Things to do in Giessen
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Top 10 attractions in Giessen
The Roman Forum
The Roman Forum is the historic heart of the old town of Frankfurt. Since the Middle Ages, it has served as a public center for municipal administration, commerce, and celebrations, and the coronation banquets of emperors during the Holy Roman Empire were once held at the Römer City Hall here. This building complex features stepped gables of varying heights, creating a striking silhouette. A row of half-timbered houses with bright colors and diverse styles serves as a typical representation of the German old town streetscape. In the center stands the Fountain of Justice, with the goddess holding a pair of scales in one hand and a sword in the other, adding a sense of solemnity. The building complex was damaged in 1944 and rebuilt according to its historical appearance, and subsequent construction projects reconnected the entire old town. Looking around, the medieval-style building complex and the modern high-rises rising in the distance appear in the same frame, creating a view where the new and the old reflect each other. During the Christmas season, the historic Christmas market spreads out here with a sea of lights and clusters of wooden huts, creating a rich festive atmosphere.Frankfurt · 51 km from Giessen
Giethoorn
Giethoorn is a water village where canals replace roads. Because of its crisscrossing waterways and lush greenery, it is known as the "Venice of the North." The village's name comes from the large number of goat horns unearthed by early residents while digging for peat; "Geytenhoren" in Dutch means "goat horn," which was later simplified to Giethoorn. The lake district where the village is located is itself a mark left by centuries of peat extraction, with the excavated trenches gradually developing into today's canal network. A major scenic view in the village is the thatched-roof farmhouses built along the river—the roofs are covered with reeds, complemented by wooden exterior walls and meticulously maintained gardens, scattered along both banks of the canal and connected by numerous small wooden bridges. Boating along the canals is the core way to experience the village; traveling through the tranquil waterways by small boat allows you to enjoy the view of the thatched-roof houses and pastoral scenery from the water. In addition to the waterways, you can also cycle along the forest paths to experience the village's pastoral atmosphere from another perspective.Netherlands · Giethoorn
Römer City Hall
Römer City Hall is a landmark building in Frankfurt, located on the east side of The Roman Forum. It consists of three medieval houses with stepped gables joined together. The German name "Römer" comes from the middle house—legend has it that it was once the property of a Roman merchant. Since it was purchased by the city in 1405, this complex has served as thecity hallof Frankfurt for over 600 years, and the mayor's office and city council are still located there today. In the middle of the main facade stand statues of four Holy Roman Emperors. TheImperial Hallon the second floor is the highlight of the entire complex. During the Holy Roman Empire, after the new emperor completed his coronation at Frankfurt Cathedral, the celebratory banquet was held in this hall; the four walls are hung with portraits of 52 emperors from Charlemagne to Francis II. The balcony on the facade, decorated with coat-of-arms patterns, has always been a stage for city celebrations; after the German men's football team won the World Cup in 1990 and the women's team in 2003, they both stood here to greet the fans in the square. Römer City Hall was severely damaged in air raids during World War II and was rebuilt according to its original appearance after the war. On the ground floor, there are also the Roman Hall and the Swan Hall, which have remained almost unchanged for 600 years and can be entered from the main entrance.Frankfurt · 51 km from Giessen
Rheinauhafen District
Rheinauhafen District is a waterfront neighborhood transformed from an old freight port. The riverside promenade is lined with modern buildings, interspersed with cafes, galleries, and art spaces. The remnants of the port era and the newly built glass facades complement each other, showcasing a modern urban style. The district's core landmark consists of three high-rise buildings known as the "Crane Houses," standing approx. 60m tall, with an inverted L-shape that echoes the area's history as a freight terminal. Historical remnants, such as the Bayenturm tower dating back to the Middle Ages, are also preserved along the route. Looking north along the river, the silhouettes of the cathedral and the iron bridge are clearly visible, with classical spires and modern architecture framed together. At dusk, the sunset reflects on the river surface, and strolling along the path offers a panoramic view of the city on both banks, forming a waterfront view that blends industrial memories with a stylish atmosphere.Germany · Cologne
Iron Footbridge
Iron Footbridge is a steel truss bridge for pedestrians on the Main River in Frankfurt and an iconic city landmark. It was initially built with funds raised by citizens, replaced by the current steel truss structure in 1912, and rebuilt to its original design after World War II, featuring an overall dark green steel appearance. It is over 100m long, and the truss, composed of riveted steel beams, exudes a strong industrial vibe. Standing on the bridge, you can enjoy panoramic views of the city: looking downstream reveals the modern skyline, while looking back at the north bank shows the spires and red-tiled roofs of the old town churches. The blend of old and new makes it a classic spot for photographing the city panorama. The railings on both sides of the bridge are covered with love locks left by couples. The arch spanning the walkway in the middle of the bridge is also engraved with a Greek inscription from Homer's Odyssey, adding a touch of poetic charm to the sturdy steel bridge. Elevators have been installed on the bridge deck to ensure smooth access for everyone.Frankfurt · 51.3 km from Giessen
Rhine River
Rhine Riveroriginates in the Swiss Alps and flows through the heart of Western Europe, spanning over 1,200 km.Since the 19th-century Romantic era, this area has become a romantic icon in the works of poets and painters, with its scenery of ancient castles, vineyards, and riverside towns, connecting many historic cities along its banks. Its most essential section is concentrated in the Middle Rhine Valley: dozens of ancient castles and fortresses are scattered along the banks, the reefs at the river bends hold ancient legends and poems, and vineyards are layered among the steep slate slopes, forming a magnificent natural and cultural landscape of the valley. Both banks are accompanied by walking trails and cycling paths, with numerous wine towns distributed along the way. The "Rhine in Flames" fireworks event, presented in turn by several towns along the river, has continued for many years and is a characteristic cultural event long held in this area, showcasing the rich atmosphere of the river basin.Germany · Germersheim
Vallée de la Pétrusse
Vallée de la Pétrusse is also known asVallée de la Pétrusse, a rift about 100 m wide and about 60 m deep that runs across Luxembourg City, naturally separating the high ground of the old town from the new district by the train station. The gorge once served as Luxembourg City's natural barrier, and remnants of fortifications such as bastions, gun ports, and secret passages still remain between the cliffs. It was inscribed on the World Heritage List in 1994. Today the gorge has returned to nature, with towering trees spreading layers of green shade and the Pétrusse stream quietly flowing along the valley floor. Stone steps from the plaza side lead all the way down to the valley floor, and along the shaded path you can look up to see the Pont Adolphe spanning the gorge and the arch of the old bridge. The path is gentle, suitable for walking, jogging, and cycling. If you only want to view it from a distance, stand on the plaza or on the bridge spanning the gorge and the canyon's greenery and the old town roofs will appear in the same view. On misty mornings, the valley floor is shrouded in fog, which further accentuates the canyon's depth. In summer, you can also take the open-air sightseeing train Pétrusse express and, with commentary, view the canyon's military remains and natural scenery.Luxembourg · Luxembourg City
Colmar Old Town
Colmar Old Town is located in the city center of Colmar, in the Alsace region of northeastern France, and is one of the best-preserved historical districts in France, renowned for its brightly colored traditional houses, winding canals, and rich Alsatian local character. Its history dates back to the Middle Ages, and the district retains a large number of medieval and Renaissance buildings, showcasing a unique blend of French and German culture. The Lauch River flows through the district, lined with houses in various colors such as red, yellow, and blue. The canals, bridges, and floral decorations together create a charming view. Strolling along the cobblestone streets, you can see traditional half-timbered buildings, exquisite windowsills, old shops, and small squares steeped in history. The Pfister House within the district is famous for its unique half-timbered exterior and decorative murals, making it a representative historical building of the area.France · Colmar
Titisee
Titisee is a natural lake shaped by glaciers. During the Ice Age, the Feldberg glacier carved out the lake basin, and moraine deposits formed the current shoreline. The lake surface is at an altitude of approx. 850 m, stretches for approx. 2 km, and reaches a depth of approx. 40 m. The clear lake water reflects the surrounding layers of forests and mountains. The origin of the lake's name is debated, but a widely circulated story is that the Roman general Titus marched here, was moved by the lake, and named it after himself. In summer, the lake is open for swimming, sailing, and windsurfing. You can also rent a pedal boat to head to the center of the lake or take a sightseeing cruise to slowly enjoy the forests and mountains on both shores from the water. The lakeside town of the same name on the north shore has a lakeside promenade lined with souvenir shops, and a representative local souvenir is the Black Forest cuckoo clock. These time-telling cuckoo clocks are hand-carved by local residents, and today, finished products of various sizes are displayed in the clock shops in town. The lake area takes on a different look in winter. The lake does not freeze over completely every year. Only when the ice reaches a sufficient thickness and is measured and confirmed to be safe will designated areas be marked off for people to walk or skate on the ice. Coupled with the surrounding sledding runs, this is also one of the places in the Black Forest for winter snow activities.Germany · Titisee
Zeil
Zeil is the main commercial street in downtown Frankfurt. The street name dates back to the 14th century and is derived from the German word for "a row of houses." Since the late 19th century, it has gradually developed into a shopping district. Post-war reconstructed buildings and modern shopping malls are intertwined here. The western section is a pedestrian zone lined with continuous shops, often featuring street performers. The street is lined with numerous long-established department stores and brand-name shops, among which MyZeil, designed by Italian architect Fuksas, is particularly eye-catching with its vortex-shaped glass facade. A farmers' market is held weekly on the square at the eastern end of the district, where you can find local produce and flowers. During the Christmas season, wooden huts for the Christmas market are set up on the western side, creating a rich festive atmosphere and making it an avenue that combines commercial bustle with local charm.Frankfurt · 50.5 km from Giessen
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Free things to do in Giessen
The Roman Forum
Frankfurt · 51 km from GiessenGiethoorn
Netherlands · GiethoornRömer City Hall
Frankfurt · 51 km from GiessenRheinauhafen District
Germany · CologneIron Footbridge
Frankfurt · 51.3 km from GiessenRhine River
Germany · GermersheimVallée de la Pétrusse
Luxembourg · Luxembourg CityColmar Old Town
France · ColmarTitisee
Germany · TitiseeZeil
Frankfurt · 50.5 km from Giessen
What travellers say about Giessen
TW HamburgDecember 17, 2025
4.0
A nice place to get lost in old times Really enjoyed the time travel and old buildings
The Roman Forum
YoYo_0T9A3B0LMay 1, 2026
5.0
Giethoorn truly resembles a fairytale town, with more waterways than roads, and small boats moored in front of every house. Low houses with reed-roofed roofs line the waterways, their gardens meticulously manicured. Renting a boat and rowing yourself is the most relaxing way to experience it, slowly gliding under small bridges, with meadows and wild ducks on either side. The main street is somewhat commercialized, but turning into the side streets brings tranquility, with only the sound of oars paddling through the water. It's best to visit on a sunny day; the slippery roads can be quite inconvenient on rainy days.
Giethoorn
miss banzaiSeptember 3, 2023
5.0
Römerberg is a medieval style public space in the heart of Frankfurt 's old town. It's super cute with loads of coffee shops and pubs. It is very lively and touristic. Totally worth a visit 😍
Römer City Hall
老少皆宜（）March 2, 2023
5.0
Cologne in Germany is a popular place for tourists to visit. It has the most famous Cologne Cathedral⛪️ and the Cologne Promenade. Cologne is the fourth largest city in Germany and is located on the banks of the Rhine in western Germany.
Rheinauhafen District
阳光下的大树郁郁葱葱January 2, 2022
5.0
The Iron Bridge spans the Main River, connecting the north and south banks of Frankfurt. It is the first suspension bridge in Europe. You can stop on the bridge to enjoy the beautiful scenery on both sides of Frankfurt, hang a love lock to show your affection to your dog, or take a cruise ship or steam train for a short trip from here.
Iron Footbridge
吃饭了没上市January 5, 2022
5.0
The Petros Canyon, also known as the Luxembourg Grand Canyon, is one of the world's famous scenic spots. It is about 100 meters wide and 60 meters deep, naturally dividing Luxembourg City into two urban areas, the new and old areas in the north and south.
Constitution Square is the best place to view the Grand Canyon and the scenery on both sides. Opposite the Grand Canyon, there is a palace-like building located in the green, which looks particularly magnificent. It is the Luxembourg National Savings Bank. At its north end is a tall pointed round bell tower, and on both sides are medieval buildings with only roofs visible.
Vallée de la Pétrusse
Hossain Hoq ProhorSeptember 12, 2026
5.0
Colmar Old Town is a charming destination that feels like stepping into a beautiful fairytale. Located in the Alsace region of France, it is famous for its colorful half-timbered houses, flower-filled streets, picturesque canals, and beautifully preserved historic architecture. Walking through the narrow streets is a delightful experience, with every corner offering a perfect photo opportunity. The area around Little Venice is especially enchanting, where colorful buildings reflect beautifully on the peaceful canals. Cozy cafés, local shops, and traditional Alsatian restaurants add to the welcoming atmosphere. With its romantic scenery, peaceful surroundings, and storybook charm, Colmar Old Town is a wonderful place to explore and enjoy at a relaxed pace.
Colmar Old Town
XinleAugust 23, 2023
5.0
Went there and bought some souvenirs and there is a stall selling strawberry and cherries. the price is cheap and they are fresh
Titisee
_CF***56December 8, 2023
5.0
[Scenery] Various luxury brands line the streets!
[Fun] There is a Goethe sculpture in Goethe Square, and the architecture is also very distinctive!
[Value for money] Many big brands are very expensive!
Zeil
