Things To Do
in Obertshausen

Obertshausen is a small town in Hesse on the western edge of the Frankfurt Rhine-Main region. It offers a tranquil, family-friendly atmosphere with leafy streets and a green belt of parks and forests. The town center is compact and walkable, anchored by a traditional market square and a few local cafés.

Its excellent rail and road connections make it a convenient base for exploring Frankfurt, Offenbach, and the wider Rhine-Main area.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arriving in Obertshausen
morning
:

Arrive in Obertshausen and settle into your chosen accommodation with panoramic views of the Main Valley. Wander through the pedestrian zone and admire the colorful facades of local shops and cafes. Feel the gentle hum of the town waking up as you sip a freshly brewed coffee.

afternoon
:

Head to the Bürgerhaus community center for a guided tour through its modern architecture and interactive exhibits. Stroll through the adjacent Stadtpark and relax by the water features with locals enjoying the sunshine. Pop into a nearby museum to learn about Obertshausen’s fascinating manufacturing heritage.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional German restaurant and savor local specialties like Handkäse mit Musik and savory schnitzel. Pair your meal with a cold Hessian beer or a glass of regional apple wine. Finish the night with a leisurely walk along illuminated streets and gentle chatter from cozy beer gardens.

day 2
Exploring the Old Town
morning
:

Set off on a guided walking tour of Obertshausen’s historic old town, navigating narrow cobblestone alleys lined with half-timbered houses. Listen as your guide recounts tales of medieval merchants and local traditions that shaped the town’s character. Capture photos of ornate doorways and centuries-old fountains tucked behind vibrant facades.

afternoon
:

Visit a charming café on Marktstraße to sample freshly baked pastries and fragrant Hessian apple wine. Browse artisan stalls showcasing handcrafted souvenirs, ceramics, and regional delicacies at a bustling street market. Chat with local vendors about their artisanal techniques and the ingredients sourced from nearby farms.

evening
:

Attend an open-air folklore music event in the town square and sway to the lively melodies played by local musicians. Explore the inviting beer gardens as they fill with families and friends laughing under strings of twinkling lights. End the night with a dessert of warm Apfelstrudel paired with creamy vanilla ice cream.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-18
Coffee in a café$3-5
🚆One-way public transport ticket$2-3
🛏️Mid-range hotel room per night$90-150
🧺Groceries for a week$60-120

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Calm, family-friendly atmosphere with easy access to nature
  • Excellent rail and road links to Frankfurt and Offenbach
  • Green spaces and outdoor activity options nearby
  • Compact town center that is easy to explore on foot
  • Nightlife options are limited in town itself
  • Some services and amenities are smaller-scale than in a big city
  • Shopping and dining may feel more regional than cosmopolitan
  • "Guten Tag" - Hello / Good day
  • "Bitte" - Please
  • "Danke" - Thank you
  • "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
  • "Entschuldigung" - Excuse me / Sorry
  • "Ich verstehe nicht" - I don’t understand

Places to Visit in Obertshausen

Visit one of these nice places.

Rathausplatz and Market Square

A charming focal point with traditional Fachwerk buildings, the town hall, and a lively market—a great place for architectural detail and candid street shots.

Main River Promenade (Offenbach side)

Calm river views with bridges and riverside paths; excellent for dusk and blue-hour photography with skyline glimpses in the distance.

Local Park and Forest Edge

Green spaces around the town boundary offer sun-dappled paths, selective wildlife, and seasonal lighting ideal for nature photography.

Cultural Center Courtyard

A modern-civic space blending contemporary design with the town’s historic tones; good for architectural contrasts and portrait shots.

Culinary Guide

Food in Obertshausen

The region blends hearty Hessian cooking with seasonal produce from nearby farms. Expect generous portions, roasted meats, potatoes, fresh breads, and seasonal vegetables, along with regional apple wine, beer, and coffee culture.

Obertshausen Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Grüne Soße

A herb sauce made from a mixture of fresh greens, traditionally served with potatoes and eggs; a Frankfurt-Rhine-Mass regional favorite that pairs well with schnitzel or boiled meats.

Must-Try!

Handkäse mit Musik

A sour milk cheese marinated with onions and vinegar, typically enjoyed with a strong bread and onions; a classic Hessian starter or light snack.

Frankfurter Würstchen mit Kartoffelsalat

Smoked sausages served with potato salad, a staple for a quick, comforting meal in the region.

Frankfurter Rippchen

Smoked pork ribs often served with sauerkraut and mashed potatoes or bread; a traditional dish you may find in local taverns.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Marktplatz Wochenmarkt

Weekly farmers market in the town center offering fresh produce, bread, cheeses, and regional specialties.

Offenbach Main Market District

A short trip to nearby Offenbach offers a broader market scene with prepared foods, street snacks, and seasonal treats.

Nearby Frankfurt street food rows

In markets and pop-up areas around Frankfurt, you can sample a wide range of international street foods and regional sweets.

Climate Guide

Weather

The area experiences a temperate climate with warm summers and cool winters. Average summer highs are in the mid-20s Celsius (mid-70s Fahrenheit), with winter lows near freezing. Rain is possible year-round, so carrying a light rain layer is handy.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings and Form of Address

Greet with Guten Tag or Hallo. Use Sie in formal situations and with strangers; switch to du only with explicit consent or among close friends. Punctuality is valued.

Recycling and Quiet Hours

Follow local recycling rules and respect quiet hours in residential areas, especially at night and on Sundays.

Safety Guide

Safety

Obertshausen is generally safe, with typical urban safety practices. Be mindful of petty theft in crowded areas and secure valuables. When venturing into wooded areas, stay on marked paths and be aware of tick season; always inform someone of your plans if hiking alone.

Tipping in Obertshausen

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is customary but modest in Germany. Rounding up the bill or leaving about 5–10% for good service is common in restaurants; you can also hand the tip directly to the server.

Payment Methods

Cash and cards (debit/credit) are widely accepted. Contactless payments are common, but some small shops or street vendors may prefer cash.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Winter

Expect chilly mornings and occasional snowfall. Indoor attractions, cozy cafés, and nearby Frankfurt’s Christmas markets provide festive options. Daylight is shorter, so plan morning or early afternoon outings.

Spring

Mild temperatures with blooming trees and gardens. Great for outdoor walks, cycling, and market visits. Pack layers for variable weather.

Summer

Warm days with long daylight hours; excellent for outdoor dining, park festivals, and lakeside recreation in nearby areas. Stay hydrated and seek shade during peak sun hours.

Autumn

Cooler air and vivid fall foliage; harvest markets appear, and woodland trails become especially scenic. Layers and a light jacket are handy.

Nightlife Guide

Obertshausen at Night

Obertshausen itself has a modest nightlife scene with a few bars and pubs. For more options, residents often head to nearby Offenbach am Main or Frankfurt for lively clubs, craft beer bars, live music venues, and night markets. Expect a relaxed atmosphere with late-simmering cafes and beer gardens rather than a bustling club scene.

Hiking in Obertshausen

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Obertshausen Forest Trails

Gentle to moderate woodland loops right on the town’s doorstep, ideal for day hikes and family outings.

Rhein-Main Region Loop

Longer scenic routes that connect forested areas, riverside paths, and nearby towns for a full-day hike.

Airports

How to reach Obertshausen by plane.

Frankfurt Airport (FRA)

Major international hub located about 20-30 minutes by high-speed rail or car from Obertshausen; frequent flight connections and efficient onward transport.

Frankfurt-Hahn Airport (HHN)

Smaller international airport about 60-90 minutes from Obertshausen by car or intercity bus; good for low-cost carriers.

Cologne/Bonn Airport (CGN)

A larger regional option about 2 hours by car or train; useful for some European connections.

Getting Around

Walkability

Obertshausen is very walkable within the town center and its immediate surroundings. The town’s layout centers around a compact Marktplatz with shops and cafés within easy reach. For longer trips or countryside exploration, trains and local buses provide convenient access to neighboring towns.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families with Children

Quiet, residential neighborhoods with parks and good schools; popular with commuters.

Commuters to Frankfurt/Offenbach

Many residents travel daily to nearby cities for work, benefiting from fast rail connections.

Students and Young Professionals

Access to larger regional universities and job markets in the Rhine-Main region.

Retirees

Safe neighborhoods with community activities and accessible healthcare nearby.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

The most popular sport in the region with local clubs and youth programs.

Tennis

Many public and club courts; popular for summer recreation.

Cycling

Extensive cycling routes connect town centers with surrounding countryside and river paths.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is typically manageable in Obertshausen, with good road links via the A3 and local streets. Public transport is well integrated with the neighboring cities, including S-Bahn services to Frankfurt and Offenbach. Parking can be limited in peak times around the Marktplatz; consider using trains or bikes for shorter stays.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Obertshausen.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Most local eateries offer meat-free dishes such as potato-based meals, seasonal vegetables, salads, and Grüne Soße-style herb sauces. When in doubt, ask for dishes centered on potatoes, breads, and vegetables, and request cheese or eggs to supplement protein.

Vegan

Opt for plant-based salads, bread with olive oil, grains, and vegetables. Some places may offer vegan versions of traditional dishes or can modify plates on request. Carry a small note of local German phrases to communicate dietary needs.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare is accessible in Obertshausen via local general practitioners and pharmacies. For more specialized care or hospital services, residents typically use facilities in Offenbach am Main or Frankfurt. European Health Insurance Card holders and local health insurance plans are widely accepted in the region.

Discover Germany

Read more in our Germany 2025 Travel Guide.

Germany Travel Guide