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Eiserner Steg: Frankfurt's Iron Icon

Walk across Frankfurt's iconic Eiserner Steg, a historic bridge adorned with love locks, offering stunning skyline views and connecting the city's vibrant heart with the charming Sachsenhausen district.

The Eiserner Steg, or Iron Bridge, is a Frankfurt landmark offering stunning views and a rich history. Built in 1868, it connects the city center with Sachsenhausen, becoming a symbol of unity and resilience after being rebuilt post-World War II. Today, it's famous for the thousands of 'love locks' attached by couples, representing their enduring affection. Stroll across this pedestrian bridge to soak in panoramic views of Frankfurt's skyline, especially beautiful at sunset. Easily accessible by public transport, the bridge is a must-see for any visitor, providing a perfect blend of history, romance, and architectural beauty. Don't miss the Greek inscription from Homer's Odyssey, a nod to Frankfurt's diverse population and the bridge's role as a connector.

A brief summary to Eiserner Steg

  • Frankfurt, 60547, DE

Local tips

  • Visit during sunrise or sunset for the most breathtaking views of the Frankfurt skyline reflected in the Main River.
  • Bring a padlock to add your own 'love lock' to the bridge, joining the tradition of couples expressing their enduring affection.
  • Take the time to explore Sachsenhausen, easily accessible from the bridge, and sample traditional Apfelwein (apple wine) at a local tavern.
  • Look for the engraved water levels on the bridge pillars, marking the historical high watermarks of the Main River over the centuries.
  • Consider a guided walking tour that includes the Eiserner Steg to learn more about its history and significance in Frankfurt.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Hauptwache station (accessible by S-Bahn lines S1-S6, S8, S9), walk approximately 5-10 minutes east along the Mainkai towards the Eiserner Steg. Alternatively, take the U-Bahn (U4 or U5) to Dom/Römer station, which is a short 5-minute walk to the bridge. Tram lines 11 and 12 also stop at Römer/Paulskirche, a few minutes' walk from the bridge. A short trip ticket (Kurzstrecke) is sufficient for the U-Bahn or tram, costing around €2.50.

  • Walking

    If you are in the city center near the Römerberg, the Eiserner Steg is easily reachable on foot. Walk east along the Mainkai promenade, following the river. The bridge will be visible within a few minutes. From Sachsenhausen, simply walk towards the river from Schweizer Straße; the bridge will be directly ahead.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    A taxi or ride-share from Frankfurt Hauptbahnhof (Central Station) to the Eiserner Steg will take approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. The approximate cost is €10-€15. Ask to be dropped off at Mainkai near the bridge entrance.

  • Driving

    Parking near the Eiserner Steg is limited and can be expensive. The closest parking garages are Parkhaus Römer and Parkhaus Dom/Römer. Expect to pay around €3-€4 per hour, or €20-€30 for a full day. Be aware that these garages can fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist season and weekends. Consider parking further away and taking public transport or walking to the bridge.

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Discover more about Eiserner Steg

The Eiserner Steg, an iconic pedestrian bridge in Frankfurt am Main, gracefully spans the Main River, linking the bustling city center with the charming district of Sachsenhausen. More than just a crossing, it's a symbol of Frankfurt's history, resilience, and enduring spirit. Originally constructed in 1868, the Eiserner Steg (literally 'Iron Footbridge') emerged during a period of rapid industrialization and urban growth. Financed by Frankfurt citizens, the bridge was designed by Peter Schmick and served as a vital link between the city's core and the expanding residential areas across the river. Its wrought-iron construction, a marvel of 19th-century engineering, quickly became a defining feature of the Frankfurt skyline. In 1912, the original bridge was replaced with a larger, cantilever structure to accommodate increased pedestrian traffic and the growing demands of river navigation. While retaining its historical appearance, the new design ensured greater stability and a higher clearance for passing ships. This foresight proved crucial as Frankfurt continued to develop into a major European metropolis. Tragically, like much of Frankfurt, the Eiserner Steg was destroyed during the final days of World War II. Blown up by the Wehrmacht in 1945, the bridge lay in ruins, a stark reminder of the devastation wrought by the war. However, the people of Frankfurt, determined to rebuild their city, prioritized the restoration of this vital link. In 1946, just a year after the war's end, the Eiserner Steg was reconstructed, symbolizing the city's resilience and its commitment to a brighter future. Over the decades, the Eiserner Steg has undergone several renovations to ensure its structural integrity and preserve its historical character. The most recent major renovation took place in 1993, addressing corrosion and adding modern amenities such as elevators to improve accessibility for all visitors. Today, the Eiserner Steg is more than just a functional bridge; it's a beloved landmark and a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. Approximately 10,000 pedestrians cross it daily. Its neo-Gothic design, with riveted steel trusses and two prominent bridge piers, offers a picturesque backdrop for photographs and leisurely strolls. The bridge is particularly enchanting at night, when it's illuminated, casting a warm glow on the Main River. One of the most distinctive features of the Eiserner Steg is the thousands of 'love locks' that adorn its railings. Couples from around the world attach padlocks to the bridge, symbolizing their eternal love, and throw the keys into the river. This tradition, reminiscent of similar bridges in Paris and other romantic cities, has transformed the Eiserner Steg into a symbol of romance and commitment. Adding to the bridge's allure is a Greek inscription spanning the steel construction over the northern pillar. Taken from Homer's Odyssey, the quote translates to 'Sailing on the dark sea to people of another tongue.' This inscription, created by artist Hagen Bonifer in 1999, celebrates Frankfurt's multiculturalism and the bridge's role as a gateway to different cultures and perspectives. The Eiserner Steg connects the city center near Römerberg with Sachsenhausen, known for its traditional apple wine taverns, museums, and vibrant nightlife. Crossing the bridge allows visitors to easily explore both sides of the river, experiencing the diverse attractions that Frankfurt has to offer. From the bridge, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Frankfurt's skyline, including the iconic spires of the Frankfurt Cathedral and the modern skyscrapers of the financial district. The Museumsufer, a string of renowned museums along the Sachsenhausen bank of the Main, is also easily visible from the bridge. The Eiserner Steg is easily accessible by public transportation, with several U-Bahn and S-Bahn stations located within walking distance. The bridge is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and there is no admission fee, making it a convenient and affordable attraction for all. Whether you're a history buff, a hopeless romantic, or simply seeking a scenic stroll, the Eiserner Steg offers a unique and unforgettable experience. It's a place where history, culture, and romance converge, creating a lasting impression on all who cross its path. The Eiserner Steg is not just a bridge; it's a symbol of Frankfurt's past, present, and future, a testament to the city's enduring spirit and its commitment to connecting people and cultures.

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