Rothenburg
ob der Tauber
... and even the Way of St. James, also known as The Camino de Santiago, passes through Rothenburg ob der Tauber. Did you know?
A Magnet for Visitors from Around the World
Rothenburg ob der Tauber may not be a bustling metropolis, but anyone who’s visited can feel the charm of this beautifully preserved medieval town. Beyond its culture and museums, it offers a peaceful retreat for mind and body. You might find that one night here isn’t enough!
Planning to be with us for a bit? We’re glad to hear it! We promise you won’t run out of things to do in this region. Here are some of our top recommendations for activities and road trips:
Rothenburg sits high above the Tauber River, offering breathtaking views of the valley where the Tauber has carved its path for centuries. The river's name likely comes from the Celts: 'dubr' for water and 'dubron' for fast-moving water. The natural beauty here is stunning year-round, with peaceful valleys and gentle hills that are easy to hike, even for beginners.
Fun for all ages, with trails ranging from easy to extreme. A bonus: enjoy a view of Rothenburg’s skyline. It’s an amazing feeling to be high up in the trees! Note: sore muscles are guaranteed after tackling the climbing trails.
Relax your body and mind with thermal saltwater pools, a year-round heated salt lake, and a sauna area with eight different saunas. Pack your swimming bag and take a less than 20-minute drive through the beautiful Franconian countryside—it’s well worth it.
Take a journey through 700 years of Franconian history. Walking through the museum’s grounds feels like stepping back in time, as you explore over 120 buildings, including farms, workshops, mills, sheep farms, breweries, and even a summer palace. It’s an immersive experience for visitors of all ages!
This Renaissance and Baroque gem remained largely untouched after the last noble couple, Carl Ludwig and Elisabeth Friederike Sophie, left. Today, it’s one of the best-preserved examples of rural aristocratic life, offering a glimpse into a world that has long since disappeared elsewhere.
Another trip back in time: Würzburg is known for its Baroque and Rococo architecture, especially the stunning 18th-century Würzburg Residence. The heart of Franconia’s wine region is filled with wine taverns, cellars, and wineries. In the summer, be sure to visit the Old Main Bridge for a glass of wine. Enjoy a beautiful road trip through the vineyards or take advantage of the easy public transport.
Or "Nämberch" as the locals say, Nuremberg is the second-largest city in Bavaria. It’s home to major international trade fairs, and museum lovers will find plenty to explore. With over 70 museums, Nuremberg is one of the top cultural destinations in the German-speaking world. Just an hour and a half by train – or drive for the ultimate shopping experience!
The Romantic Road runs from Würzburg to Füssen and offers a journey through Western Europe’s rich history, art, and culture. The journey leads you off the beaten path, through charming small towns and beautiful landscapes. Don’t follow your GPS—stick to the brown signs for the best route!
The Frankenhöhe Nature Park covers around 1,100 km². Its goal is to combine the protection and use of cultural landscapes. Sustainable development here follows the principle of “protection through use.” If you love outdoor activities, you’ll find excellent hiking and biking paths in this beautiful region.
Find even more hiking and cycling routes here:
find all the information you need to plan an active vacation in the Rothenburg ob der Tauber area.
The Castle Road stretches from Mannheim to Bayreuth and is one of Germany’s oldest tourist routes. Along its 780 km, you can visit around 60 castles and palaces. In addition, there are plenty of opportunities to explore the past with a leisurely road trip, whether by car, motorhome, bike, or even a classic car.