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.

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. Top help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!

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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

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.

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Location: Lahn Wasserfall viewpoint, Hirsefeldsteg, Marburg, Germany | Distance: 0.50km

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Visiting Lahn Wasserfall viewpoint

Marburg Rathaus

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. […]

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Location: Rathaus, Markt, Marburg, Germany | Distance: 0.80km

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Visiting Marburg Rathaus

Marburg Castle

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 […]

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Location: Landgrafen Palace, Schloß, Marburg, Germany | Hours: Museum 10am-6pm Apr-Oct, to 4pm Nov-Mar | Price: museum adult/concession €5/3 | Website | Distance: 0.90km

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Visiting Marburg Castle

St. Elizabeth's Church, Maburg

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 […]

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Location: St. Elizabeth's Church, Elisabethstraße, Marburg, Germany | Distance: 1.50km

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Visiting St. Elizabeth's Church, Maburg

Kaiser Wilhelm Tower, Marburg

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 […]

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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: 2.20km

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Visiting Kaiser Wilhelm Tower, Marburg

Botanischer Garten Marburg

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 […]

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Location: Botanischer Garten, Marburg, Germany | Distance: 3.00km

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Visiting Botanischer Garten Marburg