Frankfurt actively encourages new students to come to this lively,
cosmopolitan city. While Frankfurt is one of Europe's transportation
hubs and economic centers, with just under 700,000 inhabitants, it is
often called 鈥渢he smallest metropolis in the world". Frankfurt was
ranked the "most liveable" city in Germany by the Economist in August 2018, and the 12th most liveable city worldwide.
Although it offers many of the benefits of larger urban centers,
getting around Frankfurt is quick and easy by bike or public
transportation. The Goethe Card that all students receive offers free
local transportation on trains, buses, and trams through much of the
southern part of the state of Hessen. Yet without even leaving the city,
Frankfurt's broad array of museums鈥攎any of which line the banks of the
Main River鈥攁nd cultural institutions offer students the opportunity to
dive into theater or art with steep student discounts.
Located close to Germany's most picturesque wine-growing region,
Frankfurt is a green city with over 120 parks. Nature lovers can explore
the hills and valleys of the nearby Taunus area鈥攐r take a boat trip or
train ride up the Rhine River. And sports fans will be able to join one
of over 450 sports clubs in the city (in addition to those offered at
the university), as well take advantage of public pools, golf courses,
and boat houses.
Plenty of outdoor markets, cafes, restaurants, and beer gardens are
also found among the tree-lined streets in Frankfurt. Local specialties
such as Apfelwein (apple cider) and Gr眉ne So脽e (a
fresh, green herb sauce most often served with eggs and potatoes) are
often served in rustic, corner restaurants, some of which have been
around for centuries. And with the highest percentage of international
residents in Germany, you can easily visit restaurants and buy
ingredients from nearly every world cuisine.
Book lovers will also enjoy the annual Frankfurt Book Fair, the
world's largest trade book fair which draws close to 300,000 visitors
each October. And for international visitors who are eager to explore
the rest of Europe, Frankfurt is an ideal location. With one of the
busiest airports in continental Europe and serving as a major train hub,
it's easy to take weekend trips to Berlin, Paris, Amsterdam, the Swiss
Alps, Vienna, and many, many other destinations.
Extensive information on events, living in Frankfurt, business,
culture, tourism, and city government is available at Frankfurt's
official website:
