I have a 9 hour layover in Frankfurt before a flight to Copenhagen December 3. Hate to waste the time when I have not been in Germany before, but somewhat concerned about the time to clear customs, security, etc., at this airport. Anyone have any good suggestions of where/how to spend several hours easily? Thanks.

Take a look at the Frankfurt airport site for ideas. Our neighbors have spent many long days there with their kids and tell me there's lots to do to pass the time.

Heidelberg is an interesting city not far from Frankfurt Airport. Hourly train, takes about 50 minutes, with one connection.

Mainz isn't too far. Beautiful little town. I believe it's St. Stephen's church that boasts of breathtaking Chagall stained glass windows. Well worth the trip.

While Frankfurt itself isn't a prime tourist destination, it has plenty of interesting sights to keep someone engaged for a few hours. Check out Fodor's and other tourism websites for sights in Frankfurt.

By then the Christmas markets will be open and would be worthy of a visit that shouldn't take long. With the train station under FRA, it would be easy to get about without creating stress.

If you want to make some Christmas shopping in Frankfurt take the train S8 or S9 direction Hanau and get off at Hauptwache, the main shopping street. It will take about 20 minutes only. Take a city map at the airport and you can also walk around from Hauptwache to the city hall square. Check also at the automatic ticket machine at the airport if better to get a one day ticket (Tageskarte) rather than single trip tickets.

Even with 9 hours, I wouldn't venture as far as Heidelberg (and that's my favorite place in the world).

As someone else said - Frankfurt itself has more than enough to keep you busy for a few hours. I've been to one of the Christmas Markets in Frankfurt, and it's really nice.

It's located throughout the city-centre at Roemerberg, Paulsplatz, Liebfrauenberg, Fahrtor, and Mainkai.

I would suggest the one at Roemerberg, to start. I believe that is the one you would normally see in photos.

Nearby, and I can't tell you how to get there, is some Roman ruins that have been found and fenced in.

There's lots to do in the general area, just go easy on the Gluhwein so you make it back to the airport on time. Leave yourself time for security and all that.