Standing tall against the Bavarian skyline and steeped in centuries of German history is the city of Regensburg. The place is known for its historic center, Old Town, an area that houses buildings from as far back as the 12th century, along with stunning cathedrals, old forts, Old Town Hall, and other architectural marvels. History buffs and casual visitors alike are bound to be mesmerized by the city’s offerings, which include historical sights, churches, museums, and parks. Whether you’re looking for a calming trip away from bustling, over-crowded cities or you want a taste of the olden times, here’s a list of things to do in Regensburg, Germany.
1. Marvel at the eccentric Old Town (from USD 331.0)
Regensburg’s iconic city center, Old Town, was added to the UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites in 2006 as “the only authentically preserved large medieval city in Germany”. This used to be a popular trading center in the 11th to 13th centuries and still holds remnants of its glorious past. Old Town was one of the Holy Roman Empire’s central cities, which later turned to Protestantism. Visitors will get the chance to learn about how medieval cultural and trading centers operated. Explore the tiny streets that host awe-inspiring architecture featuring traditional Roman, Romanesque, and Gothic buildings, towers, churches, and monasteries.
Regensburg - Classic guided tour
Duration: 90 to 120 minutes
2. Walk through the Old Stone Bridge
The Old Stone Bridge is proof of how magnificent 12th-century architecture and engineering were. The bridge links Old Town with Stadtamhof and was the only bridge across the river for more than 800 years. Those who walk through the 310-meter (1,017-ft) bridge will be exposed to stunning views of Old Town and its towers. International and local visitors are encouraged to get a guide so they can truly understand the mind-boggling construction of the bridge across such a turbulent river. Travelers can take a short break from the bustling city and enjoy a nice walk along the scenic bridge.
Old Stone Bridge
Address: 93059 Regensburg, Germany
3. Visit the only Gothic cathedral in Bavaria: Saint Peter's Cathedral
The imposing Saint Peter’s Cathedral stands tall as the only Gothic cathedral in all of Bavaria. Visitors from all over the world can marvel at the intricate carvings that embellish the interior of this magnificent structure. From kings riding horses to gargoyles with different faces and foolish virgins, all the figurines add to the beauty of this extravagant cathedral. Built around the year 700, this historic place of worship holds mass at 10 am every Sunday. The mass features the world’s largest hanging organ and the choir Regensburger Domspatzen (“Cathedral Sparrows”). It is a must-experience for religious travelers, while those who are just curious can admire the architecture and artwork.
Regensburg Walking Tour from Munich - Klook
Duration: 10hrsDuration
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4. Learn about German legends at the Walhalla memorial
A majestic monument with a mesmerizing view of the Danube Valley, Walhalla is a tribute to scientists, politicians, artists, and sovereigns in German history. Named after the resting place of warriors in Nordic mythology, Walhall, this memorial building attracts over 200,000 visitors every year. King Ludwig I laid the foundation stone in 1830, and the monument was completed in 12 years. This hosts more than 130 busts and 65 memorial tablets and is a popular meeting point for locals and tourists. Visitors enjoy admiring the view of the Danube amidst the peaceful surroundings.
Walhalla
Address: Walhallastraße 48, 93093 Donaustauf, Germany
Opening hours: 10am - 11:45am, 1pm - 3:45pm (daily)
5. Walk back in time through Porta Praetoria
Porta Praetoria, Germany’s most ancient stone building, served as a gateway to the Roman settlement of Castra Regina. It is this settlement that the city of Regensburg gets its name. The gateway was built by Roman emperor Marcus Aurelius in AD 179 and survived at the city’s center for centuries. The gateway, built from huge blocks of stone, is a sight to behold. It has been incorporated into the façade of a renaissance building. Visitors can also see other remains as they walk along Unter den Schwibbögen.
Porta Praetoria
Address: Unter den Schwibbögen 2, 93047 Regensburg, Germany
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
6. Check out the awe-inspring Old Town Hall
During the 1600s, this 13th-century building served as the Roman Empire’s venue for the Imperial Diet - or the forum where members deliberated. This historic building has it all, including intriguing stories, mesmerizing architecture, and even a medieval torture chamber! Visitors can enter the Old Town Hall only through a guided tour. The guide helps you travel back in time and truly understand how people lived in those days. There are three sections for visitors to admire: the tower and the adjacent palace, the Gothic Imperial Hall, and the Baroque Town Hall.
Old Town Hall
Address: Rathausplatz 4, 93047 Regensburg
7. Visit one of Regensburg's most prominent churches: Saint Emmeram's Basilica
This abbey church was named a minor basilica by Pope Paul VI in 1964. It takes its name after Saint Emmeram of Regensburg, a bishop and martyr who died around 652. The stunning basilica consists of three aisles, three choirs, and a west transept. Visitors can marvel at the beautiful baroque design of the church, which is near the Thurn and Taxis Palace. Get carried away by a stunning interior featuring amazing gold detail, artworks, and Catholic symbolism.
St. Emmeram's Basilica
Address: Emmeramspl. 3, 93047 Regensburg, Germany
8. Grab a bite at Weltenburger am Dom
In the heart of Old Town, there’s a renowned gastropub serving mouthwatering burgers along with sausage dishes and other favorites such as obazda (cream cheese on pretzels) and sauerbraten (marinated roast meat). Weltenburger am Dom offers beer from the world’s oldest monastic brewery. After a visit to surrounding tourist attractions, drop by this place for a refreshing meal featuring traditional Bavarian dishes with a modern twist.
Weltenburger am Dom
Address: Domplatz 3, 93047 Regensburg
Website: Weltenburger am Dom
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 11am - 11pm (closed on Mon)
9. Discover a traditonal city square at Haidplatz
The oldest part of Old Town in Regensburg, Haidplatz, is a traditional city square that features historic buildings like Golden Cross - a Gothic castle. Walk on authentic cobblestone streets that offer a pleasant mix of lovely, old-fashioned buildings, shops, cafes, and bars. Perfect for tourists and locals, Haidplatz has something to offer everybody. The colorful yet peaceful place is not as crowded as other tourist attractions and is a great spot to take a break after a day of sightseeing.
Haidplatz
Address: Haidplatz, Regensburg, Bavaria, Germany
Opening hours 24 hours (daily)
10. Admire an iconic mural at Goliathhaus
Located in Old Town, Goliathhaus (Goliath House) is an imposing, old-fashioned Gothic building that was built in 1260. It is well-known for its northern front that features a giant mural of the battle between David and Goliath. Since the first version of the painting in 1573, it has been redone many times, with the latest version being done by artist Franz Rinner in 1990. The mural makes Goliath House one of the most famous tourist attractions for those who cross the Old Stone Bridge.
Goliathhaus
Address: Goliathstr. 4, 93047, Regensburg, Bavaria, Germany
Regal Regensburg
Regensburg is a majestic city set along the Danube. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing stroll around Old Town or a walk on the Old Stone Bridge, this place is ideal for locals and tourists. Monumental areas such as Walhalla, Old Town Hall, and Goliath House make for an intriguing visit, while Weltenburger am Dom offers refreshing meals and drinks. Every part of this iconic city has something visitors will love.
History
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