So it’s pretty safe to say that Europe is pretty geared up to keeping us warm during the winter months. But what on earth does one do during the warmer months and, more specifically, during a HEATWAVE? Short of hanging out in the cooler at the getranktmark, what does one do? Here are our top heatwave cool-down ideas in Frankfurt.
Visit your Local Freibad for a Heatwave Cool-Down
Frankfurt boasts several public swimming pools (Freibäder) and lidos that are perfect for a cool dip. Some of the most popular ones include:
- Brentanobad: One of the largest open-air swimming pools in Germany, Brentanobad offers expansive green areas, a large pool, and even a wave pool. It’s a family-friendly location where you can spend an entire day relaxing by the water. To get there, take the U7 to Fischstein, and it is a well-signposted couple of minutes’ walk. Frankfurt is such a wonderfully compact city, so it is just 20 minutes from the centre.
- Riedbad Bergen-Enkheim: This swimming pool complex offers both indoor and outdoor pools, making it a versatile option regardless of weather conditions. The outdoor area includes a spacious pool and a large sunbathing lawn.
- Freibad Stadion: Located near the Commerzbank-Arena, this outdoor pool features an Olympic-sized pool, a diving pool, and extensive lawns for sunbathing and picnicking.
Roof-Top Beach in the Centre of Frankfurt
The perfect oasis right in the centre of the city! Enjoy a cocktail or two, dip your toes in the water or bury them in the hot beach sand. Undoubtedly, City Beach is like escaping to the tropics without picking up your passport.
Parks with Water Features
Relax in one of Frankfurt’s Parks and playgrounds that offer water features to provide a little relief from the heat:
Sachsenhausen Playground at Goetheturm
The playground was recently given a little makeover, improving the water play section and maze area! What’s more, the park backs in the forest where you can not only hide away in the shade and enjoy riding bikes but also build log hideaways. Importantly, too, there is no need to worry about taking snacks because the restaurant is great! Finally, if it’s early morning before the temperature rises, take a minute to climb Goetheturm and get a phenomenal view over the city!
Good to know: Schmidt_Peccolo am Goetheturm Restaurant serves up traditional German cuisine as well as ice cream and coffee. Also, they have a take away window so you don’t need to be seated.
Where to find it: Goetheturm Playground Location
Palmengarten:
Frankfurt’s Palmengarten is not only a haven of greenery but also features a wonderful kids’ waterplay section with sprinklers and a large pond where you can row or use the paddle boats for a small fee. The tropical houses might be warm, but the outdoor areas provide a refreshing escape.
Good to know: It’s paid entry.
Visit the Nearby Lakes and Beaches to Escape the Heat
If you’re willing to venture a bit outside the city, several lakes and beaches provide the perfect opportunity to cool down:
Langener Waldsee:
Just a short drive or train ride from Frankfurt, this lake is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. It’s one of the largest recreational lakes in the area and features a sandy beach, shaded areas, and a designated swimming zone.
Pinta Beach:
Located just outside Frankfurt, Pinta Beach is a great destination for individuals and families alike. This artificial beach, situated along the picturesque shores of Raunheimer Waldsee, offers a variety of amenities designed to cater to both relaxation and active pursuits. And importantly, there is a VIP section reserved only for adults who prefer the quieter side of life. Of course, for those with kids, there is plenty to keep everyone entertained, from the aqua park, which is like a giant obstacle course, to stand-up paddle boarding and inflatable boats.
Good to know:
- Children are not allowed in the VIP section
- If travelling via public transport, bicycles are available to rent at the southern entrance of the train station. It’s worth pointing out that they can be used free of charge for 30 minutes. The voucher code can be found at the bottom of your booked ticket
Wakeport:
Wakeport, located just outside Frankfurt in Raunheim, is brilliant not only for water sports enthusiasts and adventure seekers but also for adults and kids. Honestly, my kids lived their best lives taking their wakeboarding lessons. However, to summarise, this is a modern wakeboarding park that offers exciting activities centred around its state-of-the-art cable systems and pristine lake. Highlights of the Wakeport experience include its various wakeboarding courses suitable for beginners to advanced riders, ensuring an inclusive environment for all skill levels. The park features multiple obstacles and jumps, adding thrill and challenge to the rides. Additionally, Wakeport provides equipment rentals and professional coaching, making it accessible even to those new to the sport.
Beyond wakeboarding, visitors can enjoy stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), e-foiling, and relaxing on the sandy shores. What’s more, they have on-site amenities, including a beach bar and dining options, so no need to pack snacks!
Edersee
Edersee, one of the largest reservoirs in Germany, is situated approximately two hours away from Frankfurt and provides various outdoor activities. Both adults and kids enjoy swimming, boating, and fishing in the lake, or discover the nearby Kellerwald-Edersee National Park.
Good to know:
Indoor Escapes
When the sun becomes too intense, retreating indoors is often the best way to stay cool. Frankfurt offers numerous Museums and Galleries where you can escape the heat. Some top choices include:
Städel Museum:
Home to an impressive collection of European art spanning seven centuries, the Städel Museum is an ideal place to immerse yourself in culture while staying cool.
Senckenberg Natural History Museum:
Great with the kids! Explore fascinating exhibits on dinosaurs, fossils, and the natural world in this spacious, climate-controlled museum.
MMK Museum für Moderne Kunst:
If modern art is more your style, the MMK offers cutting-edge exhibitions in a cool, contemporary setting.
Safety Tips for Coping with the Heatwave
Obviously, it goes without saying to look after your health when exploring any of the above-mentioned places. However, for the sake of clarity, here are a few tips to remember.
Stay Hydrated
One of the most crucial aspects of staying safe during a heatwave is maintaining proper hydration. Frankfurt’s tap water is safe to drink, so always carry a reusable water bottle with you. Many parks and public spaces have water fountains where you can refill.
Avoid the Midday Sun
Try to avoid the sun at its most intense between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. If possible, stay indoors or in shaded areas during these hours. If you need to be outside, wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses and apply high-SPF sunscreen to protect your skin.
Monitor Your Health
Be aware of the signs of heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion or heatstroke. Symptoms include heavy sweating, dizziness, nausea, and confusion. If you or someone else experiences these symptoms, move to a cooler place, hydrate, and seek medical attention if necessary.
So there you have it! How to escape the heat with our heatwave cool-down ideas! Surviving a heat wave in Frankfurt doesn’t have to be a struggle (or perhaps slightly less of a struggle).