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Things to Do in Bamberg, Germany - Bamberg Attractions

Things to do in bamberg, explore popular experiences, tours in and around bamberg.

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Bamberg Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide

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Nuremberg Old Town and Nazi Party Rally Grounds Walking Tour in English

PRIVATE Nuremberg Trials & Rally Grounds Tour

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Nuremberg World War II

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Former Nazi Rally Ground And Courtroom 600 Tour

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• Bamberg Altstadt
• Altes Rathaus
• Bamberg Cathedral
• Klein Venedig
• Rose Garden at the New Residenz
• Flussbad Hainbadestelle
• Rhine–Main–Danube Canal
• Ludwig-Donau-Main-Kanal

12 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Bamberg, Germany

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Dec 22, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

The historic town of Bamberg, situated in Upper Franconia in the German state of Bavaria , lies on the western edge of a wide basin in the valley of the Regnitz, a river that flows into the Main seven kilometers downstream.

Its location within an easy drive of historic Nuremberg and the much larger city of Frankfurt make Bamberg an excellent day-trip destination for those wanting to explore a little more of Bavaria than the usual tourist destinations.

The oldest part of this charming old town is one of the most picturesque in all of Germany, with must-visit attractions including its majestic cathedral, the old Benedictine abbey of Michaelsberg, and its spectacular riverside Town Hall being among its biggest draws.

This town's wonderfully preserved historic downtown area also boasts an abundance of medieval architecture, cementing its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Other must-sees include the town's seven famous hills. Each is crowned with a lovely old church, and can best be seen on a self-guided walking tour. In fact, Bamberg boasts numerous walking paths and trails, one of the most popular being the Bamberg River Path .

For those with the time, consider the Seven Rivers Path , a fun network of hiking trails that branch out from Bamberg into the surrounding countryside.

Learn more about the best places to visit in this charming Bavarian town with our list of attractions and things to do in Bamberg, Germany.

See also: Where to Stay in Bamberg

1. Take a Walking Tour of the Old Town & Bamberg Town Hall

2. visit bamberg cathedral & diocesan museum, 3. explore the old court (alte hofhaltung) & historical museum, 4. take a tour of the elegant new residence, 5. enjoy the views from michelsberg monastery (st. michael's monastery), 6. explore the region's history at bamberg historical museum, 7. visit altenburg castle, 8. grüner markt and st. martin's church, 9. see the old displays at bamberg natural history museum, 10. take a drive to seehof palace, memmelsdorf, 11. carmelite monastery bamberg, 12. take a trip to lisberg castle, where to stay in bamberg for sightseeing.

There's no better place to begin a walking tour of Bamberg's Old Town than at Obere Brücke, the pedestrian-only Upper Bridge. From here, you'll be rewarded with superb views of Klein-Venedig, or "Little Venice," with its quaint old fishermen's houses.

But what you're really here for is the superb Old Town Hall (Altes Rathaus). Perched somewhat precariously in the middle of the bridge, it's one of the most-photographed historic landmarks in Bavaria and is widely regarded as one of the top tourist attractions in Germany . While a town hall had been located here as far back as 1386, the existing structure was rebuilt between 1744-56 to serve both the Bürgerstadt and the episcopal town.

It's a stunning piece of architecture, in particular, due to the lovely frescoes adorning its facades, which depict the rather tall tale of how the building came to be built on the island. Interior highlights include the beautiful old Rococo hall and the Ludwig Collection with more than 300 exquisite 18th-century animal-shaped tureens, figurines, and dinner services made of porcelain.

If visiting at Christmas, be sure to pop in to see the Ludwig Collection's impressive nativity scene , comprising some 400 or so porcelain figures. Similar displays are hosted by the majority of the city's top tourist attractions, with some of the best being found at the Bamberger Krippenmuseum . This small yet interesting museum hosts a collection of antique cribs and Christmas exhibits.

Address: Obere Brücke1, 96047 Bamberg

The early 13th-century Bamberg Cathedral (Bamberger Dom), known officially as St. Peter's and St. George's Imperial Cathedral, boasts numerous architectural features of interest. The most important of these is the superb Prince's Doorway (Fürstentor). The cathedral's principal entrance, it's adorned with figures of the apostles and prophets and a relief of the Last Judgment.

Interior highlights include the tomb of Emperor Henry II, who died in 1024, along with that of his wife, Kunigunde. In the choir is the sculpture of the famous Bamberg Horseman dating from around 1225. On the outside of the stone choir screen are figures of the 12 apostles and 12 prophets and, on a pillar between the prophets, are Mary and Elizabeth.

Another notable burial here was that of Pope Clement II from 1047; his is the only Papal tomb in Germany. Guided tours are available, as are frequent organ recitals.

Also of interest here is the Diocesan Museum (Diözesanmuseum Bamberg). Founded in 1966, highlights of the museum's large collection include rare textiles, vestments, and items of clothing, including Henry II's imperial robes. Also worth seeing are numerous important artifacts from the cathedral treasury such as goblets, crucifixes, and silverware, as well as many old statues.

Address: Domplatz 2, 96049 Bamberg

Bamberg's timbered Old Court (Alte Hofhaltung) is widely considered to be one of the finest creations of the German Renaissance. Built as the Bishop's palace in 1576, it now houses the town's Historical Museum (Historisches Museum Bamberg) . Here you can view many fine collections of applied and decorative art.

A highlight of this architectural gem is the "Beautiful Gateway." This sculpted masterpiece by Pankras Wagner portrays Saints Peter, George, and Heinrich against a backdrop of the Main and Regnitz rivers. From here, you can explore the lovely romantic inner courtyard with its half-timbered buildings, which is now the scene of many outdoor concerts.

Also worth seeing are its two chapels, including St. Catherine's Chapel (Katharinenkapelle). Both can be included as part of a guided tour and offer a fascinating insight into the Christian faith in Bamberg.

Address: Domplatz 7, 96049 Bamberg

Built between 1695 and 1704, the New Residence (Neue Residenz) lays claim to having no less than 40 gorgeous staterooms. Most notable of these elegant rooms are the Prince-Bishop's residential apartments, each beautifully decorated with stucco-work ceilings, tapestries, and original furniture dating from the 17th and 18th centuries.

Other must-see rooms include the Gallery of German Art with its Heisterbach Altar, and a collection of fine paintings from the 15th to 18th centuries, as well as the State Library . Also available for viewing are the 16 large portraits of past emperors painted directly onto the walls of the Emperor's Hall. Guided tours are required to view the interior and last 45 minutes.

A highlight of any visit should be the courtyard with its beautiful rose garden and magnificent views. Designed by Balthasar Neumann, the garden, laid out symmetrically and festooned with numerous statues, sees in excess of 4,500 roses in bloom each summer. Afterward, spend some time taking refreshments in the lovely pavilion café overlooking the garden.

Address: Domplatz 8, D-96049 Bamberg

Perched high atop one of Bamberg's seven church-crowned hills sits majestic Michelsberg Monastery. Also known as St. Michael's Monastery (Kloster St. Michael), this striking structure served as the former Benedictine abbey of Michaelsberg.

Tracing its roots back as far as 1015, highlights of a visit to this magnificent Baroque structure include the 12th-century St. Michael's Church (Michaelskirche) with its exquisite ceiling paintings of medicinal herbs, as well as the newer abbey buildings erected between 1696-1702.

Be sure to check out the panoramic views from the terrace behind the church, as well as the lovely old Baroque terraced garden with its fountain and pavilions, accessible via the Benedictine Path.

Address: Michelsberg, 96049 Bamberg

Established in the 1830s and now located in the heart of the Old Town, Bamberg Historical Museum (Historisches Museum Bamberg) is situated adjacent to The Old Court next to the cathedral and is well worth a visit.

Highlights include its extensive displays of numerous objects from prehistoric to modern times, including stone sculptures, local crafts, and numerous 16th- to 19th-century clocks.

One of three museums owned and managed by the municipal government, the museum is also home to an impressive collection of old coins. Also of interest are an array of astronomical tools and antique nativity scenes. Guided tours in English are available upon request, but try to book in advance if possible to avoid disappointment.

Satellite museums include the Ludwig Collection in the Old Town Hall and the Villa Dessauer , a former merchant's home used to house the town's extensive art gallery. Also worth a visit is Museum Kutz , notable for its fascinating displays relating to the history of communications through the ages.

Address: Alte Hofhaltung, Domplatz 7, 96049 Bamberg

Standing high atop Bamberg's tallest hill, Altenburg Castle (Schloss Altenburg) is one of the town's most popular attractions. Dating back to the early 12th century when it was used as a refuge for the townspeople in times of war, it later served as the palatial home of Bamberg's bishops.

Destroyed in 1553, all that remains of the original medieval structure are parts of the surrounding wall and the 33-meter keep. An important relic from this time is the old iron basket hanging from the tower used to signal neighboring castles up to 20 kilometers away.

The castle was rebuilt in the Romantic style, and highlights of a visit include its sumptuously furnished rooms and the spectacular views of the Old Town and the surrounding area. The site also boasts one of the town's most popular restaurants .

Address: Altenburg 1, 96049 Bamberg

Bamberg's long, pedestrian-friendly Grüner Markt (Green Market) is a wonderful place to spend a few hours shopping and people-watching. Full of cafés and boutique stores, it's also home to a popular market held each weekday from Monday to Friday.

Many important historic structures, including the St. Catherine Hospital and Seminary, and the Gabelman fountain with its statue of Neptune, can also be viewed here.

The best-known historic landmark, however, is the Church of St. Martin (Pfarrkirche St. Martin). Built between 1686 and 1693 on the site of a former monastery, it's the city's only Baroque church and dominates the square. Be sure to pop inside as it contains many interesting features and artifacts.

Address: Grüner Markt 19, 96047 Bamberg

Bamberg's Natural History Museum (Naturkunde-Museum Bamberg) was established in 1791 and hoses an impressive collection of exhibits focusing on the region's geology, flora, and fauna.

In addition to the lovely old building itself, other highlights include its excellent displays of indigenous mammals and fossils, many housed in centuries-old cabinets and display cases and adding to the feeling you're stepping back in time.

Key exhibits include Treasure Chamber Earth with its crystals, minerals, and rocks; Dynamic Earth with numerous models illustrating the earth's structure; and many examples of plants and animals collected locally. English-language guided tours are available.

Address: Fleischstrasse 2, D-96047 Bamberg

Constructed in the 1680s as a summer home of the Bamberg Prince-Bishops, the fully restored Seehof Palace (Schloss Seehof) is well worth the short drive to the Bamberg suburb of Memmelsdorf.

A visit will consist of a chance to view nine elegant state rooms of the Prince-Bishops' private apartment, most notably the huge and beautifully decorated White Hall, famous for its intricate ceiling paintings. The private chapel is also available for viewing.

If you're looking for other fun things to do in Bamberg on a nice day, spend an hour or two exploring the palace's exquisite Rococo garden. Highlights include a large cascade with hourly displays of waterworks, an orangery, and a number of fine garden sculptures.

Address: Schloß Seehof 1, 96117 Memmelsdorf

Although founded in the 12th century, much of what you see when visiting the attractive Carmelite Monastery Bamberg (Karmelitenkloster Bamberg) was the result of a major Baroque-style renovation and addition undertaken between 1692-1701. Earlier features are still very evident in places, most notably in the 13th-century late Romanesque cloister.

For details and information regarding a self-guided tour, visit the well-stocked on-site shop. It also sells religious artifacts, books, and music, as well as food stuffs produced by other area monasteries.

Address: Karmelitenpl. 1, 96049 Bamberg

About 12 kilometers west of Bamberg (and an easy day trip) is Lisberg Castle (Schloss Lisberg).

One of the oldest castles in Bavaria , it was first mentioned in 820 CE and later passed from the Babenberger family to the Catholic prince bishops of Bamberg. Consequently, it was spared the fate of other area castles of destruction by enemies because the savvy locals simply changed sides whenever they were under threat.

Highlights of a visit include the dungeons, the Gothic Womens' House, and the Renaissance-style Palace built in the early 17th century. The best-preserved rooms include the large kitchen and the Great Hall, redesigned in 1776. Entry is only available via guided tours of this privately-owned property.

Address: Im Burghof, 96170 Lisberg

We recommend these conveniently located hotels in Bamberg each with easy access to the Old Town:

Luxury Hotels :

• The luxurious Welcome Hotel Villa Geyerswoerth is a great choice for those seeking an elegant getaway in Bamberg. In addition to its excellent location, this fine hotel comes with great river and garden views, a Mediterranean restaurant, and a sauna.
• Other popular luxury hotels to consider include Bamberger Hof Bellevue , a grand old building from the 1800s, which features well-appointed rooms and suites within a short walk of the cathedral and city museum. Also check out Welcome Hotel Residenzschloss Bamberg , a mansion-like hotel dating from 1787 with a number of multi-roomed suites and free spa access and breakfast.

Mid-Range Hotels :

• A good choice in the mid-range price category, the centrally located Best Western Hotel Bamberg features fresh modern decor, free laundry facilities, and a complimentary buffet breakfast.
• The three-star Hotel Europa Bamberg comes with spacious rooms, helpful front desk staff, and a tasty free breakfast.
• The funky Ventura's Hotel und Gastehaus is also worth booking and comes with colorful cozy rooms and is located in the very heart of the Old Town itself.

Budget Hotels :

• The Ibis Budget Bamberg hotel offers a clean, comfortable stay near the train station, along with friendly staff and fresh, sleek décor throughout.
• Another contender in this category, though situated a little farther from the Old Town, is Gastehaus Mainsommer , a pleasant, no-frills guesthouse, which is close to public transit routes.

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Easy Day Trips : An easy 45-minute drive south from Bamberg, and you'll find yourself in the ancient city of Nuremberg, famous for its fine old medieval castle (one of the largest in Europe). It's here you'll also find the Germanic National Museum, with its many fascinating displays related to the country's rich cultural development.

The same distance due west is the old university town of Würzburg , a great place to visit for its picture-perfect setting on the River Main and its magnificent Residenz, the former palace of the Frankish Prince Bishops.

Although a two-hour drive west, the attractions of Frankfurt are certainly worth visiting on a day trip, especially its delightful Old Town Center, the Römerberg. Frankfurt also makes for a great base from which to partake in other fun day trips around this part of Bavaria.

Family Vacation Ideas : Traveling to Germany with kids? If so, the Bavarian city of Munich makes a great family destination, and boasts many fun things to see and do with kids , from zoo visits to learning how cars are built at the BMW museum. In the port city of Hamburg , it's all about Minatur World, a fantastic model railway that fills a massive old warehouse. And what kid doesn't love castles? The beautiful Rhine Valley is awash in medieval towns and castles all just waiting to be explored... even more fun if you do it by riverboat!

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A disarmingly beautiful architectural masterpiece with an almost complete absence of modern eyesores, Bamberg's entire Altstadt is a Unesco World Heritage Site and one of Bavaria's unmissables. Generally regarded as one of Germany's most attractive settlements, the town is bisected by rivers and canals and was built by archbishops on seven hills, earning it the inevitable sobriquet of ‘Franconian Rome’. Students inject some liveliness into its streets, pavement cafes, pubs and no fewer than 10 breweries cooking up Bamberg's famous smoked beer, but it's usually wide-eyed tourists who can be seen filing through its narrow medieval streets. The town can be tackled as a day trip from Nuremberg, but, to really do it justice and to experience the romantically lit streets once most visitors have left, consider an overnight stay.

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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Bamberger Dom

Beneath the quartet of spires, Bamberg’s cathedral is packed with artistic treasures, most famously the slender equestrian statue of the Bamberger Reiter …

Klein Venedig

A row of diminutive, half-timbered cottages once inhabited by fishermen and their families (hence the street's name meaning 'fishery') comprises Bamberg’s…

Kloster St Michael

Above Domplatz, at the top of Michaelsberg, is the Benedictine Kloster St Michael, a former monastery and now an aged people’s home. The monastery church…

Historisches Museum

Bamberg's main museum fills the Alte Hofhaltung (old court hall), a former prince-bishops' palace near the cathedral, with a mixed bag of exhibits. These…

Altes Rathaus

Like a ship in dry dock, Bamberg's 1462 Old Town Hall was built on an artifical island in the Regnitz River, allegedly because the local bishop had…

Neue Residenz

This splendid episcopal palace gives you an eyeful of the lavish lifestyle of Bamberg’s prince-bishops who, between 1703 and 1802, occupied its 40-odd…

Fränkisches Brauereimuseum

Located in the Kloster St Michael, this comprehensive brewery museum exhibits over 1000 period mashing, boiling and bottling implements, as well as…

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Home » Travel Guides » Germany » 15 Best Things to Do in Bamberg (Germany)

15 Best Things to Do in Bamberg (Germany)

The World Heritage City of Bamberg is in Upper Franconia resting on seven hills. And if that sounds Roman, this seat of episcopal power is still called the “Rome of Franconia”, You’ll certainly get that impression on Domplatz, where the cathedral and its four towers are awe-inspiring and flanked by the solemn Medieval and Baroque palaces for Bamberg’s mighty Prince Bishops.

You could lose a day or more under the spell of this place buried in artefacts at the museums in the old courts or gazing at the view of Bamberg’s lower quarters from the Baroque rose garden on a terrace.

Down there, cross the River Regnitz you’ll be in the Inselstadt (Island City), which was Bamberg’s secular merchant settlement. To have a say in city affairs the merchants built themselves a town hall, right in the middle of the river and coated with frescoes in the 18th century.

Let’s have a look at the best things to do in Bamberg :

1. Bamberg Cathedral

Founded by Holy Roman Emperor Henry II in the early 11th century, Bamberg Cathedral has extraordinary Medieval architecture and priceless works of art.

Outside you’ll see that the cathedral has four towers, and that symmetry continues below where there’s a choir at each end, the eastern one Romanesque, and the western Gothic.

A must-see is the tomb of Henry II and his wife Kunigunde, carved from Franconian limestone across 14 years by the Renaissance master Tilman Riemenschneider.

Close by, atop a column is another staggering work of art, the Bamberger Reiter (Bamberg Horseman). By its astounding level of naturalism you would never believe that this sculpture is from the first decades of the 13th century.

There’s much more to discover, from the carvings on the three main portals, to two crypts, the marble tomb of Pope Clement II, the beautiful stalls in the western choir and the profusion of altars.

2. Alte Hofhaltung

This Renaissance complex comprises the residential and commercial building’s of Bamberg’s Medieval episcopal court.

The Alte Hofhaltung originated at the beginning of the 11th century when the diocese was founded and there are still vestiges of those first palaces and chapels in the inner courtyard.

Here, along with a host of smaller buildings, a Late Gothic timber-framed gallery lines the eastern corner.

To reach this space from the Cathedral Square you have to pass through the 16th-century Prachtportal (Magnificent Portal), on which there’s a relief of Mary in front of an image of the cathedral.

At her right arm is Holy Roman Emperor Henry II, who founded the Bamberg Diocese in 1007.

3. Historisches Museum

The history and culture of this World Heritage City is uncovered at the museum inside the Alte Hofhaltung.

The Gemäldegalerie (painting gallery) for instance has 100 works by masters like Brueghel and Lucas Cranach the Elder, and the 19th-century landscape artist Otto Modersohn.

There are also insights into bourgeois life in Bamberg in the 19th century, calling on portraits, furniture, textiles, jewellery, musical instruments and home appliances.

You can also go back a bit further to understand Bamberg’s complicated relationship with the Regnitz River, which wreaked havoc with flooding.

Since 2015 there has also been an acclaimed permanent exhibition about Bamberg’s Jewish community.

4. Altes Rathaus

Whether it’s true or not, there’s a fun back-story to Bamberg’s fabulous, fresco-covered old town hall: In the 14th century the Bishop of Bamberg refused to allocate land to the city’s residents for a town hall, so they decided to build it on stakes in the River Regnitz, at the boundary between the episcopal and merchant city.

The first reference to the town hall is from 1387, and the building was given a Baroque update in the middle of the 18th century.

That was when its famous frescoes were painted, and you have to try to spot where a sculpted cherub’s leg pokes out of the mural in 3D. Inside you can view the splendid Rococo Hall and the Ludwig Collection of fine porcelain.

5. Neue Residenz

In 1602 Bamberg’s prince bishops moved from the Alte Hofhaltung to a sumptuous new palace on the other side of the cathedral square where they would stay until secularisation in 1803. The Neue Residenz is the largest palace in the city and has two original Renaissance wings and then Baroque extensions built a century later.

There are more than 40 state rooms to tour, including the marvellous central Imperial Hall (Kaiser Saal), embellished by allegorical frescoes and chandeliers.

The palace is also a branch gallery for the Bavarian State Painting Collection, and among its most prestigious works is Hans Baldung Grien’s Die Sintflut (The Flood).

6. Rosengarten

Behind the Neue Residenz is the palace’s spellbinding rose garden.

This started out as a Renaissance garden, but took on in its present Baroque form in the 1730s.

The Rosengarten’s regimented flowerbeds are planted with 4,600 roses and hemmed by low, closely clipped hedges.

There are statues throughout, and the garden’s straight paths meet at a fountain ringed with benches and lime trees.

Clipped lime trees also form the garden’s boundary, and from the balustrade to the north you can linger over vistas of the merchant city.

7. Diocesan Museum

In the diocesan chapterhouse, also on the Cathedral Square is a museum based on the lavish and fascinating collections of Bamberg’s cathedral treasury.

Many of the holdings were lost to secularisation, but the museum has enough riches to shed light on the wealth and power of Bamberg’s diocese.

The textiles and vestments are especially impressive, including the regalia worn by Holy Roman Emperor Henry II and Kunigunde, as well as the 11th-century Pope Clement II. The Guntertuch meanwhile is an 11th-century silk tapestry depicting the triumphal return of a Byzantine emperor from a successful campaign.

There are also portable altars, drinking vessels, candlesticks, a silver image of Mary for processions and a small army of Baroque and Gothic statues.

8. Altenburg

The highest hill in the city has been fortified since the 12th century, and at that time it was used as a refuge for Bamberg’s citizens during battles and raids.

But in the mid-13th century the Bishops of Bamberg acquired the property and it became their residence before it was damaged during the Second Margrave War in 1553. After that the Altenburg was a prison until it was restored by a friend of writer E. T. A. Hoffmann in the early 19th century.

Hoffmann was fond of Altenburg and was a regular guest in one of the towers on the wall.

The 13th-century keep is the main vestige of the Bishops’ residence, and has a 33-metre tower for awesome views of the seven hills of Bamberg and the episcopal city.

Near the top is an iron frame, a former beacon for sending signals to Giechburg castle, 20 kilometres to the east.

9. Obere Pfarre

This High Gothic church was founded in the 14th century and has a lot of architecture and fittings from that time, as well as a Late Gothic choir and Baroque decoration in the nave.

Outside, step around to the northern Brautportal “Bridal Portal”, which is a kind of open vestibule with carvings of the fable of the wise and foolish virgins on the jambs and the Coronation of Mary depicted in the tympanum.

The square tower on the southwest side of the church may look like it doesn’t quite belong, and was actually built as a city watchtower and then annexed by the church.

The imposing high altar from the 1710s, almost rises to the chancel ceiling, and embedded in the mass of sculpture and marble-effect columns is a carving of Mary and Child from 1250. Also look for the painting of the Assumption of Mary by Tintoretto in the right aisle.

10. Klein Venedig

Just after the Altes Rathaus you can go for an amble on the left bank of the River Regnitz.

On this side of the river you can pause to appreciate Bamberg’s old fisherman’s quarter.

Known as Klein Venedig (Little Venice), there’s a line of rickety half-timbered dwellings dating to the 17th century.

The scene is all the prettier as the mishmash of houses are reflected in the river and seem to jostle for position on the waterfront.

At the eastern end is the Altes Schalchthaus (Old Slaughterhouse), partially built over the water and with a sculpture of a cow above its portal.

This little neighbourhood is an apt setting for the traditional water jousts during Bamberg’s Sanderkwa folk festival.

11. Michaelsberg Abbey

Cresting one of the seven hills, you can spot the towers of this former Benedictine monastery from across Bamberg.

Michaelsberg Abbey was established in 1015 and was rebuilt in the following century by Bishop Otto.

The Romanesque architecture from that phase is still the basis of the abbey church, even after a fire at the start of the 17th century.

In the crypt, Otto’s tomb is the thing you have to see at the abbey.

This was produced in the 1430s and has abundant carvings on its sides showing, among others, Mary, St Stephen, John the Baptist and the Archangel Michael over a gilded background.

Otto’s image is on the plate at the top, and there’s a little passage through the tomb that you have to stoop to get through, believed to heal people’s back pains.

When this post was written in 2017, the abbey was closed for renovations.

12. Bamberger Kreuzweg

In the historic Sandgebiet is the oldest Way of the Cross in Germany.

The Bamberger Kreuzweg is made up of nine stations (from an original 14) from the Church of St. Elisabeth to the Church of St. Getreu.

It was all drawn up at the beginning of the 16th century by a knight who had business relations with the Michaelsberg Abbey.

Each station has a relief with a scene from the passion: They show Jesus taking the cross on his shoulders, meeting his mother, being helped by Simon of Cyrene, meeting the crying women, falling under the weight of the cross, dying, being mourned by Mary and then being laid in his grave.

13. E. T. A. Hoffmanns House

The influential Romantic author, E. T. A. Hoffmann lived at this narrow house on what is now Schillerplatz for just under five years from 1808 to 1813. The museum here now tries to convey the spirit of his writing and his personality with imaginative installations: The fairytale, The Nutcracker and the Mouse King is represented by a card theatre model, and there’s a loge with decoration that ties in with Hoffmann’s most famous opera, Undine.

The museum has a “magic garden” in the courtyard, which is a reference to his story, the Golden Pot and is peppered with famous quotes and motifs from his work.

There’s also an interactive music cabinet playing modern recordings of his musical works, while Hoffmann’s lodgings on the second floor are decorated as they would have been when he lived here.

14. Rauchbier (Smoke Beer)

Bamberg has its own style of beer that harks back to before the industrial age.

Just as it was hundreds of years ago, the malt for the beer is roasted over a beech wood fire instead of being dried an oven.

The smoke from this fire imparts a distinct flavour when the beer is brewed.

And since fire was the only way quick way of drying malt until fairly recently, Rauchbier must have a similar taste to all beer from before the 19th century.

The big Rauchbier labels in Bamberg are Schlenkerla and Spezial, two of seven breweries in the city.

Both brands pour their famous beverages, sometimes described as “liquid bacon”, at their own brewpubs.

15. Sandkerwa

Bamberg’s oldest quarter, the Sandgebiet puts on one of Bavaria’s largest folk festivals, drawing 300,000 people to the city in mid-August.

The Sandkerwa’s roots go back to a Medieval celebration for the Church of St. Elisabeth.

People pack the narrow old town streets near the river, which are lined with beer stalls, and pile into beer gardens like the one beside the Schenkerla tavern.

One tradition that dates from the 15th century is the Fischerstechen (water jousting), held on the Regnitz in Klein Venedig.

Here members of the old boatmen and fishermen’s guild try to topple each other from row boats using blunted lances.

15 Best Things to Do in Bamberg (Germany):

• Bamberg Cathedral
• Alte Hofhaltung
• Historisches Museum
• Altes Rathaus
• Neue Residenz
• Rosengarten
• Diocesan Museum
• Obere Pfarre
• Klein Venedig
• Michaelsberg Abbey
• Bamberger Kreuzweg
• E. T. A. Hoffmanns House
• Rauchbier (Smoke Beer)

8 Top Things to Do in Bamberg, Germany

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Located over seven hills, just like another famous European city , this Bavarian town's nickname is the "Franconian Rome." Picture perfect around every corner, Bamberg is home to one of Europe ’s largest intact medieval town centers, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site , while its winding narrow streets and half-timbered architecture are the holy grail of fairy tale Germany .

But Bamberg, located about 2.5 hours from Frankfurt in Central Germany, is more than just a gorgeous still life. Universität Bamberg has more than 10,000 students, while the nearby U.S. Army base is home to around 4,000 military members and their dependents, resulting in nearly 7,000 foreign residents. On an average weekend night, the city's downtown is a melting pot of international locals. Here's how to make the most of your time in this fascinating German city.

Admire the Splendor of Seehof Palace

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Originally built as a summer residence in 1686 for the Prince-Bishops of Bamberg, today Schloss Seehof , also called Seehof Palace , mostly functions as office space for the Bavarian State Conservation Office. It's lovely to view from outside, though you can join a 45-minute guided tour for a small fee from late April through October. A combination ticket is also available if you'd like to also check out the Neue Residenz (New Palace) in Bamberg, which we'll get into a bit later.

Take Photos of Bamberg's Iconic Altes Rathaus

Precariously perched above the river Regnitz on its own island, the old town hall is connected to the rest of Bamberg by two bridges. Its unusual location is due to a dispute with the bishop—the townspeople were not allowed to build on the mainland, so they created a safe haven from which to rule their city.

The building is decorated in a hodgepodge of styles with allegorical paintings on both sides showing how the Rathaus was created. Observe the decorative balconies, Baroque details, and cheeky cherubs. Inside, the Ludwig Collection is on display with 18th-century delicate figurines and porcelain .

Be Regal at the Neue Residenz & Rosengarten

TripSavvy / Erin Porter

Explore the four wings of the Neue Residenz ( New Palace ), with tours of more than 40 staterooms decorated with 17th and 18th century tapestries. In the Imperial Hall , there are 16 magnificent portraits of emperors. This place served as the seat of Bamberg's prince bishops until 1802. Overlooking the city, a baroque rosengarten (rose garden) features more than 4,500 types of roses and superb views of lower Bamberg.

Sip the Smoke

Bamberg is known for its independent brewery scene and unique rauchbier (smoke beer), a result of the unusual malting process during which grains are smoked over a beechwood fire. You can sample the famous beer at all nine of the town's traditional breweries to get a sense of this distinct flavor. If that beer's strong smell and taste isn't your ding (thing), Bamberg breweries serve over 50 other types of beer, just in case. 

Step into Little Venice

From Altes Rathaus, you can spot Klein-Venedig, also known as the " Little Venice " section of Bamberg. This fishermen's district encapsulates the charm of the town with a row of colorful 14th to 17th Century half-timbered houses. Take a stroll along the crowded waterfront that serves as the stage for the yearly Sandkerwa festival in August.

Look to the Hevens and the Cathedral

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The Bamberger Dom was founded in 1004 and burned down in the 11th and 12th centuries before its current structure was finally completed in the 13th century. The cathedral towers over the altstadt (old city) and houses the tombs of Emperor Henry II and Pope Clement II, the only papal burial ground north of the Alps . Keep an eye out for the mysterious statue of the Bamberger Reiter which dates back to the early 1200s and serves as a symbol of the city. You can also join one of many guided tours and check out an organ recital while you're here.

Located next door to the cathedral and within the halls of the Alte Hofhaltung (old court hall), Bamberg's historical museum covers the complete background of the city and houses a large art collection featuring coins as well as astronomical and mathematical tools. Around Christmas , visitors will find a compilation of nativity scenes as well.

Get Pious at the Monastery

Kloster Michaelsberg provides a picturesque backdrop to the rose garden, or for visitors who make the trek up, panoramic views overlooking Bamberg. Founded in 1015 in the Baroque style, the church was rebuilt in the neo-Gothic style following a fire in 1610. Upon entering the church, look up to observe the " Garden of Heaven ," a ceiling painting depicting 578 flowers and medicinal herbs.

Storm the Castle on the Hill

Located on the tallest hill of Bamberg, the current castle structure  dates back to 1109. After going through several owners and periods of abandonment, the castle has been refurbished and is now open for tours and events. It also offers superb views of the town below.

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What To Do & See In Bamberg, UNESCO Wonderland In Bavaria

Bamberg, located in northern Bavaria, is a hidden gem that deserves a spot on your Germany travel list. This charming town boasts picturesque half-timbered houses, lovely canals, and an impressive palace.

Known as the “city of seven hills,” Bamberg overflows with authentic charm and medieval architecture, creating a fairytale-like atmosphere.

Its Old Town (Altstadt) was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993. I was immediately taken by the enchanting and historical beauty of Bamberg.

Bamberg is home to some appealing curiosities — smoke beer, stuffed onions, the mysterious Bamberg Rider , and it’s own “Little Venice.”

If you’re touring Bavaria or on the Romantic Road in Germany, Bamberg is a fantastic stop or detour, especially if you’re a history lover or beer nerd.

In this guide, I cover all the must visit sites, attractions, and landmarks in Bamberg. I recommend kicking off your visit with a guided walking tour .

Mini History of Bamberg

A thousand years ago, Henry II, the valiant and ambitious Duke of Bavaria, decided to raise Bamberg’s profile and make it a grand city. Given Bamberg’s setting on seven hills, he thought a “second Rome” was in order.

Henry commissioned the construction of a grand church, Bamberg Cathedral, and an abbey, Michaelsburg Abbey. Not exactly Rome-level, but a start.

In the 13th century, the Bamberg prince-bishops rose to power. They were wealthy men who served as both religious and civic rulers.

Not to be outdone, the bishop-princes got busy and further transformed Bamberg’s skyline. They built Altenburg Castle and swishy palaces like the Neue Residenz and Schloss Seehof.

But Bamberg wasn’t all palaces and glamor. Like nearby Wurzburg, Bamberg was a center for witch hunts in Germany. And far worse than Wurzburg, the Bamberg witch trials resulted in over 300 executions.

You see, in the early 17th century, Bamberg was ruled by an ill-tempered tyrant, prince-bishop Gottfried Johann Georg II Fuchs von Dornheim.

Bamberg was rife with problems — frozen crops, droughts, epidemics of fatal illness, squabbles with its neighbors.

From 1626-31, Dornheim decided to blame “witches,” i.e. , women, for the town’s travails.

Accusations, torture, property confiscation, and death resulted, until the Holy Roman Emperor stepped in and stopped the superstitious nonsense.

>>> Click here to book a witch themed tour

Bamberg also survived the plague, the 30 Year War, and both world wars. Unlike other German cities such as Nuremberg, Bamberg escaped WWII mostly unscathed. Only 2.3% of the town was damaged.

Bamberg didn’t officially become part of Bavaria until 1802. It’s actually a Franconian city and has a different vibe and dialect than southern Bavaria.

Franconians consider themselves more sophisticated than their southern counterparts, the lederhosen-clad “Barbarians of Bavaria.”

Orientation To Bamberg

Bamberg is divided into three parts: the mountain town, the island town, and the gardening town. The city center in Bamberg is on the island, while the old town is in the mountain area.

The Regnitz River flows through the city, from south to north. In the south, the river divides into two arms. The river thus divides the town into three sections.

What To Do In Bamberg Germany

There are a surprising number of things to do and see in Bamberg considering it’s a fairly small town of 75,000+.

There are artistic treasures galore. You could easily spend the whole day there taking them in.

In fact, given the town’s beer culture, you may want to stay overnight to indulge and hit the romantically-lit streets after the day trippers leave.

1. Stroll The Lovely Old Town

Bamberg’s old town is seriously swoon-worthy and deserving of a leisurely stroll. It’s one of the best preserved medieval towns in Europe.

Everywhere you look, there’s vintage-y beauty with no modern eyesores.

You’ll be wide eyed as you wander around the blissy cobbled streets.

Some of the prettiest ones are Karolinenestrasse and Dominikanerstrassse in the western part of Bamberg.

2. Little Venice, Klein Venedig

Bisected by rivers and canals, Bamberg has an Italian feel. Not surprisingly, it’s grandiosely nicknamed the “Franconian Rome,” as old Henry envisioned.

In Klein Venedig, you’ll find rows of diminutive, half-timbered cottages once inhabited by fishermen and their families. The houses are all packed together with a mixture of architectural styles that’s very appealing.

Start your walk near the Old Town Hall, walk until the next bridge, and then come back on the other side.

3. Bamberg Town Hall

The most iconic Bamberg attraction and best thing to do in Bamberg is to visit the 1462 Old Town Hall. It’s gorgeously sited on an island in the middle of the Regnitz River. It seems to almost hover above the water.

The Town Hall is connected to the town by two stone bridges. You’ve probably seen iconic shots of it before, especially from the Geyerworthsteg Bridge.

The building itself is adorable. It has arresting yellow timbers and trompe d’oeil frescos.

A cute cherub’s leg sticks out of the wall for a 3D effect. Not surprisingly, the town hall made an appearance in the 2011 movie The Three Musketeers .

How was the location of the Town Hall chosen? By some irate citizens.

Legend holds that the reigning bishop-prince refused to grant land for a new town hall to the emerging bourgeoise.

Infuriated, the citizens hulked out and began throwing sticks and stakes into the river. Eventually, they created an artificial island and built their own floating town hall — a symbol of rebellion.

4. Bamberg Cathedral

Bamberg Cathedral is also dubbed the Kaiserdom or the Imperial Cathedral. It’s one of the best things to do and see in Bamberg.

Founded by Heinrich II in 1004, but burned down twice, the cathedral’s current appearance dates to the early 13th century. It has both Romanesque and Gothic elements, thanks to dueling church architects. And four towering spires.

Inside the rather stark interior, lie some artistic treasures. You’ll find the marble tomb of Pope Clement II. He’s the only pope in history to be buried in Bavaria.

He was pope 1000 years ago and only lasted one year in his vaulted position. Allegedly, he was poisoned by a rival pope wannabe, Benedict IX.

You’ll also find the ornately carved tombs of Henry II and his wife Kunigune. And one of the city’s most famous sculptures — the slender equestrian statue of Bamberger Reite r or the Bamberg Rider .

His true identity remains unknown, although some suspect he represents St. Stephen of Hungary, a much admired medieval king.

And no one knows exactly how this secular, and life size, horse and rider arrived at the cathedral.

Legend holds that the Nazis admired the fierce-looking rider and used him as their inspiration for the perfect Aryan man.

5. Schloss Seehof

Located on the outskirts of Bamberg near Memmelsdorf, the illustrious Schloss Seehof was the summer home and hunting lodge for prince-bishop Marquard Sebastian von Schenk von Stauffenberg. (Quite a long and agonizing name.)

After extensive renovation, it’s now open to the public. It’s a little jewel box of opulence.

If you have a car, the schloss is just a few minutes away. If you don’t, you can hop on Bus #907, which departs Bamberg’s central bus terminal every 10 minutes.

6. Neue Residenz

Bamberg’s Neue Residence is an opulent palace right next to Bamberg Cathedral.

It’s not nearly as opulent as the nearby Wurzburg Residence . But you get a taste of the lavish lifestyle of Bamberg’s royals, who lived here from 1703-1802.

There are 40 rooms decked out with intricately stuccoed ceilings, paintings, and tapestries. The most significant room is the Imperial Hall, now under renovation. Despite having low ceilings, the room appears quite lofty due to the illusionistic tromp d’oeil paintings.

Tip : The interior can only be seen on guided 45 minute tours in German. However, you can book an English tour by special appointment. I was on the German tour, but there are English guide sheets available to read along.

Although I did hear the word “scandalous” pop out of the mouth of the guide, and knew I missed something interesting.

There’s also a lovely rose garden for strolling. There are over 100 different varieties of roses to assault your senses.

Toss in some beautiful fountains and sculptures, and you have the perfect retreat. You even have a nice view of the old town from the rose garden.

7. Alte Hofhaltung, the Old Courtyard

A 16th century gateway leads you to a lovely medieval half-timbered building in the Alte Hofhaltung or Old Courtyard. 

This building was formerly the residence of the Bamberg bishop-princes, before they moved into their posher crib. Now, it houses the Museum of History and St. Katherine’s Chapel. 

The quaint Old Courtyard was also a filming location for the movie, The Three Musketeers , staring Orlando Bloom. You can check out the famous fight scene in the video below.

8. Enjoy the Regional Cuisine

A little cafe time is a must in Bamberg, which boasts many lovely options. The regional cuisine packs a punch.

I mean really packs a punch. You could be down for the count after dining here, the food’s so dense and heavy.

If you’re willing to embrace a food coma, try the local specialty, the Bamberger Zwiebel. It’s a baked onion concoction stuffed with mince meat, bacon, and beer gravy served with mashed potatoes.

I was also especially taken by a quaint coffee shop where I stopped for a caffeine injection, Spitz Rein.

9. Try Some Smoked Beer

Bamberg has a serious and vibrant craft beer culture. Bamberg’s pride and joy is its famous smokey beer called Rauchbier.

It’s made with malt that’s been dried over an open fire to create the smokey smell and taste. I can’t say I liked it much, but I’m more of an oenophile.

There are 10 breweries serving over 50 local beers to the small populace of Bamberg. They consider the breweries their “living rooms.”

If you’re a beer gourmand, you might consider a guided beer tour .

Bamberg’s oldest, and possibly cutest brewery, is Klosterbräu. Or, you can try the popular and Gothic-themed Schlenkerla brewery.

Schlenkern  is the German word for swaying or dangling. Legend holds that one former brewer had a tendency to walk in a strange manner, possibly from an accident.

He was dubbed schlenkerla , or little dangler. The term stuck and is now the brewery name.

If you’re a real beer nerd, you can also check out the Bamberg Brewery Museum.

Dating from the 12th century, it’s a hilltop brewery converted into a museum. It has over 1300 artifacts relating to Bamberg’s distinctive suds and traces the history of beer from antiquity to the present.

10. Michaelsberg Abbey

The Michaelsberg Abbey was founded in 1015. It was promptly destroyed by an earthquake in 1117.

It was rebuilt in a medieval style, but then was burned down in 1610. Undeterred, the town rebuilt the abbey once more, this time in a Neo-Gothic style.

Right now, the abbey is closed for renovation until 2025 and covered in scaffolding. But you can visit the manicured garden terraces, which are open to the public and offer sweeping views over Bamberg.

11. Altenburg Castle

Perched on the tallest hill in Bamberg, Altenburg Castle is about a 20-30 minute, fairly steep walk from the town center. If you need to work off that stuffed onion and smoke beer.

Signs tell the history in both German and English. It costs 1 euro to climb the tower, but you have great views.

You can also drive up and park outside the gate. Or, you can stop for 15 minutes on the one hour bus tour that leaves from Bamberg Cathedral.

12. Church of Our lady

Bamberg is teeming with churches. But, aside from the cathedral, there’s just one you must visit, the Church of Our Lady, called Obese Pfarre. It’s a splendid example of medieval architecture and is considered one of the city’s most notable landmarks.

Construction began in the 11th century. And it underwent several renovations and additions over the centuries.

The architectural style of the church is predominantly Romanesque, with some Gothic elements. Its striking exterior features intricate stone carvings, decorative arches, and a distinctively shaped four story tower.

The interior of the church is equally impressive. There’s a spacious nave, beautiful stained glass windows, and ornate vaulted ceilings. The 17th century high altar is a masterpiece of Baroque craftsmanship.

The church features a huge painting by Jacobo Tintoretto, the Italian Renaissance genius.

Tips For Getting To Bamberg

Bamberg is only 45 minutes from Nuremberg , so it’s a popular and easy day trip. If you drive, be sure to park outside the old town and walk in.

If you do, use the automatic parking kiosks. You put in coins and the machine spits out a ticket that you display in your car window.

Bamberg is also well connected by train. High speed ICE trains will take you from Nuremberg to Bamberg in 30-40 minutes.

You can also buy a day pass, the Bayern Ticket, which gives you unlimited free transportation in Bavaria for one day. But it can’t be used on ICE trains.

You can also go to Bamberg on a day trip from Munich . But it will be a long haul. Even if you took an ICE train, it’s 2 hours of travel each way. There are 2-3 departures per hour.

I hope you’ve enjoyed my guide to Bamberg. You may enjoy these other Germany travel guides and resources:

• 4 Days in Munich Itinerary
• 1 Day In Munich Itinerary
• 10 Days in Bavaria Itinerary
• Guide To Neuschwanstein Castle
• Prettiest Towns in Germany
• Tips For Visiting Germany
• Guide To Rothenburg ob der Tauber
• Guide To Fairytale Castles in Bavaria
• Guide To Regensburg
• Landmarks in Germany

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Last Updated on March 16, 2024 by Leslie Livingston

The Top Things to See and Do in Bamberg, Germany

Bamberg, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a quintessential German medieval town in Upper Franconia, Bavaria. The town sprawls over seven hills and perches pretty on the shores of the River Regnitiz. It consistently charms flocks of tourists with its beautiful architecture, abundant culture, beauty spots and lively beer gardens. Let’s take a look at the sights and activities not to be missed in the lovely Bamberg.

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Altes Rathaus

Altes Rathaus (Old Town Hall), the most famous sight in Bamberg , sits in its own island in the River Regnitz. It is said that when the bishop of Bamberg refused to grant land for the construction of a town hall, the citizens built the island and the town hall on it. Take time to gaze at the intricate frescoes painted on the exterior of the building, and step inside to check out the Ludwig collection and the Rococo hall.

The four green towers of Bamberg Cathedral dominate the skyline of the town. The cathedral, exhibiting late Romanesque and early Gothic styles of architecture, was first constructed in 1002-1012, though it has been reconstructed and renovated several times in the following centuries. Treasures of the cathedral include the stunning marble and limestone tombs of Emperor Heinrich II, the founder of the cathedral, his wife, Empress Kunigunde, and the carved marble tomb of Pope Clement II. The cathedral is known for its many admirable sculptures, carvings and ornate choirs.

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Neue Residenz

Experience the lavish life that the prince-bishops lived on a guided tour of the Neue Residenz . The Neue Residenz has preserved over 40 ornate rooms, with high stucco ceilings, breathtaking paintings and artwork, and furniture and upholstery from the 17th and 18th centuries. Another jewel of the building is the rose garden in its inner courtyard, which offers a fantastic view over the city of Bamberg.

Schloss Seehof

Schloss Seehof is a 17th-century palace that sits in a green parkland just outside Bamberg city and makes for a very interesting sight with its octagonal towers, dark slated roofs, lovely arched windows and unusual triangular gables. The palace houses a chapel on the ground floor, with a pretty Rococo altar. The popular palace restaurant is the perfect place to stop for a meal before continuing your sightseeing of Bamberg.

Altenburg Castle

Altenberg Castle enjoys a picturesque location on the highest of the seven hills of Bamberg, and offers visitors an unbeatable view over gorgeous green valleys and the entire city of Bamberg. Visit to learn about the rich history of this castle, which dates back to 1109 and has served as a residence for bishops in the 14th and 15th centuries.

Schlenkerla brewery

Bamberg is known for its special beer and many local breweries and beer gardens. The most famous of Bamberg’s breweries is the historic smoked beer brewery, Schlenkerla. This 6th-generation family brewery has been quenching thirst since 1405 and still taps beer the old-world way – from wooden barrels. Visitors flock here not just for the unique Original Schlenkerla Smokebeer and delectable Bavarian cuisine, but for the warm ambience and beautiful interiors. Expect it to be very busy, especially in high season.

Franconian Brewery Museum

Franconian Brewery Museum , dedicated to the history and fine art of beer production in Bavaria (especially Franconia) is a must-visit for true beer lovers. The exhibits at the museum trace the journey of beer, right from its crop stage to being poured in a glass. The motto of this museum is ‘Knowing more about beer – Gaining more from beer’!

Little Venice

Little Venice or the Island City by the river has to be Bamberg’s most adorable section. It consists of steep-sloped, colourful houses with flower-box windows and little gardens squashed together. These cute half-timbered buildings can be dated back to the medieval ages and have been lovingly preserved through the centuries.

Market Gardeners’ District

The Market Gardeners’ District plays a pivotal part in shaping the character of Bamberg. This traditional wine-growing and agricultural expanse is preserved in honour of the producers and exporters of onions, seeds and liquorice from many centuries ago. Even today, little quarters of market gardening families can be found in this district just as they existed in bygone times.

Alte Hofhaltung

If you are enthusiastic about beautiful ancient architecture, Alte Hofhaltung is guaranteed to appeal to you. This historic ensemble built in the 15th century has admirable carvings and sculptures and a romantic half-timbered style courtyard where festivals are sometimes held. The building also houses the Historical Museum of Bamberg, known for its great collection of art and artifacts ranging from prehistoric to modern times.

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Best Things to Do in Bamberg Germany: A Perfect Bamberg Itinerary

Posted on Published: February 7, 2020  - Last updated: May 25, 2022

Categories Blog , Europe , Germany , Small Town Guides , Travel Guides

Bamberg is an idyllic Bavarian town that you won’t want to miss when you travel to Germany. Justin and I find that we tend to fall in love with the enchanting villages over the hectic cities. While we do enjoy major city jaunts, it’s often the tiny towns that capture our hearts. Bamberg was one of those places. As it turns out, there are lots of amazing things to do in Bamberg that will easily fill a day or two.

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Why Visit Bamberg?

So, why Bamberg? We chose to travel here for a few reasons. First, Bamberg has made countless lists featuring picturesque villages that you must visit. It simply looked so charming from the photos and I couldn’t resist adding it to our plans.

It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site that wasn’t damaged very much during World War II, so it’s largely in tact. It boasts the biggest, preserved old town center in Germany.

Next, it’s easy to travel there by train. It’s accessible from Munich, Nuremberg, and countless other spots. We reached Bamberg after visiting Salzburg, Austria with one stop in Munich to transfer trains. I recommend traveling from Munich to Bamberg for a day trip or a small town diversion for a couple of days.

Third, it’s possible to see much of Bamberg in a full day. As we only had two weeks in Europe this time, we added Bamberg to the list while hopping around to multiple other places along the way.

With that said, we stayed for two nights in Bamberg and needed one full day to give the town the attention it deserved. We highly recommend that you spend at least one night here, if not two.

Here’s our Bamberg one day itinerary to help you plan your time effectively and wisely. Spend a couple of days here if you can because there are lots of fun things to do in Bamberg. However, if you’re only able to see Bamberg in a day, that’s also fine.

Getting to Bamberg

We traveled from Salzburg to Bamberg by train. It’s easy to navigate and pay online to reserve your seats in advance. When traveling by high speed trains in Europe, I recommend booking your tickets ahead of time to ensure you get on the train. Also, you usually get a better price by booking in advance. Train tickets generally open up around five to six months ahead of time.

When you get to Munich, make sure you get off at the right station. We were supposed to depart at Munich Hauptbahnhof, and I guided us off the train at a different Munich station before that one. Oops. I didn’t know there was more than one Munich stop on our trip. Thankfully, we took a regional train to the correct station at no additional cost and somehow didn’t miss our connection.

When we reached the Bamberg train station, we took a taxi from the train station to our guest house. Take some time to settle in to your accommodations. Enjoy a lovely dinner and a beer at one of the bars, breweries, or beer gardens. Walk around as much as you can.

Where to Stay in Bamberg

We stayed at Sonnenblumenhaus Bamberg , a holiday rental apartment in the heart of the downtown region. The guest house is steps from Little Venice and the Old Town Hall. Being able to walk everywhere from our accommodation was a huge plus.

Our apartment is fully equipped with a kitchenette, and it’s a comfortable place to sleep. The cheerful room is decorated with sunflowers everywhere, so much that even the toilet seat has a sunflower on it. There are photographs of the town in the kitchen, which offer a glimpse into some of the wonderful things to do in Bamberg. At only 60€ for the first night and 50€ for additional nights, it’s a bargain.

Looking to stay elsewhere in town? There are lots of charming hotels and apartments in Bamberg Germany. Take a look!

How to Spend One Day in Bamberg

While you can easily visit Bamberg on your own, I highly recommend that you book a walking tour with a local guide. In fact, one of the best things to do in Bamberg is to start your visit with a walking tour. There are so many intriguing historical facts about the city that we could never grasp by staring at the buildings and monuments by ourselves. We spent a couple hours in the morning walking all over the town, wandering around the main sights and a few hidden attractions.

If you’re a history buff, you might want to invest in the Bamberg Card . With this card, you’ll gain entrance to seven different museums for up to three days. There are museums devoted to history, ceramics, literature, religion, and even a Levis Strauss Museum all about jeans!

Bamberg Old Town Hall

The most iconic sight of the city is its Old Town Hall . It sits in the middle of the Regnitz river, across two bridges. Legend has it that the bishop of Bamberg didn’t grant any land to the citizens to construct a town hall, so they made their own island in the middle of the river to build one. One of the top things to do in Bamberg is to admire the Old Town Hall. You can’t miss it!

On one side of the Old Town Hall (Altes Rathaus), there’s a half-timbered building. On the other side, there are impressive frescoes painted across the length of both walls. Walk across the bridge and explore all angles of this historic structure. It’s certainly one of the main Bamberg tourist attractions.

While we didn’t choose to venture inside, you can enter the building to discover the Rococo Hall and the Ludwig Collection. The half-timbered house over the river is what initially grabbed my attention and ultimately led us to visit Bamberg. It’s the most photographed place in town, so get out there and capture your own picture of it.

Little Venice of Bamberg

Visiting Bamberg is like walking through a fairy tale. There’s even a little section of Old Town called “Little Venice.” It’s a row of half-timbered homes along the waterfront, originally belonging to fishermen in the 19th century.

I suggest that you walk a full loop from the bridges at Old Town Hall. Walk through Old Town and by the river. Eventually, you’ll reach another bridge just past Little Venice and you can walk right to the other side and back around. Exploring Little Venice is one of the best things to do in Bamberg Germany.

Old Town Bamberg

You can’t visit Bamberg without spending time in its old town. It’s one of the best things to do in Bamberg. Not only are there stunning old buildings and murals, but there are excellent shops, pubs, and restaurants. We went shopping for souvenirs and found lots of unique gifts and mementos. Visitors to the local pubs and beer gardens carried their pints of beer around the cobblestone streets. Many locals gathered on one of the bridges in the early evening to enjoy a cold beer with friends.

Most homes were covered in sprawling vines, colorful flowers, and usually had a bicycle or two out front. Justin and I walked through Old Town on several occasions, never growing tired of the scenery. It’s definitely one of the top Bamberg attractions that makes it a lovely small town to visit.

Outdoor Art in Bamberg

Bambergers are huge fans of public art. Often, when there is an art piece on display that the citizens collectively love, they raise money to purchase it for the town. For instance, the “ Lady with Fruit ” statue is a bronze sculpture that residents bought together, and it’s now the first piece on Bamberg’s sculpture trail.

Polish artist, Igor Mitoraj, created the Centurione I sculpture that stands proudly on display near the Old Town Hall. It looks like a classical work of art, but it has intentional damage to the work.

This installation by artist, Wang Shugang, features eight red men crouching in a circle. There’s even one in the nearby inside the Hotel Bamberger Hof Bellevue . One of the most brilliant things to do in Bamberg is to follow the sculpture trail and discover them all.

Scenic Views of Bamberg

Speaking of the Hotel Bamberger Hof Bellevue , there’s an amazing view from the rooftop patio of this hotel. Our local walking tour guide asked the receptionist if we could wander up there for the view. I’m not sure if anyone can casually wander through the hotel at their own leisure, but it might be worth staying at the hotel for this scenic outlook.

New Residence Rose Garden

Go here for the roses, stay for the view. One of the most lovely things to do in Bamberg is spend some time at the rose garden on the hill. There’s a sea of flowers outside the New Residence building at the Rose Garden . When we visited in June, the roses were fully in bloom. Walk to the back wall of the rose garden for a brilliant panorama of Bamberg.

Bamberg Cathedral

While we didn’t go inside, we stumbled upon the Bamberg Cathedral (Bamberger Dom) on our walking tour. It’s a historic church dating back to 1237, with two previous structures from the years 1012 and 1139 destroyed by fire. The church, as well as the Old Court, are main focal points of the Cathedral Square. The Bamberg Cathedral is one of the most iconic things to do in Bamberg, whether you’re taking a look from the exterior or the interior.

Visit Bamberg: Wander and Explore

Wandering around on your own or on a walking tour is the best way to see Bamberg. We walked along the river, marveled at the detailed architecture, and discovered monuments and murals. Observe everything as much as possible and travel as far as your feet will take you. When you have just one day in Bamberg, walk around and explore all day long if you want.

While much of Bamberg is preserved, it wasn’t completely unscathed by the destruction of World War II. There are vacant lots where buildings used to stand. If a home or structure is rebuilt, it must be constructed in a completely modern style as not to mimic any old architectural styles.

Bamberg Beer Culture & History

Beer lovers rejoice! One of the best things to do in Bamberg is to try the local beer. There’s a rich beer history in Bamberg, dating back 1000 years to the first written evidence of beer in the city. The cathedral canon Ouldaricus’ dying wish was to supply all Bambergers with free beer.

Later in 1489, Bamberg was among the first to write new purity laws for beer, 27 years before the Bavarian Purity Law (only water, hops, and malt are ingredients for beer).

Today, there are ten privately operated breweries and over 50 different selections of local beer in Bamberg. The town is famous for its smoked beer, which is brewed according to centuries-old traditions. For a full listing of breweries and beer cellars, I suggest that you pick up a brewery map from your hotel or the tourism office.

One of the most famous breweries is the Schlenkerla , right in the centre of Old Town. It’s home to the original smoked beer. We didn’t end up going inside as it was quite busy, but you might want to stop here for a drink.

Instead, we mainly tried local beer with our meals at restaurants. We tasted beer by Mahrs Brau, Brauerei Keesmann, and Brauerei Spezial.

Justin and I watched the sun go down from the beer garden, Spezial-Keller where we tried Brauerei Spezial’s Rauchbier (smoked beer) for the first time. Let’s just say that it had a very interesting taste. I could best describe it as beer meets campfire. I really liked it at first, and I enjoyed it less and less the more I drank of it. It’s definitely an acquired taste!

If you’d like to sample a few different beers, you should consider taking the Bamberg Self-Guided BierSchmecker Tour . You’ll receive four vouchers to try four different beers, an authentic beer stein, and other beer-related goodies. If you’re looking for what to do in Bamberg, you should definitely try the beer…but trying a few beers on your own tour sounds even better.

Want to see more photos of Bamberg?

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Vegan Restaurants in Bamberg

One of my favorite things to do in Bamberg is…eat! Vegan options are easy to find and plentiful in Bamberg. While there weren’t many vegan joints, plant-based choices were clearly marked on several restaurant menus. Here’s a small sampling of what you can expect to find. If you’d like to read more, check out my vegan guide to Bamberg .

More Things to Do in Bamberg

Needless to say, we fell in love with the medieval town of Bamberg. It’s the town that has it all: a preserved history, a scenic waterfront, and delicious food and drink. While we didn’t have time to venture outside of the city, there are gorgeous landscapes to discover in the Franconian countryside, such as the Steigerwald Nature Park and the Steigerwald Forest Treetop Path (dying to do this!).

Although we walked past a farmer’s market in the street, we never had a chance to explore the Market Gardeners’ District. The market gardens are on the UNESCO List of Intangible Cultural Heritage. You can buy fruits and vegetables directly from the market gardens, including rare and local varieties of potatoes (the Bamberger Hornla potato is a local specialty). Discovering the local market gardens is one of the top things to do in Bamberg Germany.

It’s a great cultural city with 14 museums and collections, musical performances by the Bamberg Symphony and Bavarian State Philharmonic Orchestra, and the Bamberg State Library (it holds several important medieval manuscripts). There’s no shortage of Bamberg attractions if you’re looking for what to do in Bamberg Germany. We could have spent at least two or three days in Bamberg to see it all.

Even still, I’ve just scraped the surface of what Bamberg has to offer. I think you should visit and explore this delightful city for yourself. By spending one day in Bamberg, you can explore the city like we did. It’s likely that you’ll be able to see most of the Bamberg tourist attractions that we saw if you’re there for a day. Set aside two or three days if you’re adding museums or performances to the mix.

Although we only visited Bamberg for a day and a half, we’re already itching to return to this gorgeous Bavarian town. Interested in other German towns? Check out our travel guides for Heidelberg , Tubingen , and Frankfurt . Looking to extend your Germany trip? Explore more of the country in this Germany 1 week itinerary .

More Things to Do in Germany

Justin and I LOVE visiting  Germany  and we always have a fantastic time exploring this beautiful country. Here are some other articles about our trips to various cities and towns in Germany that will help you plan your holidays.

• Best things to do in Heidelberg, Germany
• Vegan guide to Bamberg
• Best things to do in Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Germany
• 1 day itinerary for Frankfurt, Germany
• Best things to do in Tubingen, Germany
• Neighborhoods in Berlin to Explore
• How to visit Berlin’s Computer Museum
• Berlin on Bike: An alternative Berlin bike tour
• Almodovar Hotel: A vegetarian hotel in Berlin
• Vegan guide to Berlin, Germany

Thanks so much to Germany Tourism for hosting our stay.

Lauren is the full-time travel blogger and content creator behind Justin Plus Lauren. She started Justin Plus Lauren in 2013 and has travelled to 50+ countries around the world. Lauren is an expert on vegan travel as one of the very first vegan travel bloggers. She also focuses on outdoor adventure travel, eco and sustainable travel, and creating amazing travel itineraries for cities and small towns.

Friday 2nd of November 2018

We live between all this photos as citizens of Bamberg. When you come to Bamberg, let's meet. It is great to live here. You are very welcome.

Sounds like a plan! We'd love to return someday. You live in such a lovely town!

Friday 25th of May 2018

The accom you booked - the pricing is very very reasonable and actually looks great. Why did you choose this place, is there somewhere to read reviews??? I never book anywhere without reviews (although I have read yours lol).

I would relaly love to hear where you stumbled across this place. Many thanks, Lisa

Saturday 26th of May 2018

We were actually hosted by Germany Tourism and they chose the accommodation for us! We were very pleased with this place. It was in the perfect location, the owners were lovely, and the place was quiet & comfortable. It was our own little home in Bamberg. I definitely wouldn't recommend a place if I didn't enjoy it - we were delighted by our stay here :) Enjoy Bamberg!

Monday 9th of October 2017

Super amazing photos. Never been to Bamberg, but you make it seem a really awesome place to visit. Trying out their wine one thing that will make me want to visit even more.

Thanks for sharing.

Tuesday 19th of September 2017

Awesome article you have here. Planning a trip to Bamberg, Will surely have a taste of the beer there.

Adventographer Travel + Photo

Tuesday 29th of August 2017

Bamberg has been one of those places on my "when I visit x" lists for a while and I'm happy to say I'm finally doing Germany on an extended layover on my way home from Greece and Turkey! You guys managed to do it justice in one day, I figure I'll have two. Any suggestions that you've held back?

Joey is a Traveler

Punk'N'Travel

THE ULTIMATE TRAVEL GUIDE TO BAMBERG

Servusla from Bamberg! I spent a day here last summer, and this charming town is in Oberfranken (Upper Franconia) in northern Bavaria, Germany.

Bamberg was first mentioned in 902 AD, and is famous for its many well-preserved historic buildings, and has Europe’s largest city wall, that’s still intact today.

Since 1993, Bamberg has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Bamberg’s nickname is the “Rome of Franconia”, because it was built on seven hills, similar to Rome. The Regnitz river flows right through the town. Today, 80,000 people live here, and a sixth of them are university students.

Table of Contents

Things to See and Do

If you like history, Bamberg’s Altstadt (Old Town District) is THE place to visit! There are maps from the 16th century of this area of Bamberg, and it still looks the same today as back then!

Altes Rathaus

Let’s start with the Altes Rathaus (Old Town Hall) ( Obere Brücke, 96047 Bamberg) , which is Bamberg’s most famous landmark and a popular photo spot. It was first completed in 1370. According to legend, the citizens of Bamberg asked that it’d be built in the town centre, but the bishop in charge refused to grant the land for it.

So instead, the offended townsfolk constructed the Altes Rathaus on an artificial island, in the middle of a bridge above the Regnitz river! Sadly, a fire ruined it in 1460, but it was quickly reconstructed and finished in 1461, which is the one we can look at today.

Today, the interior of the Altes Rathaus is a museum where you can look at the Ludwig Collection of porcelain and faience, which is one of the oldest of all of Europe. Admission cost is 6 EUR for adults.

Moreover, don’t miss the painting facade that Johann Anwander completed in 1755. It shows the four seasons and the four elements, as well as the good and bad characteristics of people.

Klein Venedig

Next, take a stroll around the Klein Venedig (Little Venice) district ( Am Leinritt 4, 96049 Bamberg ), which was the home of Bamberg’s fishermen in the past, right next to the Regnitz River. There are lots of half-timbered houses built in the Middle Ages that are sitting peacefully next to each other.

Same as in Venice, feel free to hop onto one of the gondolas sitting by the shore, which gave this quaint and picturesque neighbourhood of Bamberg its name.

Bamberger Dom

After climbing up one of Bamberg’s hills, you’ll find yourself in front of the Bamberger Dom (Bamberg Cathedral) ( Domplatz 5, 96049 Bamberg ). This impressive building was finished in 1012 but burned down twice (!) in the next few centuries.

The one we can visit today was rebuilt in the 13th century and is a late Romanesque building with four towers. It took a long time to rebuild it, so a Gothic architectural style was added as well.

You can find Pope Clement II’s (died in 1047) marble tomb here, same as Emperor Heinrich II (973-1024) and his wife Kunigunde of Luxembourg’s (975-1033) tombs, and last but not least, the Bamberger Reiter (Bamberg Horseman) statue. Private guided tours can be booked at 5 EUR per tour (not possible during mass times). 

The Bamberg Cathedral from the outside, and partial interior area. The photo on the right is by Sergey Zolkin on Unsplash .

Neue Residenz

On the opposite side of this square you’ll see the Neue Residenz (New Residence) ( Domplatz 8, 96049 Bamberg ), that was completed in 1703. It was the home of the prince-bishops of Bamberg until 1802.

You can look at more than 40 staterooms during an independent or guided tour, as well as the State Gallery with its old German and Baroque paintings. Moreover, the Neue Residenz is equipped with stucco ceilings, furniture, and rugs from the the 17th and 18th century, as well as the prince-bishop’s apartments.

Please note that you can only visit the apartments if you book a guided tour. The Neue Residenz is open year-round, and the admission cost for adults is 6 EUR.

Unfortunately, I didn’t have time of look at the Neue Residenz from the inside, but it’s on my list for next time! 😉

Rosengarten

If you’re in Bamberg between April and October, be sure to check out the Rosengarten (Rose Garden) behind the Neue Residenz, before moving on to the next attraction. It covers 3,500 sq meters (0.86 acres), and around 4,500 roses of 50 varieties bloom here every year.

During the 16th century, it was a Renaissance garden, but in 1733, Prince-Bishop Friedrich Carl von Schönborn ordered his workers to turn it into a Baroque garden. You can also relax at the Garden Café, and enjoy the beautiful view of Bamberg. There’s no charge to visit the Rosengarten.

Staatsbibliothek Bamberg

Then, take a look at the Staatsbibliothek Bamberg (Bamberg State Library) ( Domplatz 8, 96049 Bamberg ) next door. It was founded in 1803, and has been a part of the New Residence estate since 1966. Here you can look at more than 1,000 unique medieval manuscripts, and three among those are part of the UNESCO Memory of the World Register.

This library collates the collections of the formerly existing monasteries of the Bamberg area and the old Bamberg University. It’s nice to take a break from exploring Bamberg here, and look at some of its books. Admission is free, and the historic ceiling looks super impressive as well! 

The Staatsbibliothek Bamberg and some cool antique books!

Bamberg has lots of narrow medieval streets to explore while wandering around. Almost everywhere you look, there are some cool little historic details about Bamberg to find. So I recommend not worrying about getting lost, and just keeping your camera ready. 😉

Bamberg’s Brewery Culture and Rauchbier

For example, I stumble upon Bamberg’s oldest brewery plant, established in 1533! Bamberg has been the home of tons of breweries for many years.

Bamberg is known for its Rauchbier (smoked beer), a local specialty unique to this town. The malt is dried above an open beech wood fire instead of in an oven, which gives it its unique smoky smell and taste.

If you want to learn more about Bamberg’s beer history, join a Guided Beer History Tour (with optional tasting), or a take a self guided Bierschmecker Tour (Beer taster tour) through Get Your Guide! Please find more infos here .

One of Bamberg’s narrow streets, and its oldest brewery plant (est. 1533). The sign at the top translates to “Beer mugs for sale”.

The Bamberg Witch Trials

Although there are almost no visible remains today, I think it’s important to learn about one of Bamberg’s darkest and most depressing eras: The Witch Trials from 1595 to 1632 .

The people of the Bamberg area went through some rough times during this era, including several “little Ice Ages”, when frost destroyed the entire harvest, so many people were struggling to survive.

Moreover, the plague was going around again and an estimated 4.5 to 8 million people died during the Thirty Years’ War (1618-1638). Many people had experienced better times in the past, so witches and wizards were suspected to have caused the cold snaps and plague by using black magic.

So Bamberg’s citizens soon forced the authorities to investigate in this matter. Soon after, witch and wizard suspects were arrested, then had to suffer extreme torture, until they confessed the harm they were accused of. In the end, they were burned to death. 

Women and men of all classes and ages also had to name their supposedly accomplices, so the number of suspects and prisoners grew very quickly.

As a suspect, the authorities took you to the Zeiler Hexenturm (Zeil witch tower) in Zeil am Main (30 minutes northwest of Bamberg), and after 1627 to the infamous Drudenhaus or Malefizhaus (witch prison) in Bamberg. It had 28 cells.

Nowadays there are still more than 800 interrogation records of the witch trials at the Bamberg State Library to look at.

One of the famous victims was Johannes Junius , who was Bamberg’s Major for several years. He was arrested in June 1628, and after a week of terrible torture, he confessed to be a wizard and servant of Satan. Before he was burned to death on August 6, 1628, he wrote a letter to his daughter Veronica from jail, which one of his guards smuggled out.

When the Witch Trials finally ended in 1632, more than 1,000 innocent people (every 13th Bamberg resident) had lost their lives.

The worst period was between 1626 and 1632, under the rule of Prince-Bishop Johann Georg II Fuchs von Dornheim, when about 900 people were executed. It was one of the four major witch trials that happened in Germany and one of the biggest in history.

In case you’re wondering, the Malefizhaus, that was torn down in 1635, stood at Franz-Ludwig-Strasse 7 in Bamberg, which is a pharmacy today.

If you’d like to learn more about this tragic era of Bamberg’s history, you can join a Witch Trial tour on Fridays, and some Sundays (in German only). The ticket cost is 11.00 EUR (free for under 18 year-olds), but I wouldn’t recommend this tour for children under 14 years.

Shopping in Bamberg’s Altstadt and Tourist Info Centre

Bamberg’s last attraction is its awesome shopping opportunities. Whether you like independent boutiques or chain stores close to the Altstadt district, such as dm Drogeriemarkt (drug store), C&A (clothing store), book stores, Jack Wolfskin (outdoor apparel/ equipment store), etc., Bamberg has it all!

The Bamberg Tourist Information Centre ( Geyerswörthstrasse 5, 96047 Bamberg ) is open year-round. The staff sells souvenirs and tickets, gives tips on things to do, provides brochures and maps, and is happy to help with booking accommodations. There are public washrooms and locker boxes for rent as well.

Where to Stay

I’m staying at the Altstadthotel Molitor ( Obere Mühlbrücke 2-4, 96049 Bamberg ), a historic budget hotel within Bamberg’s Altstadt district. It is a restored mill that was first mentioned in 1410, and was still in the mill business during the 20th century, until it was turned into a guesthouse in 1992.

The room is simple but very clean with a spacious bathroom, it is quiet at night, and the Front Desk staff is very welcoming! The historic design of the room, but also the artifacts and paintings displayed in the hallways make this hotel unique.

For example, you can look at an old millstone found during the restoration  period and an original part of a baroque handrail used at this place from 1744.

Single room, old millstone found during the hotel’s restoration period, and a painting of the Altes Rathaus displayed in the hallways.

Their tasty and large buffet-style breakfast is available for a surcharge of 12 EUR. The bright-coloured design of the breakfast room is super inviting and cozy as well. All rooms have free Wi-Fi, work station, and cable TV. Unfortunately, pets are not allowed at the Altstadthotel Molitor.

Breakfast at the Altstadthotel Molitor and a cool painting on the breakfast room wall!

Where to Eat & Drink

I’m having dinner at Der Pelikan ( Untere Sandstrasse 45, 96049 Bamberg ), which has been a part of Bamberg’s food scene since 1763! These days, they serve a mix of Franconian and Asian cuisine.

For example, you can choose from the famous Bamberger Hörnla (pastry that looks similar to a croissant) or a Franconian bratwurst, both cooked in a wok with veggies, Thai curries, duck penang, fried rice, and more! All dishes are made from scratch and freshly prepared.

I’m going for their Thai Yellow Curry with veggies and tofu, and damn, it’s so good! As mentioned before, Bamberg is known for its Rauchbier (smoked beer), so I try the Schlenkerla Rauchbier , one of Bamberg’s seven local breweries, which was first mentioned in 1405. What a perfect combo of a healthy dinner and a local specialty!

You can sit outside (summer only) or in the indoor bar area. Please note that you can pay with cash only, no credit cards are accepted at this time. Der Pelikan is open six days a week (closed on Wednesdays), and hosts events regularly, e.g. Halloween Dance, 80’s Parties, and concerts.

Outside sign of Der Pelikan and partial inside bar area.

How to Get to and Around Bamberg

If you’re driving, Bamberg is 63 km (39 miles) from Nuremberg, 101 km (63 miles) from Würzburg, and 229 km (142 miles) north of Munich. Thanks to the great highway network, these cities are easy to get to.

Nuremberg Airport and Munich International Airport are the closest airports to Bamberg, which offer flights from and to European and international destinations.

Bamberg is also easily accessible by train, via the Deutsche Bahn (German railway company). Both regional and intercity express (fast) trains stop at Bamberg’s train station many times a day from different directions.

Flixbus also goes to Bamberg quite often, and is one of budget-friendliest transportation options. Please check their website for more details.

Bamberg also has a local bus, although it’s quite nice to walk around independently, join a walking tour, or renting a bike. Please find an overview of bike rental places in town here .

If you’re cycling or walking around Bamberg, just expect to be going uphill quite a bit, because of the seven hills the town was built on.

Thanks for joining me on this Bamberg tour! I hope inspired you to visit this charming town someday 🙂

If you’re in Germany for a while, be sure to check out The Most Beautiful Cities of Germany for inspiration!

To learn more about cool destinations in Germany, check out these links:

Places to Visit Around the North Sea Region of Germany by Brandon at Zimmin Around the World

24 Hours in Berlin, Germany by Joey is a Traveler

Disclosure: I only recommend products that I’ve used in the past, and all opinions expressed in this post are my own. This post contains affiliate links. If you use one of the links throughout the page to buy something, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks.

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4 thoughts on “ THE ULTIMATE TRAVEL GUIDE TO BAMBERG ”

Some lovely photos here, with some great info about the history of Bamberg. Thanks for sharing.

Thanks, glad it’s been helpful to you ?

Love! This is so on my places to visit!

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Guided tours for discoverers

Hands-on mediaeval tours, the magic of the World Heritage city and a tour with the Night Watchman: You will be surprised by what Bamberg has to offer. The range of our guided tours is as diverse as the city itself. It includes everything from historical city spectacles and paper chases for children to the Night Watchman's tour. The classical guided tour that covers all the main sights is, of course, also available. City tours by bus and ship or even gondola are an additionel element of discovery.

You will find the perfect tour catering for any interest: beer lovers, cultural enthusiasts or children, choose the right one for you from our bookable guided tours.

Excursions and trip guide for groups

With expert guidance, you will discover not just Bamberg as a World Heritage City, but also all the important sights and magnificent nature parks in the surrounding area.

Bamberg itour CITY GUIDE - APP

The flexible alternative to a guided tour of the town: The "itour Guide- APP" allows you to experience Bamberg under your own steam with audiovisual information .