Palmengarten is Frankfurt's botanical garden in the Westend district, opened in 1871 and covering 22 hectares. The glass houses and gardens hold around 13,000 plant species, grouped by natural region, so a short walk can take you from a sub-Arctic pavilion to rainforest and desert displays. Start with the historic palm house and the Tropicarium, then follow the outdoor paths past ponds, the rose garden and a bamboo grove. Allow a few hours, and check the seasonal events, from summer jazz concerts to a winter lights show.
How the garden began
The garden opened in 1871, but its palm house was finished first. Heinrich Siesmayer, who planned the garden, meant the palm house to be a home for exotic plants and a meeting point for Frankfurt society. It opened in November 1869.
A group of Frankfurt citizens set the project in motion in 1868. Some greenhouses on the grounds date from the 19th century, while others were built in the 1980s. The older houses were restored after the park returned to city control in the 1960s.
Inside the greenhouses
Plants are arranged by region, so each glass house shows a different climate. One pavilion holds a sub-Arctic landscape. A tropicarium covers the rainforest, and two separate structures show desert plants. The displays also include a monsoon forest and a cactus display.
The Tropicarium was designed by Gustav Schoser. It has seven large and six small greenhouse units, and its plants are reflected in a nearby pond with water lilies. Inside, ten tropical climate zones divide the plants by natural habitat, from arid to humid tropics.
Plant labels give common and Latin names, with English translations, which helps if you want to identify what you are looking at.
Outdoor gardens and paths
Outside, the paths wind across the grounds past ponds, fountains and small water features. The rose garden starts to bloom in late spring, and a bamboo grove adds a quieter corner. Benches are placed in shaded spots for a break between greenhouses.
Children can use the playgrounds, and the Flower and Butterfly House gives them a stop of their own. Rowing boats and paddle boats can be rented on the pond. The Palmengarten Express train takes visitors around the park.
Food, concerts and seasonal events
Lafleur is a fine dining restaurant in the Bauhaus-style clubhouse. For a quicker meal, kiosks and a second restaurant serve food across the grounds.
On summer evenings the garden becomes a concert venue, with a focus on jazz and world music. Music acts also appear in spring and autumn. In winter, a lights show runs from mid-December to mid-January, with family activities and the warm greenhouses to walk through.
Access and walking
The entrance, restroom and parking lot are wheelchair accessible. The paths cover a large area and wind around the whole property, so comfortable walking shoes make the visit easier. The garden is also reachable by the U-Bahn station Westend.
FAQ
Is there an entry fee?
Yes. Entry is charged per person, and students, children and seniors can get discounted tickets. Check palmengarten.de for current prices.
How long do you need?
Plan two to three hours to see the greenhouses and walk the grounds.
Do I need to book tickets in advance?
The garden recommends buying tickets in advance.
Is it suitable for children?
Yes. The garden is good for kids, with playgrounds, a Flower and Butterfly House and rowing boats on the pond.
Is it wheelchair accessible?
The entrance, restroom and parking lot are wheelchair accessible.
