SACHSENHAUSEN. Freely flowing Guiness helps loosen up the local and international crowd at Frankfurt's oldest Irish pubs. From good conversation, to open mic poetry, karaoke, and live Irish music, patrons are in for a lively time in a most convivial environment. The bar staff is knowlegeable and friendly, and there are party facilites available too.

NORTH FRANKFURT. This legendary live music venue opened in 1976, and has been rocking Frankfurt ever since. Past performers are a varied group, including Einstürzende Neubauten, Ginger Baker, Uriah Heep, Robert Cray, The Pogues, U.K.Subs, Supergrass Korn, Hüsker Dü, the Housemartins, PJ Harvey, Billy Bragg and Die Toten Hosen. The club is relatively small but the acoustics are great. And a word to the wise: security is tight so don't bring anything that might be perceived as a weapon.

CITY CENTER. With a number of plush leather chairs, Morroccan lamps and movie memorabilia, you might find yourself raising a glass to say, "Here's looking at you kid," at the Casablanca Bar. Soak in the casual atmosphere from one of the cushy corner seats, groove to soothing piano music, and try one of bartender Ahmet Ayberk's drink specialties and after a day of business or sightseeing.

CITY CENTER. In the heart of Frankfurt, in a basement grotto, Louis Armstrong, Dizzy Gillespie, Eddie Harris, Chet Baker and a host of other jazz greats have played their music and left their marks, literally, on the walls of this uber-hip joint that draws crowds for live showcases throughout the year. Excellent local beer selection. Visit their website or call ahead for admission prices and performance calendar.

SACHSENHAUSEN. Since it opened in 1988, Dreikonigskeller has been drawing raves from happy partiers. The club offers a different theme every night, and the crowd varies depending on the type of music. Some of the more popular nights feature jazz and blues, rare grooves from the 60s and 70s, R&B and soul, new wave and 80s, goth and indie ­ you name it, Dreikonigskeller has probably got a night devoted to it!