Anyone who asks around in Regensburg will quickly realize that the people of the Upper Palatinate love their city. And rightly so! Regensburg is one of the oldest cities in Germany and impresses with its almost entirely preserved old town, which has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. However, the city is much more than just an open-air museum. Let’s take a look at what else it has to offer.

• Medieval Old Town with historic buildings, narrow alleys, and cozy squares
• The Danube as a lifeline with beautiful riverside paths, boat trips, and viewpoints
• Culinary highlights from Bavarian cuisine to modern gastronomy
• Cultural diversity with museums, theaters, and concerts
• A young, dynamic city with many students and a vibrant nightlife

• Population: approx. 157,000 (as of 2023)
• Area: 80.76 km²
• Foundation: Around 179 AD as a Roman castle "Castra Regina"
• River: The Danube flows through the city
• UNESCO World Heritage: The old town has been officially protected since 2006
• Notable buildings: St. Peter's Cathedral, Stone Bridge, Old Town Hall
• Highest point: 471 meters above sea level
• University city: Over 30,000 students at the University of Regensburg and OTH Regensburg
• Economic center: Home to BMW, Continental, Infineon, and many IT companies
• Nickname: Due to the many preserved medieval buildings, Regensburg is also known as "Italy's northernmost city"
• City of sports: Home of SSV Jahn Regensburg (football)
• Beer culture: Over 20 breweries and numerous beer gardens characterize the city
• Bridge city: 13 bridges connect the districts over the Danube, Regen, and Naab
• Oldest pub in Germany: The "Historical Wurstkuchl" has existed for over 500 years
• Famous personalities: Johannes Kepler, Oskar Schindler, Pope Benedict XVI. (studied here)

5 Curious Facts About Regensburg

1. The Stone Bridge has its own ghost: The over 800-year-old Stone Bridge is said to have been built with the help of the Devil, according to legend. When he was deceived, he cursed the bridge - it is said that one can still sense his spirit today.
2. The narrowest house in Germany: In Kramgasse, there is a house that is only 2.50 meters wide! It belongs to the narrowest buildings in the country, showcasing how cramped medieval building styles often were.
3. Kepler died here – but his grave is missing: The famous astronomer Johannes Kepler spent his last years in Regensburg. However, his grave was destroyed during the Thirty Years' War – there is no place where he can be definitively proven to be buried.
4. Italian flair in the middle of Bavaria: Many visitors are surprised by the southern atmosphere in Regensburg. In fact, the city was heavily influenced by Italian architecture during the Middle Ages – and this is still evident today!
5. The Regensburg Domspatzen boarding school: The Regensburg Domspatzen are one of the oldest boys' choirs in the world and were already founded in 975. The boys who sing here live in their own boarding school and perform internationally.

Regensburg is one of the few cities in Germany whose origins can be traced back to Roman times. However, the Roman fort "Castra Regina" was just the beginning of a dynamic history that made the city one of the most important metropolises of the Middle Ages.

From the Romans to the Middle Ages

In 179 AD, the Romans founded the fort "Castra Regina" as a border fortress on the northern Limes. Over time, the settlement grew into an important trading city. In the Middle Ages, Regensburg was one of the wealthiest cities of the Holy Roman Empire, largely due to long-distance trade with Italy, Bohemia, and Russia.

Golden Age as a Free Imperial City

In the 13th century, Regensburg became a Free Imperial City. Wealthy patrician families shaped the fate of the city, and many of the magnificent burgher houses date back to this time. The Stone Bridge, built in the 12th century, turned Regensburg into an important Danube port.

The Decline and Modern Era

From the 17th century onwards, the city lost its significance, particularly due to wars and the decline of long-distance trade. It was not until the 19th and 20th centuries that Regensburg developed again into an economic and cultural center. Today, the city skillfully combines its historical identity with modern economy and research.

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Regensburg is not just the old town – the city is divided into numerous districts, each with its own character. Here you will find an overview of all districts and their specialties.

District	Known for...
Old Town	UNESCO World Heritage Site Historical buildings St. Peter's Cathedral Stone Bridge
Stadtamhof	Former fishing district Quaint alleys View of the Danube
Königswiesen	Residential area Family-friendly Many green spaces
Reinhausen	Mix of old and new buildings Good public transport connections
Prüfening	Quiet residential area with plenty of nature
Burgweinting	Modern district with many new buildings
Kumpfmühl	Popular among students Close to the university
Oberisling	Rural charm Farmhouses Historical chapel
Schwabelweis	Near the Danube Popular residential area
Winzer	Wine-growing region View of the Danube

From the majestic Stone Bridge to the hidden corners of the old town, there is much to discover. But which landmarks are truly a must-see? Here’s a list of the most famous sights that you shouldn't miss:

• St. Peter's Cathedral – The city's landmark and one of the most important Gothic buildings in Germany.
• Stone Bridge – One of the oldest preserved bridges in Europe with a fascinating history.
• Old Town Hall – Center of medieval power with the historic imperial hall.
• Porta Praetoria – A Roman city gate from the year 179 AD, one of the oldest buildings in Germany.
• Walhalla – An impressive hall of fame overlooking the Danube, honoring famous Germans.
• Historic Sausage Kitchen – The oldest bratwurst restaurant in the world, right on the Danube.
• Thurn and Taxis Castle – The former princely residence with opulent interiors.

St. Peter's Cathedral – The Gothic Heart of the City

With its two imposing towers, St. Peter's Cathedral is visible from afar. Since the 13th century, this masterpiece of Gothic architecture has shaped the cityscape. Inside, enormous stained glass windows, a delicate high altar, and the famous Regensburg Cathedral Sparrows, which sing here regularly, are impressive. Particularly noteworthy is the stunning west facade with its intricate stone carvings.

The Stone Bridge – A Masterpiece of the Middle Ages

This bridge is not only a landmark but also an engineering marvel of the Middle Ages. Built between 1135 and 1146, it connected Regensburg to the trade routes to the east. A legend says that the master builder made a wager with the devil to finish it before the cathedral. Even today, the Stone Bridge is a popular meeting point – especially a great sight at sunset!

The Perfect Route for a Walk through Regensburg

If you want to discover as many sights as possible in one day, the following route is recommended:

1. Start at St. Peter's Cathedral – The perfect starting point for your tour.
2. Continue to the Stone Bridge – From here, you have a wonderful view of the Danube.
3. Quick stop at the Historic Sausage Kitchen – Try an authentic Regensburg bratwurst!
4. Visit the Old Town Hall – Immerse yourself in the history of the city.
5. Stroll through the old town – Discover narrow alleys and hidden squares.
6. Finally, head to Walhalla – A short trip outside the city but absolutely worth it!

🗺️ Tip: If you prefer a guided tour, you can participate in a city tour. The night tours with lanterns through the old town are particularly exciting!

 

 

Bavarian cuisine and Regensburg – they go perfectly together! The city is known for hearty dishes, substantial snacks, and sweet specialties. But what exactly should you definitely try here?

Regensburg Sausage – small but impressive!

The Regensburg sausage is a very special type of boiled sausage – not to be confused with the Nuremberg grilled sausage! It is often served in a "Regensburg bun" with sweet mustard or as "Regensburg sausage salad" with onions and pickles.

The Historic Sausage Kitchen – Bratwurst culture for 500 years

Right on the Danube, you will find the "Historic Sausage Kitchen," the oldest bratwurst restaurant in the world. Here, you can enjoy the famous small bratwursts with sauerkraut and mustard – an absolute must for every visitor!

Bavarian Snack – from Obatzda to Pretzels

Regensburg is ideal for a classic Bavarian snack: hearty Obatzda (a cheese spread with paprika and onions), fresh pretzels, and a cool beer from one of the local breweries. It’s especially nice to enjoy all of this in a beer garden.

Regensburg is located directly on the Danube, but that is not the only river that shapes the city. In addition to the Danube, the rivers Regen and Naab also flow through the region. Here is an overview of the most important bodies of water:

River/Body of Water	Length	Special Feature
Danube	2857 km	Largest river in the city, important for shipping and leisure
Regen	190 km	Flows into the Danube at Regensburg, popular among canoeists
Naab	165 km	Picturesque tributary, ideal for cycling tours
Westhafen	–	Important inland port for the region

🌊 Tip: In summer, a canoe trip on the Regen is worth it – from idyllic floodplain landscapes to small rapids, there's everything to enjoy!

In addition to its historical significance, Regensburg has also made a name for itself as a modern economic center. Here, tradition meets innovation as the city is home to many international companies and renowned universities.

How many people live here?

The population is growing steadily – primarily due to the many students and newcomers.

• Population: approx. 157,000
• Students: Over 30,000
• Average age: 42.1 years
• Foreign population percentage: About 17%
• Most popular districts: Old Town, Stadtamhof, and Kumpfmühl

Industry and economy – which sectors are strong here?

Regensburg is among the economically strongest cities in Bavaria. The following sectors are particularly represented here:

• Automotive industry – BMW operates a large plant here.
• Microelectronics – Infineon and Osram have locations here.
• Logistics and trade – The port on the Danube plays an important role.
• IT and software – Regensburg is developing into a tech hub with many start-ups.
• Tourism – The historic Old Town attracts millions of visitors each year.

Education – what makes the city a university town?

• University of Regensburg – One of the most prestigious universities in Bavaria with over 21,000 students.
• OTH Regensburg – The Eastern Bavaria Technical University is particularly strong in engineering sciences.

🎓 Fun Fact: Pope Benedict XVI was a professor at the University of Regensburg!

Whether a traditional folk festival or a modern music festival – the city has something to offer all year round. Especially in summer, numerous open-air events are enticing, while the Christmas season features one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Bavaria.
 

Event	Time Period	Info	Admission
Regensburg Citizens' Festival	June (every two years)	Large city festival with music, culture & culinary delights	Free
Dult (Spring & Autumn Dult)	May & September	Traditional folk festival with beer tents & rides	Free (tents cost extra)
Regensburg Jazz Weekend	July	International jazz artists in the old town	Free
Autumn Festival at Thurn & Taxis Castle	September	Arts and crafts & culinary offerings in an elegant setting	Admission varies
Thurn & Taxis Christmas Market	November–December	One of the most romantic Christmas markets in Germany	Approx. €10–15

🎶 Tip: If you love live music, don't miss the "Palazzo Festival" in the summer – a hidden gem for lovers of acoustic concerts in an extraordinary atmosphere!

Five Excursion Destinations Worth Visiting

1. Walhalla – High above the Danube, this hall of fame overlooks the river. The view from here is spectacular!
2. Danube Gorge and Weltenburg Abbey – A boat trip through the Danube Gorge to the oldest monastery brewery in the world is always worthwhile.
3. Wolfsegg Castle – About 20 kilometers away, you will find a well-preserved knight's castle with eerie ghost stories.
4. Stone Quarry Lake in Etterzhausen – Crystal-clear water in a former quarry – perfect for swimming and relaxing.
5. Kallmünz – The picturesque artist village with its colorful houses and castle ruins invites exploration.

Three Romantic Experiences for Couples

1. Boat Ride on the Danube – An evening boat trip with dinner creates special moments.
2. Walk in the Herzog Park – This hidden garden with a rose garden and old walls is ideal for quiet moments together.
3. Wine Tasting at "Weinbank" – A stylish wine bar offering exquisite wines and a cozy atmosphere.

Three Tips for Singles

1. Pub Crawl through the Old Town – The city has a vibrant bar scene – from cozy pubs to trendy cocktail bars, there's something for everyone.
2. Cycling along the Danube – Perfect for an active outing with stops at small beer gardens.
3. Discover Galleries and Art – Particularly the art scene in Stadtamhof offers exciting modern works.

Three Experiences for Families with Children

1. Visit to the Dino Park Denkendorf – Huge dinosaur models and exciting interactive stations will make children's eyes light up.
2. Farm Experience at Wildpark Höllohe – Here, children can feed animals and experience them up close.
3. Experimenting at the "House of Bavarian History" – Interactive exhibitions bring history to life!

Three Hotel Recommendations for Your Stay

1. 🌟 Hotel Orphée – A small boutique hotel with nostalgic charm in the Old Town.
2. 🌅 Sorat Insel-Hotel – Perfect location directly on the Danube with views of the Stone Bridge.
3. 🌱 Green Spirit Hotel – Sustainable and modern – ideal for environmentally conscious travelers.

Public Transport – How to Get Around the City Best

The city bus network is well-developed and takes you quickly from A to B. Especially convenient: the "Old Town Bus" system with free shuttles through the narrow streets.

• Arrival by Train: The main train station is centrally located and well-connected to Munich, Nuremberg, and Prague.
• Nearest Airports: Munich (about 1 hour away) or Nuremberg.
• Bicycle-Friendly City: Many bike paths and a compact old town make cycling the ideal means of transport.

Climate – When is the Best Time to Visit?

• Spring (March–May): Mild and ideal for walks along the Danube.
• Summer (June–August): Warm, often over 25 degrees, perfect for beer gardens and outdoor activities.
• Autumn (September–November): Pleasantly cool, ideal for city sightseeing.
• Winter (December–February): Cold with possible snowflakes – especially romantic during the Christmas season.

Whether you want to walk in historical footsteps, enjoy Bavarian delicacies, or simply experience the vibrant atmosphere – everyone will find their personal highlight here. The combination of medieval flair and modern city life creates a unique charm. And the best part? The city is compact enough to explore much on foot, yet large enough to continuously discover new corners.