As the UEFA Euro 2024 tournament approaches, football enthusiasts from around the globe are gearing up for the thrill of witnessing top-tier football action in Germany. What’s more, Frankfurt is among one of the host cities. And a worthy host it is. This small and diverse city packs a punch in terms of what it has to offer. Whether you’re a die-hard football fan or an occasional watcher seeking an unforgettable experience, we have compiled a comprehensive guide to the UEFA Euro 2024 in Frankfurt.
What UEFA Matches to Expect in Frankfurt?
Without a doubt, Frankfurt is going BIG for the Euros. In addition to hosting five matches at Deutsche Bank Park, all matches will be shown on enormous screens along the 1.4km Fan Zone.
17/06: Belgium vs Slovakia (18:00)
20/06: Denmark vs England (18:00)
23/06: Switzerland vs Germany (21:00)
26/06: Slovakia vs Romania (18:00)
01/07: Round of 16 – 1F vs 3A/B/C (21:00)
Stadium Guide UEFA EURO 2024 in Frankfurt
Deutsche Bank Park is a premier sports stadium in Frankfurt, Germany. With a seating capacity of over 50,000 spectators, it serves as the home ground for the Eintracht Frankfurt football club. Furthermore, it has hosted numerous high-profile events, including matches for the UEFA Euro 2024 tournament later this summer. Situated on the outskirts of Frankfurt, the stadium offers state-of-the-art facilities and a vibrant atmosphere that ensures an unforgettable experience for fans of the beautiful game.
How to Reach the Stadium
Firstly, do not attempt to take a car. That is because it would be bonkers to try and do so during the Euros. And you literally cannot access the stadium by car at this time.
So that leaves public transport. Your route and method (train, tram or bus) depend on which entrance you must use (which should be on your ticket). Gates open 3 hours before kick-off, so get there in plenty of time to allow yourself to arrive and soak up the atmosphere beforehand.
What to Take and What Not To Take
Admittedly, there is always a long list of what you can’t take into a stadium. There are also some items that you need to pay special attention to. For instance, the ticketing system is all digitalised, which allows for faster entry and reduces the risk of ticket fraud. You will need to download the UEFA Mobile Tickets app. To clarify, mobile tickets cannot be printed or downloaded as a PDF. Also, please note that you cannot use a screenshot of the ticket to enter the stadium.
Food and Drink at the Stadium
As well as the entrances opening 3 hours before kick-off, so do the food and drink options.
There will be food for all diets, including vegetarian and vegan options. Of course, there will be the classics, but also local specialities such as Handkäse and the Hessenburger. And as we all know, no football match would be complete without drinks. There will be Vio Water, soft drinks, Fuze Tea, and Bitburger beers, including 0% and shandy.
Germany loves to have elaborate recycling schemes, so drinks will be in reusable cups for which a €3 deposit will be charged, and cups can be returned to any stand to get the deposit back. You might want to do this before the match ends to avoid the queues or keep it as a cheap souvenir!
Other Things to Note about the Stadium
- There is wifi inside, so you can gloat about where you are in real-time
- There are no toilets outside the stadium, so make sure you do your business before you set off
- There will be gender-neutral toilets available:
- Level 2 behind block 24D
- Level 2 behind block 42b
- Level 4 behind block 9L
- If you’re with young children or vulnerable adults, you can get a wristband to write important information in case of separation from the Spectator Info Point (see the map below for where it is).
- You can’t take strollers in.
Fan Zone
Location: Mainufer (Northern bank of the Main River)
Frankfurt has the majestic River Main running through it; there is plenty of space to walk and sit on either side. For the duration of the Euros, 1.4 kilometres of this riverside (Mainufer) will be transformed into a Fan Zone. The Fan Zone will air all 51 of the matches across ten screens, including a giant screen floating on the river itself! Unbelievably, up to 30,000 fans can enjoy the Fan Zone at once.
The Fan Zone is not just about football. It’s a hub of entertainment for everyone. With four stages hosting concerts and open-air film screenings, a gaming area for those who love football but prefer to play sitting down, and two football pitches for the die-hard fans, there’s something for everyone. And let’s not forget the giant floating football pitch in the river, a unique experience for all.
Opening Party
One of the Fan Zone’s highlight events will be the spectacular opening party. On the evening of June 12th, the tournament will kick off with a light and music display around the Flößerbrücke bridge.
The Fan Zone is conveniently located and completely free to access. The nearest stations are the Central Station (Hauptbahnhof) and Willy-Brandt-Platz, but really it’s incredibly central. So, if you’re staying around the Innenstadt, you can even walk there. No need to worry about transportation!
Fan Zone Opening Times:
- Opening days: 14 June – 14 July, daily
- During the group phase, June 14th to 26th:
- Daily from 1:00 p.m. to midnight.
- During knockout phase 27th – July 14th:
- Monday – Friday from 3:00 p.m. to midnight.
- Saturday + Sunday from 1:00 p.m. to midnight
FYI, it’s also open on non-match days!
UEFA EURO 2024 in Frankfurt Where to Stay
1. Downtown Frankfurt: Experience the Heart of the Action
Located in the heart of the city, downtown Frankfurt offers a plethora of accommodation options ranging from luxury hotels to cosy boutique stays. Staying in this area will place you within walking distance of the UEFA Euro 2024 fan zones, stadiums, and major attractions like the historic Römerberg square and the iconic Main Tower. A popular hotel choice includes the renowned Steigenberger Frankfurter Hof.
2. Westend: Luxury and Serenity
For those seeking luxury and tranquillity, Westend is the ideal choice. This upscale residential district boasts elegant villas, tree-lined streets, and proximity to the UEFA Euro 2024 venues. Enjoy a stay at one of the prestigious hotels, such as Melia Frankfurt City Hotel or the Frankfurt Marriott Hotel, where you can unwind in style after a day of football excitement.
3. Sachsenhausen: Explore Frankfurt’s Culinary Scene
Situated on the south bank of the Main River, Sachsenhausen offers a unique blend of traditional charm and modern amenities. This neighbourhood is renowned for its historic cider taverns and vibrant restaurant scene. Stay at one of the charming guesthouses or boutique hotels, such as Gerbermühle Hotel, and immerse yourself in Frankfurt’s culinary delights while soaking in the UEFA Euro 2024 atmosphere.
4. Bockenheim: A Vibrant Student Hub
Home to the renowned Goethe University, Bockenheim exudes a youthful energy and cultural diversity. This dynamic neighbourhood is dotted with trendy cafes, art galleries, and green spaces, making it an excellent choice for travellers seeking a vibrant atmosphere. Consider staying at the contemporary nhow Hotel Frankfurt Messe for a comfortable and convenient accommodation experience.
5. Airport Area: Convenience and Connectivity
If you prefer to be close to the airport for easy travel arrangements, Frankfurt’s airport area offers a range of accommodation options to suit every budget. Whether you’re catching an early flight or attending UEFA Euro 2024 matches, hotels like the Hilton Frankfurt Airport and Moxy Frankfurt Airport provide comfort, convenience, and excellent transport links to the city centre and tournament venues.
6. Central Frankfurt
Should you need a hotel centrally located and not far from Hauptbahnhof Central Station, look no further than Gekko House. Not only do they have a great rooftop terrace, but Saturday and Sunday Brunch at Chicago Williams is off the charts!
Conclusion
As the UEFA Euros 2024 descends upon Frankfurt, the city is set to transform into a vibrant hub of excitement and camaraderie. The atmosphere will be electric, with fans from around the world converging to celebrate the beautiful game of football or soccer, depending on where you are from. Along the scenic River Main, the dedicated Fan Zone will come alive with activities, live screenings, and a festive spirit that unites fans from across Europe. The picturesque riverside provides the perfect backdrop for fans to soak up the city’s charm. Travelling fans will revel in the warm hospitality, diverse culinary delights, and infectious energy that pulses through Frankfurt during this premier sporting event. UEFA Euro 2024 in Frankfurt promises to be an unforgettable experience filled with thrilling matches, new friendships, and memories that will last a lifetime. So pack your bags, don your team colours, and get ready to immerse yourself in the excitement of UEFA Euro 2024 in one of Germany’s most vibrant cities!