Würzburg: The Complete Guide

Würzburg is a city in the northern region of Bavaria, Germany. It is located on the Main River and is the capital of the Lower Franconia district. Würzburg has a rich history and culture, with a number of historic buildings and landmarks that attract tourists from around the world.
One of the most famous landmarks in Würzburg is the Würzburg Residence, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This 18th-century palace was built for the Prince-Bishops of Würzburg and is renowned for its Baroque architecture, frescoes, and gardens.
Another notable landmark is the Marienberg Fortress, a castle that sits on a hill overlooking the city. It was built in the 13th century and has been used for various purposes over the years, including as a residence for the Prince-Bishops of Würzburg, a military barracks, and a prison.
Würzburg is also known for its wine, particularly its white wine made from the Müller-Thurgau grape. The city is home to several wineries and vineyards, and there are numerous wine festivals throughout the year.
In addition to its historic landmarks and wine, Würzburg is a vibrant city with a lively arts and culture scene. It is home to several museums, theaters, and music venues, and hosts a variety of festivals and events throughout the year, including the Würzburg Mozartfest, one of Europe’s most important classical music festivals.
History of Würzburg
History of Würzburg
Würzburg: Ancient Beginnings
Würzburg’s history dates back to the Bronze Age, with evidence of early settlements in the area. It became an important Franconian duchy in the early Middle Ages.
Würzburg: The Prince-Bishops Era
During the 12th century, Würzburg rose to prominence under the rule of the Prince-Bishops, who commissioned the construction of the impressive Würzburg Residence and the Marienberg Fortress.
Würzburg: The Baroque Period
The 17th and 18th centuries were marked by the Baroque period, during which many of Würzburg’s iconic buildings were constructed, including the Residenz Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Würzburg: World War II and Reconstruction
Würzburg was heavily bombed during World War II, resulting in significant destruction. The city underwent extensive reconstruction in the post-war years, restoring many of its historical landmarks.
Visiting Würzburg 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 Würzburg 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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13 Best places to See in Würzburg
This complete guide to Würzburg 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 Würzburg and is filled with tips and info that should answer all your questions!
Martin von Wagner Museum

Location: Martin von Wagner Museum, Residenzplatz, Würzburg, Germany | Hours: Tuesday to Saturday Antiquities Collection: 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m Picture Gallery: 1:30 p.m. to 5 p.m Sunday from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., alternating weekly | Price: Free Entrance | Website | Distance: 1.0km
Visiting Martin von Wagner Museum
Würzburg Residenz

Location: Residenz Würzburg, Residenzplatz, Würzburg, Germany | Hours: 9am-6pm Apr-Oct, 10am-4.30pm Nov-Mar, 45min English tours 11am & 3pm, plus 1.30pm & 4.30pm Apr-Oct | Price: adult/child €7.50/free | Website | Distance: 1.0km
Visiting Würzburg Residenz
Würzburg Court Gardens (Hofgarten)

Location: Hofgarten, Residenzplatz, Würzburg, Germany | Hours: Open until dusk | Price: Free entry | Distance: 1.1km
Visiting Würzburg Court Gardens (Hofgarten)
Würzburg Cathedral

Location: Würzburg Cathedral, Am Bruderhof, Würzburg, Germany | Hours: Monday – Saturday: 10 am – 5 pm, Sundays and holidays 1 pm – 6 pm | Price: Daily guided tours (in German only) from April 11 to October 31, 2023 at 12:30 pm. Fee: € 5 per person, reduced € 4 | Website | Distance: 1.5km
Visiting Würzburg Cathedral
Neumünster Würzburg

Location: Neumünster, Würzburg, Germany | Hours: 6am-6:30pm Mon-Sat, from 8am Sun | Distance: 1.6km
Visiting Neumünster Würzburg
Weingut Juliusspital

Location: Juliusspital Weingut Würzburg, Klinikstraße, Würzburg, Germany | Hours: Tasting & shopping Vinothek Weineck Julius Echter Monday - Wednesday: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday - Friday: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m | Website | Distance: 1.7km
Visiting Weingut Juliusspital
Rathaus Würzburg

Location: Rathaus Würzburg, Rückermainstraße, Würzburg, Germany | Website | Distance: 1.8km
Visiting Rathaus Würzburg
Marienkapelle, Würzburg

Location: Marienkapelle, Marktplatz, Würzburg, Germany | Distance: 1.8km
Visiting Marienkapelle, Würzburg
Alte Mainbrücke

Location: Alte Mainbrücke, Alte Mainbrücke, Würzburg, Germany | Hours: 24 hours | Price: Free | Distance: 2.0km
Visiting Alte Mainbrücke
Würzburg's Old Main Bridge

Location: Old Main Bridge, Alte Mainbrücke, Würzburg, Germany | Hours: 24 Hours | Price: Free | Distance: 2.0km
Visiting Würzburg's Old Main Bridge
The Little Chapel: Kappele Würzburg

Location: Käppele Sanctuary, Spittelbergweg, Würzburg, Germany | Distance: 2.4km
Visiting The Little Chapel: Kappele Würzburg
Marienberg Fortress

Location: Marienberg Fortress, Würzburg, Germany | Hours: tours 11am, 2pm, 3pm & 4pm Tue-Sun, plus 10am & 1pm Sat & Sun mid-Mar–Oct, 11am, 2pm & 3pm Sat & Sun Nov–mid-Mar | Price: Tour adult/child €3.50/free | Distance: 2.4km
Visiting Marienberg Fortress
Botanischer Garten der Universität Würzburg

Location: Botanischer Garten der Universität Würzburg, Julius-von-Sachs-Platz, Würzburg, Germany | Hours: Monday - Friday: 9.00 a.m. to 5.30 p.m. Weekends and public holidays: 9.00 a.m. to 5.30 p.m | Price: Free | Website | Distance: 3.3km
Visiting Botanischer Garten der Universität Würzburg
Best Time to Visit Würzburg
Visiting Würzburg in Spring
Spring in Würzburg offers mild temperatures and blooming gardens. It’s an ideal time to explore the city’s parks, vineyards, and historic sites.
Visiting Würzburg in Summer
Summer brings warm weather perfect for outdoor activities. Enjoy wine festivals, river cruises on the Main, and visits to historical attractions like the Würzburg Residence.
Visiting Würzburg in Autumn
Autumn in Würzburg is characterized by cooler temperatures and vibrant fall foliage. It’s a great time for wine tasting, scenic walks, and exploring the countryside.
Visiting Würzburg in Winter
Winter in Würzburg offers a cozy atmosphere with fewer tourists. Enjoy the festive Christmas markets, visit museums, and warm up in charming cafes and restaurants.
Average Temperatures in Würzburg
- January 7°C 44°F 7
- February 9°C 49°F 6
- March 13°C 55°F 6
- April 18°C 65°F 6
- May 21°C 70°F 10
- June 25°C 77°F 9
- July 27°C 81°F 8
- August 28°C 83°F 9
- September 24°C 76°F 7
- October 18°C 64°F 6
- November 10°C 51°F 8
- December 8°C 46°F 9
How to get to Würzburg
Traveling to Würzburg by Car
Driving to Würzburg is convenient via the A3 and A7 motorways. This mode of travel offers flexibility to explore the surrounding Franconian wine region.
Traveling to Würzburg by Train
Würzburg is well-connected by train, with regular services from major cities like Frankfurt, Munich, and Nuremberg. The journey from Frankfurt takes about 1.5 hours.
Traveling to Würzburg by Bus
Bus services connect Würzburg with other cities in Germany and Europe. It’s a budget-friendly and straightforward way to reach the city.
Traveling to Würzburg by Plane
The nearest airports to Würzburg are Frankfurt Airport and Nuremberg Airport. From there, you can take a train or bus to reach Würzburg.