Things To Do
in Hanau
Hanau sits on the Main River just east of Frankfurt and serves as a compact gateway to the Rhine-Main region. The town preserves a charming historic core with half-timbered houses, markets, and riverside walks. It is known as the birthplace of the Brothers Grimm, who inspired museums and literary sites in town.
With easy rail links to Frankfurt and a welcoming Hessian atmosphere, Hanau is ideal for a short city break or a nature-infused day trip.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely stroll through Hanau's charming historic center, where you can admire the beautiful architecture of the Renaissance buildings. Be sure to visit the stunning market square, where the vibrant atmosphere comes alive with local vendors. Don't forget to stop by the Brothers Grimm Memorial to learn about the city's connection to these famous fairy tale authors.
After a delightful lunch at a local café, explore the Hanau City Museum, which showcases the rich history and culture of the area. The museum's exhibits will take you through Hanau's past, revealing its significance during the Renaissance and its link to the Grimm Brothers. Spend some time wandering the quaint streets, discovering unique shops and hidden gems.
As the sun sets, head to a traditional German restaurant to enjoy authentic local cuisine, such as Handkäse or sausages paired with sauerkraut. After dinner, take a relaxing walk along the River Kinzig, where the sound of the water creates a serene atmosphere. Finish your evening by grabbing a drink at a cozy tavern, immersing yourself in the local nightlife.
Begin your day by visiting the nearby Brothers Grimm Fairy Tale Route, which celebrates the legacy of the famous storytellers. Explore the enchanting landscapes that inspired many of their tales, stopping at various landmarks along the way. Enjoy a picnic breakfast in one of the picturesque parks, surrounded by nature's beauty.
Continue your fairy tale adventure by visiting the nearby town of Steinau, where you can see the Brothers Grimm House and learn more about their childhood. Engage in interactive exhibits that bring the stories to life, making it a fun experience for all ages. Spend the afternoon wandering the charming streets and visiting local artisan shops.
Return to Hanau for a delightful dinner at a family-friendly restaurant, featuring dishes inspired by the fairy tales themselves. After your meal, attend a local theater performance that brings one of the Grimm stories to life, offering a magical end to your day. Reflect on the enchanting experiences as you stroll back to your accommodation under the stars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🚇Monthly public transport pass | $60-90 |
| 🍺Beer at a bar | $4-7 |
| 💳Taxi ride (short trip) | $8-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable city center with easy access to Frankfurt
- Rich Hessian culture and family-friendly attractions
- Smaller nightlife compared to big cities
- Some sites have limited hours, especially on Mondays
- "Guten Tag" - Good day / Hello
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
- "Danke" - Thank you
- "Entschuldigung" - Excuse me / Sorry
- "Wo ist der Bahnhof?" - Where is the train station?
- "Ich hätte gerne..." - I would like...
Places to Visit in Hanau
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful half-timbered facades and the historic town hall provide classic postcard scenery.
A hilltop castle with manicured gardens and reflections on the Main, ideal for wide-angle shots.
Historic birthplace linked to the Grimm brothers, offering evocative exterior photography.
Riverside views, bridges, and seasonal activity along the Main for sunset photos.
Food in Hanau
Hanau Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fresh herb sauce typically served with potatoes and eggs or meat; best enjoyed in spring and early summer.
Must-Try!
Cured smoked pork ribs often served with sauerkraut and mashed potatoes.
The Hessian cider-like beverage traditionally enjoyed in cafes and taverns; pair with hearty fare.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Market on Marktplatz offering fresh produce, bread, cheeses, and ready-to-eat bites from local vendors.
Casual street-food options around the market area featuring pretzels, sausages, and fries.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be on time for appointments; use the Sie form in formal settings and greet with a handshake.
Quiet conversation in public spaces is appreciated; queue politely and follow local etiquette in shops and venues.
Safety
Tipping in Hanau
Ensure a smooth experience
Rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% is customary in restaurants and cafés.
Cash (Euro) and cards (EC/Mastercard/Visa) are widely accepted; contactless payments are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming parks make urban walks particularly pleasant; gardens reopen and café seating returns outdoors.
Warm days and long daylight hours; ideal for riverside strolls, outdoor dining, and town festivals.
Crisp air and fall colors in parks; harvest-season markets and cozy eateries become popular.
Chilly conditions with possible light snowfall; Christmas markets in nearby towns and warm pubs add festive charm.
Hanau at Night
Hiking in Hanau
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails in the Spessart hills to the west of Hanau, with varied terrain and viewpoints.
Riverside hiking routes along the Kinzig valley with scenic villages.
Flat, easy routes along the Main with city views and parks.
Airports
How to reach Hanau by plane.
Major international hub about 25-40 minutes away by direct regional train and road connections.
A larger airport to the north, about 2 hours by rail or car from Hanau.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Substantial family presence; good schools and parks.
Proximity to Frankfurt attracts students and daily commuters.
Turkish, Polish, Russian and other communities contribute to a multicultural vibe.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular sport in the region with local clubs and matches at regional levels.
Active community programs and local teams with facilities in Hanau and nearby towns.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Hanau.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most places offer vegetarian options; ask for Grüne Soße without meat and choose salads, grilled vegetables, or vegetarian mains.