Discover Bamberg: A UNESCO World Heritage Site
Bamberg, a historic town in Bavaria's Upper Franconia, is nestled in the Regnitz valley near where the river joins the Main. The town's oldest district, home to the cathedral and the Michaelsberg Abbey, sits atop the river's left bank. The borough, or "Bürgerstadt," stretches between the Regnitz's two branches.
This well-preserved town is celebrated for its medieval architecture and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Bamberg is also known for its seven hills, each topped with a beautiful church, best viewed on a self-guided walking tour. Popular trails include the Bamberg River Path and the Seven Rivers Path, which winds through the countryside.
For more information on Bamberg's attractions and accommodations, see the following sections.
1. Old Town & Bamberg Town Hall
Start your tour at the pedestrian-only Upper Bridge (Obere Brücke) for views of "Little Venice" and the iconic Old Town Hall (Altes Rathaus), a structure dating back to 1386 and rebuilt in the 18th century. Admire its frescoes and the Ludwig Collection inside, which houses a remarkable array of 18th-century porcelain.
Address: Obere Brücke1, 96047 Bamberg
2. Bamberg Cathedral & Diocesan Museum
The early 13th-century Bamberg Cathedral is notable for its Prince's Doorway and the tomb of Emperor Henry II. Inside, the Bamberg Horseman sculpture is a highlight. The adjacent Diocesan Museum showcases rare textiles and artifacts from the cathedral treasury.
Address: Domplatz 2, 96049 Bamberg
What to do in Bamberg
3. Old Court & Historical Museum
The Renaissance-style Old Court, once a Bishop's palace, now hosts the Historical Museum with its art collections. Don't miss the "Beautiful Gateway" and the romantic inner courtyard.
Address: Domplatz 7, 96049 Bamberg
Official site: https://museum.bamberg.de/home/englisch/
4. New Residence
The New Residence boasts 40 state rooms, including the Prince-Bishop's apartments and the Gallery of German Art. The rose garden offers stunning views and a café.
Address: Domplatz 8, D-96049 Bamberg
Official site: www.schloesser.bayern.de/englisch/palace/objects/bam_res.htm
5. Michelsberg Monastery
Michelsberg Monastery, atop one of Bamberg's hills, offers panoramic views and a Baroque terraced garden. Note that access may be limited due to renovations.
Address: Michelsberg, 96049 Bamberg
6. Bamberg Historical Museum
Located near the Old Court, the museum displays artifacts from prehistoric to modern times, including clocks and nativity scenes.
Address: Alte Hofhaltung, Domplatz 7, 96049 Bamberg
Official site: https://museum.bamberg.de/home/englisch/
7. Altenburg Castle
Altenburg Castle, on Bamberg's highest hill, offers historical tours and a popular restaurant.
Address: Altenburg 1, 96049 Bamberg
Official site: www.restaurant-altenburg.de/index.cfm?lang=en
8. Grüner Markt and St. Martin's Church
The Grüner Markt is a bustling area with shops, cafés, and the Baroque St. Martin's Church.
Address: Grüner Markt 19, 96047 Bamberg
9. Bamberg Natural History Museum
The museum features geology, flora, and fauna exhibits, including local plants and animals.
Address: Fleischstrasse 2, D-96047 Bamberg
Official site: www.naturkundemuseum-bamberg.de/index.php/en/
10. Seehof Palace
Seehof Palace, a short drive from Bamberg, features state rooms and a Rococo garden.
Address: Schloß Seehof 1, 96117 Memmelsdorf
Official site: www.schloesser.bayern.de/englisch/palace/objects/seehof.htm
11. Carmelite Monastery Bamberg
The Carmelite Monastery features a mix of Romanesque and Baroque architecture.
Address: Karmelitenpl. 1, 96049 Bamberg
12. Lisberg Castle
Lisberg Castle, 12 kilometers from Bamberg, offers guided tours of its historic rooms.
Address: Im Burghof, 96170 Lisberg
Where to Stay in Bamberg for Sightseeing
For luxury, consider Villa Geyerswoerth Hotel, Bamberger Hof Bellevue, or Welcome Hotel Residenzschloss Bamberg. Mid-range options include Best Western Hotel Bamberg, Hotel Europa Bamberg, and Ventura's Hotel und Gastehaus. Budget travelers can opt for the Ibis Budget Bamberg or Gastehaus Mainsommer.
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Explore nearby attractions like Nuremberg's medieval castle, Würzburg's Residenz, or Frankfurt's Old Town Center. For family vacations, Munich offers zoo visits and the BMW museum, Hamburg has Minatur World, and the Rhine Valley is dotted with castles.
