A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Frankfurt vs. Paris for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Frankfurt or Paris?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Frankfurt and Paris can help you decide which place is right for you.

Frankfurt

Frankfurt is a energetic, dynamic, and diverse city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Paris

Paris is a energetic, beautiful, and iconic city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the theater, nightlife, and live music.

Frankfurt and Paris: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Frankfurt or Paris?

You'll generally find more things to do in Paris than Frankfurt. Paris is bigger than Frankfurt, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Paris is better known for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Frankfurt is more popular for its historical sights. Paris is more touristy than Frankfurt and is known for its world-renowned cuisine, iconic landmarks, trendsetting fashion, and dynamic markets. Also, Paris is famous for The Eiffel Tower. Frankfurt is well known for its financial industry, its popularity as a transportation hub, and its active nightlife.

The Eiffel Tower

How is Frankfurt different from Paris?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Paris and Frankfurt. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Frankfurt or Paris?

Paris is an unbeatable place for its museums and history. Also, Frankfurt is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Paris has many famous sights for visitors. One of the most world famous landmarks is the Eiffel Tower. The city is also home to the world renowned Louvre, Notre-Dame, and Palais Garnier Opera House. In addition to the many iconic sights, there are beautiful buildings and hidden gems throughout the city.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Frankfurt can be an interesting and educational experience. Many sights are concentrated in the old town center. Highlights include the Historical Museum and St. Nicholas Church. Elsewhere, make sure you check out Maintower, the Städel Museum, and the Museum District.

Is Frankfurt or Paris Better for Theater?

Paris is an unbeatable place for its shows and theatre. However, Frankfurt is not a theatre destination.

The theater scene in Paris is world-class. There are world class theaters as well as smaller local venues where you can enjoy a show.

Frankfurt is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Frankfurt or Paris? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Paris is an unbeatable place for its restaurants. Also, Frankfurt is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Paris has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. There are countless local restaurants, markets, and patisseries to explore. Make sure you try the steak tartare, pate, and macarons.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Frankfurt makes for a great culinary experience. In addition to a number of international restaurants, the city also has a strong regional cuisine. Some of the most interesting local dishes include Frankfurter Sausage, Rindwurst, Grüne Soße (an herb sauce), and Handkäse mit Musik (marinated sour milk cheese). Also make sure you sample the Apfelwein.

Is Frankfurt or Paris Better for Nightlife?

Paris is an unbeatable place for its evening party scene. Also, Frankfurt is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

The nightlife in Paris is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. Head to Pigalle or the Latin Quarter for some of the city's best nightlife. There are all-night parties, cabarets, and exclusive night clubs that you can experience.

The people in Frankfurt know how to have a good time. It's a vibrant city with many trendy clubs, cocktail bars, music venues, and more. You can enjoy techno, hip hop, and almost any style of music. There are also festivals, beer halls, and classic pubs.

Is Frankfurt or Paris Better for Music?

Paris is an unbeatable place for its music scene. However, Frankfurt is not a live music destination.

Paris has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. Some of the most famous music venues include Le Pop In, La Mécanique Ondulatoire, and Les Disquaires. You'll also find many small bars where you can enjoy live music in a quaint setting.

Frankfurt is not a live music destination.

Is Frankfurt or Paris Better for its Old Town?

Frankfurt is a popular place for its historic old town. However, Paris does not have a historic old town.

Frankfurt is a good destination for visiting its old town. Many museums and cafes are concentrated in the old town area.

Paris does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Frankfurt or Paris?

Paris is an unbeatable place for its shopping areas. Also, Frankfurt is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many people travel to Paris specifically to go shopping. Some of the best areas for shopping are Boulevard Haussmann and the Grands Boulevards, the Marais, and Avenue Montaigne and the Champs-Elysées. The city is iconic for its fashion scene and world class shopping venues.

Frankfurt is an extremely popular place for shoppers. It's a financial capital in Europe, and as such there are plenty of high end shopping opportunities. MyZeil is a major shopping mall in the city and Kleinmarkthalle is a more classic market. Popular shopping neighborhoods and streets include Goethestrasse, Sachsenhausen and Berger Strasse.

Is Frankfurt or Paris Better for Christmas?

Paris is an unbeatable place for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Frankfurt does not offer Christmas activities.

Known for its popular Christmas activities, Paris draws large crowds. The city of lights really proves itself around the holiday season. In addition to checking out the Christmas lights, it's fun to go window shopping or check out one of the city's Christmas markets.

Frankfurt does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Frankfurt or Paris Better for Families?

Paris is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Frankfurt is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Paris is one of the most popular family destinations. Check out Jardin du Luxembourg, or one of the city's many playgrounds. Also grab a treat at one of the city's many patisseries. And of course, there's Disneyland Paris.

Frankfurt is a very family-friendly place to visit. In town there's a zoo, a children’s museum, a math and technology museum (EXPERIMINTA), and a number of parks, natural areas, and playgrounds. If you're willing to head out of town then you can visit Taunus Wunderland, which is an amusement park with about 50 rides and attractions.

Is Frankfurt or Paris Better for Couples?

Paris is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Frankfurt is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Paris has plenty to offer. A city filled with romance, you really can't find a more ideal destination for a European honeymoon or a couple's getaway.

Frankfurt is a nice destination for couples. The iconic spot of romance in the city is the Iron Footbridge, which is a traditional spot to attach a "love lock" and take a selfie. The city also offers river cruises, winery tours, and beautiful parks and natural areas.

Is Frankfurt or Paris Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paris is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Frankfurt is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Paris, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. It's a big city, so it's easy to get lost in the chaos, but there are many hostels and other backpacker hangouts around town.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Frankfurt. You'll find a number of hostels in town. The city is also a major transportation hub so many backpackers pass through the area at some point on their trip through Germany.

Is Frankfurt or Paris Better for Students?

Both Frankfurt and Paris are world-class destinations for students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Frankfurt. The city offers prestigious universities and a world class education. The economy offers many internships and job opportunities and you'll find students from around the world studying here. Frankfurt is also well connected to the rest of Europe, so it's easy to explore the region.

Paris is a great destination for students. The city is one of the most popular destinations for international and study abroad students.

Is Frankfurt or Paris Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Visitors will find world-class public transit in both Frankfurt and Paris.

Visitors in Frankfurt can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. It is a huge transportation hub with a major international airport and a number of international train connections. Locally, the city has a subway, trams, commuter trains and buses.

Paris has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. The city's metro system is very comprehensive. There's also a bus system that you can use to get around.

Is Frankfurt or Paris a more walkable city?

Frankfurt and Paris are great when it comes to walkability.

Frankfurt is a very walkable destination. It has a compact city center that is generally pedestrian-friendly.

Paris is very walkable. Some streets can feel a bit overwhelming, but there are many parts of the city that are easily explored on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Frankfurt Worth Visiting? and Is Paris Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Paris or Frankfurt?

How long in Frankfurt or Paris?

Both Frankfurt and Paris have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Paris than in Frankfurt. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Frankfurt, and 3-7 days is enough time in Paris.

Families should spend more time in Paris than Frankfurt. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Paris, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Paris than Frankfurt. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Paris that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Paris than Frankfurt if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Paris.

One day in Frankfurt or Paris?

Each neighborhood in Frankfurt has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

You'll find museums and theater around the city of Paris. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Frankfurt or Paris?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Frankfurt. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

You'll find theater and nightlife around the beautiful big city of Paris. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Frankfurt or Paris?

Frankfurt is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the big city destination of Frankfurt. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

You'll find nightlife and live music around the beautiful city of Paris. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Frankfurt or Paris?

You'll find food and shopping around the connected big city of Frankfurt. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Paris is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Paris, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Coach Bus Tours in Germany, The Best Adventure Tours to Germany, The Best Historical Tours in France, and The Best 10-Day Tours in France.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Frankfurt and Paris, we can see that Paris is more expensive. And not only is Frankfurt much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Frankfurt would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Frankfurt and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Paris would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Paris than you might in Frankfurt.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Frankfurt Expensive? and Is Paris Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Frankfurt or Paris?

Paris has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Frankfurt. When comparing the sizes of Frankfurt and Paris, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Frankfurt or Paris?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Frankfurt or Paris in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Frankfurt and Paris. Most visitors come to Frankfurt for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Paris because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Frankfurt is around the same temperature as Paris. Typically, the summer temperatures in Frankfurt in July average around 19°C (67°F), and Paris averages at about 20°C (68°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Paris this time of the year. In Frankfurt, it's very sunny this time of the year. Frankfurt usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Paris during summer. Frankfurt gets 225 hours of sunny skies, while Paris receives 241 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Frankfurt usually receives more rain than Paris. Frankfurt gets 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Paris receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Frankfurt or Paris in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Frankfurt as well as Paris. The autumn months attract visitors to Frankfurt because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Additionally, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Paris this time of year.

In October, Frankfurt is generally cooler than Paris. Daily temperatures in Frankfurt average around 11°C (51°F), and Paris fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

In the autumn, Frankfurt often gets less sunshine than Paris. Frankfurt gets 103 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Paris receives 127 hours of full sun.

Frankfurt usually gets less rain in October than Paris. Frankfurt gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Paris receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Frankfurt or Paris in the Winter?

Both Paris and Frankfurt are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Frankfurt this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Paris for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Paris. It's quite cold in Frankfurt in the winter. Frankfurt is much colder than Paris in the winter. The daily temperature in Frankfurt averages around 1°C (34°F) in January, and Paris fluctuates around 5°C (40°F).

Frankfurt usually receives less sunshine than Paris during winter. Frankfurt gets 41 hours of sunny skies, while Paris receives 62 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Frankfurt usually receives less rain than Paris. Frankfurt gets 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Paris receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Frankfurt or Paris in the Spring?

Both Paris and Frankfurt during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Frankfurt for the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Paris in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Frankfurt is cooler than Paris. Typically, the spring temperatures in Frankfurt in April average around 10°C (50°F), and Paris averages at about 11°C (52°F).

In the spring, Frankfurt often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Paris. Frankfurt gets 163 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Paris receives 172 hours of full sun.

Frankfurt usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Paris. Frankfurt gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Paris receives 50 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Paris and Frankfurt