Tucked away in Bavaria, Bamberg Germany, feels like stepping into a medieval fairytale. This UNESCO World Heritage Site overflows with cobbled streets, old-world charm, and colorful neighborhoods that look like they belong in storybooks.
Most well-known for it’s floating Town Hall, but there’s so much more to this little German town!
Let’s dive into some of the town’s must-see spots and get ready to fall in love with Bamberg, Germany!
Map of Bamberg Germany
Where to stay in Bamberg Germany
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To do in Bamberg Germany
Bamberg Cathedral
With its four iconic green towers this stunning Cathedral combines late Romanesque and early Gothic styles. Its roots trace back to the early 11th century when Emperor Heinrich II, the Holy Roman Emperor, commissioned its construction. The Emperor (and Empress) are buried in the cathedral, where you can visit their tombs today.
Fun fact: did you know that Bamberg Cathedral has the only papal tomb outside of Italy and France?
Pope Clement II died in 1047 and his tomb is now on display inside the Cathedral.
The cathedral is open every day. From 9am to 6pm on weekdays; 9am to 2pm on Saturdays and from 1pm to 4pm on sundays.
Old Court of Bamberg Germany
The Old Court (or Alte Hofhaltung) is a medieval courtyard built in the 15th century. The iconic half-timbered buildings house the Historical Museum of Bamberg, where you can discover centuries of local art and artifacts.
Museum Opening times: Tuesday to Sunday 10am – 5pm
Entrance fee: €8 (students €4)
If you don’t plan on visiting the museum – the courtyard is located between Bamberg Cathedral and the New Residence, so pop in for a quick step back in time.
Neue Residenz Bamberg Germany
If you know me, you know that I LOVE baroque castles (so Germany is basically my dream haha) and the New Residence is no less than stunning!
This lavish palace was home to Bamberg’s prince-bishops and flaunts over 40 rooms on display for visitors, each filled with baroque luxury. Construction of the Neue Residenz began in 1602 and continued for nearly a century. The building has a total fo 250 rooms, many of which still feature their original 17th and 18th-century decor. One of the most famous rooms is the Imperial Hall (Kaisersaal) which was once used for official receptions and is now one of the most elaborate rooms in the building.
One of the most charming features of the Neue Residenz is its cozy Rose Garden, located in the inner courtyard. The elevated position of the Rose Garden offers fantastic panoramic views over Bamberg’s old town and the surrounding hills.
Opening hours:
April-3 October: daily 9am-6pm
4 October-March: daily 10am-4pm
Included in 14-day castle ticket: Yes
Altes Rathaus in Bamberg Germany
Bamberg’s Altes Rathaus (Old Town Hall) is unlike any town hall you’ve seen before. Perched on its own little island in the middle of the Regnitz River, it’s the symbol of the town.
The story goes that when Bamberg’s bishop refused to give the townspeople land to build their town hall, they built it on an island instead!
The initial town hall was constructed in 1386 but has changed a lot over the years.
Pro tip: get here early in the morning as the sun hits the town hall perfectly (and to avoid the crowds).
Heller house
Just behind the altes Rathaus is Heller House, a baroque beauty with a façade full of fascinating details. This building is a lovely example of Bamberg’s diverse architectural charm.
The house was the birth place of Joseph Heller, a local businessman, historian and art collector, but has no other significance (other than being pretty) and you also can’t enter it.
Little Venice of Bamberg Germany
This charming area of Bamberg was once a fishing settlement in the 17th century, and it still has that quaint, riverside vibe. With flower-boxed windows, colorful half-timbered houses, and little gardens, it’s almost too cute to be real.
Bamberg old town
With around 3,200 historic buildings, Bamberg Old Town is one of Europe’s largest preserved medieval centers. Every street you turn down reveals more charm, from traditional Bavarian timbered houses to marketplaces and cozy cafes. Wandering through Old Town is like stepping back in time and is a must when visiting.
St. Martin Church
Although the Bamberg Cathedral and other prominent churches are situated on the other side of the river, St. Martin situated in Grüner Markt should not be missed. Right in the heart of Bamberg, St. Martin Church was built in 1693 and is the town’s only baroque church!
It’s worth a visit when you wander around the old town.
Open daily from 9am to 5pm.
Michelsberg monastery Bamberg Germany
This 12th-century Benedictine monastery is sitting on top of a hill (and requires a bit of a workout to get to – unless you opt for driving there). With architecture, scenic gardens and the best view of Bamberg Old Town you don’t want to miss it.
Unfortunately the monastery was under construction when I visited in june 2024.
Discover the art of brewing in Bamberg on a guided tour. Learn more about the importance of beer over the centuries, explore the interesting sights in the town, and sample beer in the Ambräusianum.
Duration 1.5 hours
Best day-trips from Bamberg Germany
Seehof castle
Seehof Castle is an excellent example of Baroque architecture located near Bamberg. Built as a summer residence for the Prince-Bishops of Bamberg, Seehof Palace is known for its elegant architecture, beautifully landscaped gardens, and rich history.
Constructed between 1686 and 1696 the palace served as a retreat and hunting lodge.
Opening hours:
22 March-3 November: 9 am-6 pm
Closed on Mondays and the rest of the year
Entrance fee: €5 (adult)
Included in 14-day castle ticket: Yes
Important: You can only visit the castle on a guided tour.
Bayreuth
Bayreuth is, just like Bamberg, known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and especially strong association with music and the arts. Bayreuth is famously associated with the composer Richard Wagner, who established the Bayreuth Festival in 1876. The festival celebrates his operas and attracts visitors from around the world.
