Things To Do
in Kelkheim (Taunus)

A creamy cold herb sauce traditionally served with boiled eggs and potatoes or with cold cuts; widely available in local restaurants and seasonal markets.

Must-Try!

A small sour milk cheese served with onions, oil and vinegar—an iconic Hessian snack you’ll find in taverns and wine bars.

Braised pork ribs with sauerkraut or mashed potatoes—classic comfort food served in many local inns.

Local fermented apple cider, often poured from a Bembel (stoneware jug); try it at Apfelwein pubs and seasonal fairs.

Town weekly market (typically midweek and Saturday) with fresh produce, sausages, cheeses and baked goods—great for picnic supplies and sampling local flavors.

Look out for seasonal markets (Christmas market, autumn fairs) where you can sample mulled wine, roasted chestnuts and regional street food.

Use formal greetings ('Guten Tag', 'Guten Morgen') and 'Sie' with strangers or older people; wait for an invitation to use the informal 'du'. Handshakes are common on first meetings.

Being on time is appreciated for appointments and social events; punctuality is a sign of respect.

Observe quiet hours (late evening and midday in some areas) and note that Sundays are traditionally calmer with many shops closed—plan grocery shopping accordingly.

Take care to sort waste correctly—Germany has strict recycling rules (paper, plastic/packaging, glass and organic). Follow local bins and instructions.

In restaurants rounding up the bill or leaving 5–10% for good service is common; tip in cash to the server if possible. For taxis and hairdressers, rounding up is normal.

Germany still uses cash frequently—carry some euros. Cards (EC/debit and credit) are widely accepted in restaurants and shops, though small cafés, market stalls and some family-run businesses may be cash-only. Contactless payments are increasingly common.

Warm and pleasant—great for hiking, cycling and outdoor dining. Expect busy weekends as locals head to the hills; pack sunscreen and water for longer treks.

Crisp air and colourful foliage make it a prime time for hiking and photography; seasonal harvest events and Apfelwein festivals often take place.

Cold with occasional snow on the higher Taunus ridges—good for winter walks and sledding on small slopes. Shorter daylight hours and some attractions may have reduced hours.

Blossoms and mild temperatures return—ideal for longer hikes and cycling as trails reopen and flora comes back to life.

Long-distance trails along the Taunus ridge with varied terrain, panoramic views and options for day hikes.

A popular route to one of the Taunus’s prominent peaks, offering rock formations, forested sections and wide vistas.

Shorter circular walks that start from town and lead into nearby woods and lookout points—good for half-day outings.

Scenic routes around the Eppstein area combining castle views, river valleys and village charm.

Many families live in Kelkheim, attracted by good schools, parks and a family-friendly environment.

A significant portion of residents commute to Frankfurt and nearby towns for work, giving the town a commuter-town character.

Older residents appreciate the quiet neighbourhoods, healthcare access and nearby nature.

Some expatriates and international professionals live here because of the town’s proximity to Frankfurt’s business districts while offering a quieter lifestyle.

Vegetarian options are common in cafés and larger restaurants (salads, egg and cheese dishes, vegetable mains). Ask staff for 'vegetarisch' options and many traditional places will adapt dishes on request.

Vegan options are increasing but still more limited than in big cities; bring snacks when hiking and use larger supermarkets in nearby towns for supplies.

Awareness of gluten-free needs is growing—look for 'glutenfrei' on menus in modern eateries and bakeries in larger towns; always communicate dietary needs clearly.

Carry a translation card describing allergies in German and inform restaurants—staff are generally helpful but cross-contamination can occur in traditional kitchens.