I have lived half of my life in Germany and traveled extensively the last 20 years. I had someone ask me the other day, which town in Germany has the most “Old Town feel”.
Usually when I get asked, people refer to the historic town centers that have retained much of their medieval charm, which entails cobble stone streets, half timbered homes (Fachwerk) and historical landmarks.
Below are some of the impressive historic towns I personally visited and wrote about in my blog, more will be added in time.
Table of Contents:
Old Town Rothenburg ob der Tauber (Franconia)
Towers, gables, gates, winding alleys and an ensemble of colorful half-timbered houses, Rothenburg is a small Franconian town that is considered a landmark of German medieval romanticism all over the world. Its most famous attraction is the Plönlein, which translates as “place at the fountain”. However, what is actually meant is a quaint half-timbered house, whose pointed roof protrudes crookedly into the Altstadtgasse.
The mighty Renaissance town hall and “Ratstube” is the oldest pictorial representation of Rothenburg’s market square
If you don’t want to miss any detail of the historical town, you are well advised to take a guided tour of the city. I recommend the Night Watchman who meets here on the market square at most evenings.
St. Jakobskirche from the 14th century houses a treasure, the precious altar of the Holy Blood by Tilman Riemenschneider, the well-known Renaissance sculptor.
See more pictures about Rothenburg here
Old Town Trier at the Moselle
According to what archaeologists and historians have discovered, Trier is the oldest city in Germany. The oldest surviving buildings date back to a Roman settlement in ancient times, about the 4th century. The city on the Moselle experienced a real heyday as an imperial substitute residence for Rome and a bulwark against the Germanic tribes.
About 1800 years ago, the Romans found an ideal location at the Moselle river to built Germany’s oldest bridge, the Römerbrücke or Roman Bridge near Trier.
Today, an Amphitheater, where gladiator fights took place, the Imperial Baths with underground passages and the Constantine Basilica bear witness to Trier’s rich past.
The Porta Nigra, once a proud symbol of the Roman emperors’ monopoly on power is the city’s landmark. The Romans began the construction of the Porta Nigra city gate in 170 a.D., which was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
Old Town Heidelberg (Baden Württemberg)
Heidelberg dates back to the 12th century. The city on the Neckar has survived the wars of the last centuries almost unscathed, I quickly felt transported back to times long past like the 17th century, when the baroque cityscape of Heidelberg, which is still preserved today, was created. Even further back is the founding of the university, which has opened in 1386, making it the oldest university in Germany.
On the Neckarwiese, at the foot of the Heiligenberg, you can experience particular well the student flair. You can get there via the historic Old Bridge, which spans the Neckar in several round arches. From the Neckarwiese you also have a great view of the castle, which rises above the old town on the other bank on the northern slope of the Königstuhl.
If you want to walk to Heidelberg Castle, you can choose between the Burgweg and the Kleiner Buckel steps, and if you prefer, you can ride up the mountain with a railway.
Old Town Lübeck (Schleswig Holstein)
Lübeck, the Hanseatic city on the Baltic Sea, greets its visitors with its proudest sight as soon as you arrive, the striking Holsten Gate (Holsteiner Tor) with red brick walls and twin towers. Lübeck exudes the typical charm of a Nordic port city, winding alleys and streets lead into the heart of the Hanseatic city and let strollers come across the most beautiful sights, like the Holy Spirit Hospital with its Gothic frescoes.
Since the Middle Ages, the shape of the monumental building has hardly changed. As one of the oldest social institutions in Europe, it embodies Lübeck’s history as a wealthy Hanseatic city.
At the market square, the Town hall from 1225 stands out with its ornate facades. Hidden behind red walls are also the gardens and courtyards of the monasteries, which are well worth seeing.
Since the medieval city layout and the historic building fabric have been preserved to this day, UNESCO has declared the entire medieval old town centre a World Heritage Site. The seven towers of the Gothic brick churches, which characterize the cityscape in an unmistakable way, are also part of it.
Old Town Wismar (Mecklenburg-Vorpommern)
Wismar has prospered as a Hanseatic city, and several magnificent buildings and monuments bear witness to its glamorous past. The lovingly restored gabled houses of the port city on the Baltic Sea have been created as stately apartments for the aspiring bourgeoisie. I looked up in awe to the spires of the three mighty Gothic brick churches.
And on the market square, the Renaissance town hall and the large fountain from the 17th century are fascinating. Perhaps the most valuable landmark, however, can be found on the east side of the market square “The Old Swede”, one of the oldest town houses in the city with an impressive brick façade dating back to 1380.
With all the Scandinavian flair that blows around your nose in Wismar, you can already guess that the name of the building was not chosen entirely by chance. In fact, the restaurant inside, which was set up in 1878, is a reminder of the time when Wismar belonged to the Kingdom of Sweden.
Old Town Marburg (Hesse)
In Marburg, an unforgettable stay awaited me between the Elisabeth Church in the valley and the Landgrave’s Castle. There are 100 Meters of altitude difference between them, so it’s no wonder that it is called affectionately by the locals “Upper Town” (Oberstadt). You, too, will succumb to the charm of the medieval ensemble with its half-timbered houses and time-honored houses.
While there I immersed myself in Marburg’s important sights and its exciting mix of urban flair and rural idyll.
I found Marburg to be a wonderful town with half-timbered homes cobble stone streets, a historic city hall, castles, churches and towers!
Old Town Quedlinburg (Saxony-Anhalt)
Ancient cobblestones, through alleys and past half-timbered houses awaits you from six centuries. A city walk leads you through the former royal palace and first capital of the East Frankish Empire.
Below is the collegiate church of St. Servatius from the 10th century, a political center of German kings and emperors for centuries.A reminder of the city’s glorious past in the Harz Mountains.The famous cathedral treasure fascinates with goldsmith’s work, fine ivory carvings and valuable manuscripts from the Middle Ages.
Together with its old town and the Renaissance castle from the 16th century, Quedlinburg has been designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
Old Town Erfurt (Thuringia)
Erfurt’s Old Town in Germany is renowned for being one of the best-preserved medieval city centers in Germany. The city boasts a rich history, with its well-preserved old town, filled with beautiful old buildings, churches, restaurants, coffee shops, and shops catering to various budgets. The Old Town also features the magnificent Erfurt Cathedral, which rises like a fortress over the area.
Erfurt’s historical charm and unspoiled beauty make it a must-visit destination for travelers looking to immerse themselves in a place where history and culture intertwine harmoniously. The city holds a special place in German history as the location where Martin Luther once studied, adding to its allure for history enthusiasts.
Erfurt is officially recognized as part of the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, highlighting its significance in preserving Germany’s medieval architectural heritage.
Meersburg (Baden Württemberg)
Meersburg is a charming town situated in Baden-Württemberg in the southwest of Germany, located on the shores of Lake Constance. Known for its picturesque setting and historic significance, Meersburg offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural attractions.
You can enjoy exploring the historic streets, vineyards, and the scenic lakeside views. The town is a popular travel destination in the summer for both Germans and foreigners alike, offering plenty of activities and sights to experience.
The town boasts Meersburg Castle, also known as the Alte Burg, considered one of the oldest inhabited castles in Germany. Also known as Burg Meersburg, it is a historic landmark situated on Lake Constance (Bodensee). The central tower of the castle dates back to the 7th century, though the original structure is no longer visible.
Taking a ferry to Mainau Island is a recommended way to spend an afternoon, providing unique perspectives of the area. Meersburg’s medieval village charm and easy accessibility via boat make it an ideal destination for those interested in exploring the beautiful region around Lake Constance.
With attractions such as Burg Meersburg, Meersburg Therme and the Zeppelin Museum, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this enchanting German town.
Old Town Bamberg (Franconia)
As you would expect from a city with UNESCO World Heritage status, Bamberg is full of historical sights. First and foremost, Bamberg has a historic city layout with a charming old town from the early Middle Ages. It has winding alleys, a Romanesque imperial cathedral of St. Peter and St. George and the Benedictine monastery of St. Michael.
The former fishing village “Little Venice” has colorful half-timbered houses with gondolas gliding over the canals in Bamberg with a little Venetian flair here. The city is also often called “Franconian Rome”. The reason: Like Rome, Bamberg was built on seven hills.
If you want to do a little hike, walk up to the Altenburg, which was built in the early 12th century on the highest of the seven hills.
See more pictures of Bamberg in my Blog
Old Town Idstein (Hesse)
The historic old town is Idstein’s treasure. The centuries-old buildings and Fachwerk in the center of the former residential town is one of the most beautiful corners of the pretty municipality. The old town is characterized by half-timbered houses from the 15th to the 18th century, some of which are richly carved. In addition, there are aristocratic residences such as the Stockheimer Hof from the 16th century and the formerly stately group of buildings in the upper Schloßgasse with the Hexenturm (witches’ tower) and castle. Also charming are the simple but well-kept craftsmen’s houses from the time of the first city expansion took place around 1700.
The König-Adolf-Platz is the center of the city and surrounded by half-timbered houses, most of which date back to around 1600. Next to the town hall from 1698 is the so-called Leaning House, which was built in 1728 and the right of the town hall is the mighty “Chancellery Gate”, which has been the entrance to the castle district since 1497.
Read more about Idstein Old Town here
Limburg an der Lahn (Hesse)
In Limburg an der Lahn was already a settlement in the Neolithic Age and in the Middle Ages, trade flourished thanks to the long-distance trade route Via Publica, which ran through the middle of Limburg.
Limburg an der Lahn is a picturesque charming town known with well-preserved half-timbered houses dating back to the 13th century. One of the main attractions is Limburg Cathedral, perched on a high rock, dominating the town with its seven spires.
The town is situated on the banks of the Lahn River, adding to its scenic beauty. Limburg an der Lahn’s medieval town center is famous for its timber-framed houses and the impressive Dom.
Limburg an der Lahn is best known for the Limburg Cathedral. We have passed Limburg so many times on our way to southern Germany. Each time I admired the Limburg Cathedral from the A3 Autobahn, which can be seen from afar.
When I visited Limburg an der Lahn, I explored its historic sites, such as the Alte Lahnbrücke, the Limburg Cathedral, and the Diözesanmuseum Limburg. The town offers a blend of history, architecture, and picturesque views for travelers to enjoy.
Limburg is worth a visit, it has a very well-preserved medieval old town with many wonderful half-timbered houses with cobblestone street and alleys.
You can read more about my visit to Limburg Od Town here
Old Town Michelstadt (Hesse, Odenwald)
Michelstadt’s old town is like stepping into the Middle ages. Its streets and squares are lined with adorable half-timbered houses from the Medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque periods. Some are painted in vibrant colors, while others have slate cladding on their upper floors.
I couldn’t miss the iconic old Town hall (Rathaus), known for its timber stilts. This stunning half-timbered building, dating back to 1484, is a must-see. Its mighty oak timbers support the town’s council chamber, flanked by turrets with pointed roofs. The steep hipped roof adds to its charm.
Opposite the town hall surrounded by outdoor restaurant tables is Michelstadt’s market fountain. This monument was donated by Count George II of Erbach in 1575 and is carved from sandstone.
The Marktbrunen has an octagonal basin around a column with water spouting from the mouths of little bronze dragons.
Overall, Michelstadt is a destination that combines historical charm with scenic beauty, making it a perfect day trip or vacation spot, especially for those looking to immerse themselves in the cultural heritage of Germany.
Mittenwald (South Bavaria)
Mittenwald is a village in Bavaria bordering Austria and situated along the Isar River at the foot of the Karwendel Mountains. Mittenwald was founded in 1307 and had an important trading route stop in the 15th and 16th century.
Mittenwald has been famous since the 17th century for its violins, and it also has a museum and school of violin making
Mittenwald is one of the highlights of Lüftmalerei, a façade painting in fresco form with folk motifs. The best-known representative of this art in Mittenwald was Matthäus Günther (1705-1788), one of Germany’s leading Rococo painters and one of the earliest representatives of facade painting.
Mainly religious scenes are depicted on Mittenwald’s buildings. In the historic buildings, the Lüftmaleri are often combined with the fretwork in the roof gable (the alpine variant of the half-timbering). Also characteristic of Mittenwald is the lettering of the house builder/home owner that is painted on the facade, from which the house name often results.
Read more about my visit to Mittenwald
Monschau Old Town (Nordrhein-Westphalen)
Monschau is a picturesque town in Germany near the Belgian border and known for its well-preserved half-timbered houses and charming cobblestone streets. The old town of Monschau is a sight to behold, with buildings dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries, creating a unique and nostalgic atmosphere.
I was strolling through the narrow streets of Monschau’s old town and admired the traditional architecture. I visited the small shops that is selling local goods and crafts, especially admiring the glass art at the Glashütte. There you can experience the ancient art of glass blowing.
Monschau Glashütte below:
When walking into the Altstadt I sat down to savor the delicious German cuisine in cozy cafes and later a restaurant. The town’s scenic setting in the Eifel region adds to its allure, with the Rur River flowing through the valley and the surrounding hills providing a backdrop of natural beauty.
Monschau is also home to various attractions, including the Red House Museum, which offers insights into the town’s history and the region’s textile industry. The Monschau Castle, overlooking the town, is another highlight, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and a glimpse into the town’s medieval past.
Read more about Monschau in my blog here
Beilstein at the Moselle
Beilstein is a small and charming village located on the banks of the Moselle River in Germany. Known for its picturesque setting and well-preserved historic buildings, Beilstein presented me with a tranquil escape in the Moselle Valley.
The village of Beilstein is often referred to as the “Sleeping Beauty of the Moselle” due to its fairy-tale-like appearance and timeless charm. The highlight of Beilstein is the iconic Metternich Castle, perched on a hill overlooking the village, providing panoramic views of the surrounding vineyards and the Moselle River below.
I wandered through Beilstein with its narrow streets lined with half-timbered houses. I also visited the Saint Joseph Parish Church with its Baroque architecture, and explored the local shops and cafes offering regional specialties.
The peaceful ambiance of Beilstein makes it a perfect destination for those seeking relaxation and a taste of rural German life.The village is also a popular stop for those traveling along the Moselle River, with opportunities for hiking, wine tasting, and boat tours in the scenic surroundings.
Whether you visit Beilstein for a day trip or choose to stay longer, you will be captivated by its idyllic beauty and warm hospitality, making it a memorable destination in the Moselle region.
Read more about my visit to Beilstein in my Blog
Bernkastel-Kues at the Moselle
Bernkastel-Kues is a charming twin town located on the Moselle River in Germany, known for its well-preserved medieval old town and picturesque vineyard landscapes. The town is a favorite destination for tourists seeking a blend of history, wine culture, and scenic beauty.
The old town of Bernkastel-Kues features historic half-timbered houses, cobblestone streets, and quaint squares, creating a romantic and timeless ambiance. My husband and I explored landmarks such as the medieval Market Square with its fountain and the iconic Spitzhauschen (Pointed House), one of the most photographed buildings in town.
Bernkastel-Kues is renowned for its wine production, particularly the famous Riesling wines grown in the surrounding vineyards. Wine lovers can sample local wines in traditional wine taverns or visit vineyards for guided tours and tastings, immersing themselves in the region’s winemaking heritage.
The town also offers cultural attractions, including the Cusanusstift Library and the St. Michael’s Fountain, adding to the historical charm of Bernkastel-Kues.
We enjoyed a leisurely walk along the Moselle river promenade where we saw boat cruise boats docked on the river.
Whether you’re interested in history, wine, or simply soaking in the beauty of a traditional German town, Bernkastel-Kues’s Old Town provides a delightful mix of experiences for travelers looking to explore the Moselle region.
Read more of our visit to Bernkastel-Kues in my Blog
These places are just a few examples of Germany’s rich history and beautiful architecture, offering my readers a glimpse into my countries past. If you’re interested in exploring old towns, these destinations are a good start.
