Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany: The Ultimate Travel Guide 2025

Public Domain / Berthold Werner

Rothenburg ob der Tauber, nestled in the heart of Bavaria’s Franconian wine country, feels like a living storybook town the moment you step through its medieval gates. Begin your visit with a gentle walk along the town walls—each step offers a different vantage point over the terracotta rooftops and surrounding countryside. Inside the walls, the pedestrian-only lanes are lined with artisan workshops, bakeries, and cozy cafés where you can pause for a Schneeballen pastry and a strong coffee before exploring hidden courtyards and tranquil gardens.

When hunger strikes, sample hearty Bavarian–Franconian cuisine in one of the traditional taverns clustered around the Market Square. Classics like Schäufele (slow-roasted pork shoulder) and Bratwurst pair perfectly with a glass of locally produced Silvaner or Müller-Thurgau. In summer and autumn, many restaurants spill out onto cobbled streets under festoon lights, creating a convivial al fresco scene. For a lighter bite, pop into the weekly farmers’ market to taste regional cheeses, smoked sausages, and freshly baked breads—ideal for an impromptu picnic on a sunny bench by the Tauber River.

Beyond the walls, the gently rolling hills of northern Bavaria beckon with cycling and hiking trails that wind through vineyards and orchards. Rent a bike near the town entrance and pedal along the Tauber Valley cycle path, stopping at family-run wineries to learn about Franconian winemaking and sip their fine vintages. If you’d rather stay on two feet, guided walking tours will lead you to panoramic viewpoints and hidden chapels perched on hilltops. Whether you’re here for gastronomy, scenic walks, or simply the magic of Bavaria’s best-preserved medieval gem, Rothenburg ob der Tauber delivers an unforgettable experience.

History of Rothenburg ob der Tauber

Rothenburg ob der Tauber’s Early Foundations (Pre-12th Century)

Rothenburg ob der Tauber grew from a small Alemannic settlement perched above the Tauber River. By the 10th century, a wooden fortification guarded a hillside crossroads, and a modest marketplace served local farmers and craftsmen. As Carolingian influence waned, the settlement gained in prominence under regional nobility, setting the stage for its elevation to town status in the High Middle Ages.

Rothenburg ob der Tauber’s Medieval Golden Age (13th–15th Centuries)

In 1170, Rothenburg ob der Tauber received its first town charter, and by 1274 it had earned the coveted rank of Imperial Free City. Economic prosperity followed, fueled by trade in cloth, salt, and wine along the Tauber valley routes. Wealthy patrician families financed the construction of the town walls, gate towers, and striking Gothic churches, while guilds organized powerful craft networks. By the 15th century, the Market Square teemed with merchants’ stalls and grand civic ceremonies beneath the Rathaus’s imposing façade.

Rothenburg ob der Tauber in the Reformation and Early Modern Turmoil (16th–17th Centuries)

The Reformation brought religious upheaval to Rothenburg ob der Tauber in the 1520s, as town councilors adopted Lutheranism and closed monastic institutions. During the Thirty Years’ War, the city endured sieges and occupation, its walls repelling invaders but its economy suffering from disrupted trade. A notable legend from this era—the “Master Draught” tale—involves a citizen’s courageous act to save the town by drinking a massive cup of wine in a single draught, underscoring the community’s fierce local pride.

Rothenburg ob der Tauber’s Decline and Romantic Rediscovery (18th–19th Centuries)

With shifting trade routes and the Napoleonic dissolution of free cities in 1803, Rothenburg ob der Tauber entered a period of economic stagnation. Paradoxically, this decline preserved its medieval architecture almost intact. In the 19th century, Romantic artists and writers “rediscovered” the town’s pristine walls and half-timbered houses, spurring early preservation efforts. Antiquarians documented its charms, and the first restoration projects began to stabilize crumbling towers and gates.

Rothenburg ob der Tauber in the 20th Century and Beyond

World War II inflicted damage on parts of Rothenburg ob der Tauber during late-war bombings, but a meticulous postwar reconstruction restored its historic core to former glory. In the decades since, the town has balanced heritage tourism with living community needs, opening museums in former guildhalls and launching cultural festivals in the Marktplatz. Today, Rothenburg ob der Tauber stands as a remarkably intact medieval jewel, where each gate, tower, and timbered façade speaks to more than eight centuries of local history.

Visiting Rothenburg ob der Tauber 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 Rothenburg ob der Tauber on the first visit. To 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 Rothenburg ob der Tauber 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 Rothenburg ob der Tauber and is filled with tips and info that should answer all your questions!

Galgentor (Gallows Gate)

CC BY-SA 3.0 / Tilman2007

The Galgentor, located in Rothenburg ob der Tauber, is one of the town's historic gates that formed part of its medieval fortifications. Translated as the "Gallows Gate," it derived its name from its proximity to the gallows that once stood nearby. The gate is an important architectural and historical landmark in Rothenburg. Built in the 14th century, the Galgentor served…

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Location: Vorm Würzburger Tor 6, 91541 Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany | Distance: 0.2km

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Visiting Galgentor (Gallows Gate)

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Old Town Walls, Rothenburg

CC BY-SA 3.0 / Weners

The Old Town Walls of Rothenburg ob der Tauber are a series of well-preserved walls and fortifications that surround the charming medieval town of Rothenburg in Bavaria, Germany. The walls were built in the 14th century to protect the town from outside threats and have since become one of the town's most iconic landmarks. The walls stretch for approximately 4…

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Visiting Old Town Walls, Rothenburg

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Rödertor Gate

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Tilman2007

The Rödertor Gate is one of the historic gates of the town of Füssen in Bavaria, Germany. It is located on the eastern side of the town, near the Lech River. The gate dates back to the 15th century and is one of the few remaining gateways that once provided access to the fortified town. The Rödertor Gate is a well-preserved…

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Location: Topplerweg 2, 91541 Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany | Distance: 0.4km

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Visiting Rödertor Gate

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Röderturm

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Tilman2007

The eastern quarter of Rothenburg, which is dominated by this tower, was almost completely destroyed in 1945. The tower itself was also badly hit, but was rebuilt soon after the war on a restitutive basis. The Alt-Rothenburg association has set itself the task of documenting this destruction in an exhibition on the accessible and publicly accessible viewing platform of the…

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Location: Röderturm, Rödergasse, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany | Distance: 0.4km

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Visiting Röderturm

Explore Rothenburg ob der Tauber yourself with our self-guided walking tour!

Markusturm

CC BY-SA 3.0 / Istvánka

The Markusturm, located in Rothenburg ob der Tauber, is a prominent tower that stands as part of the town's medieval fortifications. It is one of the many towers that once guarded the city's walls and provided defensive capabilities. Constructed in the 13th century, the Markusturm served as a watchtower and lookout point, allowing guards to survey the surrounding area for…

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Location: Markusturm u. Röderbogen, Rödergasse, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany | Distance: 0.5km

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Visiting Markusturm

Rothenburg White Tower

CC BY-SA 3.0 / trolvag

The White Tower in Rothenburg ob der Tauber, also known as the "Galgenbogen" or "Inner Würzburg Gate", represents part of the old, inner city fortifications been. The White Tower stands at the highest point in the old town at 435 m above sea level, the tower height is 33.50 meters.

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Location: Weißer Turm, Georgengasse, Rothenburg, Germany | Distance: 0.5km

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Visiting Rothenburg White Tower

Judentanzhaus

CC BY-SA 3.0 / Tilman2007

The Judentanzhaus, also known as the Jewish Dance House, in Rothenburg ob der Tauber, a charming town in the Middle Franconian district of Ansbach in Bavaria, has been reconstructed after its destruction in 1945. Situated at Georgengasse 17, this half-timbered house holds the status of a protected monument. Even before the devastating pogrom of 1298, Rothenburg ob der Tauber had…

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Location: Georgengasse 17, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany | Distance: 0.5km

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Visiting Judentanzhaus

Ratstrinkstube

CC BY-SA 3.0 / Hiroki Ogawa

The Ratstrinkstube, also known as the City Councillors' Tavern, is a notable building located in Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany. It is a charming half-timbered structure that dates back to the 17th century and holds historical and cultural significance in the town. Situated in the Markt square, the Ratstrinkstube is part of the Rothenburg Town Hall complex. It features a…

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Location: Rothenburg Tourismus Service Marktpl. 2 91541 Rothenburg ob der Tauber Germany | Distance: 0.6km

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Visiting Ratstrinkstube

Rothenburg Dungeons

The Historical Vault in Rothenburg ob der Tauber is an underground museum that houses a collection of medieval artefacts and treasures. The vault is located in the cellar of the Town Hall and was originally used as a storage space for wine and grain. The museum shows the situation in the city during the Thirty Years' War. The Historical Vault…

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Location: Rothenburg Town History Museum in the Thirty Years’ War, Marktplatz, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany | Hours: February 2023: Sat & Sun from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m March 2023: daily from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m From April 2023: daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m | Price: Adult €4.00 | Website | Distance: 0.7km

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Visiting Rothenburg Dungeons

Klingentor

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Tilman2007

Klingentor is one of the medieval gates of the historic town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber in Bavaria, Germany. The gate was built in the 14th century and served as one of the main entrances to the town's fortified walls. The Klingentor is named after the Klingengasse, which is the street that leads to the gate. It is located on…

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Location: Klingentor, Klingengasse, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany | Distance: 0.7km

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Visiting Klingentor

The Master Builder's House (Baumeisterhaus)

CC BY-SA 3.0 / Tilman2007

The Master Builder's House, or Baumeisterhaus in German, is a historic building located in the charming medieval town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber in Bavaria, Germany. The house was built in the 16th century and served as the residence of the town's master builders, who were responsible for the construction of many of the town's most iconic buildings. The Baumeisterhaus…

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Location: Baumeisterhaus Inh. Dieter Neupert, Obere Schmiedgasse, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany | Distance: 0.7km

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Visiting The Master Builder's House (Baumeisterhaus)

Kriminalmuseum Rothenburg ob der Tauber

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Mittelalterliches Kriminalmuseum Rothenburg

The Kriminalmuseum, or Criminal Museum, is a unique museum located in the charming medieval town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber in Bavaria, Germany. The museum is dedicated to the history of crime and punishment, and features a collection of artefacts and exhibits that explore the darker side of human behaviour. The Kriminalmuseum is housed in a historic building that was…

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Location: Medieval Crime Museum, Burggasse, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany | Hours: APRIL – OCTOBER 2023: Mon – Sun: 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.mNOVEMBER 2023: Mon – Sun 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.mDECEMBER 2023 – JANUARY 8, 2024: Mon – Sun 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.mJANUARY 9 – MARCH 2024: Mon – Sun: 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m | Price: Adults € 9.00 | Website | Distance: 0.7km

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Visiting Kriminalmuseum Rothenburg ob der Tauber

St. James's Church, Rothenburg ob der Tauber

CC BY-SA 3.0 / Tuxyso

St. James's Church, or Jakobskirche in German, is a historic church located in the charming medieval town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber in Bavaria, Germany. The church is one of the town's most notable landmarks and is a popular destination for tourists. The church was built in the 14th century and is notable for its Gothic-style architecture, with ornate stonework…

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Location: St.Jakobskirche, Kirchplatz, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany | Distance: 0.7km

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Visiting St. James's Church, Rothenburg ob der Tauber

Rothenburg Rathaus (Town Hall)

Public Domain / Berthold Werner

The Rothenburg Town Hall, or Rathaus, is a historic building located in the centre of the charming medieval town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber, in Bavaria, Germany. The building is one of the most notable landmarks in the town and is a popular attraction for tourists. The Rathaus was built in the 13th century and has undergone several renovations and…

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Location: Rathaus Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Markt, Rothenburg, Germany | Distance: 0.7km

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Visiting Rothenburg Rathaus (Town Hall)

RothenburgMuseum

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Anxises

RothenburgMuseum is a museum located in the town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber in Bavaria, Germany. The museum is dedicated to the cultural and historical heritage of the town and the surrounding region. The museum's collection is divided into several sections, including archaeology, art history, folklore, and local history. The archaeology section features artifacts from the prehistoric and medieval periods,…

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Location: RothenburgMuseum, Klosterhof, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany | Hours: January – March: 1.00 pm – 4.00 pm April – October: 9.30 am – 5.30 pm November – December: 1.00 pm – 4.00 pm During the Christmas Market: 10.00 am – 4.00 pm Dec. 24th and 31st: closed | Price: Adults: 5,00 € | Website | Distance: 0.8km

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Visiting RothenburgMuseum

Plönlein: The "Little Square"

CC BY-SA 2.0 / Ulrich Oestringer

Plönlein, also known as the "Little Square", is a picturesque spot located in the charming medieval town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber in Bavaria, Germany. It is one of the town's most popular attractions and is a must-see destination for tourists. Plönlein is located at the intersection of two streets, with the Siebers Tower on one side and the Kobolzell…

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Location: Plönlein, Untere Schmiedgasse, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany | Hours: 24 Hours | Price: Free | Distance: 0.8km

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Visiting Plönlein: The "Little Square"

The Burggarten (Castle Garden), Rothenburg

CC BY-SA 2.0 / Kent Wang

The Castle Garden, or Burggarten in German, is a lovely public park located in the charming medieval town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber in Bavaria, Germany. The park is situated on the site of the former castle of the town's rulers and is one of the town's most popular outdoor destinations. The Castle Garden features lush lawns, colourful flower beds,…

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Location: Castle Garden, Alte Burg, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany | Distance: 1.0km

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Visiting The Burggarten (Castle Garden), Rothenburg

A day trip from Rothenburg ob der Tauber 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 Rothenburg ob der Tauber 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.

Röttingen

CC BY-SA 3.0 / Tilman2007

Röttingen sits in the heart of Bavaria’s Lower Franconia region, offering a wonderfully compact old town that’s perfect for leisurely exploration. Begin by wandering the medieval walls and gates that encircle the Market Square, where charming half-timbered houses give way to artisan bakeries and cozy cafés. Mid-morning, settle at an outdoor table overlooking the Tauber River to enjoy a freshly…

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Visiting Röttingen

Bad Mergentheim

CC BY-SA 24.0 / Holger Uwe Schmitt

Bad Mergentheim is a spa town located in the northeastern part of the German state of Baden-Württemberg. The town is situated in the scenic Tauber Valley and is known for its beautiful architecture, rich cultural heritage, and therapeutic mineral springs. One of the town's most famous landmarks is the Deutschordensschloss, or the Castle of the Teutonic Order, which was built…

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Visiting Bad Mergentheim

Dinkelsbühl

CC BY-SA 3.0 / Mylius

Dinkelsbühl, nestled in the heart of Bavaria’s Franconian region along the famed Romantic Road, greets visitors with its perfectly preserved medieval walls and colorful half-timbered houses. Begin your day wandering the pedestrianized streets of the Old Town, where artisan shops, bakeries, and cozy cafés line the cobbles. Stop for a freshly baked Brötchen and a strong German coffee at a…

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Visiting Dinkelsbühl

Würzburg

Würzburg sits amid the rolling vineyards of the Main Valley in northern Bavaria, Germany, making it a perfect base for exploring both river-side promenades and hillside wine trails. Its compact city center is easily walkable, with pedestrianized lanes linking café-lined squares to the Baroque grandeur of the Residenz and the cathedral. Strolling along the Alte Mainbrücke at sunset—where locals gather…

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Visiting Würzburg

Nördlingen

Nördlingen is a historic town in the region of Swabia, located in Bavaria, Germany. It is situated in a large meteorite crater, and the town's unique location has made it a popular tourist destination. One of the town's most notable attractions is its well-preserved medieval walls, which encircle the town and offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can…

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Visiting Nördlingen

Bamberg

Situated in Upper Franconia, Germany, near the confluence of the Regnitz and Main rivers, Bamberg is a town with a rich history dating back to the 9th century, deriving its name from the nearby Babenberch castle. Renowned for its exceptional beauty, the old town of Bamberg is considered one of Germany's most captivating destinations, characterized by its medieval streets and…

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Visiting Bamberg

Stuttgart

Stuttgart, located in the southwest of Germany in the region of Baden-Württemberg, is a city that blends modern innovation with green living. Known for its rolling hills, vineyards, and extensive parks, Stuttgart offers a refreshing mix of nature and urban life. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views from spots like the Killesberg Park or the TV Tower, while easily accessing the…

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Visiting Stuttgart

Heidelberg

Heidelberg, located in the region of Baden-Württemberg, is one of Germany’s most picturesque and romantic cities. Nestled along the Neckar River and surrounded by forested hills, it offers a stunning natural setting paired with classic architecture. The city’s famous castle ruins, cobbled old town, and riverside walks create a relaxed yet inspiring atmosphere that appeals to couples, photographers, and curious…

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Visiting Heidelberg

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,…

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Visiting Gelnhausen

Steinau an der Straße

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…

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Visiting Steinau an der Straße