Between Munich and Nuremberg lies a city that is often overlooked when planning a trip – quite unjustly so. Regensburg combines one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval old towns with a vibrant student scene, princely splendour and a culinary tradition renowned far beyond the borders of the Upper Palatinate. Here you’ll find everything you need to know for a successful short break in Regensburg.
Photo: The charming old town of Regensburg.
Regensburg’s greatest treasure is the Old Town itself. Together with the Stadtamhof district, it has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2006. Unlike many German city centres, Regensburg was largely spared destruction during the Second World War. As a result, the medieval townscape has been preserved to this day with exceptional integrity. Narrow alleyways, colourful town houses, hidden courtyards and imposing family towers bear witness to a time when Regensburg was one of Europe’s most important trading cities.
The best way to explore the Old Town is without a fixed plan. The Wahlenstrasse and the Untere Bachgasse, with their historic façades and medieval residential towers, are particularly worth seeing.
With its two towers visible from afar, St Peter’s Cathedral dominates the Regensburg skyline. This imposing Gothic cathedral lies at the heart of the Old Town and impresses with its intricate stonework, high vaults and colourful stained-glass windows. It is also well worth taking a look inside: the light streaming in through the historic windows lends the nave a particularly solemn atmosphere. The cathedral is also world-famous for the Regensburger Domspatzen, whose musical tradition dates back to the 10th century. This traditional boys’ choir regularly accompanies services in the cathedral and is one of the oldest choirs in the world.
In the immediate vicinity are also the Porta Praetoria, the remains of a Roman city gate, and several historic bishop’s palaces.
Just a few steps from the cathedral, the Stone Bridge spans the Danube. Construction began in 1135; today it is regarded as the oldest surviving bridge in Germany and a masterpiece of medieval architecture. Around 300 metres long, it connects the Old Town with Stadtamhof. From the bridge, one of the most beautiful views of Regensburg unfolds: of the Danube, the bridge tower, the historic houses and the towers of the cathedral.
On the other side of the Danube, Stadtamhof offers small pubs and a pleasantly peaceful atmosphere. Afterwards, it’s well worth taking a stroll along the Grieser Spitz, where the Danube and the Regen rivers converge and spacious green spaces invite you to linger.
Photo: The 13th-century Old Town Hall in the medieval centre of Regensburg.
The Old Town Hall bears witness to Regensburg’s political significance. From 1663 onwards, the Perpetual Imperial Diet of the Holy Roman Empire sat here for almost 150 years. As part of a guided tour, visitors can explore, amongst other things, the historic Imperial Hall, the Imperial Diet Museum and the original medieval interrogation chamber.
The Tourist Information Centre is also located right on Rathausplatz. It is a good starting point for guided tours of the city, walking tours and up-to-date event recommendations.
Photo: St Emmeram Palace
To the south of the Old Town lies St. Emmeram Palace, the residence of the Princely House of Thurn and Taxis. The extensive complex was converted from a former Benedictine monastery and is one of the most impressive palace complexes in Europe.
Parts of the palace can be visited as part of guided tours. Particularly worth seeing are the sumptuous rooms, the cloister, the Princely Treasury and the Marstall Museum. You should allow plenty of time for your visit, as the palace is situated slightly outside the usual Old Town tour route.
Photo: House of Bavarian History.
Regensburg boasts a diverse range of museums. The House of Bavarian History uses multimedia exhibitions to trace the development of modern Bavaria.
One exceptional attraction is the Regensburg Golf Museum, which displays more than 1,200 exhibits spanning six centuries. Art lovers should visit the Kunstforum Ostdeutsche Galerie, whose collection ranges from the Romantic period to the present day.
The Dachshund Museum, dedicated to the cultural history of this popular breed of dog, is also great fun. At the Danube Shipping Museum, visitors can also explore two historic museum ships.
Regensburg looks particularly beautiful from the water. A boat trip on the Danube offers a relaxing view of the Stone Bridge, the towers of the Old Town and the historic riverside skyline. Those who prefer a more active way of exploring can also discover the surrounding area by canoe or on a SUP board in summer.
The Danube also leads to two of the most beautiful destinations around Regensburg. High above the river stands the Walhalla, a classical hall of fame offering impressive views of the Danube Valley. Another popular destination is Weltenburg Abbey, picturesquely situated at the Danube Gorge. The journey by boat through the spectacular rocky landscape of the Weltenburg Gorge is particularly charming.
Photo: The historic Wurstkuchl – a traditional culinary destination right on the banks of the Danube
Regensburg delights visitors with a surprisingly diverse culinary scene. Among the best-known culinary spots is the Historische Wurstkuchl, situated right by the Stone Bridge. This traditional food stall has been serving bratwurst for centuries – served the classic way with sauerkraut and sweet mustard. Thanks to its location on the banks of the Danube, it is a must-visit for many visitors on a city break to Regensburg.
Beyond that, the choice ranges from Bavarian inns and cosy cafés to international restaurants. Regensburg is also known for its exceptionally high density of pubs: particularly in the Old Town, bars, wine bars and pubs are often just a few steps away from one another.
Our personal recommendations:
For coffee from its own roastery and a relaxed breakfast, Café 190°is well worth a visit. French bistro flair awaits you at the traditional Restaurant Orphée. Mediterranean delights are on offer at Bodega – vinos y tapas, with Spanish tapas, as well as at the charming Trattoria Sorano, serving Italian cuisine. Asian flavours, sushi and Vietnamese specialities take centre stage at Hiroko Kitchen and Bar. For Neapolitan pizza and selected wines, nineOfive is highly recommended. If you prefer burgers, street food, cocktails or a hearty weekend brunch, Marple and Stringer on Bismarckplatz is the place for you.
Regensburg is the ideal destination for a varied short break. The historic old town, its location on the Danube, its diverse museums and a vibrant culinary scene make the city a destination that combines culture, enjoyment and relaxation in a special way.