Spread out over seven hills where the Regnitz and Main rivers meet, the German town of Bamberg in northern Bavaria is enchanting place to explore.
(Photo: Kyle Hasegawa via Flickr / CC BY 2.0)
From the centuries-old buildings dotted around the Old Town district to its scenic riverside setting, it’s little wonder that Bamberg attracts a steady stream of visitors each year. An officially designated world heritage site, the town is brimming with unique things to see and do, making it easy to pack an itinerary for however long you’re staying. We’ve picked out seven of the best Bamberg activities and attractions below.
Check out the historic Old Town Hall
Perched on a tiny island in the middle of the River Regnitz, Bamberg’s Altes Rathaus (Old Town Hall) is straight out of a fairy tale. Legend has it that when the town’s bishop refused to grant land for a town hall, the determined townsfolk built one on a bridge instead. The result is a stunning half-timbered masterpiece straddling the water, complete with Baroque and Rococo flourishes and incredible frescoes. Visitors can step inside for a peek at the Ludwig Collection’s impressive porcelain, or simply admire the Rathaus from the bridges – especially at sunset, when it looks like it’s floating on the river.
Ob. Brück / Mon-Sun 10am-4.30pm
Learn about Bamberg’s dark past
As with most towns and cities, Bamberg has its own dark underbelly. In the 17th century, one of Germany’s largest witch trials took place here, claiming the lives of hundreds – including wealthy citizens and even city mayors. Visitors can discover this fascinating chapter in the town’s history for themselves by joining a guided walking tour, taking you to key sites like the infamous “Trudenhaus” witch prison, where the accused rarely escaped their fate. Along the way, you’ll uncover shocking stories, learn how fear and superstition fuelled the trials and see how the town has come to terms with its haunting past.
You can book a Bamberg witch trials tour at GetYourGuide
(Photo: Geschichte Für Alle e.V. / Courtesy GetYourGuide)
Marvel at a 13th-century cathedral
With its four towering spires, mix of Romanesque and Gothic architecture and centuries of history, Bamberg Cathedral is one of the jewels in the town’s crown. Dating back to 1237, it’s home to several notable artefacts, including the only papal tomb in Germany (the final resting place of Pope Clement II) and the mysterious Bamberger Reiter (Bamberg Horseman), a life-sized medieval statue that still baffles historians. Visitors can also climb the 132 steps to the top of the cathedral’s towers where they’re rewarded with views across the town’s rooftops.
Dompl. / Mon-Weds 9am-6pm Thurs-Fri 9.30am-6pm Sat 9am-4.15pm Sun 1pm-6pm
Visit a top-class museum
If you’ve got an interest in nature, science, or just quirky old stuff in general, Naturkundemuseum Bamberg is a sure-fire winner – especially for families. Packed with fossils, taxidermy animals, and even a famous stuffed woolly rhinoceros that’s over 200 years old, the natural history museum does a great job of making science fun. Exhibits span everything from geology to local wildlife to space, and the museum isn’t overwhelming large so you can get around it in an afternoon with ease.
Fleischstraße 2 / Tues-Sun 10am-4pm Closed Mon
(Photo: Naturkundemuseum Bamberg)
For an alternative museum experience, the Franconian Brewery Museum offers a great way to delve into the town’s rich beer brewing heritage. Housed in a former Benedictine monastery brewery on the Michaelsberg hill, about a 15-minute walk from Bamberg’s town centre, it’s home to a huge collection of items that tell the story of the town’s brewing history, techniques and culture. Among the highlights are old brewing equipment, vintage beer steins and informative displays all about Rauchbier, Bamberg’s legendary smoked beer.
Michelsberg 10f / Weds-Fri 1pm-5pm Sat-Sun 11am-5pm Closed Mon-Tues
Cool off in the river
An idyllic riverside swimming spot, Hainbadestelle has been a local summer favourite for over a century. Set among lush trees in leafy Hain Park on the Regnitz River, this open-air bath features a wooden deck for sunbathing, a floating platform to dive from and refreshing, natural river water to cool off in. There are also showers, changing cabins and a snack kiosk serving cool drinks and ice cream, while plenty of shaded spots under the trees provide respite from the sun.
Mühlwörth 18a / Mon-Fri 12pm-6pm
(Photo: Benreis via Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0)
Pick up some local produce
There’s no better way of getting to know a place than by taking in the sights, sounds and aromas of a local market. Bamberg’s go-to spot for fresh produce and local specialties, Grüner Markt is a buzzing open-air market that runs daily (except Sundays) and is packed with stalls selling everything from crisp vegetables and seasonal fruit to fragrant flowers and regional cheeses. You’ll also find freshly baked bread, honey, and even handmade crafts. The market is set against the stunning backdrop of St. Martin’s Church, adding to its charm.
Bamberg pedestrian zone / Mon-Sat 7am-6pm Closed Sun