. Before you book your plane tickets to the Frankfurt am Main airport, make the most of the preplanning excitement by doing your research and making a fun filled itinerary.