Rothenburg ob der Tauber Germany is a magical destination in the Franconia region of Bavaria with mediaeval streets, rich history, and timeless charm. Unlike many tourist hotspots, it retains an authentic old-world atmosphere that you can’t get enough of.
This town stands as one of Germany’s best-kept gems and I guarantee you won’t regret visiting.
In this guide to Rothenburg you’ll get a taste of authentic german town vibes and unveil this instagram famous place.
Rothenburg ob der Tauber Germany
Built above the Tauber River, Rothenburg ob der Tauber literally means “red castle on the Tauber” and was a strategic town position in the Middle Ages. Today, Rothenburg is visited by people worldwide, who come to take in its fairy-tale streets and half-timbered houses. What makes the town even more interesting is that it’s encircled by many towered walls making it one of the best-preserved mediaeval cities in Germany.
History of Rothenburg ob der Tauber Germany
In the Middle Ages, Rothenburg was one of the most significant cities in Germany, second in size only to some of the country’s largest urban centers today. With its population of 6,000 people, Rothenburg was a thriving and powerful town. Today, it’s renowned as Germany’s best-preserved walled city. Despite the modernization of surrounding areas, Rothenburg has managed to maintain its historical allure and today only 11,000 people reside in the small town.
Rothenburg ob der Tauber Germany Map
Navigating Rothenburg ob der Tauber is like stepping into a map from the past. The town is compact, enclosed by its iconic city wall (which you btw can walk along for panoramic views of the area). Points of interest such as the Marktplatz, St. Jakobskirche, and the Castle Garden are all within walking distance, making exploration easy. You can visit every corner of the town within 1 hour but take your time to soak up the atmosphere and appreciate every area as well as the several small squares of the town.
You don’t really need a map to navigate this small town, but for good measure you get one anyway ;))
Things to Do in Rothenburg ob der Tauber Germany
Rothenburg ob der Tauber has several small highlights of its historical and cultural significance. Here are some must-see places:
Rothenburg ob der Tauber Christmas Store
One of the most famous stops in Rothenburg is the Käthe Wohlfahrt Christmas Village, where Christmas is celebrated year-round. This store is filled with traditional German Christmas ornaments, nutcrackers, and other festive decorations. Upstairs, there’s a small museum showcasing the history of Christmas traditions in Germany, also featuring vintage Advent calendars and tree stands.
St. Jakobskirche
St. Jakobskirche (St. James’ Church) is home to one of Germany’s greatest pieces of woodcarving: the 500-year-old altarpiece by Tilman Riemenschneider. This masterpiece is considered a must-see, and you can even climb up behind the organ to get a closer view of the craftsmanship behind the wooden altar.
Marktplatz
Rothenburg’s Marktplatz (Market Square), is the town’s lively center. Surrounded by beautiful half-timbered buildings, this square was historically significant as a center for trade and commerce. It remains the hub of Rothenburg’s activities, with seasonal markets and events taking place throughout the year. You can’t miss feeling the buzz when standing here during the day, and the calm that covers the square in the evening!
Röderturm
For a panoramic view of Rothenburg and the surrounding countryside, climb the Röderturm, one of the towers in the city’s wall. This is one of the best places to get a 360 view of Rothenburg’s mediaeval fortifications.
Opening times
April, May, September, October: weekends + public holidays 11am-2pm
June to August: daily 11am-2pm
Entrance fee: €2.5
The Town Hall of Rothenburg ob der Tauber Germany
When you arrive into the market square, the first thing you’ll notice is a stunning example of medieval and Renaissance architecture – the town hall of Rothenburg. The Town Hall was built in the late 13th century, and had significant additions during the 15th and 16th centuries.
You can visit the interior of the Town Hall and its historical exhibits through guided tours. You can even climb the 220 steps up the clock tower for panoramic views of Rothenburg and its surroundings.
Opening hours
- January to March + November: Saturday and Sunday 12pm-3pm.
- April to October: daily 9.30am-5pm
Entrance fee (to climb the tower): €4
Plönlein
The so-called Plönlein is one of the most iconic and picturesque spots in Rothenburg ob der Tauber Germany and probably one of the many picturesque you’ve seen only of the town. The term “Plönlein” translates to “little square”, though this Plönlein is not exactly a square. Just as the rest of Rothenburg is this area framed by colorful half-timbered houses and cobblestone streets, adding to the charm.
On the left side of the “little square” is the Siebersturm, a 14th-century tower that was part of Rothenburg’s original fortifications, and on the right is the Kobolzeller Tower, which leads down to the valley of the Tauber River.
Hiking in the Area
If you have more time in the area, it’s wirth it to explore beyond the town’s walls and hike in the Tauber Valley. There’s a marked trail that leads downhill from the Castle Garden, passing through the german countryside and ending in the village of Detwang. This area offers even more beautiful views, with apple orchards, old mills, and small rivers.
Rothenburg ob der Tauber Germany Hotels
Staying overnight in Rothenburg ob der Tauber is highly recommended to experience the town’s magic after the day-trippers leave. Numerous hotels offer charming accommodations within the old town walls, many of them housed in restored medieval buildings. Whether you want a luxury stay or a cozy guesthouse, Rothenburg has options for all budgets and preferences.
|
|
|
Cheapest in the area
|
|
Primary Rating:
4.7
|
Primary Rating:
4.5
|
Primary Rating:
4.4
|
Primary Rating:
3.3
|
|
€245 / night
|
€125 / night
|
€73 / night
|
€37 / night
|
When to Visit Rothenburg ob der Tauber Germany
The beauty of Rothenburg ob der Tauber is thatyou can visit year-round, with each season offering something unique. Spring and fall are nice for pleasant weather and fewer crowds, while in winter, the town transforms into a festive wonderland with its Christmas markets and decorations. In summer you’ll get longer days to explore and lots of events.
I went in june and was not bothered by the crowds as I opted to stay overnight and enjoyed the warm evening as well as the early morning to explore the town.
How long to spend in Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany
You don’t need more than a few hours to see and enjoy Rothenburg ob der Tauber. If you’re passing by on a roadtrip, spending 2-3 hours should be enough. If you’d like to relax and truly take in the town and surrounding area, I’d recommend staying overnight and spending 2 days here.
How to Get there
Rothenburg ob der Tauber is well-connected by road and rail, making it easily accessible from major cities in Germany.
Parking in Rothenburg ob der Tauber Germany
If you are driving to Rothenburg, there are parking lots located just outside the city walls. From there, it’s a short walk into the town centre. Keep in mind that you cannot drive into the town itself (reserved for residents or guests at the hotels only), so plan to leave your car and explore on foot.
Be aware that there’s paid parking by the road around Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany – but a few areas offer free parking. See the map in the beginning of this post for exact places.
Train from Munich to Rothenburg ob der Tauber Germany
Germany is well connected by public transportation and the simple train journey from Munich to Rothenburg takes approximately three hours, with a transfer in either Nuremberg or Ansbach.
Drive down the Romantic Road, a famous 354km route through some of Bavaria's most beautiful gems on this guided tour from Munich.
Included:
Pick-up and drop-off
Live tour guide (Audio guide also included)
Duration 10.5 hours
Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
Train from Frankfurt to Rothenburg ob der Tauber Germany
From Frankfurt the train ride to Rothenburg takes around two and a half hours, with a connection at Würzburg or Steinach. This makes Rothenburg a convenient day trip from Frankfurt, although staying overnight is highly recommended to experience the town fully.
Train from Nuremberg to Rothenburg ob der Tauber Germany
Nuremberg is one of the closest major cities to Rothenburg, with the train journey taking just over an hour. The quick connection makes it easy to visit Rothenburg as a day trip from Nuremberg, or vice versa.
