If you’re planning a trip to Frankfurt, Germany, the Römer is an unmissable landmark that perfectly blends medieval charm with vibrant city life. As the historic city hall located in the heart of Frankfurt’s Altstadt (Old Town), the Römer has stood for over 600 years as a symbol of the city’s resilience, culture, and architectural splendor. Whether you’re a history buff, a lover of architecture, or just looking to soak in authentic German atmosphere, the Römer and its surrounding Römerberg square offer a captivating experience for visitors of all ages.
History of Römer
The Römer’s story began in 1405 when the city council purchased the building from the wealthy Römer merchant family, along with the neighboring Goldener Schwan (Golden Swan) house. These were converted into the city’s official Rathaus (city hall), and over the centuries, the Römer expanded to encompass a complex of nine interconnected medieval houses and six courtyards, covering a total area of 10,000 m².
The Römer’s most recognizable feature is its distinctive three-gabled façade, a neogothic masterpiece that dominates the Römerberg square. The building has survived wars, fires, and reconstructions, including significant damage during World War II and its subsequent restoration, culminating in a grand re-inauguration in 1955.
Inside, the Römer is famed for the Kaisersaal (Emperor’s Hall), where Holy Roman Emperors once celebrated their coronations, and the balcony, which has hosted countless historic moments and dignitaries, including Queen Elizabeth II. Today, it remains the seat of Frankfurt’s city government and is occasionally used for civil weddings and official ceremonies.
Attractions at Römer
- Römerberg Square: The Römer sits on the picturesque Römerberg, the beating heart of Frankfurt’s Old Town. This square is surrounded by beautifully reconstructed half-timbered houses, lively cafés, and the iconic Fountain of Justice at its center. The Römerberg is also the site of Frankfurt’s famous Christmas Market and various city festivals throughout the year.
- Kaisersaal (Emperor’s Hall): The Kaisersaal is the Römer’s grand ceremonial hall, renowned for its stunning portraits of Holy Roman Emperors and its role in imperial coronations. While not always open to the public, guided tours occasionally provide access to this historic space.
- Römer Balcony: The Römer’s balcony is a storied vantage point, used for public celebrations and to greet crowds during major events. It’s a favorite photo spot for visitors, offering a fantastic view over the Römerberg.
- Wedding Rooms: Located in the Haus Löwenstein (part of the Römer complex), the wedding rooms are used for civil marriage ceremonies, making the Römer a popular spot for couples seeking a romantic, historic setting.
- Alte Nikolaikirche (Old St. Nicholas Church): Directly opposite the Römer, this Gothic church dates back to at least 1264. Its simple yet elegant interior offers a peaceful retreat and a glimpse into Frankfurt’s medieval past.
Things to Do at Römer
Admire the Architecture: Marvel at the Römer’s neogothic façade and the picturesque half-timbered houses lining the square.
Join a Guided Tour: Learn about the Römer’s rich history, the Kaisersaal, and the city’s traditions (check availability in advance).
Attend a Festival: Experience the energy of Frankfurt’s Christmas Market or other cultural events held in Römerberg.
Visit the Old St. Nicholas Church: Step inside for a moment of quiet reflection and admire the stained glass.
Explore the Dom-Römer Quarter: Wander through the recently redeveloped area between the Römer and St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral, featuring reconstructed historical buildings and modern shops.
Römer – Entry Eligibility and Open Timings
Römerberg Square: Open 24/7, year-round.
Römer (City Hall): The building’s exterior is always accessible. Interior visits (e.g., Kaisersaal) are available during scheduled tours or events. Check the official Frankfurt tourism website for current tour times and availability.
Old St. Nicholas Church: Generally open daily, with hours varying by season and event schedule.
How Long to Spend at Römer
Most visitors spend 1–2 hours exploring the Römer, Römerberg, and nearby attractions. If you join a tour or visit during a festival, plan for up to half a day.
How to Get There
- By U-Bahn (Subway):
- U4/U5: Exit at Dom/Römer station, which is just a 2-minute walk to Römerberg.
- By Tram:
- Lines 11 and 12: Stop at Römer/Paulskirche. The square is directly adjacent to the tram stop.
- By Bus:
- Bus 36: Stops at Römer/Paulskirche.
- By Taxi: Taxis are readily available throughout Frankfurt. Ask for “Römer, Altstadt.” The ride from the main station takes about 10 minutes, depending on traffic.
- By Bike or On Foot: Frankfurt’s city center is walkable and bike-friendly. Public bike rentals and pedestrian routes make it easy to reach Römerberg from nearby districts.
- By Boat: River cruises along the Main often include stops near the Eiserner Steg pedestrian bridge, a short walk from Römerberg.
- By Train:
Frankfurt Hauptbahnhof (Main Train Station): From the main station, take the S-Bahn (lines S1–S6, S8, S9) or U-Bahn (U4, U5) to Hauptwache or Konstablerwache. Römerberg is a 7–10 minute walk from either station.
Eateries Nearby Römer
Frankfurt’s Old Town is packed with excellent dining options. Here are some top-rated eateries within walking distance of the Römer:
Haus Wertheym: Classic German cuisine in a historic half-timbered house, famous for apple wine and schnitzel.
Zum Standesämtchen: Traditional Frankfurt dishes and a cozy atmosphere, perfect for sampling local specialties.
Paulaner am Dom: Bavarian-style beer hall with hearty meals and a lively vibe.
Im Herzen Afrikas: Unique African cuisine, a short stroll from the Römer, offering a memorable dining experience.
Café Hauptwache: A beloved local café for coffee, cakes, and light meals, set in a historic building.
Schwarzer Stern: Regional specialties and international dishes with a view of the square.
Other Attractions Nearby Römer
St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral (Kaiserdom): Just a 3-minute walk away, this imposing Gothic cathedral is famous for its tower climb and imperial history.
Paulskirche (St. Paul’s Church): A symbol of German democracy, located adjacent to the Römerberg.
Museum Embankment (Museumsufer): Cross the Main River to explore a collection of world-class museums, including the Städel Museum and the German Film Museum.
Eiserner Steg (Iron Footbridge): A pedestrian bridge offering panoramic views of Frankfurt’s skyline and the Main River.
Zeil Shopping Street: Frankfurt’s premier shopping destination, about a 10-minute walk from the Römer.
The Römer is one of Frankfurt’s most iconic landmarks, known for its medieval architecture and rich history. Located in the heart of the city’s old town, the Römer has served as Frankfurt’s town hall for over 600 years. Its distinctive, stepped-gable facade is instantly recognizable and a popular backdrop for tourists capturing the charm of historic Germany.
The Römer complex consists of a group of nine interconnected buildings, including the famous Römer s or Imperial Hall, where Holy Roman Emperors were once crowned. Inside, visitors can explore beautifully restored rooms, including the Kaisersaal (Emperor’s Hall), which is adorned with portraits of German rulers.
Surrounding the Römer is the picturesque Römerberg square, lined with half-timbered houses, quaint shops, and bustling cafes, making it a perfect spot to soak in the historic atmosphere of Frankfurt. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply looking to experience the charm of old Europe, the Römer is a must-visit destination.