Everything You Need To Know About Shopping In Frankfurt
A superlative shopping experience awaits you in Frankfurt, Germany’s key commercial and financial capital. It may be one of the world’s smallest major metropolis, but it is home to gorgeous skyscrapers, businesses, and the third largest airport in Europe. People often visit to witness its exceptional art and iconic museums, as well as lively neighborhoods. But whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning for work and leisure, you can’t leave without shopping in Frankfurt.
Many famous shopping areas are in the city center, with profitable shopping streets and large shopping centres featuring major brands and the best of Germany. While numerous luxury brands are lined along the main shopping streets, don’t miss the chance to explore the narrow alleyways and cobblestone paths with hidden gems waiting to be found. There are also farmer’s markets and flea markets selling fresh produce, local delicacies, and countless specialties.
There’s no limit to what you can buy in Germany’s fifth-largest city. So set aside some funds to make the most of your experience. You can also stow away your shopping bags and suitcase at a luggage locker in Frankfurt. That way, you can see more of the city without burden.
Best Shopping Streets and Districts in Frankfurt
The Zeil
A true shopper’s paradise, the Zeil is a busy lane that was once the center ground of a prominent cattle trade in Frankfurt. It has been one of the country’s beloved shopping areas, packed with specialty shops, department stores, classy boutiques, and major shopping centers. Whether you’re shopping for new jewelry to match your outfit, footwear, or electronics, this shopping promenade has got you covered.
Zeil’s origin can be traced back to the 14th century. However, it was not only in the eighteen hundreds that this lane found its current identity and calling as a shopping area. Since then, it has become one of the renowned retail spots in Germany to fill your bags with high-street fashion, hand-made German gifts, and souvenirs.
Step inside MyZeil Center, one of the major shopping malls on the street. It is also home to Zeilgalerie, a ten-floor facility that opened in September 1992. Its beautiful structure and unique architecture are immediately recognizable.
The Zeil shopping street is located in the Frankfurt city center. You can reach it by taking the underground rail network at either end. It is also close to the Frankfurt Stock Exchange and the Museum of Modern Art.
Berger Street
Berger Street (Berger Strasse) is the longest shopping street in Frankfurt, with numerous owner-run shops and independent retail outlets. It’s a nice break from the generic chain stores. Twice a week, it becomes busier and more alive with a flea market where you can meet real farmers selling local produce. It’s also ideal for residents and visitors to sample international food and regional delicacies.
The lower part of the street features quaint boutiques, cafes, and bars if you want to relax or spend time with friends over drinks. When you head to Upper Berger street, you’ll discover traditional restaurants and bars, which are fantastic places to rest after an exhausting leisurely shopping spree. They provide outdoor seating to enjoy the warm summer sunshine.
Sachsenhausen
Nestled south of the River Main, the Sachsenhausen is a delightful shopping area catering to younger consumers. It has two parts, the Schweizer Straße and the Museum Mile, known for its old-world feel and historic charms.
But if shopping in Frankfurt is your ultimate goal for visiting the area, you’ll want to check out the main street, Schweizer Straße. It is filled with bookshops, fashion stores, delis, and trendy cafes, with a slower and more laid-back atmosphere than Zeil. It combines modern fashion with culinary delights along the banks of the river.
In addition, Sachsenhausen is home to Frankfurt’s most popular flea market. It’s an excellent hunting ground for one-of-a-kind objects, souvenirs, gifts, and accessories, and sample local food. You’ll also find used clothing, second-hand furniture, and vintage items. The Flohmarkt Sachsenhausen is open every second Saturday of the month between 9 AM to 2 PM. However, it's best to arrive early on a Saturday morning to have more chance of getting products worth taking home.
Goethestraße
If you’re up for premium luxury shopping, one of the best shopping hot spots in Frankfurt is Goethe Street. It’s where most of the finest luxury labels and designer brands are concentrated, including Gucci, Hugo Boss, Chanel, Armani, Bulgari, Louis Vuitton, Montblanc, Hermes, Versace, Prada, and many more. In addition to fashion and iconic jewelry brands like Cartier and Tiffany & Co., it features independent concept stores, local shops, and numerous restaurants and cafes. Every discerning shopper can find everything here – all within just a few steps.
Goethestraße is one of the city’s favorite shopping areas and Germany’s third-busiest shopping lane. It’s nicknamed Frankfurt’s Fifth Avenue or Luxusgasse, which means luxury lane. The three-lined street offers nearly 300 meters of irresistible temptations.
The street was named after a renowned German writer and statesman, Johann Wolfgang von Goethe. Constructed from 1892 to 1894, Goethestraße has survived the country’s turbulent history. Today, it boasts a mix of modernist, contemporary, and classic buildings that houses some of the most revered labels and the biggest brands in the world.
Kaiser Strasse
Walking along Kaiser Street in Frankfurt is like taking a step back in time with historic houses dating to the 18th century. Architecturally, it’s one of the last remaining avenues in the city and one of the few areas in Germany where visitors can find real 18th-century buildings that were not destroyed in World War 2.
The part of Kaiser Strasse leading to the Frankfurt main train station is known for its active nightlife. However, the other end that leads to the city center still reflects the forgotten glory and wealth of the long-forgotten era. It’s also where you can discover multi-purpose retail stores, boutiques, jewelry shops, sidewalk restaurants, and cafes.
Grosse Bockenheimer Strasse
If you plan to visit Frankfurt, Grosse Bockenheimer Strasse is one of the places worth exploring. It has a broad pedestrian zone between Opera Square and Stock Exchange Street and runs parallel to Goethe Street if you want to check out the luxury designer brands. There are novel discoveries here, as it brings together shopping malls, eateries, and bars. Take your time strolling down the street until you find what you’re looking for.
Besides shopping, Grosse Bockenheimer street is a delightful eating spot. It has food shops, butcheries, bakeries, and cafes to meet up with a friend.
Töngesgasse
Töngesgasse is another shopping street located in the Old Town, parallel to the more famous shopping lane, Zeil. Many privately-owned specialty shops call it home, some of which have been operating for over a century. A perfect example is the W.Wächtershäuser, a traditional specialist shop celebrating its 200th anniversary in 2022. The Hensler optician’s shop has been in the area since 1864, while the Gabler leather shop was established in 1877.
The origin of the street goes back to 1236. During that time, the most significant street was called Antonitergasse. It was Frankfurt’s most sought-after and richest trade route. With the changes in language, the name evolved until it became what is now known as Töngesgasse. However, locals and retailers don’t forget the area’s roots. Every year in August, they organize a street festival known as the Antoniterfest.
Top Frankfurt Shopping Centers and Malls
MyZeil Shopping Mall
With an area of over 77,000 square meters, MyZeil Shopping Mall is considered one of the grandest shopping centers in Frankfurt. It was officially opened in 2009. Since then, it has been a go-to place for leisure and entertainment among locals and visitors. The property's architecture is what makes it more interesting, with impressive curved glass facades and metal panels that make up its remarkable design.
Here in MyZeil Shopping Mall, you can find many stores in its eight-floor space. It is home to countless big brands and local and international labels, such as Bershka, Ecco, Hollister, Abercrombie & Fitch, Saturn, and more.
Take your time browsing the shops while enjoying a spectacular view of the city skyline, made possible by its transparent outer shell. It is bright, transparent, and has a warm atmosphere, perfect for a day of leisure and entertainment. If you’ve had enough of the inside, take a stroll outside the building, as shops and a gallery are also available.
Location: Zeil 106, 60313 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
Nordwestzentrum
Enjoy a leisurely shopping spree at Nordwestzentrum, one of Germany's largest and busiest shopping malls. It is located northwest of the city, boasting over 94,500 square meters of leasable area, and houses over 170 retail shops ranging from local to international brands.
While there’s nothing much here for luxury shopping, it has everything to make your life comfortable. Some favorite shops at Nordwestzentrum include Muller, H&M, Zara, Peek & Cloppenburg, Calzedonia, and Vero Moda. If you’re here to eat, there are several coffee shops, restaurants, and eateries at the food court and throughout the mall.
Nordwestzentrum has numerous public facilities, including family-friendly services, healthcare, and a gym. Plus, it won't be a hassle to visit the mall as it has over 3,500 parking spaces and has its central bus station and subway stops.
Location: Limescorso 8 60439 Frankfurt am Main
Skyline Plaza
It has not been a decade since Skyline Plaza was officially opened in 2013. This brand-new mall spans approximately 38,000 square meters of floor space and holds more than 170 retail shops and brands. It is centrally located in the city’s European District, a new urban quarter close to the city center. This makes it a perfect shopping destination while exploring Frankfurt’s top-notch attractions and world-renowned sights around the area.
You’ll be impressed by the exterior of the building and its magnificent architecture. But once you go in, you’ll discover an entirely new experience for shopping and leisure. The roof garden on the roof of the building is an obligatory stop for every shopper. It’s one of the shopping center’s stunning features, offering a free viewing platform for everyone.
Aside from the central shopping mall, the building complex also has the MeridianSpa fitness center and an attached parking garage. After shopping, you can try the famous food court in the middle of Skyline Plaza, where you can browse dozens of restaurants.
Location: Europa-Allee 6, 60327 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
Hessen-Center
Hessen Center in Frankfurt has been in business for more than five decades now, and it remains one of the most visited malls in the city. Despite having a smaller retail space compared to other malls in town, the Hessen Center can keep up with the economy and plays a big part in the region's local community.
In this shopping mall, you can find over 115 shops for all sorts of products, such as fashion, accessories, electronics, and food. It is also conveniently located at VBorsigallee, near Imam Abu Hanifa - Afghanischer Kulturverein and Volkshaus Enkheim. Hessen Center is open for visitors from 8:30 AM to 8:00 PM daily except Sundays.
Location: Borsigallee 26, 60388 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
Experience High-end Shopping in Frankfurt
Whether you’re here for business or a quick vacation, don’t forget to add shopping in Frankfurt to your itinerary. It may not be the first place you’ll think of when planning some retail therapy in Central Europe. But it deserves a spot on every shopaholic and fashionista’s must-visit list. From large shopping malls and department stores to handicraft shops, independent retail outlets, and boutiques, it has everything to cater to your need and style.
For a more exciting shopping experience, ditch the malls and walk along the cobblestone streets and pedestrian zones. They are a treasure trove of fashion for all ages, genders, and preferences.