Hessen

Germany

Frankfurt showing a river or creek, a city and night scenes
Neroberg showing a city, farmland and landscape views
Marktbrunnen showing a church or cathedral, a sunset and heritage architecture
Frankfurt showing a sunset, a river or creek and a city
Roemer which includes heritage elements, a square or plaza and a sunset

Travel through this varied state to visit medieval towns, relax in thermal spas, sample renowned wines and photograph undulating hills covered with vineyards.

Hessen is a German state with historic towns, cultured cities and a varied topography. Vineyards and mountains decorate the countryside, while quaint alleys, wineries and architectural gems compose the cityscapes. See a great range of intriguing landmarks, from extinct volcanoes to dramatic monuments.

Glimpse local culture at the state’s largest and best-known city, FrankfurtOpens in a new window. Gaze up at the glimmering skyline of this financial hub, which features the modern, glassy surfaces of the Deutsche Bank Twin Towers and the European Central Bank.

Contrast these contemporary behemoths with the city’s historic treasures, including the Eschenheimer Tower that served as a medieval gate. See the Frankfurt CathedralOpens in a new window, the Alte Oper (Old Opera House)Opens in a new window and the tall yellow Goethe HouseOpens in a new window. Among the impressive centers of information are the Jewish Museum, the Deutsches Filmmuseum and the German Architecture MuseumOpens in a new window.

The state capital, WiesbadenOpens in a new window, is a historic city known for its thermal spa waters. Admire the Wiesbaden Town Hall and the Kurhaus, which lies in the vast Kurpark or Spa Gardens Wiesbaden. Get pampered at one of the thermal spas here.

For a change of scenery, visit quaint villages dotted around the state. Travel north to Herbstein for more spas and an ancient volcanic range. Ruedesheim am RheinOpens in a new window has a range of wineries and historic buildings. Ride the Rüdesheim Cable Car over the picturesque valley for a view of the Rhine River and the mountains. Reach the majestic Niederwald MonumentOpens in a new window and consider its unifying symbolism.

Journey to surrounding vineyards and try local grape varieties and blends of apple ciders produced here. Popular dishes include the Handkäse mit Musik cheese and raw onions, while Frankfurt has its own pastries and sauces.

The federal state is a little west of central Germany, bordering Lower Saxony, Bavaria, Rhineland-Palatinate and other states. Fly to Frankfurt Airport and travel around the state and the country via Intercity (IC) trains.

With historic villages, vineyards and city traditions, Hessen is a hub of sophistication and charm.

Popular cities in Hessen

Frankfurt featuring a city and a river or creek
Frankfurt
Known for Shopping, Business and Museums
Experience the museums, cafes, and history in Frankfurt!

Reasons to visit

  • Deutsche Bank Park
  • Frankfurt Trade Fair
  • Römerberg
Ruedesheim am Rhein
Ruedesheim am Rhein
Known for Historical, Wineries and Castle
Find out about the region’s variety of wine grapes, stroll along cobbled lanes in the Old Town and ride a gondola over the stunning terrain.

Reasons to visit

  • Drosselgasse
  • Niederwald Monument
Northern Hesse showing heritage architecture and a sunset
Kassel
Known for Historical, Museums and Castle
Go hiking, attend a hockey game and immerse yourself in art, all in one day.

Reasons to visit

  • Wilhelmshoehe Park
Marktbrunnen which includes heritage architecture, heritage elements and a church or cathedral
Wiesbaden
Known for Shopping, Historical and Cafes
This “spa town” is known for its hot springs, but there are also museums, parks, architecture and shops to explore.

Reasons to visit

  • Kurhaus
Lost in the countryside  near Willingen.
Willingen
Known for Skiing and Adventure
Willingen awaits: its skiing, adventures, and more!
Fulda showing a square or plaza, heritage architecture and a city
Fulda
Known for Gardens, Business and Historical
A modest, laidback city just an hour from Frankfurt, Fulda has a welcoming small town feel that contrasts with the bustling metropolis nearby.