"This is truly a wonderful city!" – This is how a local from Franconia might describe his hometown of Rothenburg ob der Tauber. And indeed: Anyone who strolls through the narrow cobblestone streets, past half-timbered houses, city walls, and towers, feels transported to another time. Rothenburg ob der Tauber is one of the most famous historical cities in Germany and attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors from all over the world every year with its unique charm.

• Medieval Flair – The city is a true open-air museum with perfectly preserved buildings from past centuries.
• A nearly completely preserved city wall – Take a walk around the old town and enjoy the view of Rothenburg from above.
• Historical museums and exhibitions – From the criminal museum to the Christmas museum – Rothenburg offers exciting insights into various epochs.
• Traditional Franconian cuisine – Enjoy specialties like snowballs, bratwursts, or a good Franconian wine.
• Festivals and events with history – The "Master Draught" or the Christmas market create a unique atmosphere.

• State: Bavaria
• Government District: Middle Franconia
• Population: approx. 11,000
• Area: approx. 41.68 km²
• Founded: 12th century
• Elevation above sea level: 430 m
• City Rights: since 1274
• Length of city walls: approx. 3.5 km (almost fully preserved)
• Number of towers: 42
• Most popular photo motif: Plönlein (a small half-timbered house with a fountain and city gates in the background)
• Average visitors per year: approx. 2.5 million
• Known for: Its medieval old town, the Christmas market, and the "Master Draught"

Rothenburg ob der Tauber looks back on a turbulent and exciting history. The town was once a significant imperial city, was almost completely destroyed during the Thirty Years' War, and has survived the centuries in astonishing beauty.

From Settlement to Imperial City

The origins of Rothenburg date back to the 10th century. The first settlements emerged in the area of today's town at that time. Around 1070, a castle was built on what is now Castle Hill – the first step towards becoming a city.

Under the Staufer dynasty, Rothenburg gained importance in the 12th and 13th centuries. In 1274, King Rudolf of Habsburg granted the city the status of an imperial city – a tremendous honor that guaranteed its political and economic independence. Through trade and crafts, Rothenburg grew into a prosperous town during this time.

Golden Age and Decline

In the 14th and 15th centuries, Rothenburg experienced its golden age. The city became wealthy through trade in wine, textiles, and leather. Many of the buildings still preserved today date from this period.

However, with the Reformation and the Thirty Years' War came the decline. In 1631, Rothenburg was besieged and captured by imperial troops under General Tilly. The famous "Master Draught," a legend about Mayor Georg Nusch, who saved the city by drinking from a wine jug, originates from this time.

From Sleeping Beauty to Tourist Magnet

After the Thirty Years' War, Rothenburg gradually lost in importance. The city stagnated economically, which, however, turned out to be a blessing: Since no new large construction projects were implemented, the medieval townscape remained almost completely intact.

In the 19th century, Rothenburg was discovered by artists and romantics and was praised as a "medieval gem." During World War II, part of the city was destroyed by bomb attacks, but thanks to international assistance, it was faithfully rebuilt. Today, Rothenburg is one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe and a world-renowned tourist magnet.

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Rothenburg ob der Tauber is not just famous for its old town – the surrounding area also has a lot to offer. The city is divided into several districts, each with its own charm.

District	Known for
Old Town	medieval half-timbered houses city wall attractions like the Plönlein
Schandhof	historic buildings narrow alleys part of the historic city center
Galgengarten	former execution site, now a green park area
Detwang	oldest district known for the Romanesque Church of St. Peter and Paul
Rummelsberg	residential area with a calm atmosphere beautiful view of the old town
Sankt Leonhard	former monastery complex, now a residential area
Steinbach	rural district with traditional Franconian farms

While life and tourism mainly take place in the old town, the outer districts are primarily residential areas or are shaped by agriculture. Particularly, Detwang, with its old church and picturesque landscape, is a hidden gem for those who want to experience Rothenburg away from the tourist crowds.

Rothenburg ob der Tauber is full of impressive sights. The town is so well preserved that it is often described as "Middle Ages you can touch." But which landmarks should you definitely check out? Here are some highlights:

• Plönlein – The probably most famous photo motif of the town with its half-timbered house and the two towers in the background.
• Town Hall and Market Square – An imposing Renaissance building with a 60-meter high tower, from which you have a fantastic view.
• City Wall – The completely walkable city wall offers a unique view of the town and the surrounding landscape.
• Castle Garden and Castle Gate – The ruins of the old Staufer castle with a beautiful garden and breathtaking views of the Tauber Valley.
• St. Jacob's Church – The most important church in the town with the world-famous Holy Blood altar by Tilman Riemenschneider.

The Plönlein – The Most Famous Postcard Motif

Hardly any place in Rothenburg is photographed as much as Plönlein. The small half-timbered house with its yellow paint stands exactly at a fork between two streets. To the left, the path leads through the Sieber Gate, and to the right through the Kobolzeller Gate down into the Tauber Valley. This backdrop looks like something out of a fairy tale – and that’s exactly why Plönlein is the ultimate landmark.

🧡 Tip: Early in the morning or late in the evening is the calmest time here, as many tourists line up for a photo during the day.

The Rothenburg Town Hall – A Mix of Gothic and Renaissance

The town hall is one of the most impressive buildings in the city. It consists of two construction phases: The front part in Gothic style dates back to the 13th century, while the representative Renaissance extension with its impressive façade was added in the 16th century.

Particularly worthwhile is the ascent to the 60-meter high tower. From here, you have a splendid view over the old town and the Tauber Valley.

🧡 Tip: The market square in front of the town hall often hosts events, such as the famous Christmas market or the "Meistertrunk" festival.

The City Wall – A Walk Through History

One of the most fascinating ways to explore Rothenburg is by walking along the city wall. It is almost completely preserved and can be ascended via numerous towers and staircases.

While walking over the wall, you can see the town from above and marvel at the old arrow slits, watchtowers, and gates. A particularly impressive part of the city fortifications is the Spital Gate, which has a massive double gate structure with a round tower.

🧡 Tip: Plan about an hour for the tour. It's best to start at the Röder Gate, as entry is particularly easy here.

A Perfect Route for Your Rothenburg Tour

If you only have one day in Rothenburg, you can discover the most important sights with this route:

1. Start at the Röder Gate – Climb the defensive tower and enjoy the first view over the town.
2. Walk to Plönlein – Take the classic photo and explore the romantic alleys.
3. Visit the Town Hall and Market Square – Climb the tower for a fantastic view.
4. Stroll to St. Jacob's Church – Check out the Holy Blood altar by Tilman Riemenschneider.
5. Walk a bit on the city wall – Particularly beautiful is the section between the Röder Gate and the Spital Gate.
6. Visit the Castle Garden – Enjoy the breathtaking view of the Tauber Valley.
7. End the day with dinner in a traditional wine tavern – Try Franconian wine or a hearty snack.

🧡 Insider Tip: If you have time, a detour to the Medieval Crime Museum is worthwhile – an exciting insight into the judiciary of the Middle Ages!

The most important river surrounding Rothenburg is the Tauber. It flows south of the city and gave Rothenburg its name. The Tauber Valley is known for its picturesque landscapes and is perfect for hiking and cycling tours.

Here is an overview of the bodies of water in and around Rothenburg:

Name	Type	Length
Tauber	River	approximately 132 km
Mühlenbach	Creek	approximately 6 km
Rothenburger Weiher	Pond	approximately 0.5 ha

Rothenburg is not only a city with a history, but also an important economic and educational location in the region.

The Population – Who Lives in Rothenburg?

Rothenburg has about 11,000 residents, with the number fluctuating due to tourism. The high number of foreign visitors is particularly interesting, as some stay in the city for an extended period.

📊 Population Statistics:

• Average Age: approx. 46 years
• Proportion of Tourists in a Day: Up to 5 times the number of residents
• Largest Age Group: 45-65 years
• Population Growth: Stagnant, as many young people move to larger cities

The Key Industries

Rothenburg primarily thrives on tourism, but there are other economic pillars as well:

• Tourism & Gastronomy – Hotels, restaurants, and souvenir shops are the largest employers.
• Craftsmanship & Construction – Many specialists are available, especially in the area of monument preservation.
• Food Production – Traditional bakeries and pastry shops (Schneeballen!) play a significant role.
• Mechanical Engineering & Metal Processing – There are several smaller industrial enterprises in the area.
• Viticulture – The Taubertal is a well-known wine region, especially for Silvaner and Müller-Thurgau.

Economic Significance of Rothenburg

Although Rothenburg is small, the city has a strong economic significance, especially in the tourism sector. Approximately 2.5 million visitors come each year, making Rothenburg one of the most visited places in Bavaria.

Sector	Importance for the City
Tourism	About 50% of the revenue comes from hotels, restaurants, and souvenirs.
Craftsmanship	Especially important in the area of restoration and building history.
Industry	Small, specialized companies in mechanical engineering.
Agriculture	Viticulture and regional products play a role.

Rothenburg ob der Tauber is not only a city full of history, but also the venue for numerous traditional festivals and events. Whether it's historical pageants, Christmas markets, or wine festivals – culture comes to life here. The celebrations that bring the city's history to life are particularly impressive.

The most important events in Rothenburg – Which ones should I not miss?

• The "Meistertrunk" (Whitsun weekend) – A grand historical spectacle featuring costumes, theater, and a festive parade.
• Rothenburg Reiterlesmarkt (December) – One of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Germany.
• Reichsstadt Festival Days (September) – A medieval city festival with camp life, music, and jugglers.
• Taubertal Festival (August) – An open-air festival featuring international rock and pop acts.
• Wine Festival in the Old Town (July) – A perfect opportunity to taste Franconian wines.

The "Meistertrunk" – Rothenburg's most famous historical play

The festival "Der Meistertrunk" takes place every year on Whitsun weekend and is based on a historical legend from the Thirty Years' War.

The legend of the Meistertrunk

In 1631, General Tilly and his troops conquered the city. According to legend, Rothenburg was to be destroyed. However, the former mayor Georg Nusch managed to save the city by downing a 3.25-liter jug of wine in one go – thereafter, Tilly spared the city.

Today, this story is reenacted with a grand historical play. There is also a festive parade, a medieval camp, and numerous performances.

🎉 Tip: If you want to experience Rothenburg in a unique atmosphere, come to the "Meistertrunk" – the whole city transforms into a vibrant medieval scene.

Rothenburg Reiterlesmarkt – Christmas like in the Middle Ages

The Christmas market in Rothenburg is one of the oldest and most atmospheric in Germany. As early as the 15th century, a market was held here during the Christmas season.

What makes the Reiterlesmarkt special?

• Unique setting: The market takes place in the romantic Old Town in front of the town hall.
• Traditional delicacies: Schneeballen, mulled wine, and Franconian sausages are a must.
• The "Reiterle": A mystical figure from Germanic mythology who rides over the market as a harbinger of good luck.
• Historical craftsmanship: Handcrafted Christmas ornaments and wooden toys can be found here.

🎉 Tip: Be sure to climb the town hall tower and admire the market from above – especially in the evening with the lights, it's a magical sight!

The biggest events in Rothenburg at a glance

Event	Period	Info	Admission
The Meistertrunk	Whitsun weekend	Historical festival with a parade	Partially paid
Rothenburg Wine Festival	July	Wine tasting with local winemakers	Free
Taubertal Festival	August	Open-air music festival with international acts	Variable ticket prices
Reichsstadt Festival Days	September	Medieval city festival with jugglers and music	Free
Rothenburg Reiterlesmarkt	December	One of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Bavaria	Free

A visit to Rothenburg is worth it for everyone – whether you are a tourist, a couple, single, or a family. Here are our best tips!

Five special excursion destinations in and around Rothenburg

1. The Tauber Valley – A beautiful natural backdrop with hiking trails, vineyards, and castle ruins.
2. Medieval Crime Museum – Exciting insights into medieval justice with real torture instruments.
3. The Christmas Museum – It’s Christmas all year round here – perfect for Christmas fans!
4. The Double Bridge in the Tauber Valley – An impressive historical bridge in the middle of nature.
5. Schloss Schillingsfürst – A baroque castle with falconry, about 20 minutes from Rothenburg.

🎉 Tip: If you enjoy hiking, you can explore the Castle Trail in the Tauber Valley – a route with several old castles and breathtaking views.

3 recommendations for couples in Rothenburg

1. Romantic Night Watchman Tour – A guided tour through the old town by torchlight – perfect for couples.
2. wine tasting in a historic wine tavern – Franconian wines and cozy atmosphere in charming locales.
3. Sunset in the Castle Garden – One of the prettiest spots for a shared memory photo.

3 tips for singles in Rothenburg

1. Pub crawl through the wine taverns – Perfect for meeting new people.
2. Hike into the Tauber Valley – Ideal for nature lovers and adventurers.
3. Medieval Crime Museum – An exciting solo trip into history.

3 recommendations for families with children

1. The Christmas Village of Käthe Wohlfahrt – A paradise for children, especially during the Christmas season.
2. Climbing the tower in the Town Hall – An adventure with a fantastic view.
3. Fairy Tale Trail in the Tauber Valley – A walk with interactive fairy tale stations.

Three hotel recommendations for your stay

1. Hotel Reichsküchenmeister – A historic hotel right in the old town with Franconian cuisine.
2. Hotel BurgGartenpalais – Quiet location with a great view of the castle garden.
3. Hotel Gotisches Haus – Perfect for romance fans with medieval charm.

🎉 Tip: Hotels in the old town are often fully booked early – so make your reservation in advance!

How to get to Rothenburg ob der Tauber
 

By car:

• Via the A7, exit Rothenburg ob der Tauber.
• Parking outside the city wall is cheaper (e.g., P4 or P5).

By train:

• There are no direct connections, but you can transfer via Ansbach or Steinach (transfer required).

Nearest airport:

• Nuremberg (about 80 km away) or Frankfurt (about 180 km away).

Rothenburg ob der Tauber is one of the most beautiful towns in Germany and offers a unique blend of history, architecture, and culture. Whether you're going on a sightseeing tour, attending a festival, or simply strolling through the old town – this city will enchant you.