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Marienberg fortress, old main bridge.

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Schloss veitshöchheim, maria chappel, würzburg city hall, lower franconian museum, residenzpl., käppele sanctuary, röntgen-gedächtnisstätte, four tubes fountain, juliusspital weingut würzburg, top 10 restaurants in wurzburg.

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Explore nearby places

• Randersacker
• Zell am Main
• Veitshochheim
• Waldbuettelbrunn
• Guentersleben
• Thungersheim
• Sommerhausen
• Giebelstadt
• Hausen bei Wurzburg
• Sulzfeld am Main
• Himmelstadt
• Frickenhausen
• Untereisenheim
• Grossrinderfeld

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Würzburg Sightseeing - the Complete City Guide (with Map)

22.09.2022 | Destinations Germany | 8 comments

Updated on June 17, 2024 by Angelika

Most of Würzburg's sights can be easily reached on foot, as the city center is manageable. You can "walk" the highlights of the city center in one weekend.

For me, Würzburg is one of the most beautiful cities in southern Germany . Exceptional artists like the brilliant architect Balthasar Neumann and probably Germany's most famous sculptor and carver of the late Middle Ages, Tilman Riemenschneider have left numerous traces in churches and castles.

In addition to the artists, the city is proud of 14 Nobel Prize winners whose first Wilhelm Conrad Röntgen who discovered the groundbreaking X-rays in 1895

With 30,000 students in a population of 130,000, Würzburg is a very young city . Enjoy the good vibes at the Old Main Bridge , Four-Tube Fountain and the Mainauen !

Plan for two to three additional days to explore Würzburg's beautiful surroundings where you can discover many interesting places. You will find tips after the Top 10 sights of Würzburg .

The highlights of the city center are manageable in a one day walking tour - even if you don't have much time. I have put together my tips for Würzburg in one day have been compiled for you under the table of contents.

This Post's Content at a Glance:

How to Explore Würzburg in one Day (with Map)

You can discover the sights of Würzburg's old town in one day.

I suggest that you start your tour of the city at the market square and not on the Marienberg fortress. There are several reasons for this: Firstly, I find it nicer to see the Brückenschoppen on the Old Bridge in the late afternoon or evening. On the other hand the view of the city from the Marienberg Fortress, in the mild afternoon or evening light is simply wonderful.

So let's start at the market square. With the tourist information you can stock up on information material and a city map. Since the tourist information is located in the Falcon House, you can already check off one of the main sights of the marketplace.

I recommend the tour of the old town in the following order:

A. Market square: Falcon House

Admire the magnificent rococo façade of the Falkenhaus and stock up on information about Würzburg at the Tourist Information Center (for more information, see 5. Marketplace and Lady Chapel ).

B. Market square: Lady Chapel

Note the typical Würzburg Schwalbenlädle who have settled on the outside of the Marienkapelle, the Tilman Riemendschneider's sandstone figures Adam and Eve at the south portal and the tympanum on the north portal (more information under 5. Marketplace and Lady Chapel ).

C. Grafeneckart (Würzburg City Hall) and Four Tube Fountain

Through Langgasse you reach the oldest part of Würzburg's town hall, the Grafeneckart with the painted tree on the south façade, and the four-tube fountain in rococo style (more information at 6. Grafeneckart and Four-Tube Fountain ).

D. Hof zum Wolfmannszichlein

From Grafeneckart, walk along Domstraße and Sterngasse to the courtyard of Wolfmannszichlein in Franziskanergasse 1A, where Tilman Riemenschneider's home and workshop were once located in today's Tilmans Prime Steakhaus restaurant (more information in the Info box about Tilman Riemenschneider .

E. Neumünster

Through Sterngasse, Plattnerstraße and Kürschnerhof you reach the Neumünster, which is one of the most important churches in Würzburg (for more information see 7. Neumünster ).

F. Lusamgärtlein

In the Kreuzgarten of the Neumünster is the Lusamgärtlein with a memorial stone for the minstrel Walther von der Vogelweide (more information at 8. Lusamgärtlein (Lusam Garden) ).

G. Cathedral St. Kilian

Martinstraße takes you to Kiliansplatz with St. Kilian's Cathedral, the fourth largest Romanesque church in Germany (more information at 8th Cathedral St. Kilian ).

H. Würzburg Residence and Court Garden

To get to the residence ( UNESCO World Heritage Site, ), return to Martinstraße, which turns into Hofstraße. Follow this street to the end and then turn left into Balthasar-Neumann-Promenade, which will take you directly to the Residenz. If you have enough time, you should take a guided tour of the Residenz - it's worth it! But be sure to take a stroll through the magnificent Hofgarten (more information at 1. Residence Würzburg ).

I. Old Bridge

After resting in the beautiful courtyard garden of the Residenz, you walk back through the city center to the Old Main Bridge. This will take you around 20 minutes - but there are also a few cafés along the way where you can take a break. At the Old Main Bridge, you should enjoy the beautiful views, admire the bridge saints and perhaps treat yourself to a Brückenschoppen. You can also save this as a reward for the way back from Marienberg Fortress to the city. You can find more information about the bridge at 3. Old Bridge "Alte Mainbrücke" .

J. Marienberg Fortress

The path from the Old Main Bridge over the Tellsteige up to Marienberg Fortress offers very beautiful views. Stop every now and then to enjoy the view. Perhaps you can arrange it so that your tour of the fortress ends at the golden hour and you can admire the view of Würzburg and the Main from the fortress wall once again. You can find information about Marienberg Fortress at 2. Marienberg Fortress .

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Sightseeing Würzburg: The Top 10 Must-See Places

1. residence würzburg.

The Residence is Würzburg's most impressive landmark and has been listed as a 1981 for a UNESCO – World Heritage . One of the most important baroque palace complexes in Europe was created in collaboration of famous artists and architects from different countries - and that more than 300 years before the foundation of the European Union!

The City Palace of the Würzburg Prince-Bishops was built between 1720 and 1744 , but the interior design was only completed in 1780. Prince-Bishop Johann Philipp Franz von Schönborn appointed the young and then still unknown Balthasar Neumann as court architect for the new residence. A technical masterpiece and the most famous part of the residence is the column-free Staircase. The competent guides of the residence will explain the details to you.

"Star architect" Balthasar Neumann

Balthasar Neumann (1687 - 1753) joined the military as a "commoner" in 1712. At that time, the career he aspired to as an engineer was only open to military personnel. In 1717/18 he was in Austria and Hungary with the Franconian troops. Presumably, he participated as an engineer in the Belgrade fortification during this time.

In Vienna he dealt with the style-defining baroque buildings of Johann Lucas von Hildebrandt and Johann Bernhard Fischer apart. In 1719, the new Würzburg Prince-Bishop Johann Philipp Franz von Schönborn appointed Neumann the prince-bishop's court architect for the new residence. Schönborn thus followed the recommendation of his uncle, the Elector of Mainz, Lothar Franz von Schönborn, who had already noticed Neumann's talent in 1715.

During a study trip in 1723 Neumann visited France , where in exchange with the great French master builder Robert de Cotte (architect of the king) and Germain Boffran he further developed his groundbreaking ideas for interior design. He later applied these to the construction of the Würzburg Residence and the staircase in Augustusburg Castle near Brühl (also a UNESCO World Heritage Site).

Staircase, Imperial Hall and Mirror Cabinet

The monumental ceiling fresco in the staircase was created by Venetian painter Giovanni Battista Tiepolo who was already world famous at that time, in an incredibly short period from 1752 to 1753. With 19 m x 32 m it is the largest continuous ceiling fresco in the world . You can easily recognize the then known four continents: Africa, Asia, America and Europe. If you join a guided tour of the residence , you will learn a lot of interesting facts about the history of the creation of the fresco .

In addition to the staircase, the representative Imperial Hall is a highlight of the residence. 20 half-columns of reddish stucco marble support the large oval dome. The three ceiling frescoes by Tiepolo thematize the history of Würzburg at the time of Emperor Friedrich Barbarossa , who in 1168 granted the bishop the ducal dignity and with it secular power.

Another masterpiece of the residence is the Mirror Cabinet , which was completely destroyed in 1945. Masters of their trade reconstructed it between 1979 and 1987 using the old reverse glass painting techniques. The Mirror Cabinet completed the reconstruction of the residence 40 years after the end of the Second World War.

You can find out more about the damages to the Residence during the Second World War in the Memorial Room , and about the reconstruction in the documentation room of the Würzburg Residence.

Bombing Raid on Würzburg on March 16, 1945

The Residence was severely damaged during the Royal Air Force bombing raid on Würzburg. However, the staircase and some halls of the central building remained, but the roofs were destroyed. After the end of the war, a department "Fine Arts and Monuments" was established in the military government for Lower Franconia, managed by John Davis Skilton .

Skilton was an art historian, and therefore was aware of the importance of the prince-bishop's residence and its unique interiors. He arranged for an immediate cover with tarpaulins and then for the erection of a provisional roof within half a year.

The reconstruction was only completed with the reconstruction of the mirror cabinet in 1987 and cost around 20 million euros. For his services to the Würzburg art treasures, Skilton received the Federal Cross of Merit 1st class in 1976. He remained closely connected to the city of Würzburg until his death in 1992.

Court Church "Most Holy Trinity"

The magnificent court church belongs to the residence and was also designed by Balthasar Neumann The entrance to the church is a bit hidden. If you stand in front of the residence, you will find it on the right in the south wing of the building.

The Court Church is a sight in itself and is considered a prime example of Baroque architecture . The Austrian Lucas von Hildebrandt opulently decorated it with stucco, frescoes and statues in marble and gold. The two paintings above the side altars were, like the famous frescoes in the staircase and the imperial hall of the Residence, painted by the Venetian Giovanni Battista Tiepolo .

If you still have energy, you can visit the picture gallery and antique collection in Martin von Wagner Museum in the south wing of the residence.

You can digest the many new impressions during a walk in the beautiful Court Garden, which you enter through the magnificent rococo gate next to the Court Church. Here you will find a shady place on a bench in one of the arcades even on a hot summer day.

A real feast for the eyes is the south garden at the back of the residence with the stone figure groups by Johann Peter Wagner, the rock fountain and the cone-shaped cut yews.

Tip: Court Garden Wine Festival

In July the Court Garden Wine Festival takes place. It is open daily from 4 p.m. to midnight (longer than most other wine festivals). With the fine wines from the state-run Hofkeller, there are also snacks available. Come early if you want a seat.

Würzburg Residence Info

Address: Residenzplatz 2, 97070 Würzburg

Opening hours: April - October daily 9 a.m. - 6 p.m., November - March daily 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.)

Admission: regular 9 €, reduced 8 €; free access to Hofkirche and Hofgarten

Recommendation: I highly recommend the very informative guided tour (in German every 20 minutes, in winter every 30 minutes; in English daily at 11 am and 3 pm).

Detailed information at the Residence .

2. Marienberg Fortress

Another important sight in Würzburg is the Marienberg Fortress. During the walk up to the fortress, you first cross the Old Bridge, to then continue up the Tellsteige to the castle.

The outdoor premises of the fortress are freely accessible at all times. Take your time to enjoy the magnificent panorama of the River Main and the old town, the pilgrimage church Käppele and the Würzburg vineyards.

From the 12th century the Prince Bishops used the mighty castle as their permanent residence, and had it expanded in the late Middle Ages. After the fortress had been stormed by the Swedes during the Thirty Years' War, Prince Bishop Johann Philipp von Schönborn initiated the construction of the bastions. At the Bombing of Würzburg by the Royal Air Force on March 16, 1945, the castle almost completely burnt down. The reconstruction was only finished in 1990.

The "Golden Freedom" of the Prince-Bishops

On the Imperial Diet in Würzburg 1168 Emperor Frederick I Barbarossa awarded the bishop Herold of Würzburg the so-called "Güldene Freiheit" (Golden Freedom), which granted the bishop ducal rights. Thus, the Prince bishop was recognized as the secular ruler of Mainfranken.

The merger of the offices gave the prince-bishops incredible wealth . The increasing discontent of the subjects - primarily peasants - culminated in 1525 in the German Peasants' War , in which more than 10,000 peasants and citizens of Würzburg lost their lives. The office of the prince bishop disappeared with the breakup of the Holy Roman Empire of the German Nation in 1806.

Today the fortress houses the Museum for Franconia with an extensive collection on Franconian art and cultural history. Among other things, it contains the world's largest collection of sculptures by Tilman Riemenschneider , who lived in Würzburg from 1483 until his death in 1531.

Marienberg Fortress Info

Address: Marienberg Fortress, 97070 Würzburg

Opening hours: The worth seeing outdoor facilities, courtyards and defense walls are always freely accessible. Every Sunday at 11 am, Congress Tourismus Würzburg offers 90-minute guided tours of the fortress grounds (12€, reduced 10€). The tour can be booked online .

Museum of Franconia: Opening hours April 1-October 31, Tuesday through Sunday 10 a.m.-5 p.m., November 1-March 31, Tuesday through Sunday 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; closed Mondays. Admission: 5 €, reduced 4 €. More information at Museum for Franconia

3. Old Bridge "Alte Mainbrücke"

The Würzburg sight that you practically can't miss is the Old Bridge. It is a visitor magnet, and probably your way will lead you there directly after arrival.

At the foot of the Old Main Bridge you can enjoy the traditional Brückenschoppen A Schoppen glass holds ¼ liter of Franconian wine. You pay a deposit and may take the glass to the bridge with you.

The Views from the Old Main Bridge over the Main River, Würzburg's Old Town and Marienberg Fortress is magnificent, and the bridge itself is absolutely worth seeing. Twelve stone figures of people who played a role in Würzburg's history adorn the structure. These so-called "Bridge Saints" include Charlemagne and the three Irish missionaries Kilian, Kolonat and Totnan.

When the river became more and more of a problem for the increasing trade in the 12th century, the cathedral and city architect Enzelin built a first, Romanesque stone bridge. Some parts of today's bridge are still from the original structure. From the end of the 15th century, individual piers had to be renewed because floods repeatedly damaged the structure.

The 12 baroque figures were erected around 1730. On April 2, 1945, German troops blew up the fourth and fifth bridge arches. Reconstruction was completed in 1950. The Old Bridge has been closed to motorized traffic since 1990.

Three Bridges that Look Similar

Model for the Old Bridge and also the Charles Bridge in Prague should be the Angel bridge in Rome which was already built under Emperor Hadrian and consecrated in 134 AD. However, the installation of the angel sculptures took place only in the 17th century under Pope Clement IX.

 Experience the Charles Bridge in Prague was built in the 14th century and was named after Emperor Charles IV only in 1870. It was used as part of the coronation route of the Czech kings and belongs to the National Cultural Monuments of the Czech Republic.

4. Cathedral St. Kilian

Würzburg Cathedral - the fourth largest Romanesque church in Germany - has been dedicated to St. Kilian since 1967 and is definitely one of Würzburg's most important sights. It was built from 1040 to 1237, after the two previous buildings had been completely or partially destroyed by fire. The Italian Pietro Magni created the baroque stucco work in the interior between 1701 and 1704.

Balthasar Neumann added the baroque Schönborn Chapel, the burial place of the prince-bishops, in the second half of the 18th century. The tombs of bishops Rudolf von Scherenberg and Lorenz von Bibra were made by Tilman Riemenschneider . Riemenschneider's tomb slab was only discovered in the cathedral's courtyard in 1822, when the cemetery was dissolved. A cast of it has been placed on the north outer wall of the cathedral. You can see the original in the Museum for Franconia in the Marienberg Fortress.

Tilman Riemenschneider - Church Artist, Mayor and Rebel

Tilman Riemenschneider, born 1460 , began an apprenticeship in 1474 in his hometown of Osterode in the Harz Mountains as a stone sculptor and wood carver . From 1478 he went on the road as a journeyman, and was recorded as a painter servant in the Würzburg Guild of Painters and Sculptors in 1483. When he married Anna Schmidt, a goldsmith's widow, in 1485, he received the Würzburg citizenship and master dignity . Thus, he fulfilled the requirements for the establishment of his own workshop.

His wife brought the property Hof zum Wolfmannszichlein at Franziskanergasse 1 (today the building houses the restaurant "Tilman's Steakhouse") into the marriage. Riemenschneider lived and worked here until his death in 1531 . From the beginning, Riemenschneider's works received much appreciation . His workshop, where he employed up to 18 journeymen, supplied all of Franconia with his works. These were mainly commissioned works of religious content for the churches of the region. Riemenschneider's sculptures are characterized by expressive faces and detailed .

Also politically active. In 1504, he was elected to the city council and rose to the position of mayor. During the German Peasants' War of 1525 he stood together with other city councillors on the side of the rebels against the sovereign , Prince-Bishop Konrad II of Thüngen. Riemenschneider and other leaders of the uprising were arrested after the defeat on June 4, 1525, and imprisoned and tortured on the Marienberg Fortress. imprisoned and tortured . It was not until eight weeks after his imprisonment that Riemenschneider was released against payment of half of its assets The vindictive prince-bishop deprived him of all offices and honors and ensured that he didn't receive a major order until his death in 1531. Only the discovery of his grave slab on the Domleichhof (the cathedral's graveyard) set in motion a Riemenschneider Renaissance that continues to this day.  

The cathedral was severely damaged at the air raid on Würzburg on March 16, 1945, and large parts collapsed in February 1946. The reconstruction lasted until 1967 and was based on the original Romanesque architectural style. Since the reconstruction in 1988, the choir room combines baroque and modern forms.

Cathedral St. Kilian info

Address: Domstrasse 40, 97070 Würzburg

Opening hours: Monday to Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sunday and holiday 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Cathedral tours: Monday through Saturday at 12:30 p.m., Sundays and holidays 2 p.m.; for more info, see the Cathedral's website .

5. Marketplace and Lady Chapel

Another highlight of Würzburg is the market square with the Marienkapelle (Lady Chapel) and the magnificent baroque Falkenhaus (Falcon House), which houses the tourist information office.

The Lady Chapel on the north side of the market square dates from the 14th century and is considered a masterpiece of late Gothic architecture. Despite its size, it is "only" a chapel, as it was not endowed with parochial rights.

Before the construction of the Lady Chapel, there was a synagogue on this site, which was destroyed in a progrom against the Jewish population of Würzburg in 1349.

Progrom on the Jews of Würzburg in 1349

A rumor spread in the plague year of 1349 blamed the Jews for the outbreak of the plague. On April 21, 1349, hundreds of Würzburg Jews were murdered and their houses and synagogue burned down. Churches were also built in other Bavarian cities (Nuremberg, Munich, Landshut, Bamberg and Passau) where synagogues had previously stood. The foundation stone for the present Lady Chapel was laid by Bishop Gerhard von Schwarzburg on May 16, 1377, and was financed by donations of money and goods from the citizens of Würzburg (who were involved in the progrom).

You can find more interesting information about Jewish life in Bavaria and progroms in the Middle Ages in a highly interesting article on the website of the Bayerischer Rundfunk (Bavarian Radio) .

The city council commissioned 1490 Tilman Riemenschneider , to make the sandstone figures of Adam and Eve for the south portal. The originals were replaced by copies during the 2nd World War and are now in the Museum for Franconia on the Marienberg Fortress, .

The tympanum on the north portal that depicts Mary's proclamation will certainly amuse you: A twisted hose leads from God's mouth to Mary's left ear. The dove at the end of the hose symbolizes the Holy Spirit. On the hose, baby Jesus slides belly-down to Mary's ear. This would finally solve the mystery of the Immaculate Conception!

The Lady Chapel was badly damaged during the bombing raid on Würzburg in 1945. Numerous works of art were lost. The reconstruction took place from 1948 to 1961.

Inside the Lady Chapel there is the tomb of the knight Konrad von Schaumberg, made by Riemenschneider. Also Balthasar Neumann , the architect of the Residence , found his final resting place here.

Other Würzburg Sights on the Market Square: "Schwalbenlädle", Stand-Up Café and Falcon House

The small stores on the south and west sides of the Marienkapelle (Lady Chapel) are a special feature of Würzburg. As early as 1437, the church rented out these so-called "Schwalbenlädle" (literally "swallow stores"), which stick to the church like swallows' nests, to merchants. Würzburg's smallest café is also located here, Brandstetter's stand-up café (a branch of the long-established Würzburg bakery and confectionery Brandstetter).

The tourist information is located in the most magnificent house on the market square. The House to the Falcon , also called Falcon House, originally was the residence of the cathedral priest. In 1735, the innkeeper Franz Thomas Meißner bought the house and ran it as the inn "Zum Falken". After Meißner's death, his enterprising widow ran the inn and had the three-gabled, richly stuccoed rococo facade built in 1751. The house burned down during the bombing raid on Würzburg in 1945. It was reconstructed in the early 1950s based on old photographs.

Lady Chapel and Falcon House Info

Address Lady Chapel: Marktplatz 7, 97070 Würzburg

Opening hours: Open during the day

Admission: free

Detailed information at the Lady Chapel (Marienkapelle), .

Address Falcon House/Tourist Information: Marketplace 9,97070 Würzburg

Opening hours: Mon - Fri 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sat/Sun and holidays 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

For further information, see the Tourist Information website .

6. Grafeneckart and Four-Tube Fountain

The Grafeneckart is one of Würzburg's top sights and is the oldest part of the Würzburg City Hall .

The Council of Citizenship, which was designated to counterbalance the Prince Bishop in Würzburg in the High Middle Ages, bought the Romanesque family tower together with the so-called Grünbaum (the side wing attached to the tower) near the Old Bridge in 1316. The unusual designation Grafeneckart commemorates the bishop's mayor and Vizegraf Eckhart de Foro, who lived in the tower and was murdered in 1201.

The tree painted on the south facade of the building is a reminder of the linden tree under which court hearings used to be held in front of the Grafeneckart and which fell in 1597. after the sentence was pronounced, the criminals were put into the dungeon in the cellar of the Grafeneckart.

The red construction was erected in the middle of the 17th century. At its portal you can see the high-water markings that date back to the 14th century. In the 19th century, the city council bought the secularized Monastery of the Discalced Carmelites .

Through the portal of the Red Building you can enter a restaurant, which is operated by the Ratskeller in summer .

The Bombing raids on Würzburg caused severe damage to the Grafeneckart. It was rebuilt in the 1950s. In the south wing the new council hall was built with a contemporary monumental painting by Wolfgang Lenz .

Four-Tube Fountain - Baroque Gem and Popular Meeting Place

In front of the Grafeneckart stands the beautiful Four-Tube Fountain in rococo style. Lukas Anton van der Auwera , who also created some of the figures, was commissioned to redesign the original draw fountain in 1763. The work was completed by Johann Peter Wagner, who was a member of the Auwera workshop. The four Christian cardinal virtues - Bravery/Strength (Fortitudo), Wisdom (Prudentia), Temperance (Temperantia) and Justice (Justitia) rise on the fountain structure above four water spouting dolphins. In the center of the fountain on a coat of arms decorated obelisk Franconia guards the Würzburgers. You can see the originals of the fountain figures in the Museum for Franconia .

In the evening, the square around the four-tube fountain is very lively. Get yourself some delicious home-made ice cream at Eiscafé Fontana and enjoy the colorful hustle and bustle.

City Hall Würzburg Info

Address: At the Grafeneckart 1, 97070 Würzburg

7. Neumünster

The Neumünster Church is one of the most important sights in Würzburg. It's located next to St. Kilian's Cathedral . The Neumünster was built at the place where the "Apostles of Franconia" Kilian, Kolonat and Totnan were martyred and died in 689. First, in the eighth century, Bishop Meningoz erected a memorial building (Salvator Cathedral) for the three murdered Irish itinerant preachers.

Around 1060 St. Adalbero founded the Neumünster Monastery . First a Romanesque basilica was built. The tower was added during the expansion in the 12th and 13th centuries. The baroque west building with the dome and the impressive west facade was built by Joseph Greissing at the beginning of the 18th century.

 Experience the sandstone Madonna in a pillar niche of the dome room is an early work by Tilman Riemenschneider .

In two buildings of the crypt of the Neumünster the coffins of St. Kilian and bishop Meningoz TranslatePress enables also the relics of the martyrs are kept. The urn tomb of Pastor Georg Häfner, who died in the Dachau concentration camp in 1942, is located in the crypt of St. Kilian's.

Neumünster Info

Address: Neumünster (access via main portal at Kürschnerhof)

Opening hours: daily 8 till 18:30

More info at Würzburg Tourist Information .

8. Lusamgärtlein (Lusam Garden)

Würzburg's most romantic sight is probably the cloister on the north side of the Neumünster, where there is a memorial stone to Walther von der Vogelweide (ca. 1170 to 1230). The minnesinger is said to have spent the last years of his life in the Neumünster monastery and to have been buried here in the Lusamgärtlein. The grave was probably removed when the Neumünster church was remodeled in the 18th century. In case of love sickness, it supposedly helps to put flowers on the memorial stone.

The still preserved romanesque cloister wing in the Lusamgärtlein is considered a major work of the Staufer period in Würzburg (built in the 12th century). 

Lusamgärtlein Info

Access Lusamgärtlein: from Martinstraße 4, 97070 Würzburg

Opening hours: freely accessible all day

9. Käppele (Capuchin Monastery Nikolausberg)

A Würzburg sight visible from afar is the baroque pilgrimage church on the Nicholas Hill (Nikolausberg) , which is actually called "Visitation of the Virgin Mary" .

The Nikolausberg already developed into a place of pilgrimage during the turmoil of the Thirty Years' War. A Franconian fisherman's son placed a carved vesper image in the vineyards around 1640. Soon, mainly winegrowers and farmers wandered up to the little Pietà. A first small chapel was built after some miraculous healings occurred.

Prince Bishop Johann Gottfried von Guttenberg agreed to the expansion of the chapel at the end of the 17th century after initial hesitation. When the decision was made in the middle of the 18th century to build a new chapel, court architect Balthasar Neumann - who would be surprised? - got the commission. The terraced path from the banks of the river Main to the Käppele is lined with 77 figures by Peter Wagner and 14 stations of the cross. Along the way, you can enjoy magnificent views over the city from the terraces.

As one of the few architectural monuments in Würzburg, the Käppele has been largely spared from the incendiary bombs of March 16, 1945 .

Käppele Info

Address: Spittelbergweg 21, 97082 Würzburg

Opening hours: daily 8 till 17 o'clock

For further information, see Webiste of the Käppele .

10. Würzburg Stein - terroir f Würzburg

Already Goethe, Hermann Hesse, Leonhard Frank and Walther von der Vogelweide knew that wine has an inspiring effect. You will meet these poets at the terroir f Würzburg . From the literature balcony , which floats above Würzburg's best vineyard "Würzburg Stone" on the Stone-Wine-Trail , you can enjoy the magnificent view of the city, Marienberg Fortress and the vineyards, which rise from the Main valley. The viewing bridge is surrounded by 15 stelae, each showing one of the four literary figures, who all had a special relationship with Würzburg, depending on the angle of view and the direction of the compass. At the digital showcase you get more information about the topic wine and literature .

The Würzburg stone is the largest contiguous vineyard in Germany . On the 4 kilometer Stone-Wine-Trail you can take a nice walk through the vineyards. On the way 20 information boards inform you about the History of Franconian wine and Würzburg . Here you will learn interesting facts about the Stone-Wine-Trail .

Würzburg Sights in the Surrounding Area (with Map)

There are some interesting destinations within a radius of about 30 km, for which you should plan two to three additional days.

For the beautiful boat trip to Veitshöchheim - which I would definitely recommend to do - you should plan a whole day.

In another day you can do Volkach (including terroir f, Vogelsburg and Maria im Weingarten), Prichsenstadt and possibly Iphofen. I did that, but found this day tour very exhausting (however, this was the hottest day in July with around 40°C). I would recommend you to split this into two day tours - for example Volkach and Prichsenstadt on one day, Iphofen, Marktbreit and Ochsenfurt on the other.

Recommended Destinations around Würzburg

The following destinations near Würzburg are worth seeing:

• Veitshöchheim (Tour of the castle and rococo garden!)
• terroir f Volkach
• Vogelsburg Castle (View of the Main Loop)
• Pilgrimage Church Maria im Weingarten (Mary in the Vineyard)
• Volkach old town
• Steigerwald: 
• Prichsenstadt
• Extra Tip: Rothenburg ob der Tauber (60 km)

Wine, Art and Beautiful Views

Don't miss to do a boat trip to Veitshöchheim . Veitshöchheim Castle was the summer residence of the Würzburg Prince-Bishops. The palace garden with arcades, lakes, fountains and about 300 sculptures is considered one of the most important rococo gardens in Europe .

A wine village worth seeing is Volkach which attracts visitors to a medieval village center, Riemenschneider art in Pilgrimage Church Maria im Weingarten (Mary in the Vineyard) , as well as amazing views of the Mainschleife from the Vogelsburg Castle and the observation deck of the terroir f Volkach. Coming from Würzburg, you can visit one by one the terroir f, the Vogelsburg, the pilgrimage church and finally the old town of Volkach.

Picturesque Prichsenstadt with its cobblestone alleys, medieval half-timbered houses and the city wall with defense towers can be explored in about an hour along the "Historic City Tour". At the end you can stop at one of the cozy wine taverns.

You will find a couple of sights in Iphofen : Among others, there are the well-preserved medieval city fortifications with gates and towers, and the Rödelsee Gate , a landmark of Franconia.

Also Marktbreit , Birthplace of Alois Alzheimer (discoverer of the disease named after him), offers one of the most famous photo motifs in Franconia , painter angle (Malerwinkel). Take your time for a long walk.

Ochsenfurt , the largest town in the district of Würzburg, is located right at the river Main and offers almost completely preserved city fortifications with gates and towers , a well-known museum of traditional costumes , beautiful half-timbered houses and St. Andrew's parish church with a Santa Claus figure by Tilman Riemenschneider .

Last but not least is the medieval Rothenburg ob der Tauber - one of the most popular destinations in Germany - only 60 km from Würzburg. If you haven't been to Rothenburg yet, it makes for a nice day trip.

Would you also like to get to know the surroundings of Würzburg?

In my detailed blog post Day Trips from Würzburg - the 11 Most Beautiful Destinations I show you highlights and Franconian wine villages around Würzburg.

Practical Würzburg Tips

To conclude my travel tips for Würzburg, I would like to give you some practical tips.

Travel tips

Würzburg does not have its own airport. The nearest airports are:

The most convenient train connection is from the Rhine-Main Airport in Frankfurt. There is an hourly ICE direct connection to Würzburg. Travel time is about 90 minutes.

From both Nuremberg and Stuttgart airports, you first have to take the subway or S-Bahn from the airport to the main train station. From Nuremberg airport, travel time by train is an hour. And it takes a shocking 3 hours to get to Würzburg from Stuttgart airport.

The train station is located near the old town. If you come to Würzburg for a short stay only, it is a good option to arrive by train. The city has excellent connections to other major German cities.

Würzburg is conveniently located at the intersection of the A7 and A3 motorways, making it easily accessible by car from all directions. The electronic parking guidance system leads you to the parking lots and parking garages in the city center. However, keep in mind that the fees in the parking garages in the city center are high.

Parking in Würzburg

Unfortunately, as in most large cities, there is no free parking in Würzburg's city center. But there is a free large parking lot near the city center, which, thanks to a referendum in July 2022, will also remain free of charge (at least until further notice):

Talavera: There is a huge free parking lot here, unless there is an event like Kiliani or the Spring Festival (Frühjahrs-Volksfest). From here you can either walk to the city center in about 15 minutes or take the streetcar or bus from the Talavera stop This hardly saves any time, but you don't have to carry your luggage.

If you want to park closer to your (downtown) hotel, you will have to bite the bullet and park your car in a public garage, unless your hotel has its own parking spaces, but they will also charge. The cheapest parking garage in the city center is the Parking garage Theater with 16 € per day. For all other city center garages you have to pay 19 € to 24 € per day.

Get an overview of all parking spaces and rates you at WVV .

You want to Travel Germany by Car?

In my blog post Road Trip in Germany - the most Beautiful Routes you will find individual tour suggestions for your planning.

Local Transport Tips

The sights of the city center are all within easy walking distance. But there is also a well-developed local transport network with buses and streetcars . The Day Ticket Solo for a single person is 4,50€ , the Day Ticket Plus for two adults and their children/grandchildren under 15 years is 6,40€ . A one-way ticket is available for 2,40€ , a short-distance ticket (up to 4 stops after boarding) for 1,40€ .

You can find all information about public transportation in Würzburg at WVV .

Tips for Recommended Accommodation in Würzburg

I stayed at Hotel Alter Kranen (advertising link) which I would be happy to recommend. The location is super central near the Old Bridge . The rooms facing the Mainkai offer a fantastic view of Marienberg Fortress . Since the hotel is located at the main road, it is quite noisy if you open the windows. I especially liked the bright breakfast room with a view of the fortress.

Since the hotel has only two (narrow) garages, you have to park your car in a public parking garage (the closest one is the Kranengarage, daily rate 19€). If you don't want to explore the surrounding area of Würzburg as well, I would recommend to come by train .

Other recommended hotels in Würzburg:

DAS v EVERT Hotel - at the Congress Centrum Würzburg (advertising link) : Comfortable hotel in a historic building in the city center, with its own parking. Nice rooms and friendly service, the reviews say.

Steinburg Castle Hotel (advertising link) : Just under 2 km from the Old Bridge, this 4-star hotel sits on a hill overlooking the city. Breathtaking view and parking included.

Tips on Recommended Restaurants, Cafés and Beer Gardens in Würzburg

Restaurant and wine house Zum Stachel: If you're in Würzburg, you should definitely treat yourself to an evening at the medieval Weinhaus Zum Stachel for the ambience alone! In the cozy courtyard, the delicious dishes with a creative touch and the Franconian wine taste twice as good! You should make a reservation here. Address: Gressengasse 1, 97070 Würzburg; Phone: +49 931 527 70; click here to go to the website .

La Rustica: In a side alley behind the Hotel Alter Kranen I had a good meal at this "real" Italian restaurant. In summer, it's pleasant to sit at one of the tables on the sidewalk. Friendly service, medium price range. Address: Karmelitenstraße 29, 97070 Würzburg; Phone: +49 931 4653 8811; click here to go to the website .

Locanda Würzburg: The riverside terrace of this Italian restaurant directly on the Alter Kranen is so popular in summer that I didn't manage to get a table without a reservation on my four evenings in Würzburg. The pizzas and pasta dishes on the diners' plates looked delicious. When the weather is nice, I don't think there is a better location in Würzburg. Address: Kranenkai 1, 97070 Würzburg; Phone: +49 931 15600; click here to go to the website .

beer garden Goldene Gans A beautiful beer garden with friendly service in a prime location below the Marienberg Fortress. The view of the bridge, the river and the city is great, at least if you get a table on the Main side. Classic beer garden dishes (bratwurst with sauerkraut, natural sourdough bread or potato salad; snacks). I had pork neck steak with potato salad, accompanied by a glass of Franconian Silvaner. I liked it. Address: Leonhard Frank Promenade, Burkarderstrasse 2 - 4, 97082 Würzburg; Phone (reservations from 6 people) : +49 176 24476389; open seasonally, in good weather daily from 11 am. Click here to go to the website .

Lämmle Inn: Rustic Franconian restaurant with beer garden right next to the Lady's Chapel. On a still hot summer evening, I sat on the pleasantly airy terrace thanks to the old chestnut trees. I don't expect gourmet cuisine in a beer garden. The Obatzer accompanied by a Riesling was just the thing for me that evening after my sightseeing marathon. Address: Marienplatz 5, 97070 Würzburg; Phone: +49 931 54 748; click here to go to the website .

Eiscafé Fontana: Twice, after dinner, I ended the day at the Vierröhrenbrunnen with an ice cream from Fontana. The selection of ice cream specialties from their own production leaves nothing to be desired. My choice: dark chocolate with tonka - to die for! And on warm summer evenings, the vibes are guaranteed to be good in this beautiful location. Address: Beim Grafeneckart 8, 97070 Würzburg; Phone:  +49 931 3292180 ; click here to go to the website .

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Würzburg offers so many impressive sights that you hardly know where to start. The Residence and the Old Main Bridge are an absolute must for every visitor. But also the Marienberg Fortress and the pilgrimage church Käppele should not be missing on any tour. And if you still have time, you should definitely visit the Botanical Garden of the University of Würzburg. This city is truly a jewel in Franconia!

Hello, Thank you very much for the nice comment. Unfortunately, I didn't have the time for the Botanical Garden - there was just too much to see in beautiful Würzburg, but also outside. I'll definitely come back and see some of the things I missed on my first visit. Many greetings, Angelika

Dear Angelica,

I enjoyed your travel info. I am a Persian (Iranian) physicist and was attracted to nice Wurzburg because of the great German physicist Wilhelm Rontgen who invented the X-ray in 1896. My visit dream to Wurzburg was fulfilled last July. Another city attraction that you may add to your website could be the Rontgen Museum where he discovered the X-ray. This place is very close to the city Hauptbahnhof.

Best regards, Ebrahim

Dear Ebrahim,

Thank you so much for your kind comment and the hint regarding Wilhelm Roentgen. I really wasn't aware that it was Wuerzburg where he discovered the X-ray. That's very interesting, and I will remember to include it in an update of the Wuerzburg blog post. I'm glad that you enjoyed your visit to Wuerzburg so much. I really was surprised about how much this beautiful city has to offer.

Take care! Angelika

Great tips especially for accommodation and food.

Thank you so much, dear Nicole! I'm very happy that you find my tips helpful 🙂 I wish you a happy new year!

Hi Angelika, that's quite a highlight. Thank you. When the weather is better, we absolutely must look at and experience Würzburg and especially the proposed destinations in the area. Am particularly curious about the works of Tilmann Riemenschneider in Würzburg and Volkach plus Ochsenfurt, of which I knew nothing until now. Thanks also for the reference to Riemenschneider's support of the insurgents - today they would be called terrorists by the rulers. We are eager to see the other suggestions for travel in our special country. Dietmar

Hello Dietmar, thank you for your comment. You have already noticed that I was totally enthusiastic about Würzburg. The city and the area are definitely worth a visit. I was also surprised to learn that Tilman Riemenschneider and Götz von Berlichingen met in the Weinhaus Stachel. You learn stories like that on the guided city walks 🙂 Happy holidays and a happy new year!

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Home » Travel Guides » Germany » 15 Best Things to Do in Würzburg (Germany)

15 Best Things to Do in Würzburg (Germany)

In the midst of vineyards, Würzburg is a historic university city in Franconia. All eyes are drawn to the two palaces either side of the Main River. On the right bank behind the old town is the UNESCO-listed Würzburg Residence, the Baroque home for the Prince-Bishops of Würzburg, a palace of staggering size and splendour that has the largest fresco in the world.

On the left bank is the Marienburg Fortress, where the Prince-Bishops lived before the 18th century. In between is a city of astounding churches, chapels and museum. Most of these contain works by one of the masters of the Northern Renaissance, the sculptor Tilman Riemenschneider. He produced dozens of religious statues and effigies in the city and was even locked up in the fortress for a time during the 16th-century German Peasants’ War.

Let’s have a look at the best things to do in Würzburg :

1. Würzburg Residence

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the palace for the Prince-Bishop Johann Philipp Franz von Schönborn is on a scale that has to be seen to be believed.

Constructed from 1720 to 1744, the Würzburg Residence is among Europe’s great Baroque palaces and is considered architect Balthasar Neumann’s greatest achievement.

The Residence was hit during the Second World War, but its most splendid architecture survived.

The grand staircase is nothing short of dazzling for its self-supporting trough vault that climbs to 23 metres, and painted with a gigantic fresco by Giovanni Battista Tiepolo.

This is the largest fresco in the world and symbolises the four continents: Europe, America, Asia and Africa.

Visiting dignitaries were received in the breathtaking Imperial Hall, a dazzling mass of painting, stuccowork, statues and marble completed at head-spinning expense in 1751.

2. Marienburg Fortress

A permanent landmark on the left bank of the Main, the Marienburg Fortress crowns a spur high above the river, in a spot that has been fortified since Celtic times.

The castle’s story begins in the 1200s when defensive walls were built around Würzburg first church, which had stood here since the 8th century.

For almost five centuries up to 1719 the Marienburg Fortress was the seat of the Prince-Bishops, and it gradually changed from a defensive building into a Renaissance and then Baroque palace after it was almost razed by the Swedes in the Thirty Years’ War.

The Fürstenbaumuseum reveals Würzburg’s 1,200 years of history, and uses period furniture to help you picture the opulence of the Prince-Bishops.

Among the many enlightening things on the tour is the dungeon where Renaissance master Tilman Riemenschneider was imprisoned for allying with the peasants in the 16th century German Peasants’ War.

3. Fürstengarten

In the 17th century the Prince-Bishop Johann Philipp von Schönborn created an adorable little formal garden on one of the former gun platforms atop the old ramparts at the fortress.

The Fürstengarten is on the eastern flank of the complex and is arranged geometrically with fountains, neat flowerbeds and pavilions.

The idea most likely came from Italy’s Renaissance “giardini segreti” (Secret Gardens). Best of all is the view of the Main and Würzburg from the balustrade.

4. Alte Mainbrücke

Linking Würzburg Altstadt with the old fishermen’s quarter, the pedestrian bridge Alte Mainbrücke was the city’s only river crossing all the way up to 1886. As you cross there are fabulous views east towards St Kilian Cathedral and the Alstadt, and also to the Marienburg Fortress high to the west.

The bridge was started in 1476 and replaced an earlier Romanesque version that had been wrecked by floods.

Up to the 1700s the bridge was totally fortified, but around that time the Prince-Bishops Christoph Franz von Hutten and then Friedrich Karl von Schönborn sculpted 12 statues of saints facing the roadway.

5. Museum für Franken

In Marienburg’s outer fortifications there is a museum packed with the marvellous works of Franconian artists.

In 45 rooms there’s archaeology, painting, sculpture and applied art from Würzburg and the Mainfranken region from the Palaeolithic to the 1800s.

There are masterpieces by Riemenschneider, including his original Adam and Eve statues from the Marienkapelle and a mourning Madonna dating to 1505. You can also size up carved Romanesque capitals, a treasure from the late Bronze Age and a wealth of Baroque sculpture by names like Ferdinand Dietz and Johann Peter Wagner.

The arts and crafts section is a must for its glassware, silver and gold, antique clocks and textiles going back to the Middle Ages.

6. Würzburg Cathedral

Despite sustaining heavy damage in the Second World War, Würzburg Cathedral still has a lot of mesmerising art and architecture by Tilman Riemenschneider and Balthasar Neumann.

The church as it is now was begun in the 11th century and at more than 100 metres is noted for its extraordinary length, being the fourth-longest Romanesque church in Germany.

For all its history Würzburg Cathedral was the burial place of the Prince-Bishops, and this is how Riemenschneider and Neumann got involved.

Riemenschneider carved the magnificent tomb effigies for Rudolf von Scherenberg (1499) and Lorenz von Bibra (1519), as well as the Apostles’ Altar from 1502/06. The Prince-Bishops of the House of Schönborn were interred in a chapel designed by Neumann, holding the tombs of four rulers.

7. Hofkirche

On both storeys of the Residenz and with oval vaults and curved walls, the palace’s chapel is held as one of the high points of sacral Baroque architecture.

There’s beautifully textured marble, giltwork and stucco almost everywhere you look.

The chapel’s six lustrous statues were fashioned from white marble in Genoa, while the delicate marble-effect stuccowork on the high altar as well as the ornamentation on the ceiling was by the Italian Antonio Giuseppe Bossi.

Look up to the three monumental frescoes in the domes, representing the War in Heaven, Coronation of the Virgin and martyrdom of the three Franconian apostles Kolonat, Totnat and Kilian.

8. Marienkapelle

On the Unterer Markt square, the Marienkapelle is officially designated a chapel despite its imposing scale.

The building is in a uniform Late Gothic style and went up between 1377 and 1480, when the tower was completed.

Once again, Tilman Riemenschneider contributed a lot to the beauty of this monument.

He carved the statues of Adam and Eve on the south portal, as well as the tomb of the Franconian nobleman Konrad von Schaumburg.

The latter is one of several epitaphs to have survived the allied bombing of 1945, which left the church in ruins.

Balthasar Neumann is also buried in the church, and in the absence of a monument from the time of his death, a bronze plaque was installed in the 1950s.

9. Kollegiatstift Neumünster

This church started out as a Romanesque basilica in the 1000s, but nearly all the current architecture is from an extensive Barque remodelling in the 18th century.

There has been some sort of religious building here since the 8th century when the Bishop Meningaud constructed a memorial to hold the tombs of St Kilian and his companions Kolonat and Totnan, missionaries who were killed in 689. Their tombs are in the crypt, along with Bishop Meningaud’s, whose tomb bears the oldest known Frankish inscription.

Some art to check out upstairs includes a Gothic plague cross from the 1300s and a Madonna carved by Riemenschneider in 1493.

10. Martin von Wagner Museum

In the south wing of the Residence Palace is a museum for archaeology and art based on a collection that was started in 1832. The museum is named for Johann Martin von Wagner who donated his own art and ancient antiquities to the museum in 1858. In the antiquities galleries the assortment of Ancient Greek vases is especially important, counting around 5,000 pieces and forming one of the largest collections in the country.

The museum also has Dutch, German and Italian paintings from the early Renaissance to the 1900s by artists like Hans Leonhard Schäufelein, Pieter Claesz and Max Liebermann, while the sculpture galleries have yet more works by Tilman Riemenschneider.

The graphics collection is also worthwhile for its woodcuts and copper engravings by Albrecht Dürer.

11. Schloss Veitshöchheim

Würzburg’s Prince-Bishops and then the Kings of Bavaria had their summer residence at Veitshöchheim, moments northwest of the city.

The palace is open for guided tours from April to October and is noted for its stuccowork by Antonio Bossi, sculptures by Johann Peter Wagner, as well as the sumptuous private apartments that were used by the Duke of Tuscany.

But maybe the main event is the Rococo garden, and there’s an exhibition on the ground floor of the palace about how this wonderful feat of landscaping and art was achieved.

Laid out in the 18th-century, the gardens are embellished with more than 300 sculptures, as well as artificial ruins, arbours, pavilions and magical grottoes inspired by the Boboli Gardens in Florence.

The kitchen garden is a wonder in its own right as it is planted with historic vegetables, fruits and herbs that have mostly been forgotten.

12. Rathaus Würzburg

One of the distinguishing sights on Würzburg’s historic skyline is the Grafeneckart, the tower belonging to the Medieval town hall.

The Rathaus is a muddle of connected buildings constructed at different times.

The Romanesque Grafeneckart is the oldest of these, dating to the 1200s and after its first owner Graf (Count) Eckard de Foro.

Inside this edifice is the Wenzelsaal (Wenceslas Hall), the oldest secular room in the city.

There’s also a memorial room in the Grafeneckart for the bombing on 16 March 1945 in which 5,000 people died in a single night.

13. Käppele

Another of Balthasar Neumann’s Baroque masterpieces is just south of the Marienburg fortress, atop the 366-metre Nikolausberg hill on the left bank of the Main.

Reached via 352 steps, this pilgrimage church, distinguished by its bud domes, was built in just a couple of years up to 1750 and once again boasts works by the court sculptor Johann Peter Wagner.

He carved the life-sized representations of the 14 stations of the cross at small chapels posted on the route to the main church.

This was no small undertaking as there are 77 sculpted figures in total, and the ensemble took more than 30 years to complete.

Inside the church itself, take some time to appreciate the frescoes, Neoclassical high altar and ornamental stuccowork.

14. Museum am Dom

The art museum for Würzburg’s diocese opened in a modern building in 2003 and has around 700 Christian-themed sculptures and paintings from the 900s to the present day.

Modern and contemporary artists like Joseph Beuys, Andy Warhol, Käthe Kollwitz, Ernst Barlach and Otto Dix share the space with Würzburg’s historic masters: Good old Riemenschneider appears again, as does Johann Peter Wagner and the 18th-century Baroque painters Johannes Zick and Georg Anton Urlaub.

15. Röntgen Memorial Site

At the former physics institute of the University of Würzburg two laboratories have been preserved in which Wilhelm Röntgen made the discovery that earned him a Nobel Prize in 1901. On the evening of 8 November 1895 Röntgen observed rays that penetrated through solid material and coined the term “X-Rays”. The small museum is a glimpse of particle physics at the end of the 19th century.

You can observe a recreation of Röntgen’s experiment with the same apparatus that he used, while in the next room are all the early applications of his discovery: There are vintage X-Ray tubes and a Siemens & Halske X-Ray machine from 1912.

15 Best Things to Do in Würzburg (Germany):

• Würzburg Residence
• Marienburg Fortress
• Fürstengarten
• Alte Mainbrücke
• Museum für Franken
• Würzburg Cathedral
• Marienkapelle
• Kollegiatstift Neumünster
• Martin von Wagner Museum
• Schloss Veitshöchheim
• Rathaus Würzburg
• Museum am Dom
• Röntgen Memorial Site

Ostrich Trails

Because it is a walking bird and walking is what we do.

Würzburg Walking Tour

Home » Europe » Germany » Würzburg Walking Tour

By Vicky · Published Mar. 3rd, 2023 · Updated Jun. 7th, 2024

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Würzburg, a charming city in Bavaria, Germany, is known for its baroque architecture, excellent wine, and rich cultural heritage. One of the best ways to explore this fascinating city is through a walking tour, which allows you to discover its hidden gems and immerse yourself in its history and culture.

Page Contents:

This walk starts from Market Square in the centre of Würzburg Altstadt. It’s about 1km, or 12 minutes walk southwest of Würzburg Hauptbahnhof. On the train, Würzburg is just over an hour from Frankfurt and just over two hours from either Stuttgart or Munich.

Würzburg Walking Tour Map

Get the route by downloading the .gpx or .kml file below. For navigation with Maps.me on your mobile phone, simply download the .kml file and open to add it to the Maps.me bookmarks.

Tips for Würzburg Walking Tour

• Plan your day in Würzburg around the timings of English tours of the Residence (11am & 3pm year-round, extra tours at 1:30pm and 4:30pm Apr-Oct.) and Marienberg Fortress (Apr-Oct 3pm on weekends).
• A  sightseeing train tour * is an easy way to explore the town.
• Würzburg is at the northern end of the Romantic Road , a famous tourist route through Bavaria ending at Neuschwanstein Castle .
• Check out other walks on our Germany Hiking Page .

Top Sights in Würzburg

On this self-guided walking tour you’ll visit the most famous landmarks and attractions in Würzburg. One day is the perfect amount of time to spend in Würzburg , though you could use the town as a base to explore other nearby towns near the top of the Romantic Road.

• Altstadt & Market Square
• New Munster
• St. Kilian Cathedral
• Würzburg Residence
• Juliusspital
• Old Town Hall
• Old Main Bridge
• Marienberg Fortress

Würzburg Walking Tour Route

This walking tour starts at Market Square, which is the heart of the city and the perfect starting point to explore Würzburg.

1. Altstadt & Market Square

No walking tour of Würzburg would be complete without a visit to its charming Altstadt, or Old Town. This area is home to a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants, along with several historic buildings and landmarks.

The Market Square is surrounded by beautiful historic buildings and is home to the Gothic Marienkapelle, a striking red and white church dating back to the 14th century. Just behind the chapel is the Haus zum Falken, or Falkenhaus, a beautifully restored 18th-century building. Today the city’s tourist information centre is inside.

Directions: Leave Market Square behind the chapel and past Haus zum Falken. At the main street turn right. You’ll see the New Munster soon on the left, walk up the steps to head inside.

2. New Munster

The New Munster, or Neumünster (open 6am-6:30pm Mon-Sat, from 8am Sun), is in the heart of the Altstadt. It’s a Romanesque church that was built in the 11th century and is one of the oldest churches in Würzburg.

It was here that three Irish missionaries tried to convert the local Duke Gosbert to Christianity and died for it. Today you can see statues of the three missionaries around the church. The most famous of the three is St. Kilian, now patron Saint of Würzburg. You can visit his tomb in the crypt, a place said to vibrate with positive energy and many pilgrims come here to be healed.

Directions: Continue along the street and you’ll see the cathedral on your left.

3. St. Kilian Cathedral

Key Information: Open Mon-Sat 10am-5pm, Sundays 1-6pm, free entry. Museum open Tue-Sun 12-5pm, tickets €5/4.

St. Kilian Cathedral, or Würzburg Cathedral ( Website , TripAdvisor reviews *) is a beautiful baroque cathedral. It dates back to the 11th century but was burnt out in 1945 and later fully restored. The outside remains true to its original form, while the inside is a blend of modern and old and surprisingly beautiful. Interestingly, there’s a large menorah at the entrance to the church celebrating Christianity’s roots in Judaism.

The Museum am Dom ( Website , TripAdvisor reviews *) is in the courtyard to the left and behind the cathedral. It’s surprisingly interesting and showcases religious objects, paintings, gold and more. Similar to inside the cathedral itself, there are both old and modern pieces, displayed contrastingly next to each other on various themes.

Directions: Head into the courtyard to the left of the cathedral where the Museum is. At the road on the other side, turn right. Follow this road and it will lead you all the way to the grand Residence.

4. Würzburg Residence

Key Information: Open Apr-Oct 9am-6pm, Nov-Mar 10am-4:30pm. Visits by guided tour only. Tours in English at 11am & 3pm year-round, extra tours at 1:30pm and 4:30pm Apr-Oct. Tickets are €9/8. Martin von Wagner Museum – free entry, closed Sundays.

The Würzburg Residence ( Website , TripAdvisor Reviews *) is one of the finest renaissance/baroque buildings in Germany and one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. This magnificent palace was built in the 18th century and is known for its stunning baroque architecture, ornate gardens, and impressive art collection. The palace’s opulent interior is filled with stunning frescoes, intricate stucco work, and exquisite furnishings.

You can explore the Residence by yourself (information in English and German in every room), or take a tour to be guided around a few of the most impressive rooms. The Martin von Wagner Museum is in one wing of the Würzburg Residence. It’s home to a large art collection, with antiquities, sculptures and a few important paintings. It’s free so you may as well at least walk through.

Don’t forget to visit the Hofgarten (free entry) either before or after looking around the palace. It’s a French-style garden designed in the 18th century and is a very pleasant place to take a stroll, with a central large lake and Rococo sculptures. To get to the entrance of the garden, head left when leaving the Residence to the gate in the corner.

Directions: Once you’ve finished looking around the gardens, leave the area on the road you came in on. Instead of continuing straight, take the first right on Maxstraße. Follow the road as it bends left by a small park. Walk onwards into the pedestrianised area. Turn right when you reach the street with the tram lines and the Juliusspital is the grand building at the end of the street.

5. Juliusspital

The Juliusspital is a historic hospital and winery (Weingut Juliusspital) that dates back to the 16th century. The estate is known for its excellent wine and is a popular spot for visitors to sample the local wines and learn about the wine-making process. It’s a nice building with beautiful gardens, and you can wander around freely.

There are wine-tasting tours ( Website ) where you can explore the wine cellars, which all finish with a tasting, or just visit the wine shop to buy any of the reasonably priced wines. Würzburg is still renowned for its wine today, and the city is surrounded by vineyards.

If you’re interested, visit the Röntgen Memorial Site just north of the Juliusspital. To explore more of the vineyards, head even further north to the slopes north of the train station.

Röntgen Memorial Site

The Röntgen Memorial Site , or Röntgen-Gedächtnisstätte (open 8am-2pm weekdays, free entry) commemorates the site of one of the most important scientific breakthroughs in medical history. Here in 1895, Prof. Dr. Wilhelm Conrad Röntgen discovered a new kind of ray, which he called X-rays. It’s an interesting and informative little museum, with explanations in both English and German about physics in the late 19th century.

Walk in the Vineyards

The walk from south of the station around the vineyards and back is roughly 5 km with about 100 metres of climb. There are great views over the vines and city below, and you can also taste some of the wine in the wineries dotted around the slopes.

Directions: Leave the Juliusspital and walk right along the main road. Walk around the building at the far end to reach the river bank and turn left.

Walking by the riverside, you’ll first come to the Old Cranes , or Alter Kranen, dating from 1773. Not much further along the river, you’ll come to a great viewpoint of the Old Main Bridge with the Marienberg Fortress up above on the other side.

Directions: When the riverside path ends, continue along the road and take the first left. You’ll then be in a pedestrianised square with the town hall complex on your left.

6. Würzburg Old Town Hall

The Old Town Hall is a rather lovely building, the oldest part of which is called the Grafeneckart from the 13th century. At the base of the building, you can enter a little room containing a display about the bombing of Würzburg during WWII. There’s a model of the town immediately after the destruction, and a description (English and German) of the town’s experience during the war.

Directions: Head onto the bridge.

7. Old Main Bridge

The Old Main Bridge, or Alte Mainbrücke, is a historic bridge that spans the River Main and offers stunning views of the city. The bridge is lined with statues of saints and historical figures and is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike to relax and enjoy the views. On sunny days, the bridge will be full of people sampling the local wine.

Directions: Cross the bridge, head over the first road and turn left on the smaller road. When this road begins to bend, turn right by the church, following the signposts to Marienberg Fortress. Follow the track as it meanders up the hill and around the corner to the back of the Fortress. Eventually, you’ll head inside the walls and make your way inside the castle itself.

8. Marienberg Fortress

Key Information: Castle open Apr-Oct 9am-6pm, Nov-Mar 10am-4.30pm, closed Mondays, free entry. Tours cost €4/3, in German only (sometimes English tours 3pm Apt-Oct). Museum für Franken open 10am-16/17pm in Apr-Oct/Nov-Mar, closed Mondays, tickets €5/4.

The Marienberg Fortress ( Website , Tripadvisor Reviews *), or Festung Marienberg, is one of the top sights in Würzburg. This medieval fortress overlooks the city and offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. It dates back to the 13th century and served the powerful Prince-Bishops of Würzburg until they moved into the Residence which they had designed.

Today the fortress is home to a museum, a chapel, and several gardens. You can walk around the gardens and inner courtyards of the castle for free. If you go on a fun and informative guided tour (German only) you get to visit a few extra areas, such as Saint Mary’s Church, the well and a stone corridor leading to the Princes’ Garden.

Museum für Franken

The Museum für Franken ( Website ) is also housed in the castle, showcasing the history and artwork of Franconia (the northern part of Bavaria). A highlight of the museum is the large collection of carvings by Tilman Riemenschneider, a famous wood and stone worker. There are also some nice models of the town showing its development and subsequent destruction in the WWII bombings.

Directions: The castle is the last stop on the Würzburg Walking Tour. To head back to the centre of town, leave the castle via the gardens and head through the door down the steps into the park. If this door is closed, you’ll have to walk back around the way you came and leave along the paved road into the park. Walk down through the park and head right at the bottom to cross back over the Old Main Bridge into town.

Best Places to Stay in Würzburg

In Würzburg you’ll find a range of hotels and apartments in the city centre.

• Hotel: Hotel im Ried* has a great location in the centre of , with a great restaurant too.
• Comfort: Zur Stadt Mainz * has a great location in the centre of Würzburg close to all the attractions, with large, comfy rooms and friendly staff.

Explore the Romantic Road

Other towns on the Romantic Road include walled Nördlingen , pretty Donauwörth and stately Augsburg , or head east to Bamberg and historic Nuremberg . For more walking tours and hikes in Germany, see our Germany hiking page .

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Würzburg: world heritage and Franconian wine

Würzburg is a pleasant harmony of history, culture and wine. This university city and former royal seat is idyllically situated on either side of the Main River and offers a vibrant atmosphere and an endearing charm.

Würzburg is a Baroque city offering southern German flair and Franconian hospitality. Architectural masterpieces from various eras shape the cityscape. Even from afar, the two imposing towers of St. Kilian Cathedral – the fourth largest Romanesque church in Germany – point the way to the city. Würzburg's famous landmarks are the Würzburg Residence with its Court Gardens and Residence Square (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), the Marienberg Fortress and the 180-metre-long Old Main Bridge, which is lined with impressive statues of saints. Gracefully straddling the banks of the Main River amid idyllic vineyards, the location alone is reason enough to visit Würzburg.

St. Kilian's Cathedral

Marienberg fortress.

One of the city's fascinating museums, at Marienberg Fortress, houses the largest collection of works by the famous woodcarver and sculptor Tilman Riemenschneider. Slightly more modern art from the 19th century to the present day is the focus of the 3,500-square-metre museum in the Kulturspeicher building at the old port. Did you know that a different discovery, that of the X-ray, was made in Würzburg? Röntgen's original laboratory has been preserved and welcomes visitors, who can follow up the tour by giving the city a thorough examination.

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Map of Wurzburg, Germany

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🏰 What to do in Wurzburg 🏰

Discover the enchanting activities that Wurzburg has to offer, from historical landmarks to scenic views and cultural experiences.

Best Budget Activity in Wurzburg:

Marienberg Fortress : Explore the historic fortress with stunning views of the city and vineyards.

Best Mid-Range Activity in Wurzburg:

Residenz Palace : Tour the opulent UNESCO-listed palace, known for its baroque architecture and stunning gardens.

Best Luxury Activity in Wurzburg:

Romantic Rhine Cruise : Embark on a luxurious cruise along the Rhine River, enjoying picturesque views and wine tasting.

Recommendations:

Don't miss visiting Wurzburg Cathedral, taking a leisurely stroll along the Alte Mainbrücke bridge, and exploring the charming streets of the Old Town for a true taste of Wurzburg's culture and history.

🍴 Where to eat in Wurzburg 🍴

Indulge in Wurzburg's culinary scene, known for its rich flavors and local specialties. Don't miss trying Franconian sausages and the famous wine from the region.

Best Budget Restaurant in Wurzburg:

Fresh seafood dishes

Best Mid-Range Restaurant in Wurzburg:

Authentic Italian pizzas and pastas

Best Luxury Restaurant in Wurzburg:

Fine dining with a focus on seasonal ingredients

Explore Wurzburg's food scene further at Alte Mainmühle and Weinstube Julius Echter.

Best Budget Bar in Wurzburg:

Local beers and pretzels

Best Mid-Range Bar in Wurzburg:

Craft cocktails and small bites menu

🏛️ What to see in Wurzburg 🏛️

Immerse yourself in the rich history and architectural beauty of Wurzburg by visiting its iconic landmarks that showcase the city's cultural heritage.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this exquisite palace boasts stunning baroque architecture and impressive frescoes.

Overlooking the city, this historic fortress offers panoramic views, exhibitions, and a glimpse into Wurzburg's past.

Known for its Romanesque and Gothic elements, the cathedral houses remarkable works of art and captivating interiors.

This picturesque bridge spanning the Main River offers a perfect spot for scenic views, walks, and enjoying the city skyline.

A significant religious landmark, this church features a blend of architectural styles and intricate detailing worth exploring.

🛍️ Where to go shopping in Wurzburg 🛍️

Explore the diverse shopping scene in Wurzburg, offering everything from local boutiques to international brands, providing a unique shopping experience for every budget.

Best Budget Shopping Place in Wurzburg:

Zara Home : Discover affordable home decor, accessories, and gifts at Zara Home for stylish finds without breaking the bank.

Best Mid-Range Shopping Place in Wurzburg:

Galeria Kaufhof : Shop for clothing, cosmetics, and household items at Galeria Kaufhof, a popular department store offering a wide range of products at moderate prices.

Best Luxury Shopping Place in Wurzburg:

Ertl-Renz : Indulge in luxury fashion and designer collections at Ertl-Renz, known for its high-end clothing, accessories, and impeccable service.

For more shopping options, explore the charming boutiques along Augustinerstraße, visit Neubaustraße for artisanal crafts and unique souvenirs, and don't miss the local markets for fresh produce, handicrafts, and regional specialties.

🚌 Getting Around Wurzburg

Public transport.

Wurzburg offers an efficient public transportation system consisting of buses, trams, and trains. VVM operates the bus and tram network within the city, with single tickets costing around €2.10 and day passes available for approximately €4.50. The bus and tram schedules are frequent, connecting major attractions and neighborhoods. Additionally, Wurzburg Hauptbahnhof serves as the central train station providing access to regional and intercity trains. Train schedules and prices vary depending on the destination.

Main Transportation Hubs

Wurzburg Hauptbahnhof, or the main train station, is located centrally and serves as a key transportation hub for both regional and long-distance travel. The train station is well-connected to the city center and other transportation options. For bus travel, the Wurzburg Hauptbahnhof bus terminal is conveniently located adjacent to the train station, providing seamless transfers between trains and buses.

🚗 Rental Services

When it comes to rental services in Wurzburg, travelers have various options to choose from for added flexibility and convenience. Major car rental companies like Hertz, Avis, and Europcar operate in the city, offering a range of vehicles at competitive prices starting from €30 per day. For those looking to explore the city on two wheels, bike rental services are also available at locations like Pedelec Adventures, with prices starting from €10 per day for standard bicycles and e-bikes.

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15 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Würzburg

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Dec 22, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

The old Franconian episcopal city and university town of Würzburg in the state of Bavaria lies in a beautiful location in a basin in the Main Valley . The city's most noticeable landmark, Fortresses Marienberg, stands high above the River Main dominating the scene. One of Germany's most famous medieval castles , it was built on the site of a former Bronze Age fort and now serves not to keep people out of the city, but to welcome them in as one of Würzburg's top points of interest.

While intense bombing at the end of WWII left more than 90 percent of the Old Town (Altstadt) destroyed, it has since been painstakingly rebuilt. Today, Würzburg's Old Town offers numerous fine examples of medieval architecture, especially around its historic Market Square (Marktplatz).

A fascinating display about the tragic bombing, marked each year by the rising of the city's church bells, can be seen in the Old Town Hall . The Old Town is also a vibrant cultural center and boasts numerous events, festivals, historical tourist attractions, and fine old hotels.

Learn more about the best places to visit in this picturesque old city with our list of the top things to do in Würzburg, Germany.

See also: Where to Stay in Würzburg

1. Take a Tour of the Würzburg Residenz

2. visit the martin von wagner museum, 3. wander the würzburg court gardens (hofgarten), 4. take the climb to marienberg fortress, 5. explore würzburg cathedral & museum, 6. spend time in market square (marktplatz), 7. new munster collegiate church, 8. würzburg's pretty church: st. mary's chapel, 9. the old main bridge, 10. see the historic alter kranen (old cranes), 11. the little chapel: kappele würzburg, 12. veitshöchheim palace, 13. röntgen memorial site, 14. explore würzburg's diverse art galleries, 15. botanical gardens: botanischer garten der universität würzburg, where to stay in würzburg for sightseeing, map of attractions & things to do in würzburg.

Located in the spacious Residenzplatz in Würzburg is the Residenz , the splendid palace of the Prince-Bishops and one of the finest secular Baroque buildings in Germany. It was built between 1720-44, and the most notable features of this important UNESCO World Heritage Site are its spectacular monumental staircase hall with its huge fresco by Tiepolo.

Although heavily damaged in WWII, much of the building has now been restored to its former glory, a process that took over 42 years to complete. All told, some 40 rooms are open to visitors to tour. These include the exquisite White Hall with its Rococo stucco work, the sumptuously decorated Imperial Hall, and the Hall of Mirrors. You'll also have a chance to view the beautiful Court Church.

Also of interest is a memorial room with exhibits relating to the palace's destruction during the bombing of 1945 and its reconstruction. This includes a fascinating exhibit dedicated to the U.S. Army's "Monuments Men" who helped ensure the preservation of its art treasures as the war ended. Admission includes a guided tour of the main rooms, and guidebooks and other useful resources can be picked up at the on-site shop.

Another must-see here is the Martin von Wagner Museum , located in the South Wing of the Residenz. Highlights include a superb collection of antiquities, a fine picture gallery, and a print cabinet.

Address: Residenzplatz 2, 97070 Würzburg

Founded in 1832, the Martin von Wagner Museum, located in the south wing of the Würzburg Residenz, is home to the University of Würzburg's impressive art collection. It's one of the biggest university art galleries in Europe, and highlights of a visit include the chance to view a large number of rare antiquities, an impressive collection of graphic art, as well as numerous important paintings.

Of its antiquities, notable exhibits include items dating back some 2,400 years from ancient Greece, Egypt, and Imperial Rome, including one of Germany's largest collections of ancient vases. Represented in the art gallery section are paintings and sculptures from the 15th to 20th century by leading European artists, while the graphic arts collection features some 25,000 prints and sketches.

As this excellent museum charges no admission, it's one of the top free things to do in Würzburg. Group guided tours are available.

Address: Residenzplatz 2A, 97070 Würzburg

The Hofgarten, or Court Garden, is located in the grounds of the Würzburg Residenz and is a spectacular French-style garden. Laid out between 1703 and 1774, it's widely considered the best-preserved Rococo garden in Germany.

Highlights of a visit include seeing its centerpiece, a large artificial lake with fountains and an elaborate sculpture crowned by Pegasus.

The garden also boasts many other Baroque sculptures, including ornamental vases and allegorical figures. Other interesting features include the large Orangery with its kitchen garden, and many fine examples of Baroque ironwork, particularly in the elaborate garden gates.

Of particular interest is the cultivation of varieties of topiary fruit trees common to the garden in the 18th century. It's an especially pleasant place to visit in spring, especially in May, when the 70,000 flowers and plants grown in the palace's own greenhouses are planted around the property. The gardens are open year-round, and admission to the gardens is free.

High above the banks of the River Main in Würzburg rises the Marienberg Fortress (Festung Marienberg). Crowned by the massive fort that served as the seat of the Prince-Bishops from the mid-13th century until the construction of the Residenz , the hill was once the location of a Bronze Age hill fort.

Highlights of a visit include seeing the spectacular Bibra Apartment with its collections of fine furniture, tapestries, and artwork, along with the Princes' Hall with its large tapestry. Saint Mary's Church (Marienkirche), which dates back to the early 11th century and was built on the site of an even older church from the 8th century, is also worth seeing, as is the treasury and vestment chamber.

Another fun thing to do here is to explore the massive Maschikuli Tower and Casemate, a four-story tower added in 1729 that was used to house heavy cannons and riflemen. Also of interest is the Baroque Armory dating from 1712. It's now home to the Museum of Franconia (Museum für Franken) with its superb collections of Franconian paintings and sculptures and exhibits relating to both the history of the castle and the town.

Afterward, be sure to visit the large Princes' Garden dating from the early 18th century. You'll be rewarded with spectacular views over the old city and the River Main. An on-site shop sells a variety of souvenirs and guidebooks, and a variety of tour options covering the main museums and sections of the castle are available.

Address: Festung Marienberg, Nr. 240, 97082 Würzburg

A short stroll to the west of the Residenz is Würzburg Cathedral (Würzburger Dom). This lovely 11th-century edifice, dedicated to St. Kilian, is notable for its beautifully restored interior. Highlights include a number of fine bishops' tombs, including those of Rudolf von Scherenberg and Lorenz von Bibra, and the Schönborn Chapel by Balthasar Neumann dating from 1721-36.

Dedicated to St. Kilian, Würzburg Cathedral is Germany's fourth largest Romanesque church and is home to numerous works of art, including the baptismal font from 1279, a spectacular modern seven-armed candelabra, and a crypt with stained glass. The cathedral is also where you'll find one of the country's oldest bells, the Lobdeburg Bell. Cast in 1257, it's rung at 3pm every Friday in memory of Jesus Christ's death on the cross.

A must-visit here is the Museum at the Cathedral (Museum am Dom). Highlights include fascinating displays of some 770 or so artifacts spanning the cathedral's 1,000 years of history. The special focus of the collection lies in the works of German artists such as Werner Tübke and Wolfgang Mattheuer.

Other important artifacts can be viewed at the Würzburg Cathedral Treasury (Würzburger Domschatz), with its impressive collection of religious objects, robes and textiles, paintings, and elaborate gold pieces. A variety of guided tour options of the cathedral and its museums are available.

Address: Domstraße 40, 97070 Würzburg

As with so many historic old towns and cities in Germany , much of the cultural and social fabric of Würzburg continues to center around the community's central Market Square (Marktplatz). Würzburg town square is certainly a great place to begin exploring the town and is within easy reach of many of the city's best attractions.

It's here you'll find the attractive Maria Chapel , an extremely photo-worthy church that dominates the square's northeast corner.

Other highlights include the Old Town Hall (Rathaus), occupying its southwest corner. In between, you'll find numerous stalls on market days selling everything from local produce to crafts, as well as numerous great cafés and eateries selling sweet and savory treats.

A great photo to capture your experience can be taken in front of the attractive Market Plaza Water Fountain. Frame your shot with the Maria Chapel in the background.

Another iconic church building in Würzburg is the New Munster (Neumünster) Collegiate Church (Kollegiatstift Neumünster). This splendid 11th-century Romanesque structure is best known for its remarkably preserved east end and the Baroque west end, built in 1719.

Under the dome are a figure of the Virgin and a crucifix, both by Riemenschneider, and in the west crypt is the sarcophagus of the Irish monk St. Kilian. The apostle of the Franks, St. Kilian was murdered here in 689 CE along with his companions.

In the former cloister, the Lusamgärtlein is a memorial stone commemorating Walther von der Vogelweide, Germany's greatest medieval poet, who died in Würzburg in 1230.

Address: Domerpfarrgasse 10, 97070 Würzburg

Located in Würzburg's Marktplatz, St. Mary's Chapel, also known as the Maria Chapel or Marienkapelle, was built between 1377-1479 and remains the finest Late Gothic building in the city. This picturesque old building is notable for its magnificent doorways and its richly painted altar panels with images of the Madonna from the early 1500s.

It's also home to the Tomb of Balthasar Neumann and other notable aristocrats and knights, as well as a statue of Konrad von Schaumberg, who died in 1499. Adjoining St. Mary's Chapel is the famous Haus zum Falken (House of the Falcon), which boasts the city's finest Rococo facade.

Address: Marienplatz 7, 97070 Würzburg

Würzburg's Old Main Bridge, the Alte Mainbrücke, is the city's oldest and most magnificent stone structure. Lined with numerous Baroque statues of saints, it leads from the Old Town to the districts on the left bank of the River Main. From this spectacular pedestrians-only bridge, visitors can see the Alter Krahnen , the original Old Cranes installed here in 1773 to help unload ships.

Taking a stroll along the bridge is an especially fun thing to do at night when the statues are lit up, as are many of the most important landmarks on the city's left bank. Here, below the Marienberg Fortress, you'll see the 11th-century parish church of St. Burkard and the Burkarder Tor . This wonderful old city gate was built in 1680 and marks the entrance to a pedestrian- and bike-only tunnel connecting two old neighborhoods.

Address: Alte Mainbrücke, 97070 Würzburg

You'll find the historic Alter Kranen located very close to Würzburg's Old Main Bridge (Alte Mainbrücke). Built in 1773, these original Old Cranes were used for hundreds of years to load and unload cargoes from countless vessels that sailed the River Main.

Although it was last used in 1846, it's been remarkably well preserved and is well worth a visit. These impressive old machines also make for an excellent selfie.

Address: Alter Kranen, Mainkai, 97070 Würzburg

A little farther upstream from Fortress Marienberg is Kappele Würzburg (Wallfahrtskirche Mariä Heimsuchung). Also known as the "Little Chapel" and the "Käppele Sanctuary," this picturesque pilgrimage chapel was built by Balthasar Neumann in a Russian Orthodox style between 1747-50. It's set amid a lovely wooded area high above the River Main.

Notable features of this attractive building are its many frescoes by Matthias Günther, as well as its beautiful views over the Main and the city. These incredible vistas are particularly pleasant in the evening.

From the banks of the Main, you can follow a steep and shady stepped lane with 14 Stations of the Cross. It's a bit of a hike, but you'll pass a number of tiny chapels and groups of statues (some 77 of the latter, all told), leading up to the chapel, which provide the perfect excuse for a stop. The church remains an important pilgrimage site to this day.

Address: Spittelbergweg 21, 97082 Würzburg

If you're interested in learning about the kinds of things the Bishop-Prince's got up to when not staying at their Würzburg Residenz, take the short journey a few miles north to the town of Veitshöchheim . Here, you'll find Veitshöchheim Palace (Schloss Veitshöchheim), their sumptuous summer palace.

Constructed in 1682 with later 18th-century additions, it's a delightful place to explore, inside and out. Interior highlights can be viewed as part of a guided tour and include exquisite furnishings and décor in a number of rooms renovated in the early 19th century, including extremely rare period wallpaper, which has survived intact.

Equally pleasing is the palace's exquisite Rococo Court Garden. Highlights include a number of ponds, small lakes, and fountains that were added in the mid-1700s, as well as more than 200 sculptures made from sandstone and representing everything from mythical characters to animals and ancient gods.

A small museum on the main floor of the palace features displays and exhibits related to the garden and its historical significance. English-language guided tours and audio guides are available.

Address: Echterstrasse 10, 97209 Veitshöchheim

In addition to its many larger attractions, Würzburg boasts a number of interesting smaller museums worth checking out, many of them associated with the city's university. One of the most important is the Röntgen Memorial Site , a museum commemorating the achievements of the discoverer of the X-ray, Wilhelm Conrad Röntgen.

In addition to its impressive collection of the physicist's instruments and documents are useful displays and explanations of the work that led to his Nobel prize win. Displays and exhibits are featured in both English and German. Other highlights are a number of laboratories containing original machines used by Röntgen and those that followed in his footsteps.

Another interesting small museum is the Siebold Museum , dedicated to Philipp Franz von Siebold, a local doctor and researcher who became famous for his studies of Japanese culture. His unique collection of related artifacts, many of which are on display here. Guided tours are available.

Address: Röntgenring 8, 97070 Würzburg

Art lovers should also be sure to include the city's many other unique art galleries on their travel itineraries. A must-visit is Museum im Kulturspeicher Würzburg . Founded in 2002 in a former warehouse overlooking the river, this popular art museum features a variety of different styles, including regional artworks and an important collection of modern concrete art from across Europe.

Notable among its collection of works from German artists are a series of 19th-century landscapes and portraits, impressionist art, as well as important items from leading Bauhaus movement members. Other highlights include a vast graphic art collection of over 30,000 works and six galleries dedicated to concrete art.

While in the mood for art, be sure to check into the VKU-Galerie Spitäle , a nicely renovated 18th-century chapel that hosts displays of contemporary art, and the fascinating Kunstschiff Arte Noah , a former cargo ship turned into an art gallery.

Address: Oskar-Laredo-Platz 1, 97080 Würzburg

One of the top free things to do in Würzburg is to pay a visit to the city's large botanical gardens (Botanischer Garten der Universität Würzburg). Run by the University of Würzburg, the gardens can trace their roots back to the late 17th century, when it was established as a medical garden.

These days, guests can see examples of some 10,000 species of plants, including many rare regional varieties. Of special interest are collections from Japan attributed to the acclaimed German naturalist Philipp Franz von Siebold. Other highlights include a number of interesting tropical and Mediterranean greenhouses, an alpine house, medicinal plants, and a large herbarium with more than 100,000 specimens.

Also worth visiting is the Mineralogical Museum (Mineralogisches Museum Würzburg). This interesting museum is popular for its large collections of ancient stones and minerals.

Address: Julius-von-Sachs-Platz 4, 97082 Würzburg

We recommend these great hotels in Würzburg located near the city's top attractions:

Luxury Hotels :

• Perched on a hilltop overlooking the Main river, Schlosshotel Steinburg is an elegant luxury hotel in a bucolic setting boasting some of the best views in Würzburg. Built in the late 19th century, it's an interesting mix of modern and medieval-themed décor, with comfortable rooms, an indoor pool, and a steam room.
• Another great option in the luxury category is Hotel Würzburger Hof , an attractive historic hotel with spacious rooms and suites located close to top attractions such as the Marienberg Fortress and the Residenz (it's also an easy walk from the city's main train station).
• Also worth considering is the highly rated Best Western Premier Hotel Rebstock . Set in a building dating all the way back to the early 1400s, it's just steps away from the Residenz and offers a number of larger suites with separate living areas.

Mid-Range Hotels :

• A top choice in the mid-range price category, Hotel Gruener Baum boasts a fantastic location in the Old Town near the Marienberg Fortress. In addition to its wonderful staff, guests benefit from a great traditional breakfast and secure garage parking.
• The Mercure Hotel Wuerzburg am Mainufer offers affordable rates, contemporary styling, and spacious bathrooms, while the cozy Hotel Alter Kranen , with its mix of rooms and suites, is certainly worth considering.

Budget Hotels :

• The sleek, modern-looking Ibis Wuerzburg City is a great choice for those seeking a reputable budget hotel, with comfortable beds and multilingual staff.
• Other affordable options in the budget category can be found in the nearby town of Veitshöchheim, just a few minutes north of Würzburg. These include Etna Hotel & Ristorante , located in the midst of the town and offering friendly staff and clean rooms, and Hotel Weisses Lamm , popular for its large, clean rooms and handy parking.

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Easy Train Trips : Thanks to its great location smack-bang in the middle of a rail network that connects Stuttgart, Frankfurt, and Nuremberg, Würzburg is a great base from which to explore these historic cities. The attractions of the old Imperial city of Frankfurt, just an hour's train ride to the west are a must-visit for those who enjoy exploring on foot, especially if you start in the Römerberg, one of the most picturesque and largest public squares.

An hour to the east is Nuremberg , famous for its remarkable medieval castle and its well-preserved old town walls.

Although a longer rail journey (it's closer to two hours away), Stuttgart is well worth the effort for its magnificent museums - car lovers won't want to miss the Mercedes-Benz Museum - and art galleries, the most important of which is the State Gallery (Staatsgalerie Stuttgart).

Southern Germany : Southern Germany offers plenty of things to see and do for tourists to this culturally rich country. Munich , the capital of the state of Bavaria and the biggest city in the south, is home to many important historic attractions, from magnificent palaces (Residenz) to old town squares (Marienplatz) and its splendid cathedral, the Frauenkirche.

Though much smaller, Augsburg is no less important in terms of its historic and culturally significant architecture, which includes its splendid 11th-century cathedral and the Fuggerei, an area of old townhomes built in the 1500s that to this day is operated as a social housing scheme.

Smaller still are the towns of Lindau and Konstanz, two of the many lovely towns and villages that line the shores of beautiful Lake Constance , an area of outstanding natural beauty, which attracts countless hikers and cyclists for its many great trails, some of which will take you completely around the lake's 270 kilometers of shoreline.

Germany Vacation Ideas : Those looking for a fun urban experience should head to the country's capital of Berlin . Here, you'll be rewarded with a chance to explore some of the most important museums in Europe, many of them located on the culturally significant Museum Island (Museumsinsel), a UNESCO World Heritage Site that should be top of your Berlin itinerary.

For a complete change of pace, visit the famous Black Forest region , home to the delightful spa town of Baden-Baden and the spectacular Black Forest Ridgeway, one of the country's most picturesque tourist routes.

More on Germany

Germany Travel Guide

Würzburg Germany: 1-day Itinerary and Map

Würzburg is a city in Germany located in the northern state of Bavaria , and one of the destinations of the Romantic Road .

Wine in all its varieties dominates the city of Würzburg , there are numerous wine festivals throughout the year, and the city has interesting attractions.

How to spend 1 day in Würzburg Germany

In this 1-day itinerary in Würzburg , discover the main attractions of the city.

Day 1 in Würzburg

Start the day by visiting the Alte Mainbrücke , Würzburg’s main ancient bridge , lined with Baroque statues of saints.

Head into the old city center and visit the Marienkapelle and the Würzburger Cathedral .

Near the cathedral is the splendid Baroque-style palace, Residenz , Würzburg’s must-see attraction . Next to the Residenz is the spectacular French garden, Hofgarten .

Festung Marienberg is a fortress that currently houses a museum and a park. It offers beautiful views of the city.

The guided wine tasting tour at Juliusspital is well worth taking, and if you are a wine lover, visit the Franconian Wine Country Tourism as well.

Things to see

• Alte Mainbrücke
• Marienkapelle
• Wurzburger Cathedral
• Festung Marienberg

Day 1 Itinerary Map

Sights in Würzburg

1. residenz.

The Residenz is a palace with a Baroque style built between 1719 – 1744. It is a symbol of the city.

Residenzplatz 2, 97070

2. Hofgarten

The Hofgarten is located next to the Residenz . The garden has many Baroque sculptures, including ornamental vases.

3. Festung Marienberg

The original castle on Marienberg , a hill from the end of the Bronze Age, was probably a fort built in the 8th century by the Dukes of Franconia-Thuringia.

After the invasion of the castle in 1961 by the Swedish, a circle of bastions was built to protect Marienberg .

In 1945 the fortress was almost completely burned and its reconstruction was completed in 1990.

It currently functions as a museum and park.

Festung Marienberg, 97082

4. Würzburg Cathedral

The Würzburg Cathedral is the fourth largest Romanesque church in Germany . It is notable for its beautifully restored interior.

Domstraße 43, 97070

5. Marienkapelle

The Marienkapelle was built between 1377 – 1479. It is located on the Marktplatz .

Marktpl. 7, 97070

6. Alte Mainbrücke

The Alte Mainbrücke is the main old bridge in the city. It is a magnificent structure lined with baroque statues of saints.

Alte Mainbrücke, 97070

7. Kaiserstrasse & Schönbornstrasse

Major fashion networks are found on the Kaiserstrasse and Schönbornstrasse streets. In the vicinity of the Marktplatz square, there are several boutiques and cafés.

Kaiserstrasse / Schönbornstrasse

Where to stay in Würzburg

1. schlosshotel steinburg.

Schlosshotel Steinburg is an elegant hotel located 2.4 km (1.5 miles) from the city center on a hill with vineyards above the Main River .

The rooms are cozy and feature modern amenities. All rooms are equipped with a TV, work desk, and minibar.

The hotel has an indoor swimming pool and a sauna.

Reußenweg 2, 97080 Würzburg, Germany

2. Zur Stadt Mainz

Located in the center of Würzburg within walking distance of the Residenz building, Zur Stadt Mainz offers great value for money.

Rooms are modern and feature a flat-screen TV, work desk, electric kettle, and coffee maker.

The hotel has a restaurant that serves regional, seasonal, and fresh dishes.

Semmelstraße 39, 97070 Würzburg, Germany

3. Hotel Würzburger Hof

Located in the center of Würzburg , the Hotel Würzburger Hof offers comfort and elegance.

All rooms have a flat-screen TV, work desk, coffee maker, and minibar.

Barbarossapl. 2, 97070 Würzburg, Germany

4. GHOTEL hotel & living Würzburg

The GHOTEL hotel & living Würzburg is located in a modern building close to the central station and the historic city center.

The rooms have a flat-screen TV and a work desk.

The hotel has a gym and a sauna.

Schweinfurter Str. 3, 97080 Würzburg, Germany

5. Best Western Premier Hotel Rebstock

The Best Western Premier Hotel Rebstock is located in a beautiful building with a rococo facade just a short distance from the banks of the Main and the Alte Mainbrücke .

Rooms are elegant and feature a flat-screen TV, coffee maker, and minibar.

The hotel has an award-winning restaurant and offers free use of a nearby gym and sauna.

Neubaustraße 7, 97070 Würzburg, Germany

6. Mercure Hotel Würzburg am Mainufer

Located just a short distance from the Alte Mainbrücke , the Mercure Hotel Würzburg am Mainufer offers excellent value for money.

Rooms have flat-screen TV and offer tea and coffee facilities.

Dreikronenstraße 27, 97082 Würzburg, Germany

7. Hotel am Congress Centrum

The Hotel am Congress Centrum is located in a charming building in the historic center of Würzburg .

Rooms are equipped with a flat-screen TV, work desk, and minibar.

Pleichertorstraße 26, 97070 Würzburg, Germany

Shopping in Würzburg

1. galeria kaufhof würzburg.

Galeria Kaufhof is a German department store chain with many stores in Germany .

The company features brands like Esprit, S. Oliver, Tom Taylor, Gerry Weber, Tommy Hilfiger, Bugatti, Olymp.

Schönbornstraße 3, 97070

Plan your Trip

Würzburg  has easy train access from various cities in  Germany . Famous cities nearby:  Frankfurt , Nuremberg .

Frankfurt – 119 km (73.9 miles)

Nuremberg – 109 km (67.8 miles)

Munich – 277 km (172 miles)

Stuttgart – 148 km (91.9 miles)

Hannover – 365 km (227 miles)

Book a Train Trip

Würzburg Germany Map

Book your trip, book your accommodation.

Book your hotel with Booking.com as they consistently provide the cheapest and lowest rates.

Book Your Flight

Find cheap flights to Germany by using  Momondo . Momondo is a flight search engine that searches a lot of different airlines, including many budget carriers.

Book a Train Ticket

Check the train routes and schedules with Omio . Omio is an authorized Deutsche Bahn ticket seller, which compares and combines transport options for complete flexibility.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance

Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, and cancellations. It’s a protection in case anything goes wrong. You can book your travel insurance with Travelexinsurance.com .

10 Suggested Itineraries for Germany + Top Destinations

Outlets & Department Stores in Germany: Shopping Guide

40 Popular Train Routes in Germany

German States Map

German States and Regions

• 1.1 History
• 1.2 Tourist information
• 2.1 By plane
• 2.2 By train
• 2.5 By ship
• 3.1 Orientation
• 3.2 On foot
• 3.3.1 Fares
• 3.5 By taxi
• 4.1 Notable landmarks
• 4.2 Churches
• 5.1 Wine tours & tastings
• 5.2 Wine fairs
• 5.3 Other festivals
• 5.4 Outdoors
• 8.2 Mid-range
• 8.3 Splurge
• 10.1 Budget
• 10.2 Mid-range
• 10.3 Splurge
• 12 Stay safe

Würzburg or Wuerzburg (and sometimes misspelled as Wurzburg ) is in Franconia , in northern Bavaria , Germany . It is the largest city in the Lower Franconia region, famous throughout Germany for its wine and as the northern end of the Romantic Road .

A city rich in history that revolves around the Franconian locality, today Würzburg is a beautiful, historic, and lively city that is often overlooked by foreign visitors. It should also not be overlooked however, that a third of its roughly 130,000 inhabitants (2018) are students of 3 colleges based here. As such, travellers can also find an extensive assortment of cheap non-German food and some partying scenes, amidst the local culture that the city preserves.

Founded in the 10th century, Würzburg served as the home of powerful prince-bishops for many centuries. It is renowned for the Residence, regarded as one of the finest palaces in Europe and a high point of Baroque art ( UNESCO cultural world heritage). Würzburg is also home to one of the oldest churches in Germany, built in the 8th century on top of a former pagan shrine. One of its most famous structures, Festung Marienberg, is a fortress which now surrounds the church.

Würzburg was the centre of the kingdom known as Franconia, also the namesake region for the northern half of what is now the state of Bavaria. In the 19th century, Napoleon merged Franconia with its southern neighbour Bavaria, by which the city is ruled to this day.

Würzburg experienced heavy demolition during a 20-minute Allied bombing raid in 1945 which destroyed some 80% of its city buildings. Much of the city has since been rebuilt, though not as painstakingly true to its original architecture as some other historic German communities. Anyone eager to visit this town to study its historic architectural structures should be prepared to see its restored buildings placed next to several post-war modernistic houses. Until 2006, Würzburg was home to a large US military installment after World War II. As a result, many of the locals are still familiar with American customs.

Today, Würzburg is still a beautiful old town, which although still not very famous outside Germany, but offers a charming culture and exterior that entices visitors to explore the region, either as part of the Main River cruise or the Romantic Road excursion.

Tourist information

• 49.79488 9.9303 1 Würzburg Tourist Information Office , Marktplatz 9 , ☏ +49 931 37 23 98 . Jan-Mar: M-F 10:00-17:00, Sa 10:00–14:00. Apr Nov Dec: M-F 10:00–18:00, Sa 10:00–14:00. May–Oct: M-F 10:00-18:00, Sa 10:00–15:00, Su & holidays 10:00-14:00 . Located at the Falkenhaus next to the Maria Chapel. Also sells tickets for the Romantic Road excursion, a 3-day travel pass , and a wine pass . ( updated Sep 2019 )

For commercial service, Frankfurt ( FRA  IATA ) and Nuremberg ( NUE  IATA ) are the closest airports. Connection to the Frankfurt airport is faster and much more convenient thanks to the presence of a dedicated long-distance station, from where travellers can ride the Intercity Express (ICE) for 90 minutes to the city's main train station, which comes at least every hour.

If you are flying to Nuremberg, you must transfer to the main train station. From here, trains range from the expensive express train (ICE) (60 minutes) to the cheap regional service (R or RE) (minimum 2 hours). If speed and time is not of highest concern, buy a Bayern ticket which covers all local transportation and regional rail between the cities.

Munich Airport ( MUC  IATA ) Lufthansa's second hub is geographically close and downtown Munich is indeed only two hours from Würzburg. However, you'll have to schlep 45 minutes by S-Bahn to downtown Munich before you can get on an ICE, making the connection somewhat tedious.

Internationally, there's also an Austrian Nightjet sleeper train two nights a week, north via Frankfurt airport and Cologne to Brussels and south to Vienna, Munich and Innsbruck. Daytime ICE trains also run to Vienna every 3 hours.

Regional trains connect Würzburg to other cities within the Franconia area, with up to hourly connections to Schweinfurt , Bamberg , Aschaffenburg , and Nuremberg , the same train can sometimes also take you to Frankfurt in the neighboring state of Hessen . For regional trains throughout the state of Bavaria , you can get the Bayern Ticket that costs €26 for one person and €8 for every additional member of your group up to four and is valid for the whole day (starting at 09:00 unless it is a Saturday, Sunday or public holiday). The Bayern ticket is also accepted on all local public transportation. Regio-Tickets for regional trains to Frankfurt as well as Leipzig and the state of Thüringen (€32, €29, and €23 respectively, plus €8 per additional person up to 4 people) are also available. Travel to Würzburg is also covered under the Baden-Württemberg ticket for travel to or from the state of Baden-Württemberg (cost: €24 per person plus €6 per additional passenger up to 4 people). A direct train ride to Stuttgart takes around 2½ hours.

All public and private buses are served at the Busbahnhof on the left side of the main train station. While direct connections to major German towns are possible, getting outside of Germany usually requires a transit at the larger cities.

From April to October, a shuttle service runs between Würzburg and along the Romantic Road to Füssen , with connections to Frankfurt and Munich , respectively.

Würzburg has an excellent connection to the German "Autobahn" (highway)-system. A3 (highway 3) from Cologne via Frankfurt and Nuremberg to Austria passes the city as well as A7 (highway 7) from Hannover via Göttingen to Ulm. In addition there is A81 to Stuttgart .

Cruises along the Main River often feature a stop at Würzburg, docking adjacent to the city centre. Ships dock during the morning so that the tourists can explore the city by day and be back in the boat by night.

Orientation

Würzburg is a municipal city with multiple districts; they are however easily distinguishable because of its separation.

The area of most interest for tourists and most commercial activity would be the city center or Innenstadt , enclosed by the Ringpark (a park circling the downtown area) up to the Main River. Sanderau is immediately south of downtown and a couple hundred meters east of the park is Frauenland . West of the river is Zellerau , where the trams also pass by. Northeast of the train station passing the bridge over the track is Grombühl , also served by a tram line. These are the de-facto central areas of Würzburg where most of the population lives and activities occur.

Most of the commercial and tourist spots in Würzburg are contained within the Ringpark. The retail area is found primarily alongside the tram lines and on the pedestrian-only Spiegelstraße and Eichhornstraße, just straight after the Marian chapel at the city square.

A non-stop walk from the main train station to the south end of Ringpark at the Sandering tram station should take only 30 minutes. With the exception of a steep climb to the Marienberg Fortress and the Käppele, you can expect to walk on flat ground on the inner side of the Ringpark.

Public transportation

Würzburg is well served by five tram lines (German: Straßenbahn or locally: Straba ) and a handful of bus routes (some of which also run all night) will take you to the suburbs. Public transportation maps and timetables for the immediate city area can be found from the WVV website (in German only) . In a general orientation however, all five tram lines are interconnected at a corridor spanning within the city centre between the main train station (Hauptbahnhof) at the north end and Sanderring at the south end, with most bus lines terminating or stopping at either end.

For visitors to the Marienberg fortress, a bus service (Route 9) from the Mainfranken Theater and the Würzburg Residenz runs only from Easter to mid-October. Otherwise, from the city centre cross the old bridge and walk the way up for about 30 minutes.

• A short ride within 4 tram or bus stops will cost €1.40 for adults and 70 cents for kids ages 6 to 14.
• A one-way ticket costs €2.50 for adults and €1.20 for kids ages 6 to 14.
• A 6-time ticket costs €6.80 and can be used in any way such as 6 rides for one person or one ride for six people.
• A daily ticket costs €4.30 for one person and €8.70 for two adults plus up to two kids ages 6 to 14 and is valid up to 03:00 the following day; if the ticket is bought on a Saturday or the first of a two-day holiday, it is valid until 03:00 Monday or day after the two-day holiday.

All bus tickets can be bought at the automated machines in the tram stations or from the bus drivers, they give change too!

As an alternative, a Bayern ticket valid for the entire state as well as the Deutschlandticket can also be used.

While a car is not necessarily needed in the city centre (and forbidden on many roads within the city centre), it might be useful for venturing out elsewhere, especially to the Marienberg fortress, due to the scarcity of bus service. The areas north of Hauptbahnhof and east of the highway are exclusively served by bus for its public transport with at least 20-minute intervals; if you don't want to wait, then a car will take you there faster.

Some of the parking lots in or near downtown Wurzburg are:

• 49.79397 9.92781 2 Marktgarage , Karmelitenstraße ( right side of city hall ). 24 hours . 494 parking spaces. However they can be narrow. Public toilet available. Daily 07:00-20:00, €1.50/hour, 20:00-01:00 €0.50/2 hours, 01:00-07:00 €1, 24 hours €11 . ( updated Sep 2019 )
• 49.79891 9.91913 3 Talavera , Mainaustraße . 24 hours . Free open air parking space, but sometimes closed during town fair or events. Access to adjacent tram station or 10-15 minutes on foot to downtown. Free . ( updated Sep 2019 )

The full list of real time parking spaces can be found at the specific WVV website [dead link] .

• Taxi Würzburg , ☏ +49 931-19410 . The sole taxi operator of the city. Fare starts from €3.30 flagfall, €2.15/km up to 3 km and €1.60/km thereafter. For trips outside the immediate Würzburg, a flat fee is applicable. ( updated Sep 2019 )

Most of the old history of Würzburg revolves around the former prince-bishop of the region, who were essentially both the religious and political leaders of the area.

Notable landmarks

• 49.792745 9.939064 1 Würzburger Residence , Residenzplatz 2 , ☏ +49 931 355170 . 09:00-18:00 April-October, 10:00-16:30 November-March. Closed New Year's Day, Shrove Tuesday, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year's Eve . The Residenz is one of the finest palaces in Europe and famous for its grand staircase. It is regarded as one of the finest pieces of Baroque art in the world as such it has been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List . The building was designed by Balthasar Neuman, and the largest fresco in the world, above the grand staircase, was painted by Tiepolo. The palace has 300 rooms, spread over 3 wings. There is also a chapel ( Hofkirche ) also decorated by Tiepolo which is free to enter and well worth a visit. Its gardens are also built with fortification in mind. Guided tours in English daily at 11:00 & 15:00 and is included in the ticket. Adults €9.00, reduced €8.00. Children under 18 free. Church and Garden: free for everyone. .  
• 49.79142 9.93782 2 Würzburg Court Garden , Residenzplatz 2 , ☏ +49 931 355170 . Daily dawn to dusk or 20:00, whichever is first . A massive 9-hectare garden designed with Rococo style in mind by Johann Prokop Mayer of Bohemia surrounds three sides of the Residenz, although the West Garden was simply designed yet dubbed unfinished, due to the death of builder Adam Friedrich. Each garden has its own features: cone-trimmed yews around the south fountain; parterre, portico, and garden sculptures at the east, and what is now part of the city park complex surrounding the inner city at the west. ( updated Sep 2019 )
• 49.790157 9.918491 3 Festung Marienberg ( Marienberg Fortress and Princes' Building ), ☏ +49 931 3551750 . Tu-Su 09:00-18:00 . The former complex of the prince-bishop before the Residenz from the 11th to the 18th century, it is the highest point of the city by a hundred meters more than the surrounding land. Thus, the long hike to the top is paid off by a view of the entire town so wonderful, even locals still go here frequently. The viewpoint is adjacent to the Prince's Garden The inside court features a keep and church, whose interior is Renaissance with the first touches of Baroque. For somewhere to wind down, there are two restaurants and a free restroom. Guided tours in English are at 15:00 weekends and holidays from April to October. Grounds: free .  
• 49.79293 9.92655 4 Old Main Bridge ( Alte Mainbrücke ). 24 hours . Not unlike Prague's St. Charles Bridge, it is a pedestrian-only bridge with six statues of kings and saints of historic importance for Catholicism in Franconia on each side. Under the bridge are water locks for ship traffic control on the Main, one of German's most important rivers. Locals would stand here admiring the splendid views of the fort and the river, all while sipping their glass of wine or bottle of beer. Free . ( updated Sep 2019 )
• 49.78838 9.91775 5 Maschikuli Tower . 11:00-16:30 on Easter Sunday & Monday, May 10, Pentecost Sunday & Monday, August 15 and October 3 . The four-storey tower was built in 1724-1729 by Balthasar Neumann to guard the south flank of the Marienberg fortress. Above the three levels for heavy artillery is a platform for riflemen, equipped with normal firing slits and 21 vertical openings angled downwards: these are the "Maschikulis" from which the tower takes its name. On the valley side the tower is decorated with coats of arms of the Prince Bishop Christoph Franz von Hutten dating from 1727, the work of Jakob van der Auvera. Above them is a bust of St Nepomuk. ( updated Sep 2019 )
• 49.79488 9.9303 6 Falkenhaus , Marktpl. 9 . M-F 10:00-18:00, Sa 10:00-15:00, Su 10:00-14:00 . Other than the Maria Chapel next to it, the exterior stands out from the rest of the buildings within sight. The curved gables and bright yellow white paint are Rococo decors, a conception from Barbara Meißner in 1751, whose late husband owned the property. It now houses the Tourist Information Office and the City Library. Free . ( updated Sep 2019 )

Within the city centre are nine Catholic churches, many located less than 500 m from each other, each offering a different design of its facade and altar.

• 49.79308 9.93216 7 Würzburger Dom ( St. Killian's Cathedral ), Domstraße 40 , ☏ +49 931 38662900 . One of the largest Romanesque's churches in Germany, the Catholic church in its present form was built from 1040 to 1075 and consecrated in 1187. Objects of interest include a 700-year old bronze baptismal font, an expressionist bronze portal, a menorah at the main entrance, and The Schönborn chapel with its fresco. ( updated Sep 2019 )
• 49.79477 9.92951 8 Marienkapelle , Markplatz 7 , ☏ +49 931 38662800 . This building essentially dominates the market square, thanks to its size and its dominant red paint. The chapel, erected in 1377, is a mixture between a basilica and a hall church that was popular in the late-Gothic period and its three portals portray late Gothic to early Renaissance design, each with its own delicate carving at its tympanum, depicting of some of the key events of Christianity. At the top of the tower is a gold-covered statue of Mary. ( updated Sep 2019 )
• 49.78432 9.92181 9 Käppele ( Little Chapel ), Spittelbergweg 21 ( take bus 35 to Käppele bus stop, walk down the second alley on the left at the dead end; for access from the Stations of the Cross, turn left to the pathway at Nikolausstraße, make another left at the end, and turn right in front of the Germania House ), ☏ +49 931 79407760 . Daily 08:00-17:00 . A church at the hillside near the fortress. From its humble beginnings as the site of an erected pieta in 1640, at which at least four miracles were reported, a chapel was then built around it. Balthasar Neumann, the same architect that designed the Residence, built a church that incorporated the old chapel in 1750, though the interiors were actually not finished until 71 years later. Because of its extensive collection of life-size statues and classic interior, being the only church intact during the 1945 bombing, it is an extremely popular place for weddings, in addition to pilgrimage during the Marian holidays and Pentecost. Behind the church are the Stations of the Cross staggered on 5 floors, with each of the station hosting meticulously carved statues at least two meters wide. ( updated Sep 2019 )
• 49.79418 9.9313 10 Neumünster ( Neumünster St. Johannes Evangelist und St. Johannes der Täufer ), +49 931 38662900 . Daily 08:00-18:30 . Mightily standing from the 11th century and now clipped between shops, its narrow pink Romanesque facade gives way to Baroque beauty inside. The white wall is a nice contrast to gold finishes and colorful altar and murals. Something also worth looking is a Madonna from the workshop of Tilman Riemenschneider and the St. Kilian's Crypt. ( updated Sep 2019 )

• Mainfranken Theater , Theaterstraße 21 , ☏ +49 931 39080 . An 800-seat local theater showcasing opera, plays, dances, and orchestras. Many of the plays are recited in their original language with German subtitles displayed above the stage. Select shows feature free seating for students. From €20 . ( updated Aug 2020 )

Wine tours & tastings

No trip to wine country is complete without touring the cellar and sampling the finest fruit of the vine. Although all tours are by default conducted in German, one can ask questions in English and they will be glad to help.

• 49.79867 9.93248 1 Juliusspital , Klinikstraße 1 , ☏ +49 931 393-1400 , [email protected] . The largest Franconian wine producer is part of the Juliusspital Foundation, founded in 1576 by Bishop Julius Echter. It is no wonder that their cellar is located at the city centre, at the grounds of the hospital of the same name. Tours and choice of 3 wine tastings Saturdays at 14:00 from March to December. Its diverse portfolio of wines can also be seen at its own Vinothek . Tours €14 . ( updated Sep 2019 )

Well-known as one of the wine regions of Germany, Würzburg hosts a number of wine fairs in the summer:

• Würzburger Weindorf ("Wine Village"), on Market Square, the biggest of all, end of May.
• Hofgarten Weinfest , in the Court Gardens of the Residence Palace, in July.
• Weinfest am Stein , in a winery in the vineyards. With live music, crowded, in July.
• Weinparade , on Market Square, end of August.

Nearly every winegrowing village in Lower Franconia has its own wine fair, so you can visit at least one if you visit Würzburg in the summer or autumn.

Other festivals

• Faschingszug , as with the rest of Germany, the Sunday before Lent is always filled with parades of floats and festivities.
• Africa Festival , Europe's largest African music and culture festival. Late May to early June.
• Umsonst und draußen , the city's annual outdoor music festival. Mid-June at the Talavera Fairgrounds.
• Kiliani is the city's largest fun fair taking place for two weeks in July in honor of the city's patron saint, Kilian. Taking place at Talavera square with amusement parks, snack booths, a tent offering wholesome fares and filled with locals dressed up in traditional costumes.
• Mozart Festival , a classical music festival with multiple performances (both Mozart and non-Mozart pieces) throughout the period. Simply choose which performances you'd like to come to, as tickets are sold separately. Takes place at the Residenz or around Dom. Month-long from May to June.
• STRAMU , said to be Europe's largest street festival, where every corner within the pedestrian zone is filled with music and theater performances, stand up comedy, dances, and acrobats. 4 days in late August or early September.
• Stadtfest , celebrated on Friday and Saturday on the first week of school, is filled with music performances from noon to night on stages scattered throughout the city center. Many local establishments also erect stalls on the sidewalk to showcase their products.
• Both banks of the Main River, especially on the east side, contain an almost uninterrupted walking and jogging track. For those who prefer to just chill, benches are abundant, or simply sit at the quay like the locals do.
• 49.80021 9.90239 2 Skatepark Würzburg , Mainaustraße 46 . M-Sa 08:00-20:00, Su 08:00-13:00 & 15:00-20:00 . A public skatepark frequented by youngsters located at the Main River bank. ( updated Sep 2020 )

Hiking on the wine hills around Würzburg is a local pastime while enjoying the majestic views of the city and the Main river valley. Unlike many other parts of the world, the paths are open to the public!

• A hike on the hill behind the main train station offers you a splendid panorama of the whole city, which also includes the landmark Marienberg fortress at the other side of the river. These are accessible from the path near the psychiatry department of Uniklinikum in the Grombühl neighborhood or a tunnel under Posthalle.
• The wine fields adjacent to the Marienberg fortress is also an alternate route up the hill, albeit in a slower pace. Hiking here offers you three sides of views: the city center opposite the river, the Kappele and adjacent large houses, and the rear side of the fortress. These are accessible from the path opposite Lidl grocery store at Leistenstraße, Burkarder Garten next to Sparkasse Bank on the riverside, or from Oberer Burgweg (on the way along access to the fortress by car or bus).
• Slightly away from the city is a much larger and taller winery area that overlooks the Heidingsfeld neighborhood and the Main River valley. These are accessible from Hans-Löffler Straße (bus number 6) or about 5 minute ride south from the University of Würzburg campus at Hubland.

Even though shops are to close all day on Sundays and at 20:00 on other days, as are the rest of Bavaria, there are two exceptions to this: Mantelnsonntag on the last Sunday of October (open from 13:00 to 18:00) and Kultur- und Einkaufsnacht on the Saturday before Advent (4 weekends before Christmas) when shops open until 23:00 and the Christmas Market until 22:00.

The general shopping area downtown lies along the tram tracks all the way from the main train station to Sanderring and the streets that immediately branch out of it. Away from the tram tracks, locals also frequent the pedestrian-only Eichhornstraße and Spiegelstraße (if you know German, you will see symbols on the sidewalks that resemble the street name). Eichhornstraße extends westward to the Marienplatz , where a traditional market and small stalls stand amidst the Marienkapelle and a few large shops. Here is also where the annual Christmas market takes place. West of the river, there is a strip of shops along Burkarderstraße and Zellerstraße immediately after the old bridge. Outside these areas, the stores generally cater to residents of the local district.

• 49.78559 10.03061 1 S.Oliver Outlet , Am Moritzberg 3, Rottendorf , ☏ +49 9302 3096495 . M-F 10:00-19:00, Sa 09:00-18:00 . The clothing brand S.Oliver has its roots in Würzburg. Here is its only outlet store. ( updated Sep 2019 )

Germany may be world renowned for its beer, but its wine is its hidden treasure. Franconian wines are white and produced from mainly Silvaner grapes, high in minerals thanks to the soil on which the vine grows, and very dry, with sugar amounts of only up to 5 grams. Another of its unique feature is being packed in a Bocksbeutel of 3/4 or 3/8 litres. Unlike many other German wine regions, a large amount of Franconian wine is drunk in the area where it is produced.

If you do not know much about wine, buy it directly from the winegrowers or from small shops which sell only wine ( Vinothek ).

• 49.79605 9.93513 2 Bürgerspital Weinhaus , Semmelstraße 2 . Tu-Sa 09:00-00:00, Su 11:00-18:00, M 09:00-18:00 . Wine collection, both red and white, from the Bürgerspital brand, with opportunities for tasting flights and even pairing with a platter of your choice. ( updated Sep 2019 )
• 49.79742 9.92992 3 Weineck Julius-Echter , Koellikerstraße 1a , ☏ +49 931 3931400 . M-F 09:30-18:30, Sa 09:00-16:00 . Flagship store of the Juliusspital brand. Generous samples and personalized suggestions. One can even drink the wine on the spot with bring-your-own snacks. ( updated Sep 2019 )
• 49.78825 9.9314 4 Vinothek Wohlsein , Sanderstraße 29 , ☏ +49 931 20561073 . Tu-Th from 15:00, F Sa from 11:00 . Collection of wine from various brands around Germany. Also offers private tastings of 5 wines and a sparkling wine with curated recommendation. Tastings from €29 . ( updated Sep 2019 )

As one enters Würzburg from the motorway, the sign above the city name says it all, Universitätstadt (university city). Almost a third of its 150,000 inhabitants are students from three colleges, whose buildings are peppered around town. In addition, thousands of foreign full time and exchange students do flock to Würzburg annually, which explains the regular overhearing of English and other foreign languages being spoken if you happen to pass by, a good selection of international food, and noticeably fewer people during exam and holiday periods of February to March and July to September. Among the factors that entice them to come include extensive cooperation with foreign universities, availability of English courses, the medium size of the city, and its location right in central Germany.

• 49.78791 9.93548 4 University of Würzburg ( Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg ), Sanderring 2 , ☏ +49 931 31-0 . Over 80% of Würzburg students (around 29,000 to be exact) study here. Founded in 1402, it's the 6th oldest university in the German language scope (Germany, Austria, Switzerland). It belongs to the U15 group of top research universities. Many foreigners going here are usually taking a master's and postgraduate degree and research, many of which are also offered in English. Exchange students from all around the world also come here to study for up to three semesters under the Erasmus exchange programme. Lecture halls are scattered throughout town depending on the faculty, but most concentrated at Hubland which used to be site of the former US Army garrison. ( updated Oct 2019 )
• 49.78758 9.93338 5 Würzburg-Schweinfurt Technical College ( Technische Hochschule Würzburg-Schweinfurt ), Münzstraße 12 , ☏ +49 931 3511-0 . Although the university serves two towns with equal division of quantity of faculties, Würzburg is where most of the administrative seats are. Foreigners who come here are mainly exchange and master students taking up business and economy courses in English. As with the University, lecture halls are scattered throughout town depending on the faculty, but they are most concentrated at around Münzstraße near Sanderring. ( updated Oct 2019 )
• 49.79462 9.94022 6 University of Music Würzburg ( Hochschule für Musik Würzburg ), Hofstallstr. 6–8 , ☏ +49 931 32187 0 . Offering specialized bachelor degrees in an array of musical instruments, composing, conducting, and even a special program as a music teacher. ( updated Oct 2019 )

To better serve the students, a semester ticket for public transportation rides across Würzburg city and adjacent counties within the VVM network are offered after a compulsory payment set by the university. In addition, a mensa (cafeteria) is readily available at multiple locations citywide with meals only half of restaurant prices!

Even though it is in Bayern, those that look forward to the brown pretzel and white sausage (Weißwurst) are unfortunately coming to the wrong place. Instead, Franconian cuisine is traditionally served. Even then it is still an umbrella term, as even different cities can have different variations. Specialities of Würzburg include fish from the Main River and sausage with wine blend.

Otherwise, those feeling peckish for something else should not be left disappointed. Thanks to its young and multicultural student population, a couple of Asian and southern European establishments have also been established.

• 49.78997 9.92985 1 Unicafe , Neubaustraße 2 ( on the corner of Neubaukirche and Sanderstraße ), ☏ +49 931 15672 . M-Sa 08:00-01:00, Su & holidays 09:00-01:00 . Cozy cafe that opens until late. Simple menus like salads, breads, and desserts at all times. More substantial meals are offered in menu of the week during lunch. Snacks €3-8. Lunch of the week €5-9 .  
• 49.7921 9.92879 2 Tigris Kebab , Augustinerstraße 3 , ☏ +49 931 3047971 . M-W 11:00-01:00, Th 11:00-14:00, F Sa 11:00-05:00, Su 12:00-22:00 . A large city centre döner shop, open until late at night for something more substantial. €2 to €6 .  
• 49.79434 9.92928 3 Bratwurststand Knüpfing , Markplatz ( look for the wooden stand with a yellow awning, near the church entrance ), ☏ +49 931 51733 . M-F 09:30-18:00, Sa 10:00-17:00 . The seemingly small food stall in the middle of Markplatz caters to a long line of customers by lunchtime that moves quickly invariably with only 1 item in mind: the Franconian roasted sausage sandwiched in bread. The quickest way to order this to simply mention eine mit for with mustard or eine ohne for without. From €2.30 . ( updated Sep 2019 )
• 49.79454 9.99697 4 Pavillon , Louis-Pasteur-Straße 5 , ☏ +49 931 2700160 . M-F 06:00-18:00, Sa 07:00-17:00, Su 10:00-14:00 . A gourmet grocery store complete with cafeteria style restaurant and dedicated Vinothek . Its menus change daily and quickly gets crowded during lunch rush, but Sunday brunch and buffet events on many other days are when the restaurant is at full capacity, for which a reservation is usually needed. €2-8, Sunday brunch & buffet from €18 . ( updated Sep 2019 )
• 49.79923 9.93415 5 Istanbul Kebap , Kaiserstraße 21 , ☏ +49 931 30489374 . Daily 10:00-21:00 . Another staple for cheap meal in the heart of the city. To order, you first need to make a selection and pay. Behind the counter you can see the bread kneaded by hand. The smiling owner serves the customer. Vegan friendly options. Kebab from €4, pizza from €9 . ( updated Oct 2019 )
• 49.79475 9.93067 6 Café Michel , Markplatz 11 , ☏ +49 931 53776 . M-Sa 08:00-18:00 . Large café on the main square to the right of the Falkenhaus. Extensive selection of desserts, ice cream, pastries and coffee, popular with the elderly and mothers. Usually full seating. Cakes from €2.00 per piece, pastries from €1.00. Surcharge for dine-in . ( updated May 2020 )
• 49.787802 9.932294 7 Wohnzimmer Bar , Tiepolostraße 21 , ☏ +49 931 13417 . A sports bar. Wednesday is the half-price day for cocktails. ( updated Aug 2023 )
• 49.78908 9.93131 8 Capri-Blue Grotto , Elefantengasse 1 , ☏ +49 931 54557 . Tu-Su 13:00-14:00, 17:00-23:00 . The oldest pizzeria in Germany dating back to the 1950s. Classic Italian thin crust with simple toppings, in addition to warm pastas and calzones. Alternatively, opt for its tapas. In the basement is a seemingly diminutive blue grotto. ( updated Sep 2019 )
• 49.78286 9.94718 9 Mykonos , Brettreichstraße 4 , ☏ +49 931 75770 . Daily 11:00-14:00, 17:00-00:00 . Greek restaurant. Extensive selection from the grill or oven, or platters if you want a bit of everything. Many vegan options. Appetizers €5-10, mains €10-15 . ( updated Sep 2019 )
• 49.79309 9.92811 10 Fontana Eiscafé , Beim Grafeneckart 8 , ☏ +49 931 3292179 . Su-Th 09:30-00:00, F Sa 09:30-01:00 . Italian and Mediterranean cuisine for a substantial meal. It is more famous however for its extensive selection of desserts and ice cream, especially its spaghettieis , which is simply ice cream extruded through ricer that gives its form of the namesake pasta dish. Ice cream €4 to €8, main course & pizzas €8-€20 . ( updated Oct 2019 )
• 49.7973 9.93402 11 Habaneros , Theaterstraße 1-3 , ☏ +49 931 30425116 . Daily 17:00-00:00 . Assorted Mexican (with a little touch of Texas and California) food. Tacos, nachos, burritos, and fajitas are served in quantities filling enough for two. Huge variety of cocktails Main course €10-18 . ( updated Oct 2019 )
• Locanda , Kranenkai 1 ( near the Main ), ☏ +49 931 46795180 , [email protected] . Su–Th 11:30 AM–midnight (kitchen until 11:00 PM), F–S 11:30 AM–2:00 AM (kitchen until midnight) . An Italian restaurant. ( updated Aug 2023 )

Great restaurants in the town centre serve excellent food in rustic settings with by no means unreasonable prices. Service is great and you can be guaranteed a great meal. These include

• 49.793337 9.927004 12 Alte Mainmühle , Mainkai 1 , ☏ +49 931 16777 . Daily 10:00-midnight . Delicious food from the Franconian area. If you just want to sip a wine and enjoy them on the Old Bridge, try their street-side kiosk. Meals from €10, wine from €3, other drinks from €2 .  
• 49.795834 9.935119 13 Burgerspital Weinstuben , Theaterstraße 19 , ☏ +49 931 352880 .  
• 49.79597 9.92637 14 Alter Krahnen , Kranenkai 1 , ☏ +49 931 99131545 , [email protected] . daily 11:00 - 00:00 . very delicious Franconian cuisine, great beer garden overlooking the fortress Marienberg and the Main ( updated Dec 2018 )
• Juliuspital .  
• Stachel .  

Located in a wine stronghold, wineries managed to trump the number of local beer breweries. Wine and beer lovers, young and old, live and party together in harmony, as can be seen every day on the Old Main Bridge and along the Main River. Most cafés that lay along the Alte Mainbrücke allow you to drink straight from the wine glass while enjoying the fresh air outside; just don't forget to return the glass to get your hefty deposit back.

• Würzburger Hofbräu , Jägerstraße 17 . The local brewery brews excellent wheat beer (Weißbier), which carries the name of a 1600s bishop of Würzburg, Julius Echter. Basically this beer is served for you in almost all the local bars, if you order a Hefe. ( updated Sep 2019 )
• Caféhaus Brückenbäck , Zellerstraße 2 , ☏ +49 931 414545 . Su-Tu 08:00-18:00, W Th 08:00-23:00, F Sa 08:00-01:00 . From fresh coffee for breakfast, to white and rose wine for dinner. Assorted tea selection and other hot drinks for non-alcoholic choices. 0.25 litres of Franconian wine from €4.50 . ( updated Jan 2020 )
• Alter Karnen Beer Garden ( Biergarten Alter Kranen ), Kranenkai ( To the left of the Alter Kranen Brauerei ), ☏ +49 931 99131545 . Daily 10:30-23:00 . Relax to a sip of beer while sitting on the benches next to the Main River and admire the view of the Old Bridge and the Marienberg Fortress. Beers from €3.80 per 0.3 litre. All drinks plus €2 glass deposit . ( updated Jun 2020 )

Würzburg also has its fair share of clubs, catering especially to its student population.

• Zauberberg , Veitshöchheimerstraße 20 . Th-Sa 22:00-05:00 . A club that opens only thrice a week, with thematic music selections (although 1990s and 2000s nights are recurring) and occasional performances by DJs from the local radio station. Entrance €5 to €7. Free on selected days . ( updated Jan 2020 )
• Odeon Lounge , Augustinerstraße 18 , ☏ +49 93155559 . W F Sa 24:00-05:00 . Dance club with chic drinks and modern interior. Cocktails from €8, shots from €2 . ( updated Jan 2020 )
• 49.80008 9.93611 1 Babelfish Hostel , Haugerring 2 ( opposite the main railway station ), ☏ +49 9313040430 , [email protected] . Rooms can range from one to ten beds. Tailored itineraries for do-it-yourself tours can be asked for at the receptionist. Breakfast and packed lunch also offered at its restaurant. From €19 per person . ( updated Oct 2019 )
• 49.78939 9.92437 2 DJH Youth Hostel Würzburg , Fred-Joseph-Platz 2 ( below the Marienberg fortress; take trams 3 or 5 to Löwenbrücke and walk five minutes north ), ☏ +49 931 4677860 , [email protected] . Member of the Hosteling International (HI). Rooms can range from one to eight beds, adding up to a total of 238 beds. Inclusive breakfast buffet, and packed lunches can be provided upon request. From €30 per person . ( updated Oct 2019 )
• Hotel Regina , Haugerring 1 , ☏ +49 931 322390 . Simple hotel opposite the train station. Rooms range from a single bed to a 4 person apartment with shared bathroom. €65 to €115 per night. Breakfast buffet €7.50 per night . ( updated Jan 2020 )
• Ibis Budget Würzburg Ost , Nürnbergerstraße 129 , ☏ +49 931 2708220 . Check-in: 14:00 , check-out: 12:00 . A small hotel just off Highway 8 at eastern part of town. Good bus connection to city. 67 rooms with double and triple beds. From €50 per night . ( updated Jan 2020 )
• 49.79663 9.93545 3 Goldenes Fass , Semmelstraße 13 , ☏ +49 931 45256810 . A small 14 room hotel with 6 single and 8 double rooms. Cozy and quaint breakfast room with complementary breakfast buffet alongside the owner's favourite creature: teddy bears, which she also lets you bring for repair. Single from €70, doubles with French Bed from €85, doubles from €105 per night .  
• 49.79136 9.93168 4 Hotel Franziskaner , Franziskanerplatz 2 , ☏ +49 931 3563-0 .  
• 49.79319 9.93054 5 Hotel Zum Winzermännle , Domstraße 32 , ☏ +49 931 54156 . Hotel in the city centre and just one minute to the Main River bank. From €70 per night .  
• 49.79855 9.92635 6 Maritim Hotel Würzburg , Pleichertorstraße 5 ( am Congress- Zentrum / Friedensbrücke ), ☏ +49 931 3053-0 , [email protected] . Check-in: 15:00, check-out: 12:00. The largest hotel in Würzburg with more than 240 rooms and a splendid view of the city center and the Main River. Dedicated turndown service at its suites. Multilingual staff. From €110 per night.  
• 49.80609 9.91336 7 Hotel Schloss Steinburg , Am Steinberg , ☏ +49 931 9702-0 . ( updated Apr 2015 )
• 49.79713 9.93703 8 City Hotel , Semmelstraße 28 + 30 , ☏ +49 931 78 00 99 0 . Single €59-79, standard double €69-99, comfort double €69-110, triple €98-139 . ( updated Dec 2016 )
• Hotel Alter Kranen , Kärrnergasse 11 , ☏ +49 931 35180 . Hotel with a wonderful view of the Main River and the Marienberg Fortress. Spacious rooms with wooden flooring and complementary breakfast. ( updated Jan 2020 )
• Hotel Würzburger Hof , Barbarossapl. 2 , ☏ +49 931 53814 . A 4-star century-old hotel close to both the city centre and the main train station. Classic interior. From €119 per night . ( updated Jan 2020 )

At some tourist attractions, the bus terminal, and near the WVV customer service at the Rathaus tram station, you can use the municipality network WueFi for up to three hours for free. Select buses & all college buildings offer the "Bayern WLAN" network with a blue sticker where you can connect for free for unlimited time. Students can also use the eduroam network at all college buildings and some establishments.

Like most of Bavaria, Würzburg is very safe. At worst, areas near the Hauptbahnhof and at Grombühl may be frequented with rowdy people, although they will usually not disturb anyone else's business. Use your common sense to avoid risky situations, though.

Würzburg is the start of Germany's famed Romantic Road and the gateway to explore Lower Franconia . From here you can travel down to Rothenburg and the Bavarian Alps .

• Veitshöchheim : Take a boat ride on the river Main to this small picturesque town that also has a Schloss with a Rococo garden. (The dock in Würzburg is beside the street Kranenkai, literally "crane dock" as there is an old crane on the boat dock.) The town is also accessible by rail.
• Schweinfurt , another large town of the Lower Franconia is 30 minutes away by the regional express train.
• A shortlist of other attractions on the Lower Franconia include castles at Lohr am Main , Mespelbrunn , the spa town of Bad Kissingen , and Miltenberg .
• Bamberg is less than an hour away and its unspoiled old city is on the UNESCO World Heritage List .
• In Wertheim (about 35 km away), you can travel the route Charming Tauber valley from Wertheim via Tauberbischofsheim and Bad Mergentheim to Rothenburg ob der Tauber .
• Aschaffenburg , the second largest city in Lower Franconia, is a 45-minute train ride away.

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Würzburg: The Complete Guide

Würzburg is a city in the northern region of Bavaria, Germany. It is located on the Main River and is the capital of the Lower Franconia district. Würzburg has a rich history and culture, with a number of historic buildings and landmarks that attract tourists from around the world.

One of the most famous landmarks in Würzburg is the Würzburg Residence, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This 18th-century palace was built for the Prince-Bishops of Würzburg and is renowned for its Baroque architecture, frescoes, and gardens.

Another notable landmark is the Marienberg Fortress, a castle that sits on a hill overlooking the city. It was built in the 13th century and has been used for various purposes over the years, including as a residence for the Prince-Bishops of Würzburg, a military barracks, and a prison.

Würzburg is also known for its wine, particularly its white wine made from the Müller-Thurgau grape. The city is home to several wineries and vineyards, and there are numerous wine festivals throughout the year.

In addition to its historic landmarks and wine, Würzburg is a vibrant city with a lively arts and culture scene. It is home to several museums, theaters, and music venues, and hosts a variety of festivals and events throughout the year, including the Würzburg Mozartfest, one of Europe’s most important classical music festivals.

Visiting Würzburg for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in Würzburg on the first visit. To help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!

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13 Best places to See in Würzburg

This complete guide to Würzburg not only tells you about the very best sights and tourist attractions for first-time visitors to the city but also provide insights into a few of our personal favorite things to do.

This is a practical guide to visiting the best places to see in Würzburg and is filled with tips and info that should answer all your questions!

Würzburg Residenz

Explore Würzburg yourself with our self-guided walking tour!

Martin von Wagner Museum

Click here to read our blog about Romantic Road in Germany - Guide and Itinerary

Würzburg Court Gardens (Hofgarten)

Würzburg Cathedral

Neumünster Würzburg

Weingut Juliusspital

Marienkapelle, Würzburg

Rathaus Würzburg

Würzburg's Old Main Bridge

Alte Mainbrücke

Marienberg Fortress

The Little Chapel: Kappele Würzburg

Botanischer Garten der Universität Würzburg

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Straddling the Main River, scenic Würzburg is renowned for its art, architecture and delicate wines. The definite highlight is the Residenz, one of Germany's finest baroque buildings, though there's plenty more to see besides. A large student population guarantees a lively scene, and plenty of hip nightlife pulsates through its cobbled streets. The city is also the northern terminus of the Romantic Road, Germany's most popular tourist route.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Würzburg Residenz

The vast Unesco-listed Residenz, built by 18th-century architect Balthasar Neumann as the home of the local prince-bishops, is one of Germany’s most…

Festung Marienberg

Enjoy panoramic city and vineyard views from this hulking fortress whose construction was initiated around 1200 by the local prince-bishops who governed…

Dom St Kilian

Würzburg's highly unusual cathedral has a Romanesque core that has been altered many times over the centuries. The elaborate stucco work of the chancel…

Grafeneckart

Adjoining the Rathaus, the 1659-built Grafeneckart houses a scale model of the WWII bombing. It starkly depicts the extent of the damage to the city…

In the Altstadt, this satisfyingly symmetrical church stands on the site where three ill-fated Irish missionaries who tried to convert Duke Gosbert to…

Museum im Kulturspeicher

In a born-again historic granary right on the Main River, you'll find this absorbing art museum with choice artworks from the 19th to the 21st centuries…

Museum am Dom

Housed in a beautiful building by the cathedral, this worthwhile museum displays collections of modern art on Christian themes. Works of international…

Röntgen Gedächtnisstätte

Wilhelm Conrad Röntgen discovered X-rays in 1895 and was the winner of the very first Nobel Prize in 1901. His preserved laboratory forms the heart of…

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Treat yourself to a self-guided wine tasting tour: For only 9.90 Euros you can enjoy three different Franconian wines à 0.1 l. Silvaner, Müller-Thurgau, Riesling, Bacchus and Scheurebe are just a few of the numerous grape varieties that are grown here in Franconia. Sample three exquisite Franconian wines in some of our most beautiful wine taverns and wine bars with our offer:

„Würzburg Wine Pass“

Public guided tours, würzburg for groups, wine and franconian wine country, christmas market, leisure activities, museums, galleries, würzburg for beer enthusiasts.

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