A word to the wise: This is the perfect place to acclimate to Europe if you arrive to Frankfurt!
Hauptwache is located in the center of the city and could kinda be referred to as an "outdoor shopping mall", but it is so much more than that. Besides being one of my favorite childhood hangouts (after landing at FRA), it is a fun place to shop, eat and explore. Recently, they put in a new "indoor" mall. The shops are whatevs, but the architecture is amazing.
If you're lucky; there will be a wine festival when you arrive! And then you can mingle with local professionals, wine-lovers and travelers alike.
This little area seems to be what US Malls are trying to emulate with their local live/shop plans, but nothing will ever be as cool as the juxtaposition of pre and post war landmarks of Frankfurt. Take a walk to the Mainz and be sure to cross the bridge to the other side! Museums and all kinds of goodness await. read more