City break in Regensburg: medieval charm on the Danube

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.

The Old Town: Regensburg’s greatest treasure

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.

 

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St Peter’s Cathedral: The city’s landmark

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.

Photo: A view of Regensburg’s historic old town and the famous Stone Bridge.

Photo: The Stone Bridge over the Danube, looking out over the picturesque district of Stadtamhof.

Photo: Panoramic view over the historic old town and the picturesque Stadtamhoft district.

Across the Stone Bridge to Stadtamhof

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 and the Perpetual Imperial Diet

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

Thurn und Taxis Princely 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.

The best museums in Regensburg

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.

Photo: Excursion boats for sightseeing cruises on the Danube.

Photo: The Walhalla, situated majestically above the Danube.

Photo: Picturesque countryside around Weltenburg Abbey.

Regensburg and the Danube: Boat trips and excursions

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

Cuisine in Regensburg: cafés, restaurants and nightlife

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.

Photo: Chin-Chin Hotel 

Photo: Chin-Chin Hotel 

Photo: Hotel Orphée – the Grand Hotel

Photo: Hotel Orphée – The Small House

Photo: Hotel Orphée Andreasstadel

Practical tips for your city break to Regensburg

  • Length of stay: Two to three days is ideal for Regensburg. This leaves you with enough time to see the main sights as well as enjoy a boat trip on the Danube, a visit to a museum or a trip to the Walhalla.
  • Getting around: The compact old town is best explored on foot. As many of the narrow streets are cobbled, comfortable footwear is recommended. The historic centre is about a 15-minute walk from the main railway station.
  • Accommodation: If you’re looking for a central stay with a special atmosphere, the Chin-Chin Hotel and the Hotel Orphée are two stylish options right in the heart of historic Regensburg. The Hotel Orphée comprises three different buildings: the ‘Grosses Haus’ with its adjoining restaurant and the ‘Kleines Haus’ are situated in the heart of the old town. The quieter ‘Andreasstadel’ is located in Stadtamhof, right on the banks of the Danube, and some rooms have their own terraces.
  • Payment and cash: The currency in Germany is the euro. It’s handy to have some cash for smaller cafés, markets or beer gardens. You can conveniently order euros before you leave via the Swiss Bankers banknote delivery service and have them delivered to your home with insurance cover.
  • Well covered: With TravelProtect, holders of the Swiss Bankers Travel Card benefit from additional travel cover. Once the required top-up amount has been reached, the insurance can be activated free of charge for twelve months via the Swiss Bankers app. The relevant insurance terms and conditions apply.

Conclusion: Regensburg – where history meets a zest for life

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.