Highlight • Bridge
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The Alte Niederräder Brücke, or Old Niederrad Bridge, is a historic railway bridge spanning the Main River in Frankfurt am Main, Germany. Connecting the Gutleutviertel district on the north bank with the Niederrad district on the south bank, this steel truss bridge stands at an elevation of approximately 143 meters. Beyond its primary function for rail traffic, it features a dedicated pedestrian and cycling path, making it a significant landmark and a popular crossing point for locals and visitors alike.
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February 6, 2018
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Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

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51.0km
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170m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
Details
Informations
Elevation 140 m
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The Alte Niederräder Brücke itself is 249 meters long. The pedestrian walkway spans this entire length, offering a direct crossing over the Main River.
While the bridge deck itself is flat, be aware that the newer ramp on the Niederrad side, finished in 2018, has a slope of more than 15 percent. This might be challenging for some cyclists or those with limited mobility.
From the pedestrian walkway, you can enjoy beautiful views of the Frankfurt skyline, the Main River, and the surrounding areas. It's also a great spot to observe various trains, including ICE and S-Bahn lines, crossing the river, and sometimes even the Frankfurt fireboat on the Main.
Yes, the bridge is accessible year-round. A winter walk or cycle can offer a unique perspective of the city and river, though it's always advisable to check the weather forecast and ensure paths are clear of ice or heavy snow for safety.
Beyond the impressive Frankfurt skyline, the bridge itself is a historical landmark, built between 1880 and 1882 and rebuilt after World War II. You can also see the parallel Neue Niederräder Brücke, built in the 1970s for S-Bahn traffic, which adds to the area's railway history.
The bridge is well-connected by public transport. The S7 line of the S-Bahn Rhein-Main uses the railway lines on the bridge, and the surrounding Niederrad area is served by various bus and tram lines, making it easily accessible from different parts of Frankfurt.
Yes, the pedestrian path across the Alte Niederräder Brücke is part of the larger Mainuferweg (Main River Path), which is very popular for dog walks. Many routes along the Main River are dog-friendly, offering plenty of space for you and your canine companion to enjoy the scenery.
The bridge connects the Gutleutviertel and Niederrad districts, both of which have various cafes, pubs, and restaurants. You'll find options for refreshments and meals within a reasonable walking distance on either side of the river.
For photography, early morning or late afternoon (golden hour) often provides the best light for capturing the skyline and river views. The dynamic movement of trains also adds interest, so consider visiting during peak S-Bahn operating hours for more railway action.
While the Alte Niederräder Brücke offers unique railway and skyline views, it's primarily a functional crossing. For a more historic and purely pedestrian experience, Frankfurt's Eiserner Steg (Iron Footbridge) in the city center is another popular option, though it doesn't offer the same train-spotting opportunities.
Yes, the pedestrian path is generally safe and suitable for families. The flat bridge deck makes it easy for strollers, and children might enjoy watching the trains pass by. However, always supervise children closely due to the proximity to active railway lines and the river.