Once an industrial area, today Frankfurt’s Eastend district is filled with stylish hotels, repurposed warehouses, riverside cafés, and art-forward apartments.
Travelers come here for one key reason: location without the rush. Staying in Eastend means you’re minutes from the Main River, Ostbahnhof station, and landmarks like the European Central Bank, all while surrounded by a neighborhood that feels distinctly Frankfurt, not touristy.
This guide dives into where to stay, how to choose the right area, what amenities to look for, and how to live like a local in East Frankfurt.
Why Stay in Frankfurt’s Eastend

Eastend (or Ostend in German) offers the best of both worlds: serenity and access. It’s far enough from the skyscraper cluster to breathe but close enough to walk or bike into the city center. The area draws a mix of digital nomads, long-term travelers, and weekend visitors seeking atmosphere over flash.
What makes Eastend special:
- The Main River promenade for scenic runs and evening strolls
- The Osthafen district, where creative agencies and craft breweries coexist
- Easy transit via Ostbahnhof, connecting to Frankfurt Airport and central hubs
- Iconic landmarks like the European Central Bank Tower and the Zoo Frankfurt
It’s an area that balances modernity with personality, a great fit for travelers who value authentic experiences and design-led stays.
Modern Stays that Capture East Frankfurt’s Spirit
One standout option for those who want a community-driven yet stylish base is lyf East Frankfurt. This accommodation blends co-living with comfort, perfect for solo travelers, digital workers, or couples who enjoy connecting with others. Think sleek interiors, communal kitchens, shared lounges, and a lively social calendar.
The property embodies what Eastend is all about: creative design, walkable convenience, and local energy. You’re a few minutes away from the Main riverbank and surrounded by independent cafés, concept stores, and restaurants that locals actually visit.
Good to know: lyf is part of Ascott’s global portfolio, meaning you’ll get reliability with a strong local twist — a rare find in Frankfurt’s hotel landscape.
Types of Accommodation in Eastend
There’s no one-size-fits-all stay here — the neighborhood offers everything from boutique hotels to serviced apartments and creative hostels.
| Type | Ideal For | Price Range (per night) |
| Serviced Apartments | Business travelers, digital nomads | €110–€180 |
| Boutique Hotels | Couples, short-term city stays | €90–€150 |
| Co-living Spaces | Solo travelers, long stays | €80–€130 |
| Hostels and Guesthouses | Backpackers, budget travelers | €40–€80 |
Pro tip: Booking directly often unlocks perks like early check-in, local experiences, or bike rentals, especially in independently managed properties.
Best Streets and Micro-Areas to Stay
East End’s charm lies in its micro-neighborhoods; each corner offers a slightly different vibe.
- Hanauer Landstraße: A dynamic stretch filled with hotels, furniture showrooms, and cocktail bars. Great transport links and nightlife.
- Osthafenviertel: Riverside living at its best. Expect loft conversions and river views.
- Zobelstraße and surrounding lanes: Quieter, residential, yet close to tram stops and parks. Ideal for longer stays.
- Zoo and Habsburgerallee area: Close to greenery and family-friendly attractions.
Staying near Hanauer Landstraße gives you the best balance between energy and convenience; most accommodations here are within walking distance of both the Main River and tram lines 11 and 12.
What Travelers Love Most About Eastend
Eastend attracts repeat visitors, not just first-timers. Here’s why travelers often return:
- Accessibility: You’re 15–20 minutes from the airport via S-Bahn.
- Walkability: Cafés, parks, galleries, all within a short walk.
- Value: Prices are typically 20–30% lower than central Frankfurt hotels.
- Character: A mix of old industrial charm and sleek new developments.
Did you know?
The Eastend redevelopment began after Frankfurt Zoo expanded eastward in the early 2000s. Today, the former warehouses near Osthafen have become some of the city’s most coveted creative spaces.
Food, Coffee, and Nightlife Tips

Eastend’s dining scene mirrors its personality: urban, international, and unpretentious.
- Cafés: Hoppenworth and Ploch for specialty coffee, Anka Café for pastries and good Wi-Fi.
- Lunch spots: Oosten (riverside dining with skyline views) or Der Fette Bulle for gourmet burgers.
- Dinner and drinks: VaiVai (Italian fusion), Union Halle (music + events), Oosten Bar (cocktails with a view).
If you love relaxed evenings, the riverbank between Osthafen Bridge and ECB Tower fills with locals picnicking, chatting, and enjoying the skyline reflection in the water, it’s pure Frankfurt magic.
Transportation and Getting Around
Despite its calmer vibe, Eastend is extremely well-connected. You can reach the city center in 10 minutes or the airport in about 20–25 minutes.
Key transit options:
- Ostbahnhof (S-Bahn and U-Bahn): connects to Hauptbahnhof and Airport
- Trams 11 and 12: run directly into central Frankfurt
- Biking: The Main riverside path leads straight to Altstadt (Old Town)
Quick note: Frankfurt’s public transport system is part of the RMV network, get a day pass for unlimited rides across trains, trams, and buses.
Long-Term and Extended Stays
If your visit lasts a week or more, serviced apartments and co-living spaces offer better value than hotels. Many include small kitchens, laundry access, and weekly cleaning.
Top options for long stays:
- lyf East Frankfurt (modern, social living)
- Capri by Fraser (aparthotel comfort)
- The Flag Oskar M. (design-led serviced apartments)
Those working remotely will find Eastend especially appealing; it’s calm enough to focus, yet lively after hours. Many accommodations provide co-working areas or partner with local cafés for digital nomads.
Local Experiences Worth Trying
Staying in Eastend means having easy access to authentic, under-the-radar experiences that most tourists miss.
- Walk the Hafenpark: A green, riverside recreation area under the ECB tower, great for yoga or skating.
- Explore the Art Museum Schirn’s satellite exhibits, often hosted in converted industrial spaces nearby.
- Catch a concert at Union Halle, a historic industrial venue that hosts live acts and DJ nights.
- Visit the local markets: Especially the weekly farmers’ market near Ostbahnhof, where locals buy organic produce and baked goods.
These experiences add layers to your stay, making East Frankfurt feel less like a hotel stop and more like a neighborhood you temporarily belong to.
Budgeting Your Stay
Frankfurt isn’t the cheapest city in Germany, but Eastend keeps things manageable. Here’s a quick look at average daily costs:
| Expense | Average Cost | Tips |
| Accommodation | €90–€140 | Book 2–3 weeks in advance for best rates |
| Meals | €25–€45 | Lunch specials are cheaper; dinner adds wine |
| Transport | €8–€10 (day pass) | Use RMV’s 24-hour ticket |
| Attractions | €10–€20 | Many museums offer discounts on Sundays |
Travel tip: Combine your Frankfurt Card (public transport + attraction discounts) with Eastend accommodation to cut overall costs.
Final Thoughts
Frankfurt Eastend is no longer just a “budget alternative” to the city center; it’s a destination in its own right. Blending modern architecture, creative communities, and riverside serenity, it gives travelers space to slow down without losing city access.
If you’re planning a stay that combines local flavor, design, and practicality, Eastend should top your Frankfurt list. Whether you’re here for a few nights or a few months, it’s an area that feels authentic, connected, and quietly ahead of the curve.

