Background

Eiserner Steg: Frankfurt's Iconic Iron Footbridge

Walk across Frankfurt's iconic Iron Footbridge, a historic landmark connecting the city center to Sachsenhausen, offering stunning skyline views and a romantic atmosphere.

4.6

The Eiserner Steg, or Iron Footbridge, is a Frankfurt landmark offering stunning views and a vibrant atmosphere. Spanning the Main River, it connects the city center with Sachsenhausen. Built in 1868, destroyed in WWII, and rebuilt in 1946, it stands as a symbol of resilience and connection. Adorned with love locks, it's a romantic spot and a popular photo location, especially at sunset. The bridge provides access to the Museum Embankment and Sachsenhausen's traditional taverns. Whether you're seeking scenic views, a romantic stroll, or a glimpse into Frankfurt's history, the Eiserner Steg is a must-visit.

A brief summary to Iron Footbridge

Local tips

  • Visit the bridge at sunset for breathtaking views of the Frankfurt skyline as the city lights begin to illuminate.
  • Bring a lock to add to the bridge as a symbol of love and commitment, contributing to the bridge's unique and colorful display.
  • Explore the Sachsenhausen district on the south side of the bridge for traditional apple wine taverns and a taste of local Frankfurt culture.
  • Take advantage of the bridge's central location to easily access the Museum Embankment and the historic Römerberg.
  • Visit during a weekday to avoid the weekend crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Römerberg, walk south towards the Mainkai embankment. Follow the Mainkai eastwards for a few minutes, keeping the river on your right. The Eiserner Steg will be visible ahead. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes and offers views of the river and surrounding architecture.

  • Public Transport

    From Frankfurt Hauptbahnhof (main train station), take any S-Bahn line (S1-S9) to the 'Frankfurt (Main) Römer/Paulskirche' station. From there, walk south towards the Mainkai embankment and follow it eastwards. The Eiserner Steg will be visible within a 5-minute walk. A single ticket within Frankfurt (Zone 50) costs €3.80.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    A taxi or ride-share from Frankfurt Hauptbahnhof to the Eiserner Steg will take approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated cost is between €10-€15. Direct the driver to the Mainkai near the Römerberg.

  • Driving

    Driving directly to the Eiserner Steg is not recommended due to limited parking. The closest parking options are available near the Römerberg or in the Sachsenhausen district, but these can be expensive and fill up quickly. Parking fees typically range from €2-€4 per hour. A stopping bay is available directly on Mainkai for short stops. Otherwise, parking is available on Berliner Street near St. Paul's Church (Paulskirche) (2 hour parking limit), as well as in front of the youth hostel in Sachsenhausen.

Unlock the Best of Iron Footbridge

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Iron Footbridge

The Eiserner Steg, an iconic iron footbridge, gracefully stretches across the Main River in Frankfurt, Germany, linking the bustling city center with the charming district of Sachsenhausen. More than just a means of crossing, it's a symbol of Frankfurt's history, resilience, and enduring spirit. Originally constructed in 1868, the Eiserner Steg was one of the first iron bridges in Germany. Financed through public subscription, it offered a vital connection for pedestrians between the city center and the then-independent town of Sachsenhausen. For a small fee, locals and visitors could traverse the Main, fostering trade and cultural exchange. The bridge's strategic importance was evident from the start, quickly becoming an integral part of Frankfurt's urban fabric. The bridge's distinctive neo-Gothic design, characterized by its intricate iron latticework and elegant arches, made it an instant landmark. Its silhouette against the Frankfurt skyline became a beloved image, frequently captured by artists and photographers. The Eiserner Steg wasn't just functional; it was a work of art, reflecting the city's architectural sensibilities. Tragically, like much of Frankfurt, the original Eiserner Steg was destroyed during World War II. In the war's final days, the Wehrmacht blew up the bridge. However, the city's commitment to its heritage was unwavering. In 1946, just a year after the war's end, the Eiserner Steg was rebuilt, adhering to the original design. This act of reconstruction symbolized Frankfurt's determination to rise from the ashes and reclaim its identity. The rebuilt Eiserner Steg continued to serve as a vital pedestrian link, but it also evolved into something more: a symbol of love and connection. Inspired by similar traditions in other cities, couples began attaching padlocks to the bridge's ironwork, symbolizing their eternal love. These "love locks," often inscribed with initials and dates, transformed the bridge into a vibrant, colorful testament to romance. The tradition continues to this day, with thousands of locks adorning the bridge, creating a unique and ever-evolving art installation. In 1993, the Eiserner Steg underwent a comprehensive renovation to address decades of corrosion. While preserving its historical appearance, the renovation ensured the bridge's structural integrity and accessibility. Elevators were added to facilitate access for wheelchairs and prams, making the bridge more inclusive for all visitors. Today, the Eiserner Steg remains one of Frankfurt's most popular attractions. Approximately 10,000 people cross the bridge daily, drawn by its history, its beauty, and its romantic atmosphere. From the bridge's midpoint, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the Frankfurt skyline, including the iconic spires of the Frankfurt Cathedral and the modern skyscrapers of the banking district. The views are particularly stunning at sunset, when the city lights begin to twinkle and reflect on the Main River. The bridge also features a Greek inscription, a quote from Homer's Odyssey: "ΠΛΕΩΝ ΕΠΙ ΟΙΝΟΠΑ ΠΟΝΤΟΝ ΕΠ ΑΛΛΟΘΡΟΟΥΣ ΑΝΘΡΩΠΟΥΣ" (Sailing on the dark sea to people of another tongue). This inscription, added in 1999, celebrates Frankfurt's diverse population and its role as a global hub. Crossing the Eiserner Steg offers more than just a scenic route. It provides access to some of Frankfurt's most important cultural attractions. On the north side of the river lies the Römerberg, Frankfurt's historic city center, with its charming half-timbered houses and the iconic Römer building, the city hall. On the south side, in Sachsenhausen, is the Museum Embankment, a collection of world-class museums showcasing art, history, and culture. Sachsenhausen itself is a vibrant district known for its traditional apple wine taverns, or "Apfelweinwirtschaften." These taverns offer a taste of authentic Frankfurt culture, serving local specialties like apple wine and hearty German cuisine. Exploring Sachsenhausen's narrow streets and sampling its culinary delights is a must for any visitor to Frankfurt. The Eiserner Steg is more than just a bridge; it's a symbol of Frankfurt's past, present, and future. It's a testament to the city's resilience, its commitment to its heritage, and its embrace of diversity. Whether you're a history buff, an art lover, a romantic soul, or simply someone seeking a beautiful view, the Eiserner Steg offers something for everyone. A stroll across this iconic bridge is an essential Frankfurt experience.

Popular Experiences near Iron Footbridge

Popular Hotels near Iron Footbridge

Select Currency