More than 3,000 years ago, Celts settled on the Marienberg in Würzburg. However, the actual history of the city began with the Franks, who made Würzburg an important religious center in the 7th century. The city was first mentioned in a document in the year 704.
In the 12th century, Würzburg became the seat of a powerful prince-bishop who exercised both spiritual and secular authority. The city grew, thrived through the wine trade, and built impressive structures such as the Marien Chapel and the Old Main Bridge.
A dark chapter in the city's history was March 16, 1945: Within 20 minutes, Würzburg was almost completely destroyed by a British air raid. 90% of the old town lay in ruins. However, thanks to the dedicated citizens, Würzburg was lovingly rebuilt over the decades.
Würzburg is divided into 13 city districts, which are further subdivided into numerous neighborhoods.
City District | Neighborhoods | Known for... |
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Old Town |
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Grombühl |
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Frauenland |
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Heidingsfeld |
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Heuchelhof |
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Lengfeld |
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Steinbachtal |
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Sanderau |
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Zellerau |
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Würzburg is located in the northern part of Bavaria, directly on the Main River, and belongs to the region of Lower Franconia. The city is situated between Frankfurt am Main (about 120 km away) and Nuremberg (about 110 km away).
Würzburg belongs to the temperate climate zone. The summers are pleasantly warm with temperatures around 25 °C, while the winters are cool but mostly not too harsh. Particularly in autumn, Würzburg shows its most beautiful side when the vineyards glow in golden colors.
Würzburg captivates with a wealth of historic sites. From the baroque splendor of the Residence to the historic Marienberg Fortress, there is much to discover. Here are the landmarks you absolutely must not miss:
The Würzburg Residence was built in the 18th century and is among the most magnificent palaces in Europe. Particularly impressive is the ceiling fresco designed by Giovanni Battista Tiepolo in the staircase – the largest continuous ceiling fresco in the world! Today, you can admire the splendid halls, mirror cabinets, and the beautiful courtyard garden during a guided tour of the residence.
If you want to experience all the landmarks in the best way, you should remember the following route:
🫶 Tip: Climbing the fortress is especially worthwhile at sunset – a unique panorama over Würzburg!
Würzburg is a paradise for food lovers! Here, Franconian specialties meet excellent wine.
The Würzburg sausage is a coarse, long sausage that is cooked on the grill or in a pan. It is typically served in a bread roll with mustard – simple, but incredibly delicious!
A specialty that you can find in many taverns: raw sausages are cooked in a broth of vinegar, onions, and spices and served with bread.
Würzburg is the heart of Franconian wine. The Silvaner is particularly well known, pairing perfectly with hearty dishes. The wine is traditionally bottled in a Bocksbeutel, a bulbous bottle.
🎉 Tip: A visit to the Bürgerspital Winery or the Juliusspital is worthwhile to sample the best Franconian wine!
Würzburg is located directly on the Main, the most important river of the city. But there are also small streams and lakes in the surrounding area that provide relaxation.
Waterway | Length (km) | Significance |
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Main | 527 | Central waterway, many shipping routes |
Pleichach | 22 | Small river, flows through the city |
Mühlbach | 14 | Former mill canal |
Würzburg is not only known for its wine culture, but it is also an important economic and educational center.
📝 Tip: Did you know that the first woodblock printing in Europe was invented in Würzburg?
There is always something happening in Würzburg throughout the year. Whether it's wine festivals, music festivals, or traditional events – celebrations are beloved here. The city is particularly known for its wine culture but also for its cultural highlights and open-air events.
Event | Time Frame | Information & Highlights | Admission |
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Mozart Festival | May/June | High-profile classical music festival at the Residence | From €20 |
Würzburg Wine Village | May/June | Wine festival in the marketplace with local winemakers | Free |
Afrika Festival | June | The largest festival for African culture in Europe | From €10 |
Umsonst & Draußen | June | Open-air music festival with free admission | Free |
Kiliani Folk Festival | July | Traditional folk festival with rides | Free |
Würzburg City Festival | September | Live music, food trucks & street performers | Free |
Würzburg Christmas Market | December | One of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Franconia | Free |
🎉 Tip: If you visit Würzburg in the summer, be sure to have a glass of wine on the Old Main Bridge – a true must for every visitor!
Würzburg offers the perfect experience for every taste. Whether you're traveling with family, looking for a romantic getaway as a couple, or wanting to explore as a single traveler – here are our recommendations.
Würzburg has a well-developed public transport system with trams and buses. Especially convenient: The day ticket for €5.60, which allows you to travel all day long.
🤓 Tip: Most attractions in Würzburg can be easily explored on foot.
Würzburg has a mild climate with warm summers and relatively mild winters.
Season | Temperature | Weather |
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Spring (March–May) | 10–20 °C | Blooming vineyards, pleasant temperatures |
Summer (June–August) | 20–30 °C | Sunny, perfect for wine festivals |
Autumn (September–November) | 10–20 °C | Grape harvest, golden vineyards |
Winter (December–February) | 0–10 °C | Christmas market, little snow |
🤓 Best travel time: May to October – Würzburg is particularly beautiful then!
Würzburg is conveniently located along the A3 and A7 highways, as well as the ICE line between Frankfurt and Munich.
🤓 Tip: Würzburg main station is located right in the city center – ideal for arriving by train.
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