Town of Bamberg

Guide to the Enchanting Town of Bamberg: A Gem in Franconia, Germany

Overview

Welcome to our comprehensive guide for exploring the enchanting town of Bamberg! Nestled in the heart of Upper Franconia, Bavaria, this medieval gem is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers an unparalleled blend of history, culture, and modern charm. This guide will take you on a journey through time, helping you discover the best places to visit, things to do, and local delicacies to savor during your stay.

Getting There

By Air: The closest international airports are Nuremberg (NUE) and Frankfurt am Main (FRA). From there, you can take a train or rent a car to reach Bamberg.

By Train: Bamberg’s central station is well-connected with trains running regularly from major cities like Munich, Nuremberg, and Berlin.

By Car: Bamberg is easily accessible via the A3 (Autobahn) and A7 (Bundesstraße).

Exploring the Town

Old Town (Altstadt)

  • Rathaus (Town Hall): The stunning Gothic town hall, located in the heart of Old Town, is a must-visit. It dates back to the 14th century and offers a glimpse into Bamberg’s rich history.

  • Alte Hofhaltung: This historic residence, built in the 16th century, now houses a museum showcasing local art and artifacts from the Middle Ages up to the present day.

  • Little Venice (Klein Venedig): Stroll along the canals and enjoy the picturesque scenery of Bamberg’s ‘Venice.’ Here, you will find several charming houses built on stilts over the water.

Churches & Monasteries

  • Bamberg Cathedral (Dom St. Petrus): A masterpiece of Romanesque and Gothic architecture, this cathedral is home to the relics of Emperor Henry II and his wife, Kunigunde.

  • St. Michael’s Church: With its twin towers dominating the skyline, St. Michael’s Church offers a fascinating look at the transition from Romanesque to Gothic architecture.

  • Hill Church (Bergkirche): Perched on Bamberg’s highest hill, this church boasts stunning views of the town and is reachable by funicular railway.

Breweries & Beer Gardens

Bamberg is renowned for its unique smoked beer (Rauchbier). Some must-visit breweries include:

  • Schlenkerla: Known for its strong, smoky Rauchbier, this brewery offers a lively atmosphere and delicious food.

  • Spezialzapflerei Keesmann: With a vast selection of Bamberg’s traditional beers, this pub is an essential stop for beer enthusiasts.

  • Brauerei Reichelsdorfer: Located in a beautiful, old building, Reichelsdorfer offers a more relaxed atmosphere and a variety of tasty brews.

Local Delicacies

  • Schäufele (Roast Pork Knuckle): A hearty dish made from roasted pork knuckle, served with sauerkraut and dumplings.

  • Bambergers Reisling: A local white wine with a sweet, fruity flavor that pairs perfectly with the rich foods of the region.

Practical Information

Accommodation

Bamberg offers a range of accommodations, from budget hostels to luxurious hotels and guesthouses. Some popular choices include Hotel Altes Rathaus, Hotel zur Alten Post, and Hotel Glockenspiel.

Getting Around

The town center is compact enough to explore on foot, but bicycles can be rented for longer excursions. Bamberg also has an efficient bus system connecting the city and its outlying areas.

We hope you enjoy your time in the charming Town of Bamberg! Embrace the history, savor the flavors, and make unforgettable memories during your stay. Prost! 🍻