Steinau an der Straße: The Complete Guide

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 became a market town in the 14th century. In the 16th and 17th centuries, Steinau was ruled by the Counts of Hanau-Münzenberg and became an important centre of trade and commerce. During this time, many of the town’s most beautiful half-timbered houses were built, including the famous Brüder-Grimm-Haus, where the famous Brothers Grimm lived from 1791 to 1796.

Today, the town is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors with its historic buildings, picturesque streets, and charming atmosphere. In addition to the Brüder-Grimm-Haus, visitors can also explore the Steinau Castle, the St. Peter and Paul Church, and the town’s many other beautiful half-timbered buildings.

The town is also known for its cultural events, such as the Steinauer Märchenwochen, a two-week festival celebrating the town’s fairy tale heritage. The festival includes performances of fairy tales, music, theater, and other events.

Overall, Steinau an der Straße is a charming town with a rich history and beautiful architecture, making it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling in the region.

Visiting Steinau an der Straße 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 Steinau an der Straße 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.

5 Best places to See in Steinau an der Straße

This complete guide to Steinau an der Straße 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 Steinau an der Straße and is filled with tips and info that should answer all your questions!

Steinau Museum

Museum Steinau An Der Strabe
Public Domain / User:Mattes
Since June 23, 2006, the Steinau Museum has found its place just across from the Brothers Grimm House, inviting visitors to embark on a captivating journey into the town's rich history. Housed within the former Amtshof barn, the museum offers a fresh and innovative approach, shedding light on Steinau's significant position as a bustling town along a prominent trade route.…
Location: Museum Steinau an der Straße, Stadtborngasse, Steinau, Germany | Hours: March to October daily from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. November to February daily from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. (admission up to 30 minutes before the end of opening hours) | Price: Admission for both museums (as of January 1, 2014) (Brothers Grimm House and Museum Steinau) Adults: EUR 6.00 Adults in groups of 15 or more people: EUR 4.00 Children (entitled to a discount): EUR 3.50 Children in groups 15 or more people: 2.50 euros Families (4 or more people): 12.00 euros | Website | Distance: 0.8km
Visiting Steinau Museum

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.

Fairytale Fountain or Märchenbrunnen

Marchenbrunnen Bruder Grimm
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Maulaff
In celebration of the Brothers Grimm's 200th birthday, a fairy tale fountain was constructed on the market square. The fountain, crafted by sculptor W. Finger-Rokitnitz from Würzburg, features both famous and lesser-known fairy tales by the Brothers Grimm. A central column protrudes from the circular fountain, encircled by reliefs depicting fairy tale motifs connected by plant designs. The use of…
Location: Märchenbrunnen Brüder Grimm, Marktackerstraße 36396 Steinau an der Straße Germany | Distance: 0.8km
Visiting Fairytale Fountain or Märchenbrunnen

Here is a complete selection of hotel options in Steinau an der Straße . Feel free to review each one and choose the stay that best suits your needs.

Museum Brüder Grimm-Haus Steinau

Steinau An Der Strase Gebruder Grimm Haus
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Tilman2007
Museum Brüder Grimm-Haus Steinau or the Brothers Grimm House is a museum in the town of Steinau an der Straße, Germany, dedicated to the lives and works of the Brothers Grimm. The museum is located in the former home of the Grimm family, where Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm lived for several years during their childhood. The house was built in…
Location: Magistrat der Stadt Steinau an der Straße, Brüder-Grimm-Straße, 36396 Steinau an der Straße, Deutschland | Hours: March to October daily from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. November to February daily from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. | Price: Adults 6.00 euros (Brothers Grimm House and Museum Steinau) | Website | Distance: 0.8km
Visiting Museum Brüder Grimm-Haus Steinau

Click here to read our blog about Exploring Germany's Fairy Tale Route

St Catherine Church, Steinau

Katharinenkirche   Steinau An Der Strasse
CC BY-SA 3.0 / plant enthusiast
St Catherine Church dates back to 1273 and was first documented during that period. While conducting construction work, the remains of a chapel from the 9th century were discovered in the foundations. Despite being affected by iconoclasm, the stone Holy Sepulcher within the church, which is around 500 years old, was preserved. The primary bell in use today was cast…
Location: Katharinenkirche, Steinau an der Straße, Germany | Distance: 0.9km
Visiting St Catherine Church, Steinau

Steinau Castle

Steinau An Der Strase Schloss Steinau
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Tilman2007
Steinau Castle is a well-preserved castle complex from the early modern period. It was built by Philip II and later Philip III of Hanau-Münzenberg between 1525 and 1560, including the former medieval castle. Some documents suggest that the construction may have begun as early as 1508. The construction was overseen by master stonemason Asmus from Steinau. The castle is built…
| Hours: 10am-5pm Tue-Sun Mar-Nov | Price: adult/concession €4/3.50 | Website | Distance: 0.9km
Visiting Steinau Castle

Best Day Trips from Steinau an der Straße

A day trip from Steinau an der Straße 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 Steinau an der Straße 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.

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

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

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

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

Würzburg

Wurzburg
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…
Visiting Würzburg

Marburg

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…
Visiting Marburg

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

Bad Mergentheim

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…
Visiting Bad Mergentheim

Eisenach

Wartburg Castle Eisenach
Eisenach, located in the region of Thuringia, is a charming city surrounded by hills, forests, and cultural landmarks. It's best known for its impressive Wartburg Castle, perched high above the town and offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The compact city center is easy to explore on foot and features a mix of historic architecture, inviting cafés, and small…
Visiting Eisenach
Powered by GetYourGuide

Röttingen

Rottingen City Walls
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…
Visiting Röttingen
Powered by GetYourGuide

Where to Stay in Steinau an der Straße

Steinau’s compact Altstadt is the heart of its visitor experience, where half-timbered houses and the Brothers Grimm Museum line the pedestrianized Markt. Staying here means you’re just steps from cafés, bakeries, and the historic town hall. A classic choice is Hotel Deutsches Haus Steinau, which combines traditional décor with modern amenities and a hearty breakfast spread before you set off to explore Grimm heritage sites.

Just a short stroll east lies the Bahnhofviertel around Steinau’s rail station, ideal for those arriving by train or planning day trips through Hesse. You’ll find practical, budget-friendly accommodations alongside casual eateries and easy parking. A reliable pick is Gasthaus Zum Brüder Grimm, offering clean, comfortable rooms and 24-hour reception—perfect for flexible arrival times and quick connections to nearby cities.

For a tranquil retreat immersed in the Kinzig valley’s rolling hills, consider the villages and guesthouses on Steinau’s outskirts. Vineyards, meadows, and forest trails begin almost at your front door, beckoning you to hike, bike, or simply unwind in nature. A charming countryside stay is Landhotel Gruberhof, where spacious rooms overlook wooded glens and a farm-to-table restaurant serves seasonal specialties sourced from the surrounding farmland.

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

Steinau an der Straße Accommodation Map

Best Time to Visit Steinau an der Straße

The best time to visit Steinau an der Straße, a charming town in Germany, depends on your preferences for weather, activities, and crowd levels. Here’s a breakdown of the seasons:

  1. Spring (March to May): Spring is a lovely time to visit Steinau an der Straße, with mild temperatures and blooming flowers. The weather is comfortably cool, making it ideal for exploring the town’s historic streets, visiting local attractions such as the Brothers Grimm House, and enjoying outdoor activities like hiking and cycling. Additionally, spring sees fewer tourists compared to the peak summer months, allowing for a more relaxed and authentic experience.
  2. Summer (June to August): Summer is a popular time to visit Steinau an der Straße, with warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine. This is the best time to enjoy outdoor activities such as picnics in the town’s parks, boat rides on the Kinzig River, and attending cultural events and festivals. However, be prepared for higher temperatures and larger crowds, especially during the summer holidays.
  3. Autumn (September to November): Autumn is another great time to visit Steinau an der Straße, with mild temperatures and colorful foliage. The weather remains pleasant, allowing you to continue enjoying outdoor activities such as hiking in the nearby Spessart Forest, exploring the town’s historic sites, and sampling seasonal cuisine at local restaurants. Additionally, autumn offers opportunities to experience local festivals and events celebrating the harvest season.
  4. Winter (December to February): Winter is a charming time to visit Steinau an der Straße, especially if you enjoy festive holiday atmospheres. The town is adorned with Christmas decorations, and you can experience traditional German Christmas markets, ice skating, and other seasonal activities. While temperatures may be cold, the town’s cozy cafes, historic buildings, and warm hospitality create a magical winter ambiance.

Ultimately, the best time to visit Steinau an der Straße depends on your preferences and what you hope to experience during your trip. Whether you prefer the mild temperatures of spring and autumn, the festive atmosphere of winter, or the vibrant energy of summer, Steinau an der Straße offers something for every traveler throughout the year.

Annual Weather Overview

  • January 3°C
  • February 7°C
  • March 11°C
  • April 16°C
  • May 19°C
  • June 22°C
  • July 25°C
  • August 25°C
  • September 21°C
  • October 14°C
  • November 7°C
  • December 5°C