TAKE a look at the incredible Christmas market spot that’s just two hours from Ireland – with flights from €20.
Frankfurt is a stunning old meets new spot in central Germany that serves as a major financial hub.
It’s home to the European Central Bank and is famed for being the birthplace of famous writer Johann Wolfgang von Goethe.
Mostly, though, Frankfurt has been hailed as having some of the best Christmas markets in Europe.
The city transforms into a wonderland during the festive season to welcome visitors from all over the world.
Online reviews of the magnificent city said that the Christmas sees Frankfurt “turn into a magical snow globe of winter markets”.
WINTER WEATHER
And not only is it a short journey from Dublin Airport to the celebrated city, but Ryanair offer budget price flights from November through to January.
Tickets on the flight can be snapped up for €20.21 on November 5.
Like most European countries, Frankfurt is plunged into cold temperatures during the winter season.
Although it only adds to the magic, visitors should be sure to pack weather appropriate clothing.
Think hats, scarves, and warm gloves to create a Pinterest worthy outfit for when you’re out and about exploring the city.
Temperatures vary from highs of 6C to 2C, so punters should wrap up warm to see the sights.
AUTHENTIC STAPLES
The city’s Christmas markets take place from 25 November to 22 December, so there’s plenty of time to soak up the magic.
They are open from 10 o’clock every morning until 9 o’clock each night.
Unlike some Christmas markets which are confined to one town square, Frankfurt’s follow the streets down to the river Main, on which the city is built.
The decorated stalls start at Roßmarkt, then stretch along the main shopping street, the Zeil, all the way down to Römerberg town square and on to the Main River.
Punters are sure to be delighted by the huge market, which has all the staples of an authentic Weihnachtsmarkt.
The streets are lined with small huts and stalls selling all kinds of local produce from wine and whiskey to cheese and chocolate.
CHERRY ON TOP
There will also be hand crafted food from around the world and home made arts and crafts, making it ideal for finding the perfect unique gift for someone special.
The area is lit up with stunning twinkling lights that add to the festive cheer and make for a perfect Instagram snap.
And the cherry on top is the magnificent Christmas tree located in the old town square.
For those who want to indulge themselves in local cuisine, Bethmännchen, a sweet marzipan pastry, is a must try.
Locals recommend pairing it with a Frankfurt winter staple, a cup of hot apple wine.
And an ideal souvenir or gift for someone at home is a Quetschemännchen, a small man or woman made from plums and dried nuts.
BEYOND THE MARKETS
The sweet treats were originally meant to represent musicians and chimney sweeps, and were thought to bring good luck.
Beyond the Christmas markets, the city has plenty on offer.
The Eiserner Steg is a must see for loved up couples who want to create a special memory.
The bridge is the iconic landmark where sweethearts have clipped padlocks as a symbol of their love for each other.
Even for those travelling alone, the bridge offers stunning views up and down the river and is well worth a visit.
An especially unusual spot in the city is the Pinkelbaum, or the Peeing Tree.
BEST BARS AND CLUBS
As part of an art installation, the tree was installed with a mechanism to squirt unsuspecting passers-by.
A nearby plaque reads: “For 300 years I was peed on, starting today I pee back.”
Frankfurt is a primarily modern city, but its old town is a stunning fairy tale maze of cobbled streets and magnificent buildings.
It’s well worth a visit, and visitors should make sure to stop off at the iconic landmarks of Altstadt Town Hall and St Peter’s Church to soak up the beauty of the city.
Another popular activity in Frankfurt is a pub crawl, which will take holidaygoers around the city’s best bars and clubs to sample the famous German nightlife.
One delighted Tripadvisor reviewer said of the experience: “Such a fun experience. The bars and music were so good.
“The crowd was a fun bunch. Alexa and Ben are the real MVPs. The drinks we got were of good quality.”
