Stroll amongst tropical plants, rose gardens and succulents in this huge garden centre northeast of the inner city. Palmengarten, which means “palm garden”, has rare sub-Antarctic species, enormous cacti and thousands of flowers in outdoor gardens and greenhouses. The 19th-century complex is spread across 22-hectares (54-acres).
The Palm House is the central feature of the Palmengarten. It was built in 1869, two years before the garden was opened to the public. The grand 19th-century greenhouse has a curved roof and arched windows. Inside you’ll find an array of tropical plants and temporary art exhibitions.
There are signs of famous German writer Johann Wolfgang von Goethe all throughout Frankfurt, including here in the Palmengarten. Stroll through the Goethe Garden and notice the number of ginkgo trees. These were the favourite plants of the literary legend, who was also a keen gardener.
Come to Palmengarten in summer when a beer garden opens on warm afternoons. Sip apple wine and look out over the picturesque grounds. When the weather is fine, hire a boat and explore the Great Pond that lies adjacent to the Palm House or sign up for a game of miniature golf on the 18-hole course.
Summer also sees regular theatre and music performances held throughout the gardens. Jazz, classical music and opera are fitting sounds as you wander through the old-fashioned grounds.
Get around on the electric train that tours the gardens between April and October. Pay for a single ride or buy a 10-trip pass. Bring comfortable shoes if you plan to walk and aim to spend at least half a day here there’s plenty to see and do, especially during summer.
The gardens are open year-round but some attractions, such as the beer garden and train, are seasonal. There’s a fee to enter and you’ll need to pay extra to see performances, hire a bike or play a round of mini golf.
There are two entrances for the Palmengarten and both are within easy walking distance of public transport. Parking is available for a fee in an underground lot on Siesmayerstrasse.
