Castle Garden, Rothenburg ob der Tauber

Gardens in Rothenburg ob der Tauber

CC BY-SA 2.0 / Kent Wang

The Castle Garden, or Burggarten, is one of the most picturesque and serene places in Rothenburg ob der Tauber, offering breathtaking views and a peaceful escape from the busy streets of the old town. Perched on the western edge of the city, this beautifully landscaped park sits on the site of Rothenburg's former castle, which was destroyed in an earthquake in 1356. Today, the garden combines history, art, and nature, making it one of the best places to visit in Rothenburg ob der Tauber.

With its well-tended lawns, colorful flowerbeds, and ancient trees, the Castle Garden is a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike. From its terrace, you can admire sweeping views of the Tauber Valley, the old town walls, and the charming half-timbered houses below. The park's tranquil paths and historic atmosphere make it a highlight of any walking tour of Rothenburg ob der Tauber, inviting visitors to pause and enjoy the timeless beauty of this medieval town.

History and Significance of the Castle Garden
Things to See and Do in the Castle Garden
How to Get There
Practical Tips on Visiting the Castle Garden
Where to Stay Close to the Castle Garden
Is the Castle Garden Worth Visiting?
FAQs for Visiting the Castle Garden
Nearby Attractions to the Castle Garden

History and Significance of the Castle Garden

The site where the Castle Garden now lies was once home to Rothenburg's Imperial Castle, built in the 12th century by the Hohenstaufen dynasty. The castle served as a symbol of imperial authority until a devastating earthquake in 1356 destroyed much of it. The ruins were never rebuilt, and the area was later transformed into a landscaped park during the 17th and 18th centuries.

Traces of the old fortress remain, including portions of the castle walls and a few stone foundations that hint at the site's medieval grandeur. The Burggarten also features statues representing eight German emperors, as well as sculptures by Tilman Riemenschneider, one of the region's most renowned artists. These artistic and historical elements blend seamlessly with the natural beauty of the surroundings, giving the garden a unique balance of culture and calm.

Things to See and Do in the Castle Garden

Strolling through the Castle Garden is a sensory delight. Visitors can wander along flower-lined paths and shaded walkways, stopping to admire the sculptures scattered throughout the park. In spring and summer, the gardens bloom in vibrant color, while autumn brings a rich palette of golds and reds. The remains of the old castle walls and towers add a historical backdrop to the peaceful greenery.

One of the garden’s main attractions is its panoramic viewpoint overlooking the Tauber Valley. From here, you can see Rothenburg’s defensive walls winding through the landscape and spot landmarks such as the Double Bridge (Doppelbrücke) below. It’s a perfect place for photography, picnics, or quiet reflection. Benches throughout the park invite you to linger, while informational plaques share insights about the site’s history and the sculptures on display.

How to Get There

The Castle Garden is located at the western edge of Rothenburg ob der Tauber's Old Town, just a short five-minute walk from Marktplatz along Herrngasse. The town is easily reached by car from the A7 motorway. 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. For those arriving by train, Rothenburg’s station connects with regional services through Steinach. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio. Once inside the city walls, the park is accessible on foot and well signposted from the main square.

Practical Tips on Visiting the Castle Garden

Best time to visit the Castle Garden: Late spring to early autumn for colorful flowers and clear views.
Entrance fee in Euros: Free.
Opening hours: Open daily year-round.
Official website: www.rothenburg.de
How long to spend: 30–60 minutes, longer for photography or picnics.
Accessibility: Paths are mostly flat and suitable for all visitors.
Facilities: Benches and shaded seating areas available; no restrooms in the garden.
Photography tip: Sunset offers the best lighting for panoramic shots of the town and valley.
Guided tours: Often included in city walking tours or private excursions.
Nearby food options: Cafés and restaurants along Herrngasse and near Marktplatz.

Where to Stay Close to the Castle Garden

Enjoy garden views and historic charm at Hotel BurgGartenpalais, which sits just steps away from the Burggarten entrance. Hotel Eisenhut offers refined rooms and a terrace overlooking the valley, while Hotel Reichs-Küchenmeister provides classic Franconian hospitality close to the Old Town’s main sights.

Is the Castle Garden Worth Visiting?

Yes — the Castle Garden is one of the must-see places in Rothenburg ob der Tauber for its peaceful atmosphere, historical depth, and spectacular views. Whether you're exploring the remnants of the old castle, admiring Riemenschneider's sculptures, or simply soaking in the scenery, this tranquil haven offers a perfect balance of art, history, and nature.

FAQs for Visiting the Castle Garden

Is there an entrance fee?
No, the garden is free to visit.

When is the best time to go?
Visit in spring or early summer for the most vibrant floral displays.

Are pets allowed?
Yes, but they should be kept on a leash.

Can you picnic in the park?
Yes, picnicking is permitted and popular among visitors.

Is it suitable for families?
Absolutely — it’s safe, open, and ideal for a relaxed family outing.

Nearby Attractions to the Castle Garden

Plönlein – The town's most iconic photo spot with half-timbered houses and twin towers.
St. James's Church – Home to Riemenschneider's Holy Blood altarpiece.
Old Town Walls – Walkable ramparts offering panoramic views of the city.
Marktplatz – Rothenburg's lively market square surrounded by historic architecture.
Medieval Crime Museum – A fascinating insight into law and life in medieval Germany.

The Castle Garden appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Rothenburg ob der Tauber!

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