The Vibe: Budget-Friendly, Social, and Savvy
Being a student is about making smart choices—and that includes how you hang out. The best student meetups are low-cost, high-fun, and preferably near campus or a U-Bahn station.
From free museum days to cheap eats and outdoor adventures, here's how to make the most of your student days in Frankfurt without emptying your wallet.
Always Carry Your Student ID!
This is the golden rule. Many places offer student discounts (Vergünstigungen für Studierende) that aren't always advertised. It never hurts to ask!
10 Student-Friendly Meetup Ideas in Frankfurt
1. Chill at the Mainufer
The ultimate free activity. Grab some drinks and snacks from a nearby supermarket (like Rewe or Aldi), find a spot on the riverbank, and just hang out. It's the go-to spot for students, especially when the weather is good.
2. Museum-Hopping on SaTOURday
On the last Saturday of every month, entry to many of Frankfurt's top museums is FREE for everyone! It's called SaTOURday. Plan a culture-filled meetup without spending a cent. Check the list of participating museums online.
3. Explore Bockenheim Campus Vibe
Even if you don't study there, the area around the old Bockenheim campus is full of student-friendly cafes, cheap eats (great Döner and Pizza places), and second-hand bookshops. It's a great area for a low-key wander and chat.
4. Grab a Drink at a Student Bar
Head to districts like Bockenheim or Bornheim to find bars with student-friendly prices. Places like "Café Koz" are institutions. It's a great way to socialize without the fancy cocktail prices of the city center.
5. Picnic in Grüneburgpark
Bigger and often quieter than the Mainufer, Grüneburgpark is perfect for a large group picnic or a game of frisbee. It's right next to the Westend campus, making it super convenient.
6. Cycle Along the Nidda River
If you and your friends have bikes, a trip along the Nidda river is a fantastic, free way to spend an afternoon. The path is flat and scenic, offering a nice break from the city's hustle and bustle.
7. Visit the Höchst Old Town
Take the S-Bahn out to Höchst to explore its beautiful, medieval old town. It feels like a different world from central Frankfurt, with its castle and timber-framed houses. It's perfect for a free walking tour and some great photos.
8. Cheap Cinema Day (Kinotag)
Most cinemas in Frankfurt have a "Kinotag" (usually Monday or Tuesday) where tickets are significantly cheaper. Check out smaller cinemas like "Mal Seh'n" for indie films and even better prices.
9. Eat Your Way Through Kleinmarkthalle
While not everything here is cheap, you can definitely have an affordable and delicious meetup. Share a "Fleischwurst" or grab some fresh bread and cheese from a vendor. The atmosphere alone is worth the trip.
10. University Sports (Hochschulsport)
If you and your friends are students at the same university, check out the Hochschulsport program. You can often drop in for a game of volleyball, basketball, or use the gym facilities for a very small fee or for free.
Your Crew is Scattered Across Campuses?
Coordinating with friends from Riedberg, Westend, and Bockenheim can be a challenge. Where's the easiest place for everyone to meet?
Find the Smartest Midway Point