August 2006 aerial view of Frankfurt city with skyscrapers and river Main

Westendstrasse 1

Westendstrasse 1 Frankfurt, Germany: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Site Guide

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction

Westendstraße 1 is a towering symbol of Frankfurt’s dynamic evolution, standing at the crossroads of tradition and innovation. Rising 208 meters above the Westend-Süd district, the skyscraper is both a feat of postmodern architecture and a testament to the city’s role as a global financial powerhouse. Designed by the renowned firm Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates (KPF) and completed in 1993, Westendstraße 1 serves as the headquarters of DZ Bank, anchoring a network of over 850 cooperative banks across Germany.

While primarily a commercial office building, Westendstraße 1 is integral to the city’s iconic skyline—often referred to as “Mainhattan”—and is admired for its distinctive steel crown, a nod to Frankfurt’s imperial heritage. Although interior access is generally restricted, the tower is a must-see for architecture enthusiasts, history lovers, and anyone exploring the city’s financial district.

This comprehensive guide details Westendstraße 1’s history, architectural significance, visitor information, travel tips, nearby attractions, and accessibility considerations—everything you need to make the most of your visit to this modern Frankfurt landmark.

For additional architectural details and travel insights, consult KPF Projects, Emporis, The Broke Backpacker, and Holidify.

View of Frankfurt skyline with gothic church towers and modern buildings in August 2006

August 2006 Frankfurt cityscape with buildings and river under clear blue sky

Silver metal pitcher with handle and spout on a white background

Kronenhochhaus skyscraper in Frankfurt am Main

Residential building at Niddastrasse 60 in Frankfurt during summer 2004

Westend Tower under construction in Frankfurt

Introduction
Historical Background
Architectural Features and Symbolism
Role in Frankfurt’s Financial District
Urban Setting and Design Context
Sustainability and Modernization
Visiting Information
Practical Travel Tips
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Summary & Recommendations
Sources and Further Reading

Historical Background

Origins and Urban Context

Westendstraße 1 is located in the Westend-Süd district, an area that has transitioned from a 19th-century residential enclave to a vibrant financial center. The southern section, where the skyscraper stands, was historically significant due to its proximity to the city center and the Main-Weser Railway, which accelerated urban development in the late 1800s.

Planning and Construction

The tower’s construction began in the early 1990s and concluded in 1993. Designed by Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates (KPF), Westendstraße 1 broke through Frankfurt’s previous 150-meter height restriction, achieving a soaring 208 meters (682 feet) and setting new standards for the city’s skyline. Upon completion, it was the tallest building in the Westend district and the third tallest in Germany.

Architectural Features and Symbolism

Westendstraße 1 exemplifies postmodern architecture, blending modern materials with symbolic references to history. The building’s granite and glass façade is accented by a striking steel crown—a semicircle of eleven beams, each 11 meters tall, inspired by both ancient classical motifs and Frankfurt’s legacy as a coronation city for Holy Roman Emperors. The crown is illuminated at night and heated in winter to prevent icicle formation, ensuring pedestrian safety.

Internally, the structure features a reinforced concrete core, 53 floors above ground, three basement levels, and 25 elevators. The base integrates retail spaces and a landscaped plaza, connecting the building to the surrounding urban fabric.

Role in Frankfurt’s Financial District

As the headquarters of DZ Bank, Westendstraße 1 stands at the heart of Frankfurt’s financial district, anchoring the city’s economic activity. Its proximity to other major skyscrapers, such as Main Tower and Messeturm, reinforces the district’s reputation as “Mainhattan.” Alongside the adjacent City-Haus, it shapes the city’s celebrated skyline and serves as a visual landmark from across Frankfurt.

Urban Setting and Design Context

Westendstraße 1 is strategically located at the intersection of Mainzer Landstraße and Westendstraße, placing it at the core of Frankfurt’s Bankenviertel. The building’s design harmonizes with the surrounding Wilhelminian-era villas and modern high-rises, reflecting the city’s blend of heritage and progress. The podium’s stepped massing ensures the tower transitions gracefully into the adjacent residential streets, preserving the neighborhood’s character (Emporis, KPF Projects).

Sustainability and Modernization

Despite its early 1990s construction date, Westendstraße 1 was designed with energy-efficient features, including high-performance glazing, natural daylight optimization, and modern HVAC systems. Upgrades have maintained its status as a sustainable office tower, supporting Frankfurt’s commitment to green urban development (Frankfurt Green City). The landscaped plaza at the building’s base adds green space and urban biodiversity.

Visiting Information

Visiting Hours & Tickets

Interior Access: Westendstraße 1 is a private office building; public entry is not permitted, and there are no observation decks or regular tours.
Exterior Viewing: The building can be admired from the surrounding streets at any time. The illuminated crown is especially striking at dusk and night.
Special Tours: Occasionally, guided tours may be offered during city-wide cultural or architectural events. Check with DZ Bank or local tourism boards for updates.

Accessibility

The area features wide, accessible sidewalks and ramps.
Public transport options include the U-Bahn (Westend, Taunusanlage), S-Bahn (Taunusanlage), trams, and buses.
Underground parking is available for visitors to nearby businesses.

Nearby Attractions

Main Tower: Features a public observation deck with panoramic city views (Holidify).
Museumsufer: A cluster of museums along the Main River, including the Städel Museum and German Film Museum (The Crazy Tourist).
Römerberg: Frankfurt’s historic old town square, with medieval buildings and seasonal events.
Goethe House: Museum dedicated to Germany’s most famous writer.
Kleinmarkthalle: Indoor market with regional and international delicacies.
Palmengarten & Grüneburgpark: Botanical gardens and green spaces within walking distance.

Photography and Special Events

The illuminated crown is a favorite subject for photographers.
The Bankenviertel hosts art installations, festivals, and occasional open-air concerts.

Practical Travel Tips

Best Time to Visit: Daylight for architectural details; dusk or evening for the illuminated crown.
Getting Around: Frankfurt’s public transport is efficient; day passes are available.
Dining: Bankenviertel offers a range of international cuisine, while Sachsenhausen is known for traditional “Apfelwein” taverns.
Safety: The district is safe but stay aware of your surroundings, particularly at night.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I visit inside Westendstraße 1?
No, the building is not open to the public except during rare special events.

Are there tickets or tours for Westendstraße 1?
No regular tickets or tours are available. Watch for city-wide events for special access.

Is the area accessible for people with disabilities?
Yes, public areas and transport nearby are accessible.

What are the best photo spots?
Taunusanlage park, Main Tower observation deck, and surrounding streets offer great views.

What other attractions are close by?
Main Tower, Museumsufer, Römerberg, Goethe House, and Kleinmarkthalle are all within walking distance.

Summary & Recommendations

Westendstraße 1 is a definitive element of Frankfurt’s skyline, representing both the city’s financial clout and its commitment to innovative, context-sensitive architecture. While interior access is restricted, the building’s exterior and its urban surroundings provide a compelling destination for visitors. Its proximity to major cultural and historical sites enhances any trip to the Bankenviertel.

For a deeper experience, combine a visit to Westendstraße 1 with tours of the Main Tower, Museumsufer, and other nearby landmarks. Download the Audiala app for guided audio tours and interactive maps, and follow our channels for the latest travel tips and virtual events.