7 Awesome Things To Do in Bamberg, Germany
Inviting you to its traditional houses and up-and-down roads, Bamberg must take a spot on your list of places to visit if you are in Germany.
With 70,000 people living, who can imagine that this humbly populated city has been recognized and listed as UNESCO World Heritage Site for 22 years? Yes, the whole town of Bamberg officially grabbed its title in 1993. No need to imagine how this happened; just be fascinated by the awesome things to do in Bamberg.
Table of Contents
Here are our 7 Awesome Things to do in Bamberg, Germany
1. Witness the Island life at Little Venice
Join a river cruise along the residential areas. Photo by: Dwi Anoranganirum (Arum)
Upon arrival on the bridge after the Bamberg Center, a line of half-timbered houses welcome you. They are a strip of buildings which were mainly constructed in the middle ages. Formerly the fishermen’s village, this part of Bamberg has been one of the most favorites, tagging it as the Little Venice in Franconian Rome.
If you want to make your visit to Little Venice more memorable, make sure to come in August (around the third week of the month) and be part of the traditional Bamberg Beer Festival called “Sandkerwa”. During the festival, Little Venice serves as the background in portraying the dispute of Bamberg’s fishers as well as a notable Italian night.
Location: Klein Venedig, Am Leinritt, 9604
2. Be mesmerized by an Old Town Hall resting in a river
Another greeting attraction in Bamberg is the Old Town Hall which lies in the middle of the Regnitz River. It was originally placed in 1386 but was reconstructed from 1744 up to 1756 to widen the services to the public. The impressive location of the hall on the island’s side of Bamberg is said to be forcedly done. Some records tell that former people failed to get land from the Bishop, where they can build the town hall, so they put up a human-made island where the city hall has somewhere to stand to.
Now, this three-dimensional baroque architecture is highlighting the old Rococo Hall and the Ludwig Collection. The Ludwig Collection caters to over 300 artistic figurines, animal-shaped serving dishes, and dinner services made of porcelain from the 18th century. If you are a big fan of these primitive collections, have access inside the old town hall. But if you are contented with its outside aesthetic, then grab your camera and shoot that best angle!
Location: Altes Rathaus, Obere Brücke 1, 96047
3.Visit Emperor Heinrich II and his wife Kunigunde at the Bamberg Cathedral
No, you will not meet Emperor Henry II who died in 1024, and his wife Kunigunde, but only to pay a visit to their ‘forever love’ tomb, created by Tilmann Riemenschneider, inside the Cathedral. Also known as St. Peter’s and St. George’s Imperial Cathedral, it was initially constructed from 1002 up to 1012. After a decade of construction, a fire went it down, leading to the new formation in 1081. The third establishment was in 1111 and has survived until today.
The 11th-century Cathedral is considered one of Germany’s most important models of architecture from Romanesque to the Gothic period. It exhibits not only the royal couple’s tomb but as well as the Bamberg Horseman, the altar by Veit Stoss, and the papal tomb of Clemens II.
A dramatic black and white four-tower Bamberg Cathedral. Photo by: Dwi Anoranganirum (Arum)
Scheduled tours are provided by the Cathedral Administration. It can include melodic concerts by the organ.
Location: Dom, Domplatz 5, 9604
4. Fall in love with thousands of Roses in New Residence’s Garden
Who wants three pieces of roses for I LOVE YOU? Or a dozen to make it more romantic? Well, stop that little desire and load yourself with thousands in the Rose Garden of the New Residence.
More than 4500 roses are flaunted in the courtyard of the New Residence in Bamberg during summer. Touring around the columns of roses can give an almost perfect impression of relaxation. The café is ready to serve the visitors and benches are all stand by too for your weary feet to relax.
As Germany has four different seasons, do not expect the whole year of roses blooming. Nevertheless, pay a visit after the winter season to have a unique view of the garden and gaze as well the St. Michael’s Monastery.
Location: Rose Garden – Domplatz 8, 96049
St. Michael’s Monastery – Michaelsberg 10f, 96049
5. Have a glass of Rauchbier (smoked beer) in a traditional brew pub
After viewing St. Michael’s Monastery, which is a former brewery, it’s time to try the original smoked beer in Bamberg.
Monasteries are said to be the origin of breweries and believed that smoked beer is invented accidentally. There was the fire in this religious foundation and bulks of barleys were smoked. During the middle ages, the monks are allowed to brew, which helps them to stay self-sufficient.
Presently, the distinctive taste of the smoked beer is preserved in Bamberg as barleys about in 36 hours. And to continually achieve the smoked beer’s taste like in 300 years ago, the master brewer needs to adjust the flame during the process.
Amazing, isn’t it? There are nine breweries, which are mostly internationally-acclaimed with awards, in Bamberg and all of them can definitely satisfy your beer-craving. If not, then try the other 70 breweries around the town. When you come back to Bamberg, lend a more space in your stomach and get drunk with its 50 varieties of beers. Prost! (Cheers!)
Location: Schlenkerla – Dominikanerstrasse 6, 96049
6. Try the Bamberger Zwiebel (Onion of Bamberg)
Embrace the delicious agricultural side of Bamberg by ordering the grilled onions stuffed with mincemeat or the Bamberger Zwiebel in a restaurant.
Way back in 1600, Bamberg was the center of onion cultivation, when vast production in Germany started. So in support of the main crop in town, place an order of their Onion Meal. Do not worry on your breath after; there’s nothing wrong in making your tummy filled. Locals said that Bamberger Zwiebel is best to taste during winter.
7. Enjoy the hilly walkways and nature-like scenery
For the nth time, Bamberg has been compared with Rome including their same seven hill-structures. A peaky town displays the natural pride of every spot that it can offer. In Bamberg, churches and cathedrals; houses; and universities are some common stressed constructions, which are influenced by the exceptional medieval era.
For a day tour in Bamberg, to stand in the hilly alleys can be enough to fill your eyes with amusement. Enjoy your walk paths and peep the top sites situated in each hilly part of the town. Yes, it could be tiring to walk the whole day, but the green scenery in Bamberg can get rid of that grogginess. Bamberg is one of the cities where you can still stroll freely, without minding any traffic around. This might also be the best combination of relaxation and tour, isn’t it?
Though the lists can be done in a day, do not miss the chance to spend more time exploring this ancient town.
How to get there: The nearest airport in Bamberg is Nuremberg. From there, you can take a one-hour train trip. An affordable day ticket, costing 18€ can be used. Purchase a Tagesticket Plus that can cover 2 Adults and 4 Kids, valid for a day. Additionally, there’s a weekend promo which allows passengers who bought this ticket on Saturday, to be used it until the next day.
Check out some of the cool and cheap tours you could do in Nuremberg.
Planning to spend a weekend in Bamberg? Do not forget to do all or any of the things mentioned here. But I am sure you will also discover other awesome things to do in Bamberg! Share them!
Recommended Hotels
Budget – Ventura’s Hotel und Gästehaus
Mid Range – Hotel Weierich
Luxury – Hotel Nepomuk
About the Writer
Jessica Ayun is a Freelance Writer who writes if 5-10 cups of coffee a day will be served. She used to work as a TV Researcher but her feet are always curious to step into new places so she decided to work in the communities of Visayas and Mindanao as a Documenter for almost two years, through a non-government organization (NGO). She tries to see the “real happiness” in every person she meets and every place she goes to. She will always choose mountains than beaches.
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Oh yes!!! My kids are jumping for joy to see another old church that most germans no longer attend. Oh!!!and the old city hall. Then the 9 year olds can drink a rauchbier. ..awesome!!!! If we wait a few more weeks the roses might bud.?????
Go to Disney, Phil…
My daughter is getting stationed there in US Army. I plan on checking out next summer.
Would be a lovely trip for both of you. Enjoy Bamberg! 🙂
Bamberg, Germany looks so beautiful. It has great buildings and sceneries. If I go there, I would probably take so many photos.
You better do so. With these awesome things to do in Bamberg, you will surely need a lot of clicks.
Germany is rich with history and beautiful sights. I’m so inspired by you learning that you’re from the Philippines and traveling the world.
Thank you, Louisa! Traveling the world is still too much for me. Hehe. I am a very slow traveler and Germany is just so hard to skip with beautiful stuff to explore, like these awesome things to do in Bamberg.
Even though I have lived in the US for 66yrs., Bamberg was my place of birth and it is still considered my home. I have returned many times over the years for quite extensive stays, usually with my grandparents. They and my parents have been gone for many years, but I’m going home again this fall for 1month.
I will actually be staying in a hotel in Bambergs Gartenstadt, down the street from my grandparents home.
I am SO excited, it’s been 25yrs this time.
The days aren’t moving fast enough for me.
Thank you for your beautiful pictures and a tour through your eyes.
Happy Travels!
Tamara – be prepared. It is quite different from the last time or least the Army post is. The downtown part of Bamberg is much the same and you will be happy to see the improvements with the pedestrian only zone down by the old Hertie store. Enjoy yourself. I am taking my daughters with me this summer to visit my sister who still lives nearby in Baunach. Many fond memories of living on post and off.
I have never been to Germany. Would love to go, your list seems full of fun!
These awesome things to do in Bamberg are just some. You can explore more when you are there.
Omg lovely photos!!!!! I had the pleasure of visiting Germany once but I was too young to really remember anything significant:-/ hope to visit again one day!
Time to go back and try these awesome things to do in Bamberg.
The Old Town Hall resting on the river is definite to see. Wowzerz, just amazing photos of Bamberg, Germany. These are great places to add to the list of things and sites to see. Thanks for sharing
My pleasure to share these awesome things to do in Bamberg, Celeste! 😉
Wow, I must admit when Germany is spoken of most of us (including me ) think of Berlin and Munich overlooking the other great places to visit. this guide was very helpful. If i ever go to Germany will check this place out.
Yes! Bavaria itself has lots to offer and that includes these awesome things to do in Bamberg.
Wow! Looks like a stunning place! I’ve been to tons of other places in Germany but never Bamberg. I guess I will have to add it to my list.
You better add these awesome things to do in Bamberg in your list, Carrie. 😉
Such interesting, unique and beautiful architecture. The river cruise sounds divine.
Exactly, Karla! Better check all these awesome things to do in Bamberg!
These are great ways to spend your time in Bamberg! I visited Germany a few years ago and can’t wait to go back.
Yey, Bella! Excited for your return! Try these these awesome things to do in Bamberg as well.
Looks like such an adorable, peaceful town! I love that its on the water as well. Looks like a great time! XO
Yes, Anna! A day or two will let you try these these awesome things to do in Bamberg.
My first stop would #5 concurrent with #6 haha! Smoked beer sounds really interesting. This is a great guide. Bamberg is not as popular as other German cities, which I like – does that make it less crowded? Less touristy?
Yes, I can say so; as compare to other towns. Still depending on the season though on when will you try these awesome things to do in Bamberg.
I would love to visit Bamberg one day and explore all the markets and seee and sample all the cuisine. My friend went recently and she really reccomends it
Which did she try from these awesome things to do in Bamberg?
This was pretty interesting to read. My ex is from Germany and he used to tell me about quite a few of the things that you mentioned above. Lovely read. Thanks for sharing!
Hehe. Explore these awesome things to do in Bamberg with friends or alone. You will have a good time.
Those buildings are absolutely beautiful. It seems like a beautiful and interesting place to visit!
Bamberg with its awesome things to do is truly a great place for a trip.
This looks like a lovely town, if I’m ever in Germany I’ll be sure to come visit!
You better try these awesome things to do in Bamberg whenever you are in Germany.
Oh wow, these pictures look amazing. I’d love to visit Germany.
Hi, Emily! 🙂 You must and try each of these awesome things to do in Bamberg!
The photos are stunning! I’ve never really travelled in Europe
Time for a trip and why not try these awesome things to do in Bamberg, Germany first? 😉 ;D
Thanks for sharing, it looks like a beautiful and interesting place to visit
These awesome things to do in Bamberg, Germany are worth to share and try. 🙂
I have never been to Germany, let alone Bamberg, but it sounds lovely x
It is! Come and check these awesome things to do in Bamberg, Germany! 🙂
I have never visited Germany but I would like to. When I get the chance to I will definitely add Bamberg to my “must visit” list.
Good choice, Tori! Don’t missed these awesome things to do in Bamberg, Germany! 🙂
You’ve got me wanting to go for sure now! I am in awe over the town hall in the middle of the river!
Those are great picks from these awesome things to do in Bamberg, Germany, Liz!
This is my first time hearing about Bamberg and already I know that it is somewhere that I would like to visit. The architecture looks so beautiful xxx
Glad you find it beautiful to see these awesome things to do in Bamberg, Germany. Come and try these for real! hehe. 😉
Wow! I’ve never heard of Bamberg before! What a stunning town. The Town Hall is unbelievable 😮
It is a stunning town! And these awesome things to do in Bamberg, Germany make it more fascinating. 🙂
I’ve never been to Germany but it’s definitely a place I want to visit, one day! Gorgeous photos!
Thank you, Elizabeth! Hope you will have a chance to try these awesome things to do in Bamberg, Germany. 😉
Great post. I visited Dusseldorf Germany some months ago. Loved it.
How was Dusseldorf compare to Bamberg? Would love to know some awesome things to do there too.
ive never heard of bamberg before! i need to visit more places in germany! only been to berlin
Time to go in Bavaria and check these wesome things to do in Bamberg, Germany. 😉
There are so many awesome places in Germany, definitely one of my favourite countries and this is on my to go to list 🙂 x
Great to hear that, Rhian! Come and visit Bamberg soon! 🙂
Bamberg looks a lovely place to visit. I wonder if they do a vegetarian version of the grilled onions, I adore onions. My brother travels regularly to Germany, Ill ask him if he’s ever been there.
Let me know if he’s been in Bamberg and if tried this onion meal.
I’d never even think to visit here but it’s been beens wiftly added to my list of places I’d like to go on a mini break to!
Yes, Leanne! A weekend getaway in Bamberg would be perfect! 🙂
oh wow looks amazing with so much to do not a place I have ever been
Time to go in Bamberg,Emma! You will enjoy each of these awesome things to do.
I think I will skip number 6, doesn’t look appetising haha. Although Bamberg looks amazing. Such a beautiful and quirky place with some even more beautiful buildings.
Jenna von x
Haha. There are still six awesome things to do in Bamberg left from the list. Go for those! 🙂
Wow, Bamberg looks and sounds amazing. Those Roses are beautiful as are the old buildings .
I’d love to visit one day. xx
The garden is perfect in Summer. It is of the highlights in visiting Bamberg.
I’ve only been to Berlin, but I definitely want to see more of Germany.
Yes! Bamberg has another charm. Come and see it! 🙂
I’ve never been to Germany yet but it somewhere I’d like to visit and these suggestions look interesting. thanks for sharing this post. Angela x
You are welcome, Angela! Come to Bamberg anytime and let me know which of the awesome things you did.
Oh wow what an absolutely amazing sounding place to visit. Those buildings are absolutely beautiful. x
They are, Sarah! You can see a lot of them in most of the corners in Bamberg.
A lovely read, I haven’t been to Germany but my husband loves it. We will have to explore this area
When do you plan to go? Let me know which do you want to do from these awesome things to do in Bamberg.
I have never heard of this part of Germany, but it looks lovely. I like visiting places on a canal for nice long walks along it.
Yes! That a great choice to do in Bamberg! Simply relaxing. 🙂
Bamberg looks like my kind of excursion especially since I love culture and architecture! I would love to see the emperors tomb!
Yey! To see the tomb is one of the simple yet awesome things to do in Bamberg. You must come! 🙂
Jessica, thanks for your insight in things to do in Bamberg, Germany! We are here just 3 days so we want to hit the highlights! It is a sunny day on October 31, 2015! Cheers!
Hi Angela,
Weather looks perfect for going around in Bamberg! I guess you will witness lots of people hanging around in ice cream shops along the Bridge where the Old City Council is located. 😀 Have a nice three-day trip and you may want to join our Facebook Forum/Group and feel free to share your photos. Comment here if there’s anything you need during your stay in that City. Drink a rauchbier for me. HAHAHA!
Jessica
I lived in Bamberg for nearly two years. It is a wonderful city.
Hello Dan. Lucky you! A wonderful and preserved city, indeed! 🙂