Marburg: The Complete Guide

Marburg

Marburg is a small historic town located in the central part of Germany, in the state of Hesse. It is situated on the river Lahn and is known for its medieval architecture, picturesque streets, and rich cultural heritage. The town has a population of around 75,000 people and is home to one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Germany, the Philipps University of Marburg.

Marburg was founded in the 9th century and has a rich history that spans over a thousand years. The town is known for its well-preserved medieval old town, which features a number of beautiful half-timbered houses and historic buildings, including the Marburg Castle, the Elisabethkirche (St. Elizabeth’s Church), and the Town Hall.

One of the most famous landmarks in Marburg is the Elisabethkirche, which is a Gothic-style church dedicated to St. Elizabeth of Hungary. It was built in the 13th century and is known for its stunning stained-glass windows and beautiful interior. The Marburg Castle is another popular attraction in the town. It was built in the 11th century and is now used as a museum.

Marburg is also famous for its association with the famous Brothers Grimm, who spent several years in the town and collected many of their famous fairy tales there. The Brothers Grimm Museum is located in the town and is dedicated to the life and work of the famous writers.

In addition to its rich history and cultural heritage, Marburg is also a lively university town with a vibrant arts and culture scene. It is home to a number of theaters, museums, galleries, and music venues, and hosts several festivals and events throughout the year.

History of Marburg

Marburg’s Early Foundations (9th–12th Centuries)

The origins of Marburg trace back to a small settlement around a hilltop castle erected in the 9th century. Initially serving as a strategic stronghold, this early fortress gained prominence under the Holy Roman Empire when the first Landgraves of Thuringia chose it as their residence. By the mid-12th century, a market had grown at the castle’s base, drawing craftsmen and traders who laid the groundwork for the medieval town that would become Marburg.

Marburg under the Landgraves (13th–15th Centuries)

During the 13th century, Marburg blossomed into an administrative and cultural center. The Landgraves commissioned the stone Elisabethkirche in honor of Saint Elisabeth, whose pilgrimage fame brought pilgrims and wealth. Guilds formed around trades such as cloth-making and brewing, and fortified walls expanded to protect the burgeoning population. Marburg’s first charter, granted in 1222, formalized its municipal governance and trade privileges.

Marburg in the Reformation and Early Modern Era (16th–18th Centuries)

The dawn of the Reformation in 1527 plunged Marburg into religious and intellectual ferment. Philip I, Landgrave of Hesse, convened the Marburg Colloquy in 1529, hosting Martin Luther and Ulrich Zwingli in an attempt to reconcile emerging Protestant doctrines. Although theological differences persisted, the event cemented Marburg’s reputation as a center of debate. Over the following centuries, the town navigated the upheavals of the Thirty Years’ War and the shifting allegiances of regional princes, yet its university, founded in 1527, remained a beacon of scholarship.

Marburg’s University and 19th-Century Transformation

The University of Marburg saw steady growth throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, attracting scholars in theology, law, and natural sciences. The town expanded beyond its medieval walls as industrialization brought rail connections in the mid-1800s. New neighborhoods of brick workers’ houses contrasted with the timbered old town, and the Lahn river valley below began to develop mills and small factories. Marburg thus balanced its historic identity with the tides of modernization.

Marburg in the World Wars and Reconstruction (20th Century)

In the early 20th century, Marburg’s intellectual life continued to flourish, even as geopolitical tensions mounted. The university played roles in both world wars, with faculty and students drawn into military service and scholarly projects supporting national efforts. The town itself experienced limited wartime damage, allowing for a relatively swift post-1945 recovery. Reconstruction efforts prioritized restoring the Oberstadt’s medieval character, while new residential districts accommodated a growing student population and displaced families.

Marburg’s Contemporary Renewal (Late 20th Century–Present)

From the 1970s onward, Marburg embarked on a series of urban renewal and heritage preservation initiatives. The pedestrianization of its historic core and the rehabilitation of half-timbered houses attracted tourism, while the university diversified into modern disciplines like medicine and social sciences. Today, Marburg blends centuries-old architecture with vibrant cultural festivals, maintaining its legacy as both a scholarly hub and a living monument to its layered past.

Visiting Marburg for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in Marburg on the first visit. To help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!

This website uses affiliate links which earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

6 Best places to See in Marburg

This complete guide to Marburg not only tells you about the very best sights and tourist attractions for first-time visitors to the city but also provide insights into a few of our personal favorite things to do.

This is a practical guide to visiting the best places to see in Marburg and is filled with tips and info that should answer all your questions!

Lahn Wasserfall viewpoint

Lahn Wasserfall Viewpoint
CC BY-SA 1.0 / Nikanos
The Lahn River flows through the city of Marburg, and its picturesque riverbanks provide opportunities for leisurely walks, cycling, or simply enjoying the natural beauty of the surroundings. Along the river, you can find several viewpoints or vantage points that offer a pleasant view of the flowing water and the surrounding landscapes.
Location: Lahn Wasserfall viewpoint, Hirsefeldsteg, Marburg, Germany | Distance: 0.5km
Visiting Lahn Wasserfall viewpoint

We recommend to rent a car in Germany through Discover Cars, they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies. Book your rental car here.

Marburg Rathaus

Marburger Rathaus   Marburg
CC BY-SA 4.0 / M.Sheikho
The Marburg Rathaus was constructed between 1527 and 1529 in the late Gothic style. It is located in the heart of the old town, on the Marktplatz (Market Square), surrounded by other historic buildings and landmarks. The building's design features a combination of red sandstone and timber framing, characteristic of the traditional German architectural style. The Rathaus consists of several…
Location: Rathaus, Markt, Marburg, Germany | Distance: 0.8km
Visiting Marburg Rathaus

Here are all your hotel options in Marburg.

Marburg Castle

Marburg Schloss
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Heinrich Stürzl
Landgrafenschloss or Marburg Castle is a medieval castle located in the city of Marburg, Germany. It was originally built in the 11th century and served as the residence of the Landgraves of Hesse until the 16th century. The castle is situated on a hill overlooking the city of Marburg, and is known for its distinctive octagonal tower, which was added…
Location: Landgrafen Palace, Schloß, Marburg, Germany | Hours: Museum 10am-6pm Apr-Oct, to 4pm Nov-Mar | Price: museum adult/concession €5/3 | Website | Distance: 0.9km
Visiting Marburg Castle

St. Elizabeth's Church, Maburg

ElisabethKirche Elisabethkirche Marburg
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Martin Kraft
St. Elizabeth's Church is a Gothic-style church located in the city of Marburg, Germany. Construction of the church began in 1235 and it was completed in 1283. The church is named after Saint Elizabeth of Hungary, who was a princess and a deeply religious woman known for her acts of charity towards the poor and sick. She was canonized as…
Location: St. Elizabeth's Church, Elisabethstraße, Marburg, Germany | Distance: 1.5km
Visiting St. Elizabeth's Church, Maburg

Kaiser Wilhelm Tower, Marburg

Spiegelslustturm Ruckseite
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Hydro
The Spiegelslust Tower, also known as the Kaiser-Wilhelm-Turm, is a lookout tower situated on the Lahnberge Mountains near Marburg in the Marburg-Biedenkopf district of Hesse. Construction of the tower began in 1887 and was completed in 1890. Standing at 36 meters tall, the tower features 167 steps on the inside for visitors to climb. Prior to the tower's construction, the…
Location: Spiegelslustturm, Hermann-Bauer-Weg, Marburg, Germany | Hours: Nov to March: Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat: 12 p.m. to 5 p.m; Sundays and public holidays: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m April 1st to Oct 31st: Mon to Sat: 1pm to 7pm; Sundays and public holidays: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m | Distance: 2.2km
Visiting Kaiser Wilhelm Tower, Marburg

Botanischer Garten Marburg

Neuer Botanischer Garten   Gewachshaus
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Willow
The Botanischer Garten Marburg, also known as the Marburg Botanical Garden, is a beautiful botanical garden located in the city of Marburg, Germany. Situated near the historic old town, the garden serves as an educational and research facility as well as a serene and picturesque public green space. The Botanischer Garten Marburg was established in 1879 and is affiliated with…
Location: Botanischer Garten, Marburg, Germany | Distance: 3.0km
Visiting Botanischer Garten Marburg

Best Day Trips from Marburg

A day trip from Marburg offers the perfect opportunity to escape the urban rhythm and discover the surrounding region's charm. Whether you're drawn to scenic countryside, historic villages, or cultural landmarks, the area around Marburg provides a variety of easy-to-reach destinations ideal for a one-day itinerary. If you are looking to rent a car in Germany I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Alsfeld

Alsfeld Town Hall And Southern Side Of The Marketplace
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Mylius
Alsfeld is a town located in the Vogelsbergkreis district of the state of Hesse, Germany. It has a population of approximately 17,000 people and covers an area of 76.84 square kilometers. Alsfeld has a long and rich history, dating back to the early Middle Ages. The town was first mentioned in historical records in the year 1069, and has since…
Visiting Alsfeld

Bad Wildungen

Bad Wildungen
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Flodur63
Bad Wildungen is a small town located in the northern part of the state of Hesse, Germany. It is known for its picturesque setting, charming old town, and natural hot springs. The town has a rich history, with evidence of human settlement dating back to the Stone Age. In the Middle Ages, Bad Wildungen was an important centre for salt…
Visiting Bad Wildungen

Steinau an der Straße

Steinau An Der Strase
Public Domain / siehe Disk-Difflink
Steinau an der Straße or Steinau on the street is a small town in the Main-Kinzig district in the state of Hesse, Germany. It is situated in the Spessart hills and has a population of around 10,000 people. The town is known for its well-preserved half-timbered houses, charming old town, and scenic location. The town was first mentioned in 1140 and…
Visiting Steinau an der Straße

Gelnhausen

Gelnhausen
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Tilman2007
Gelnhausen is a picturesque town located in the state of Hesse, German, founded in 1170. It is situated along the eastern bank of the Kinzig river, about 50 kilometers east of Frankfurt. The town has a rich history and was once an important centre of trade and commerce in the region. Gelnhausen is known for its well-preserved medieval old town,…
Visiting Gelnhausen

Schlüchtern

Schluchtern Elm Dorfmitte
Schlüchtern is a charming town located in the Main-Kinzig district of Hessen, Germany. Nestled in the picturesque Bergwinkel region, between the low mountains of Vogelsberg, Spessart and Rhön, Schlüchtern is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. With a population of nearly 16,000, it offers a tranquil retreat from the hustle and bustle of big cities. The town is named…
Visiting Schlüchtern

Kassel

Kessel
Kassel is a city in northern Hesse, Germany, located on the Fulda River. It is the third-largest city in Hesse, with a population of approximately 200,000 people. The city has a rich cultural heritage, and it is known for its museums, parks, and historic landmarks. One of the most famous attractions in Kassel is the Bergpark Wilhelmshöhe, a UNESCO World Heritage…
Visiting Kassel
Powered by GetYourGuide

Hanau

Goldschmiedehaus Hanau
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Pedelecs
Hanau is a city in the state of Hesse, Germany. It is located about 25 kilometres southeast of Frankfurt and has a population of approximately 100,000 people. The city has a rich history that dates back to the 12th century. It was once the residence of the Counts of Hanau and was later ruled by the Electorate of Hesse. Hanau…
Visiting Hanau

Hessisch Lichtenau

Burg Ludwigstein
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Hessisches Landesarchiv
Hessisch Lichtenau is a small town located in the northern part of the state of Hesse, Germany. It is situated on the edge of the vast forested area known as the Kaufunger Wald, and is surrounded by rolling hills and beautiful countryside. Hessian Lichtenau, the gateway to Frau Holle-Land at the foot of the Hoher Meißner and on the German…
Visiting Hessisch Lichtenau

Hofgeismar

Hofgeismar
CC BY-SA 1.0 / Bodo Kubrak
Hofgeismar is a small town located in the north of the state of Hesse, Germany. It is situated on the banks of the river Diemel and is known for its timber-framed buildings and historic market square. The town has a rich history dating back to the Middle Ages, and was an important center of trade and commerce in the region. Today,…
Visiting Hofgeismar

Hannoversch Münden

Hannoversch Munden
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Dirk Schmidt
Hannoversch Münden is a charming town located at the confluence of the Werra and Fulda rivers, where they merge to form the Weser River in Breman and Lower Saxony in Central Germany. The town is known for its well-preserved medieval and half-timbered buildings, many of which date back to the 16th and 17th centuries, and is often referred to as…
Visiting Hannoversch Münden

Where to Stay in Marburg

Marburg’s heart is the Oberstadt, the old town perched atop steep cobblestone streets. Staying here puts you within easy walking distance of the Landgrafenschloss, the Elisabethkirche and the medieval half-timbered houses that line the winding alleys. Many accommodations occupy historic buildings that blend seamlessly into the town’s atmosphere—for example, Weidenhäuser Hof offers beautifully preserved interiors and a short stroll to the castle gates, while Hotel Hessischer Hof combines classic décor with modern comforts in the heart of the Oberstadt.

Just below the old town, the Lahnufer area around the main train station presents a more contemporary vibe. Here you’ll find modern hotels, budget-friendly hostels and riverside promenades perfect for evening walks. It’s especially convenient if you plan day trips by rail, since the station is steps away; uphill paths or the funicular link you quickly to the historic core. Budget travelers often choose five up hostel, which offers a social atmosphere, easy access to bakeries and shops, and a riverside setting.

If you’d rather immerse yourself in student life, the University quarter around Philipps-Universität is ideal. Leafy residential streets, cozy cafés and bookshops line this part of town, and frequent buses connect you to both the Oberstadt and the station. A comfortable mid-range choice here is pentahotel Marburg, which balances contemporary style with proximity to lecture halls and libraries.

For a tranquil, pastoral experience, consider the villages on Marburg’s outskirts, such as Cappel or Wehrda. These green surroundings are crisscrossed by hiking trails and offer guesthouses and B&Bs where you can relax after a day of sightseeing. A particularly charming option is Landhaus Kneippianum, which combines countryside views with easy bus connections back to the town center.

Wherever you stay in Marburg, the town’s compact size and efficient transport network mean you can explore its historic gems—from the cafes of the Oberstadt to the riverside walks—without ever feeling far from home.

Using the our Hotel and Accomodation map, you can compare hotels and short-term rental accommodations in Marburg. Simply insert your travel dates and group size, and you’ll see the best deals for your stay.

Marburg Accommodation Map

Best Time to Visit Marburg

Marburg in Spring

Spring in Marburg (March–May) awakens the town’s medieval streets with blooming chestnut trees and warming sunshine. Late April’s Walpurgisnacht sees bonfires lit on the Schlossberg, accompanied by music and student-led festivities. May brings Maifest in the Oberstadt, where locals dance around decorated maypoles, enjoy folk bands in the market square, and sample plum cake alongside freshly tapped regional beers. With mild temperatures and fewer tourists, spring is perfect for strolling the cobblestones and discovering tucked-away cafés.

Marburg in Summer (Best)

Summer (June–August) is widely regarded as the best time to visit Marburg. Long daylight hours and warm evenings invite sunset picnics on the castle ramparts, while the annual Landgrafensommer in July transforms the Schlossberg into a lively medieval fair with costumed performers, jugglers, and artisan stalls. The Lichterfest along the Lahnufer bathes the riverbank in a sea of lanterns, and open-air concerts fill the university courtyard. Al fresco dining on leafy terraces and evening walks by the gently flowing Lahn make summer unbeatable for those seeking a vibrant atmosphere.

Marburg in Autumn

Autumn (September–November) casts the hills around Marburg in hues of gold and red, drawing visitors to vineyard tours and forest walks just outside town. In October, the Unterstadt Harvest Festival offers local wine tastings, game stews, and live music in rustic beer gardens. As November approaches, the Elisabethmarkt brings craft stalls and mulled wine to the market square beneath the gothic spires. Crisp days and cozy tavern dinners make autumn an atmospheric season to explore Marburg’s hidden corners.

Marburg in Winter

Winter (December–February) turns Marburg into a fairytale scene when the Christmas Market opens in early December. Wooden chalets lining the riverfront sell hand-made ornaments, roasted chestnuts, and glühwein, while torchlit evening concerts echo through the Old Town courtyards. Though temperatures can dip below freezing, warm cafés, hearty regional cuisine, and the town’s intimate, snow-dusted streets offer a tranquil retreat before spring’s arrival.

Annual Weather Overview

  • January 4°C
  • February 7°C
  • March 11°C
  • April 16°C
  • May 19°C
  • June 23°C
  • July 25°C
  • August 26°C
  • September 22°C
  • October 15°C
  • November 8°C
  • December 6°C

How to get to Marburg

Getting to Marburg by air

Major International Airports

The nearest major airport serving Marburg is Frankfurt Airport (FRA), about 120 km southwest. Other options include Cologne Bonn Airport (CGN) and Düsseldorf Airport (DUS), each roughly 200 km away.

Airport Transfer Options

From Frankfurt Airport you can take the regional train (RE) directly to Marburg Hauptbahnhof with one change at Frankfurt (Main) Hbf. Alternatively, airport shuttle buses and private transfer services run frequently between the terminals and Marburg.

Getting to Marburg by train

Main Rail Operators

You can reach Marburg via Deutsche Bahn (DB): https://www.bahn.com
Regional services are also operated by Hessische Landesbahn (HLB): https://www.hlb-online.de

Typical Connections

  • From Frankfurt: Direct RE trains run hourly, journey time around 1 h 15 min.
  • From Cologne / Düsseldorf: Take an ICE or IC to Frankfurt, then a regional onward to Marburg.

Getting to Marburg by Car

Motorways and Routes: Marburg is accessible via the A5 (Frankfurt–Kassel) and A7 (Hamburg–Kassel) autobahns. Exit at “Biedenkopf/Marburg” off the A485 feeder road, then follow signage into town.

Parking in Marburg: Several Park & Ride lots sit on the outskirts, connecting by frequent bus to the city center. Central parking garages include Marktgarage and Universitätsgarage.

If you are looking to rent a car in Germany I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Travelling around Marburg

Marburg’s compact core is best explored on foot, especially the Oberstadt’s narrow lanes. For longer hops, the local bus network (MRB) covers suburbs and neighboring villages. Don’t miss the historic Schlossbahn funicular that links the Lahnufer station with the castle quarter on the hill. Bike rentals are also available near the train station for scenic rides along the Lahn.