Rothenburg, ob der Tauber is a town situated in the state of Bavaria, Germany. It occupies a spot along the Romantic Road, a tourist route that extends from Würzburg to Füssen. Renowned for its preserved medieval architecture and captivating scenery Rothenburg holds a significant place in history.
The towns origins trace back to the century when it was established by the counts of Comburg Rothenburg. Throughout the centuries Rothenburg played a role in politics and economic affairs. The enduring. Structures from its medieval era stand as testaments to this rich history. By the century Rothenburg had flourished into one of the prosperous towns, in the area with remnants of grand buildings and houses still adorning its streets today.
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10 Best things to do when visit Rothenburg
There is plenty to see and do in Rothenburg. Visitors can take a stroll along the town’s well-preserved medieval walls, which offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Here are 10 things recommended to Do when in Rothenburg:
- Walk along the Town Walls: One of the best ways to experience Rothenburg’s medieval charm is to take a stroll along the town walls. The walls offer stunning views of the town and the surrounding countryside and are a great way to get a sense of the town’s history and layout.
- Visit the Marktplatz: The town’s main square, the Marktplatz, is home to many of Rothenburg’s most famous buildings and landmarks, including the town hall, the St. James Church, and the famous Plönlein. Take a stroll around the square and admire the beautiful architecture of the surrounding buildings.
- Explore the Crime Museum: For those interested in the darker side of history, the Crime Museum is a must-see. It tells the story of the town’s famous 16th-century executioner and his gruesome instruments of execution.
- Visit the Reichsstadtmuseum: The Reichsstadtmuseum covers the history of Rothenburg during the Nazi period and offers a fascinating glimpse into the town’s past.
- Take a Christmas Market tour: Rothenburg is famous for its traditional Christmas markets, which take place in the town square each December. The markets are a great place to find unique gifts and crafts, and to sample traditional German Christmas treats like gingerbread and mulled wine.
- Enjoy a gingerbread-making workshop: Rothenburg is known for its delicious gingerbread, and a gingerbread-making workshop is a great way to learn about the town’s culinary history and traditions.
- Visit St. Jakob’s Church: St. Jakob’s Church is one of the most famous landmarks in Rothenburg, and is known for its beautiful stained-glass windows and impressive altar.
- Explore the Käthe Wohlfahrt Christmas Village: The Käthe Wohlfahrt Christmas Village is a must-see destination for anyone interested in traditional Christmas decorations and crafts.
- Take a boat trip along the Tauber River: For a different perspective of the town, take a boat trip along the Tauber River. The trip will take you through the picturesque countryside and offer beautiful views of the town from the water.
- Try the local food and drink: Rothenburg is home to many traditional German restaurants and taverns, where you can try local specialties like sausages, sauerkraut, and beer.
(Fun-) Facts about Rothenburg
Rothenburg was one of the few German towns that was not destroyed during World War II, and as such, it has been able to retain much of its medieval charm and character.
Additionally, Rothenburg is also known for its traditional Christmas markets, which take place in the town square each December, and for its delicious gingerbread, a local specialty.
Rothenburg and Harry Potter have a connection as the town was used as a filming location for the movie Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1. The famous Plönlein corner was used as the location of the “Hogsmeade” village, and many of the shop fronts were decorated to look like those from the film.
Tipps for visit Rothenburg
Here are some tips to help you make the most of your visit to Rothenburg ob der Tauber:
- Plan ahead: Rothenburg is a popular tourist destination, so it’s a good idea to plan your visit in advance to avoid crowds and long lines. Also, check the opening times of the different sights and plan your itinerary accordingly.
- Get a map: Pick up a map of the town when you arrive to help you navigate and find your way around. Many of the main sights are within walking distance of each other, but having a map will help you plan your route more efficiently.
- Take a guided tour: Guided tours are a great way to learn more about the town’s history and culture. Many of the local tour guides are knowledgeable and passionate about the town and can offer a unique perspective on the sights you’ll see.
- Get a Rothenburg Card: If you plan on visiting multiple sights and museums, consider getting a Rothenburg Card. This card gives you free admission to many of the town’s top attractions, as well as discounts on other activities.
- Dress appropriately: Remember that Rothenburg is a medieval town, and many of the streets and buildings are cobbled and uneven. So, be sure to wear comfortable shoes and dress appropriately for the weather.
- Try the local food and drink: Rothenburg is home to many traditional German restaurants and taverns, where you can try local specialties like sausages, sauerkraut, and beer. Don’t forget to try the famous gingerbread too.
- Be mindful of the locals: Rothenburg is a small town, and the locals are proud of their heritage and culture. Be respectful of their customs and traditions and try to blend in as much as possible.
- Take your time: Rothenburg is a charming town and it’s easy to get lost in the sights, sounds and atmosphere. Take your time and try to soak up the ambiance and enjoy the town’s unique character.
When to go
The best time to visit Rothenburg ob der Tauber depends on your personal preferences and interests. Here are a few things to consider when planning your trip:
| Season | Timeframe | Description | Weather and Crowds |
|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | June to August | Peak tourist season with warm and pleasant weather. Ideal for enjoying outdoor attractions like the town walls and the Christmas Museum. Expect crowds and long lines. | Warm and pleasant, but crowded |
| Spring | March to May | Mild weather with blooming gardens and parks. A quieter period, perfect for a leisurely visit without the hustle and bustle of peak seasons. | Mild, less crowded |
| Autumn | September to November | Mild weather with beautiful autumn colors. A great time for festivals and events, offering a chance to experience local culture without the peak season crowds. | Mild, less crowded, scenic autumn hues |
| Winter | December to February | The town is adorned with Christmas decorations and markets, creating a magical atmosphere. However, the weather is cold. | Cold, festive with Christmas markets |
This table provides a concise overview of what to expect in Rothenburg ob der Tauber during different seasons, helping you to plan your visit according to your interests and preferences for weather and crowd levels.
Remember for December – Christmas Market
Rothenburg ob der Tauber has one of Germany’s most beautiful Christmas markets. These markets are only opened for four weeks during the month of December.
footageclips / Shutterstock.comRead more: Visit the famous Christmas markets in Germany
How to get there
Getting to Rothenburg ob der Tauber is relatively easy, whether you’re coming by car, by train or by plane.
If you’re coming by car, you can reach Rothenburg by taking the A7 motorway. The town is located about halfway between Frankfurt and Nuremberg and is well-signposted from the motorway. From Stuttgart you can take A81 – A7 and from Munich A7. Once you reach Rothenburg, there are several car parks located throughout the town where you can leave your car while you explore.
If you’re coming from abroad by airplane, the nearest airports are Frankfurt Airport, Nuremberg Airport, Stuttgart Airport, and Munich Airport. From Frankfurt Airport, it will take around 2.5-3 hours to reach Rothenburg by car. From Nuremberg Airport, it will take around 1-1.5 hours by car, from Stuttgart around 2.5-3 hours and from Munich Airport, it will take around 2.5-3 hours by car.
Alternatively, you can also take a train or bus from the airport to Rothenburg. From Frankfurt Airport, you can take a train to Rothenburg, or rent a car and drive to the town. From Nuremberg Airport, you can take a bus or train to Rothenburg, from Stuttgart Airport, you can take a train to Rothenburg and from Munich Airport, you can take a train to Rothenburg. The train journey from each airport to Rothenburg takes around 2.5-3 hours depending on the connections.
Options and estimated durations to get to Rothenburg:
| From/Via | Car (hours) | Train (hours) | Bus (hours) |
| Frankfurt/Main | 2.5-3 | 2.5 | 3-4 |
| Nuremberg | 1-1.5 | 2.5-3 | 2-2.5 |
| Munich | 2.5-3 | 2.5-3 | 3-4 |
| Stuttgart | 2.5-3 | 2.5-3 | 3-4 |
Another option for travelers is taking a bus tour, but it is a less attractive option as it can be less flexible and not as personalized as traveling via car or public transportation.
It is important to note that the town is quite small and it is possible to walk around the main sights, but if you have mobility issues or plan to visit other nearby towns, having a car or renting a bike can be more convenient.
Sources: Official website
