A Hammers’ Guide To Frankfurt, Germany

Eintracht Frankfurt vs West Ham – Europa League semi-final: A West Ham guide to Frankfurt

West Ham fans are set to take over the city of Frankfurt, here’s what West Ham fans can get up to while out in Germany besides watching the huge game.

Many outsiders know the city of Frankfurt because it is the birthplace frankfurter sausages, while others associate it with a Bundesliga team. Germans know Frankfurt for its education, large green spaces and tall skyscrapers. Because of these characteristics, the city could be compared to a smaller version of New York City.

Population 83,200,000

Language German

Name in Official Language Deutschland

Dialling Code +49

Currency Euro (€)

WHERE IS FRANKFURT?

Frankfurt is the largest city in the German state of Hesse, as well as the fifth-most populous city in Germany with a population of over 763,000. The city is one of Germany’s most culturally-diverse, and one-quarter of the population is of an ethnic minority background. Moreover, it is home to many expatriates.

Frankfurt is a city that encourages sustainability and eco-friendly urbanism. Tourists and residents enjoy exercising and exploring the city’s green trails, and they can sometimes look for the local nature. It is encouraged that you spend most of the time outdoors as a result of these parks.

WHAT CAN WEST HAM FANS DO THERE?

Frankfurter Stadtwald (Frankfurt City Forest)

The City Forest is a 30-mile forest district located in the Southern suburbs of Frankfurt. It has 1,600 benches, 25 rest huts, nine ponds and six playgrounds. Due to its accessibility, it is a popular place for families to visit for a day out.

The area was first used for farming in the 13th century, with cattle grazers and sheep herders occupying the land for over 200 years. Signs of old farming can still be found in the forest, and there is evidence of old barns being in the forest.

Dom-Römer Quarter (New Old Town)

Frankfurt’s Old Town area went under large restoration work between 2012 and 2018. This was because most of the district was destroyed during the Second World War, and the city’s council wanted to rebuild the area to its original form.

The project is 7,000 metres in length, and it is home to many different shops and restaurants. It is a strong example of Frankfurt’s urban development program and has been nationally recognised for providing jobs, accommodation and business opportunities. Residents embrace the quarter’s renovations, and they see a strong contrast between the past and present.

Römerberg (Roman Mountain)

Römerberg is an open space within the New Old Town. It is known for hosting annual Christmas markets, public entertainment displays and vibrant summer fairs. Tourist like to visit this particular part of the district due to the variety of stalls and retail shops.

WHAT IS THE STADIUM LIKE?

Deutsche Bank Park

West Ham fans will head to Deutsche Bank Park for the game, it was opened in 1925 and has been renovated four times in the last 85 years. Eintracht Frankfurt has used the stadium for home games since 1963, but the venue has also hosted American football games and World Cup matches in 2006. The stadium has a maximum capacity of 51,500 and includes 81 executive suites for sponsors.

It also contains several other facilities such as an indoor swimming pool, an ice rink, a tennis court and a winter sports hall. Players and members of the public use these facilities on a regular basis.

How To Get There

The stadium has its own railway stadium, Frankfurt Stadion, which is within walking distance. Three train lines – S7, S8 and S9 – have a direct service to the stadium.

WHAT SHOULD I KNOW BEFORE I GO?

Watch For Speed Limits

They vary throughout Germany. It is quite well-known that the Autobahn has higher speed limits than those in the U.K., and certain parts of the motorway have no speed limit at all. If you plan to use the Autobahn, take careful precautions and stick to the speed limit.

Be Wary Of Restricted Streets

Some German cities have announced the introduction of low-emission zones in an attempt to reduce air pollution. Taxis and buses may limit driving through these areas to comply with local regulations, so ensure that you plan any journey in advance in case of diversions.

Cross At Designated Crossings

Jaywalking is strictly forbidden in Germany. Most pedestrians will wait at crossings to walk across the street, even if there are no cars coming. The fine for jaywalking is €5.00, and locals may express anger or annoyance towards you for breaking this rule.