Weinmarkt, Dinkelsbühl

Historic Building in Dinkelsbühl

Weinmarkt Dinkelsbuhl Scaled

The Weinmarkt is one of the best places to visit in Dinkelsbühl, a picturesque square framed by some of the town's most impressive historic buildings. Located near the heart of the old town, it offers an unforgettable blend of patrician elegance, medieval charm, and lively local character. The western side of the square features a stunning row of gabled houses from around 1600—each with its own story and architectural personality—making it an ideal place to slow down, wander, and soak in centuries of craftsmanship.

This ensemble of buildings reflects the prosperity Dinkelsbühl enjoyed during the late Renaissance and early modern period. From stepped gables to sculpted figures, from half-timbered artistry to decorative obelisks, each façade reveals a chapter of the town's past. This spot is a great place to visit on a walking tour of Dinkelsbühl, as the square brings together culture, architecture, and everyday life in a way few streetscapes do.

History and Significance of the Weinmarkt

The Weinmarkt has long been one of Dinkelsbühl's central squares, serving as a gathering point for trade, civic events, and daily life. Its name speaks to the region's medieval wine trade, though the square's architectural identity was shaped primarily in the late 16th and early 17th centuries.

The buildings lining its western side reflect the ambitions of wealthy citizens who invested in grand façades as symbols of prestige. Patrician families often incorporated elaborate details—stepped gables, carved figures, spiral motifs—to display their influence. These embellishments turned the Weinmarkt into one of the town's most elegant districts, and centuries later, the square still retains this distinctive charm.

Historic events also touched this location. Prominent rulers and military leaders stayed here, festivals were celebrated, and the square served multiple civic purposes. The Weinmarkt today remains a lively centrepiece of Dinkelsbühl, surrounded by cafés, guesthouses, and architectural attractions.

Things to See and Do in the Weinmarkt

The western row of buildings forms the square’s architectural highlight, beginning with:

The former council tavern

This striking building features a decorative spire and once served as the weighing house for trade goods. Its importance is underscored by its distinguished guests: Emperor Charles V stayed here in 1546, and King Gustav II Adolf of Sweden visited in 1632 during the turmoil of the Thirty Years’ War. The façade remains one of the finest examples of civic architecture from the period.

The guesthouse Zur Glocke

With its stepped gable dating to before 1600, Zur Glocke embodies the solid elegance of an old patrician residence. Over centuries, its walls have hosted merchants, travellers, and local families, making it a living testament to the town’s commercial past.

The Deutsches Haus

Perhaps the most famous building on the Weinmarkt, this half-timbered Late Renaissance masterpiece is adorned with ornate carved figures. Beneath the hipped roof sits Bacchus himself—the Roman god of wine—symbolically blessing the square with festivity and abundance. Today it functions as a guesthouse and remains one of Dinkelsbühl's most photographed façades.

The Schranne

Constructed around 1600, the Schranne is a long, imposing structure crowned with a spiral gable decorated with obelisks. Throughout its history, it served as a grain store, a trading hall, and even a dance venue, making it one of the town’s most multifunctional buildings. Its size and detailing make it unmistakable on the square.

Together, these buildings create a sweeping tableau of architectural heritage that invites slow exploration and plenty of photography.

How to Get to the Weinmarkt

The nearest major airports are Nuremberg Airport and Stuttgart Airport, both offering frequent domestic and international flights. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Dinkelsbühl on Booking.com.

As Dinkelsbühl does not have its own railway station, visitors typically take the train to Dombühl or Ansbach, where regional services arrive regularly from Nuremberg. From there, buses run straight into the old town's core. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.

Travelling by car is simple, with clearly marked routes from Nuremberg, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, and the Romantic Road. Car parks outside the old town walls make it easy to reach the Weinmarkt on foot. 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.

Practical Tips on Visiting the Weinmarkt

  • Best time to visit the Weinmarkt: Early morning or late afternoon for beautiful light on the gabled façades.
  • Entrance fee in Euros: Free public square.
  • Opening hours: Always accessible.
  • Official website: Check the Dinkelsbühl tourism page for updates and events.
  • How long to spend: 20–40 minutes, longer if stopping at cafés or shops.
  • Accessibility: Flat, cobblestone square suitable for most visitors.
  • Facilities: Numerous cafés, restaurants, and shops line the nearby streets.
  • Photography tip: Stand on the eastern side to capture the full row of gabled houses.
  • Guided tours: Many town tours include the Weinmarkt and its architectural highlights.
  • Nearby food options: Several traditional and modern eateries surround the square.

Where to Stay close to the Weinmarkt

Staying near the Weinmarkt allows easy access to this picturesque square and many of Dinkelsbühl's most iconic landmarks. The renowned Hotel Deutsches Haus, located directly on the square, offers elegant historic accommodation. Just a short walk away, Hezelhof Hotel provides stylish rooms in restored buildings. Another cosy option is Goldene Rose, close to both the Weinmarkt and several key attractions.

Is the Weinmarkt Worth Visiting?

Absolutely. The Weinmarkt is one of Dinkelsbühl's most atmospheric locations, combining Renaissance architecture, local history, and everyday charm. Whether you're admiring the ornate façades, photographing the square at golden hour, or simply relaxing with a drink at a café, the Weinmarkt offers a memorable window into the town's past and present.

FAQs for Visiting the Weinmarkt

What makes the Weinmarkt special?
Its ensemble of Renaissance-era gabled houses and patrician architecture.

Which building is the most famous?
The half-timbered Deutsches Haus with its carved figures and Bacchus statue.

Can I visit the interiors of the buildings?
Some, like guesthouses and shops, are accessible; others are private.

Is the Weinmarkt easy to find?
Yes, it is centrally located within the old town.

Are there cafés or restaurants nearby?
Many cafés and eateries sit directly around the square.

Nearby Attractions to the Weinmarkt

The Weinmarkt appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Dinkelsbühl!

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Visiting Weinmarkt

Address: Weinmarkt, Dinkelsbühl, Germany
Dinkelsbühl: 1 km

Nearby Attractions

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