A great place to start the day in Frankfurt is at the Alte Nikolaikirche. The facade of "Old Nicholas Church" is dominated by sculptures of St. Nicholas. At nine a.m., noon, and 5 p.m. you'll hear the 40-bell Glockenspiel play German folk songs. Go inside to see the Schmerzensmann, a medieval sculpture dating from 1370. In summer months, on Wednesday evenings, catch the English language musical vespers.

The Romer (on Romerberg Square) consists of three houses built around 1300 and used in the 16th century as the city's Rathaus (town hall). In the center house you'll find the Kaisersaal with a collection of the portraits of 52 Holy Roman Emperors.

Kaiserdom - Dominated by a red-sandstone tower, in this chapel the Holy Roman Emperors were elected and crowned for 300 years. Climb the tower (300 steps) for panoramic city views.

Historical Museum (Historisches Museum) - A great place to go to get the feel of the city. Check out the scale model of the Old Town and golden crowns of ancient German kings.

Take a boat ride - Take a one hour cruise on the Main River, with super views of the bridges and skyline. Boats have open air decks, and snacks. You can pick up the boats at the Eiserner Steg (near the Dom and Historical Museum); there are family tickets.