Beautiful Bamberg is One of Europe’s Best-Preserved Medieval Gems
With cobblestone streets and half-timbered houses, the fairytale UNESCO World Heritage village of Bamberg is one of Germany’s best day trips.
One of my favorite things about the three years I lived in Germany was discovering every little charming Bavarian town within easy day-trip range.
And if you’re into charming European towns that escaped the worst of World War II, you’ll want to add Bamberg, Germany to your Travel Bucket List.
With cobbled lanes, half-timbered houses, and ancient breweries tucked into centuries-old buildings, Bamberg feels like stepping into a storybook.
It’s one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Germany and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
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But it’s not just about the architecture—it’s also about beer. Bamberg is the home of rauchbier, a smoky lager that’s as polarizing as pineapple on pizza.
Whether you’re here for the scenery, the history, or the beer, here’s why you should add Bamberg to your Germany itinerary.
But first, let’s cover the basics…
How to Get to Bamberg
Bamberg is tucked into northern Bavaria, so it’s an easy stop if you’re exploring Nuremberg, Munich, or even Frankfurt.
Here’s how to get there:
✈️ By Air
- Nuremberg Airport (NUE) is the closest, just under an hour by car or train.
- Frankfurt International Airport (FRA) is about 2.5 to 3 hours away by train with a quick transfer in Würzburg or Nuremberg.
- Munich Airport (MUC) takes roughly 3 hours by train or car.
🚆 By Train
The train station in Bamberg is well connected, with direct routes from:
- Nuremberg – around 45 minutes
- Würzburg – about 1 hour
- Munich – just under 3 hours
- Frankfurt – around 3 hours with a transfer
German trains are easy and reliable, and the Bamberg station is just a short walk or taxi ride from the center of Old Town.
🚗 By Car
Driving through Bavaria is scenic and easy if you’re comfortable on the autobahn. Parking in Bamberg’s old town can be tricky, though—most of the historic center is pedestrianized or limited to residents. If you’re staying overnight, check if your hotel includes parking.
If not, there are a number of parking garages just outside the Old Town.
Where to Stay in Bamberg
For a small city, Bamberg has a great range of accommodations.
Here are a few good options:
Hotel Wohnbar – This colorful, artsy hotel is my top pick in Bamberg. Located on a quiet side street in the heart of town, this historic hotel has spacious, modern rooms combining Franconian and Mediterranean design.
Hotel National – Located just a few minutes from the train station, Hotel National offers simple, classic rooms with a Bavarian feel. It’s not luxury, but it’s clean, affordable, and incredibly convenient—especially if you’re using Bamberg as a base to explore the region.
Hotel Andres – This is another budget-friendly favorite that punches above its weight. Hotel Andres is family-run, warm, and well-located, with an easy walk to the heart of Bamberg’s old town.
Tip: Be sure to book ahead if you’re visiting during high season or for events like the Sandkerwa festival in August.
The Best Things to Do in Bamberg
You don’t need a long to-do list here—Bamberg is a place best enjoyed by wandering. But these highlights shouldn’t be missed:
1. Marvel at the Altes Rathaus (Old Town Hall)
If there’s one key highlight in Bamberg that’ll have you reaching for your camera, it’s this.
The Old Town Hall (or Altes Rathaus) sits dramatically on a bridge over the Regnitz River, perched on an artificial island between Bamberg’s two sides.
Its colorful frescoes and half-timbered upper floor are straight out of a fairy tale.
The way it seems to float on the river makes it one of the most unique buildings in Europe, and every angle is photogenic.
2. Visit Bamberg Cathedral and Cathedral Square
Perched on a hill above the city, Bamberg Cathedral (Dom St. Peter und St. Georg) dates back to the mid-13th century and houses the tomb of Pope Clement II, the only pope buried north of the Alps. Inside, you’ll also find the Bamberg Horseman—a mysterious equestrian statue that’s sparked centuries of speculation.
The Cathedral Square is surrounded by historic buildings, including the old Bishop’s Residence and the State Library. It’s a peaceful spot to sit and soak in the city’s medieval grandeur.
3. Stroll Through Bamberg’s Old Town
The entire old town of Bamberg is a UNESCO World Heritage Site—and for good reason. It survived World War II with minimal damage, so what you see is the real deal, not a postwar reconstruction.
You’ll walk through crooked lanes, past centuries-old houses, and over cobblestone bridges that haven’t changed much since the Middle Ages. Highlights include Obere Brücke (Upper Bridge), the fish market square, and the historic breweries that dot the town.
Tip: If you love a guided historical walking tour, this 2-Hour Bamberg Walking Tour is terrific!
4. Float Past Little Venice
Nicknamed “Little Venice,” this row of colorful half-timbered houses lines the river like something out of a German gondola dream. It was originally home to the town’s fishermen. Today, it’s one of the most romantic spots in the city.
You can view it from the bridges or hop on a short boat tour to see the view from the water.
5. Try Bamberg’s Famous Rauchbier
I mentioned the beer earlier, but it deserves its own section. Bamberg is legendary in the beer world, home to nine traditional breweries within the city limits and even more in the surrounding area.
If you’re feeling adventurous, order a rauchbier—a smoked beer that tastes like it was brewed over a campfire. Schlenkerla is the most famous place to try it. You’ll walk in through a medieval taproom and get your beer straight from the barrel.
Don’t be surprised if it tastes like bacon. It’s not for everyone, but it’s a must-try when in Bamberg.
Most of the breweries serve hearty Franconian food, too—think pork shoulder, dumplings, and pretzels the size of your head.
Tip: For a deeper dive into Bamberg’s unique beer scene, this 2-Hour Bamberg Beer & Brewery Tour is a fun way to spend an afternoon!
Be sure to add Bamberg to your Germany itinerary!
Bamberg, Germany is the kind of place that sneaks up on you. It doesn’t have the flashy name recognition of Rothenburg or Munich, yet it’s easily one of the most beautiful towns in Germany.
Even better, it’s compact, walkable, and perfect for a 1- or 2-night stay.
If you’re planning a trip through southern Germany, carve out some time for Bamberg. Whether you’re here for the architecture, the history, or just a cold glass of rauchbier by the river, it’s worth the trip.
Looking for more great destinations in Germany? Start here:
Rothenburg ob der Tauber: Germany’s Fairy Tale Christmas Village
The Eagle’s Nest is Germany’s Most Breathtaking Viewpoint (With a Chilling WWII History)
Lindau, Germany: The Loveliest Bavarian Island You’ve Never Heard Of
The Best of Bavaria: Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany
The Prettiest Little Castle in Germany is a Real Life Fairytale 🏰
