Self-Guided Walking Tour of Würzburg (2025)

Nestled within the Old Town of Würzburg, the Old Town Hall stands as a captivating architectural gem, boasting a section known as the Grafeneckart that dates back to the 13th century. As you explore this charming building, you’ll come across a small room at its base, which houses a thought-provoking exhibition dedicated to the bombing of Würzburg during World War II. Inside, you’ll find a detailed model depicting the town in the immediate aftermath of destruction, accompanied by descriptive panels available in both English and German. This display offers a poignant account of Würzburg’s wartime experience, allowing visitors to gain a deeper understanding of the city’s resilience and its journey towards reconstruction.

Outside the front of the Würzburg Rathaus is an 18th-century baroque fountain features an obelisk with sculptures & a coat of arms.

The Marktplatz of Würzburg is a square at the Marienkapelle in the old town with regular markets and festivals/events. It is divided into the Upper Market (to the east, by the Falcon House) and the Lower Market (to the south-west, with the obelisk fountain ). North of the Marienkapelle, separated only by a narrow passage, is the Marienplatz .

Standing tall is the Gothic Marienkapelle, a captivating red and white church that traces its origins back to the 14th century. Its intricate design and soaring spires create a mesmerizing sight.

Just a stone’s throw away from the chapel, you’ll discover the Haus zum Falken, also known as Falkenhaus, an impeccably restored 18th-century building. Step inside, and you’ll find the city’s tourist information centre, ready to provide you with all the necessary guidance for a memorable stay.

The Neumünster, also known as the New Munster, is a significant Romanesque church located in the heart of Würzburg’s Altstadt (Old Town). This historic church, built in the 11th century, stands as one of the oldest churches in Würzburg and holds a rich cultural and religious heritage.

Legend has it that three Irish missionaries once made their way to Würzburg with the intention of converting Duke Gosbert to Christianity. Unfortunately, their efforts were met with resistance, and they ultimately sacrificed their lives for their beliefs. To commemorate their martyrdom, statues of the three missionaries, including the renowned St. Kilian, can be found around the church.

St. Kilian, in particular, holds great significance in Würzburg’s history and is now revered as the city’s patron saint. A visit to the Neumünster provides an opportunity to explore the crypt, where St. Kilian’s tomb is located. Many visitors believe that this sacred space exudes positive energy, and it has become a place of pilgrimage for those seeking healing and spiritual solace.

Würzburg Cathedral, also known as St. Kilian Cathedral, is a magnificent example of Baroque architecture. While its origins can be traced back to the 11th century, the cathedral suffered significant damage during a fire in 1945. However, through extensive restoration efforts, it has been faithfully reconstructed to its former glory.

The exterior of the cathedral proudly retains its original design, showcasing the grandeur and intricate details characteristic of the Baroque style. As you step inside, you’ll be greeted by a captivating blend of modern and traditional elements, creating a surprising and beautiful ambiance. The interior of the cathedral seamlessly merges old and new, offering visitors a unique perspective on the evolution of architectural styles and artistic expressions.

One intriguing feature that catches the eye is the large menorah located at the entrance of the church. This symbolic display pays homage to the shared roots of Christianity and Judaism, highlighting the interconnectedness of these two faiths.

Adjacent to the cathedral, in the courtyard to the left, you’ll find the Museum am Dom. This museum offers a fascinating exploration of religious artefacts, paintings, precious metals, and more. Inside, you’ll encounter a juxtaposition of ancient and contemporary pieces, thoughtfully arranged around various themes. The museum provides an immersive experience, allowing visitors to delve deeper into the rich religious history and artistic heritage associated with the cathedral and the region.

The Würzburg Residence stands as a remarkable testament to Renaissance and Baroque architecture, earning its place as one of Germany’s most splendid buildings and a beloved symbol of the city. Constructed in the 18th century, this grand palace showcases breath-taking baroque design, immaculate gardens, and an impressive collection of art.

Step inside the Residence, and you’ll be greeted by an opulent interior adorned with stunning frescoes, intricate stucco work, and exquisite furnishings. As you explore the palace, you have the option to venture on your own, with informative materials available in English and German in every room. Alternatively, you can join a guided tour that offers insight into the most remarkable spaces within the Residence.

One wing of the Würzburg Residence is home to the Martin von Wagner Museum. Housing a vast art collection, including antiquities, sculptures, and notable paintings, the museum offers a captivating journey through artistic treasures. Best of all, admission to the museum is free, making it a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts and curious explorers alike.

While at the Residence, be sure not to miss the Hofgarten, a delightful French-style garden situated nearby. Designed in the 18th century, the garden provides a serene setting for leisurely strolls, boasting a central lake and charming Rococo sculptures. To access the garden, simply head left when departing from the Residence, making your way to the gate located in the corner.

Juliusspital is a historic institution that encompasses both a hospital and a winery, known as Weingut Juliusspital. With origins dating back to the 16th century, this establishment holds significant historical and cultural value. The site is highly regarded for its production of exceptional wines, making it a must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts.

The Juliusspital building itself is a sight to behold, characterized by its charming architecture and picturesque gardens. Visitors are welcome to explore the premises freely, taking in the serene atmosphere and admiring the beauty of their surroundings.

For those interested in experiencing the winemaking process first-hand, Juliusspital offers wine-tasting tours. These guided tours take you through the wine cellars, providing insights into the intricate art of winemaking. The tours culminate with a delightful tasting experience, allowing visitors to savour the diverse range of wines produced on-site. Alternatively, guests can visit the wine shop and peruse a selection of reasonably priced wines to purchase and enjoy at their leisure.

Continuing your walk along the riverside, you will encounter the enchanting Alter Kranen, also known as the Old Cranes, which have been standing since 1773. These historic cranes served as vital tools for loading and unloading goods from ships, contributing to the city’s bustling trade. As you proceed a little further, you will be treated to a magnificent panoramic view of the Old Main Bridge, accompanied by the grand presence of the Marienberg Fortress, majestically perched atop the opposing riverbank.

The Alte Mainbrücke, or Old Main Bridge, is a picturesque and historic bridge that stretches across the River Main, providing magnificent views of the city of Würzburg. The bridge is adorned with a collection of statues depicting saints and notable figures from history, adding a touch of charm and cultural significance to the structure.

Visitors and locals alike are drawn to the Old Main Bridge, especially on sunny days, when it becomes a bustling gathering place. It’s common to see people leisurely strolling along the bridge, taking in the scenic vistas and enjoying the pleasant atmosphere. The bridge offers an ideal vantage point to admire the city’s architecture, the meandering river, and the surrounding natural beauty.

In addition to the enchanting views, the Old Main Bridge holds another attraction for visitors – the opportunity to sample the region’s renowned local wines. Wine stands are often set up along the bridge, offering a chance to taste and purchase the finest wines produced in the area. It’s a delightful experience to savor a glass of wine while basking in the ambiance and taking in the panoramic scenery.

The Marienberg Fortress, also known as Festung Marienberg, stands as a captivating attraction in Würzburg. This medieval stronghold commands a commanding position, offering breathtaking panoramic vistas of the city and its picturesque surroundings. With origins tracing back to the 13th century, the fortress served as the residence and stronghold of the influential Prince-Bishops of Würzburg until they relocated to the magnificent Residence they had commissioned.

Presently, the fortress houses a museum, a charming chapel, and delightful gardens. Visitors are welcome to explore the gardens and inner courtyards of the castle at no cost. For a more immersive experience, guided tours (available only in German) provide both entertainment and enlightening insights, granting access to additional areas such as Saint Mary’s Church, the ancient well, and a stone corridor leading to the Princes’ Garden.