Things To Do
in Hattersheim

Hattersheim am Main is a small, parkside town in Hesse located along the Main River just west of Frankfurt. It blends a quiet residential charm with easy access to the urban energy of nearby Frankfurt, making it a comfortable base for day trips. The town features historic streets, river views, and leafy neighborhoods that invite strolls and relaxed café culture.

With the Taunus foothills nearby, Hattersheim also serves as a gateway to nature and regional Hessian traditions.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh pastries and coffee. After breakfast, take a stroll through the picturesque streets of Hattersheim, admiring the charming half-timbered houses. Visit the Evangelische Kirche, a stunning 19th-century Protestant church, where you can soak in its beautiful architecture.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a hearty lunch at a traditional German restaurant, where you can taste local specialties such as schnitzel and sauerkraut. Post-lunch, visit the nearby Hattersheim Museum to learn about the town's history and cultural heritage. Spend some time walking along the banks of the Main River, where you can enjoy the serene views and perhaps spot some local wildlife.

evening
:

As the sun sets, head to a riverside beer garden for a refreshing local brew and traditional snacks. Engage with friendly locals and enjoy the lively atmosphere, often accompanied by live music. End your evening with a peaceful walk along the river, taking in the beautiful reflections of the town lights on the water.

day 2
Nature Walks in the Surrounding Countryside
morning
:

Begin your morning with a nutritious breakfast at your accommodation before setting off for a nature walk in the lush countryside surrounding Hattersheim. Choose one of the well-marked trails that lead you through rolling hills and vibrant fields, where you can admire the natural beauty. Keep an eye out for local flora and fauna as you immerse yourself in the tranquility of the outdoors.

afternoon
:

After a refreshing hike, enjoy a packed picnic lunch amidst nature, basking in the fresh air and scenic views. Post-lunch, visit the nearby nature reserve, where you can explore more trails or simply relax by a tranquil pond. This is a great opportunity to take photos or even try birdwatching as you observe the diverse wildlife in the area.

evening
:

Return to Hattersheim and unwind with a casual dinner at a cozy local restaurant. Try some regional dishes that highlight the flavors of Hesse, paired with a glass of local wine. Conclude your evening with a stroll through the town, enjoying the peaceful ambiance and perhaps stopping for dessert at a nearby ice cream shop.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-18
🍽️Three-course dinner for two$40-70
Coffees and pastries$3-6
🧀Groceries (mid-range for a week)$40-80
🚆Public transport pass (monthly)$60-90

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Close to Frankfurt with easy access to big-city amenities
  • Pleasant, family-friendly town with a relaxed pace
  • Limited nightlife within Hattersheim itself
  • Smaller selection of high-end dining compared to Frankfurt
  • "Hallo" - Hello
  • "Guten Morgen" - Good morning
  • "Danke" - Thank you
  • "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
  • "Wo ist der Bahnhof?" - Where is the train station?

Places to Visit in Hattersheim

Visit one of these nice places.

Main River Promenade

Wide river views with sequence of boats and reflections at golden hour; ideal for sunset shots over the water.

Old Town Edges

Timber-framed houses and narrow lanes along the riverbank create charming, postcard-like compositions.

Church Tower View

A vantage point in the town center offering classic Hessian rooftops and distant hills as a backdrop.

Culinary Guide

Food in Hattersheim

Hattersheim sits in the Rhine-Mass region where Hessian cuisine shines: hearty dishes, seasonal produce, and regional wines pair well with church spires and river views. Expect comforting fare like sausages, cheese specialties, and herbaceous sauces, often served with potatoes or bread. Local beverages include regional apple wines and refreshing sodas sourced from nearby producers. Many places can accommodate common dietary needs with simple adjustments, especially in vegetarian-friendly settings.

Hattersheim Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Handkäse mit Musik

A tangy sour cheese marinated with onions and vinegar, typically enjoyed with rye bread and a splash of onions; great with a local Brotzeit platter.

Must-Try!

Grüne Soße (Green Sauce)

Herb-based sauce from the region, traditionally served with potatoes or quark and boiled eggs; pairs well with light meats in spring and summer.

Rippchen mit Kraut

Smoked pork ribs with sour cabbage, a hearty Hessian comfort dish perfect for cooler days.

Gröstl

Pan-fried potatoes and onions with meat or vegetables, a rustic, satisfying meal common in the region.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Hattersheim Wochenmarkt

Weekly market offering fresh produce, cheese, bread, and regional specialties; a good place to try pretzels, apples, and local jams.

Climate Guide

Weather

The area enjoys a temperate climate with distinct seasons: warm summers, cool to cold winters, and rain possible year-round. Spring and autumn are mild with changing foliage.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

Germans typically greet with a handshake; use formal Sie language with strangers and elders until invited to use the informal du.

Safety Guide

Safety

Hattersheim is generally safe for visitors. Standard precautions apply in crowds and at night; keep valuables secure and use licensed taxis or ride-hailing services after dark.

Tipping in Hattersheim

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

In Germany, tipping 5-10% for good service is common; you can round up the bill at bars or cafes.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Long days, outdoor cafés bustling with locals and visitors, occasional brief showers; bring a light rain jacket and sunscreen, and enjoy riverfront strolls and outdoor seating.

Nightlife Guide

Hattersheim at Night

Hattersheim’s nightlife is modest, centered around cozy pubs and cafés. For more vibrant options, Frankfurt’s bars, live venues, and clubs are easily accessible by a short train ride in the evening.

Hiking in Hattersheim

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Taunus foothills trails

A network of forest trails within 20-40 minutes by car or bike from Hattersheim offering scenic overlooks.

Main-Taunus cycle routes

Flat to rolling routes along the Main with opportunities for longer day trips.

Airports

How to reach Hattersheim by plane.

Frankfurt Airport (FRA)

Major international gateway about 20-30 minutes by train from Hattersheim, with frequent connections to local towns.

Getting Around

Walkability

Hattersheim is walkable in the old town and along the river, with good pedestrian paths; bike lanes connect to surrounding towns and the Taunus foothills.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Commuters

Many residents travel daily to Frankfurt for work.

Families

A mix of local families and long-term residents in a safe, residential setting.

Students and retirees

A small but steady presence in the community.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

The most popular sport across the region; local clubs and matches are common on weekends.

Cycling

A favored activity given the flat river routes and nearby hills in the Taunus.

Handball

Community clubs and youth development programs are available.

Transportation

Traffic

Public transportation is efficient, with S-Bahn and regional trains connecting Hattersheim to Frankfurt; road traffic can be heavy around peak commute hours; consider trains for convenience.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Hattersheim.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Most eateries can offer vegetarian options; ask for cheese plates, mushroom dishes, or herb-heavy greens; many places can adapt meals to avoid meat or seafood.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Germany offers excellent universal healthcare. Local GP clinics are available in Hattersheim, with larger hospitals in Frankfurt; 112 is the emergency number; pharmacies are widespread.

Discover Germany

Read more in our Germany 2025 Travel Guide.

Germany Travel Guide